The Orchard Primary School
97%
Capacity
435
Pupils
2.7x
Demand
About The Orchard Primary School
The Orchard Primary School is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Watford community, welcoming children from age 3 to 11. The school has 435 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (97% of 450 places). Nursery provision is also available on site.
Ofsted has rated The Orchard Primary School "Good", the school is led by headteacher Jonny Spector, it falls under Hertfordshire local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 81% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — well above the national average. Additionally, placing it in the top 10% nationally. Additionally, ranked 1237th out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 3rd out of 22 in Watford.
The Orchard Primary School is a popular choice with families — it received 144 applications for 53 places, making it 2.7x oversubscribed. Of these, 30 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 5 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 2 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at The Orchard Primary School include Playing Fields, ICT Suite, Sports Hall, Forest School, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Football, Athletics, Cross Country, Rounders and 2 more, as well as clubs including Book Club, Art Club, Film Club.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 18.0%, which is below the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Watford, The Orchard Primary School is one of the options available in the East of England region. Use Classpot to compare it side-by-side with nearby alternatives and find the best fit for your child.
Key Details
| School Type | Primary (State) |
| Age Range | 3 to 11 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Does not apply |
| Address | Gammons Lane, Watford, Watford, WD24 5JW |
| Headteacher | Jonny Spector |
| Local Authority | Hertfordshire |
| Number of Pupils | 435 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 18.0% |
| School Capacity | 435 / 450 (97% full) |
| Nursery Classes | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
22 Jun 2022Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (22 Jun 2022): School remains Good
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 13 Jun 2011. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (81%)
1237th of 13,686
Nationally
119th of 1,612
In East of England
3rd of 22
In Watford
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
81%
Expected Standard
21%
Higher Standard
'22/23
73%
'23/24
81%
Source: Department for Education, 2023/24. National expected standard benchmark is around 65%.
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
5Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
9Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed53
144
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
30 families put this school as their 1st choice (21% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Orchard Primary School
Helpful Guides for Parents
Ofsted Ratings Explained
Understand the 4 Ofsted ratings and what they mean
How to Choose a Primary School
Step-by-step guide to choosing the right primary school
KS2 SATs Explained
A parent's guide to Year 6 SATs and how results are reported
SEN & EHCP: A Parent's Guide
Understanding SEN support, EHC Plans and your legal rights
Contact Information
Gammons Lane, Watford
Watford, WD24 5JW
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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