The Willows Primary School
73%
Capacity
306
Pupils
2.2x
Demand
About The Willows Primary School
The Willows Primary School is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Ipswich community, welcoming children from age 3 to 11. The school has 306 pupils on roll, operating at 73% capacity.
Ofsted has rated The Willows Primary School "Requires Improvement", the school is led by headteacher Kelly Head, it falls under Suffolk local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 28% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — below the national average. Additionally, ranked 13359th out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 26th out of 27 in Ipswich.
The Willows Primary School is a popular choice with families — it received 37 applications for 17 places, making it 2.2x oversubscribed. Of these, 17 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 7 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 4 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at The Willows Primary School include Outdoor Playground, Sensory Room, Music Rooms, ICT Suite, Sports Hall, Library, Playing Fields, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Football, Cross Country, Cricket, Rounders and 3 more, as well as clubs including Drama, Film Club, Choir.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 55.2%, which is well above the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Ipswich, The Willows 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 | Downing Close, Ipswich, Ipswich, IP2 9ER |
| Headteacher | Kelly Head |
| Local Authority | Suffolk |
| Number of Pupils | 306 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 55.2% |
| School Capacity | 306 / 420 (73% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
13 Feb 2024Overall Effectiveness
Requires improvement
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 25 Apr 2024. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (28%)
13359th of 13,686
Nationally
1549th of 1,612
In East of England
26th of 27
In Ipswich
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
28%
Expected Standard
4%
Higher Standard
'22/23
20%
'23/24
28%
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
8Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
10Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed17
37
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
17 families put this school as their 1st choice (46% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Willows 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
Downing Close, Ipswich
Ipswich, IP2 9ER
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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