Whittaker Moss Primary School
100%
Capacity
437
Pupils
2.9x
Demand
About Whittaker Moss Primary School
Whittaker Moss Primary School is a state-funded Does not apply primary school serving the Rochdale community, welcoming children from age 3 to 11. The school has 437 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (100% of 436 places). Nursery provision is also available on site.
Ofsted has rated Whittaker Moss Primary School "Good", the school is led by headteacher Melanie Backhouse, it falls under Rochdale local authority.
In terms of academic performance, 76% of pupils met the expected standard in Reading, Writing and Maths at KS2 — well above the national average. Additionally, placing it in the top 25% nationally. Additionally, ranked 2537th out of 13,686 schools in England. Additionally, 5th out of 52 in Rochdale.
Whittaker Moss Primary School is a popular choice with families — it received 166 applications for 57 places, making it 2.9x oversubscribed. Of these, 63 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 Whittaker Moss Primary School include Sensory Room, Music Rooms, Gymnasium, ICT Suite, Forest School, Dining Hall, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Football, Netball, Cricket, Tennis, as well as clubs including Chess, Film Club, Eco Club.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 6.1%, which is well below the national average for primary schools in England.
For families exploring primary schools in Rochdale, Whittaker Moss Primary School is one of the options available in the North West 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 | Highwood, Whittaker Moss Primary School, Rochdale, Rochdale, OL11 5XP |
| Headteacher | Melanie Backhouse |
| Local Authority | Rochdale |
| Number of Pupils | 437 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 6.1% |
| School Capacity | 437 / 436 (100% full) |
| Nursery Classes | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
8 Nov 2023Overall Effectiveness
Good
Additional Provisions
Source: Ofsted, 17 Dec 2023. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths (76%)
2537th of 13,686
Nationally
348th of 2,065
In North West
5th of 52
In Rochdale
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE KS2 Reading, Writing & Maths data
KS2 SATs Results
2023/24Reading, Writing & Maths Combined
76%
Expected Standard
5%
Higher Standard
'22/23
69%
'23/24
76%
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
7Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
7Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed57
166
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
63 families put this school as their 1st choice (38% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Whittaker Moss 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
Highwood, Whittaker Moss Primary School, Rochdale
Rochdale, OL11 5XP
Highwood, Whittaker Moss Primary School, Rochdale
Rochdale, OL11 5XP
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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