Perryfields Junior School Review 2026: Elite Performance in the Heart of Chelmsford

Tucked away in the Moulsham area of Chelmsford, Perryfields Junior School operates as a high-achieving, four-form entry junior school for pupils aged 7 to 11. While many primary settings juggle early years and infants, Perryfields focuses exclusively on Key Stage 2, a specialization that appears to pay dividends in its academic outcomes. The school sits in the elite tier of English education, ranking 102nd in England for primary outcomes (FindMySchool ranking). This places it within the top 2% of schools in England, and it currently holds the position of the top-ranked primary school in Chelmsford.

Under the leadership of Jane Hasler, who has served as headteacher since 2014, the school has maintained a reputation for academic rigour paired with a structured, supportive environment. The Victorian-style architecture of the main buildings provides a sense of history, while recent modernisations have ensured facilities keep pace with a demanding curriculum. With a capacity of 270 pupils, the school maintains a size that allows for a breadth of resources without losing the individual attention required during these formative years.

The atmosphere at Perryfields is one of purposeful energy. As a junior school, the environment is tailored to slightly older children, which allows for a more mature approach to independence and responsibility. The school motto, Succeeding Together, is more than a slogan; it is reflected in the collaborative nature of the classrooms and the high levels of pupil engagement observed across all year groups.

The school operates as part of the Perryfields Junior School Academy Trust, which has allowed it to maintain its distinct local identity while exercising greater control over its curriculum and resources. The leadership team is well-established, and there is a palpable sense of pride among the staff in the school's standing. Inside, the walls are covered with high-quality pupil work, particularly in the arts and humanities, creating a vibrant learning environment that celebrates achievement.

The academic performance at Perryfields Junior School is exceptional, consistently placing it among the highest-performing schools in England. In the most recent results, 97% of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing, and mathematics combined. This is significantly above the England average of 62%, representing a substantial margin of success.

The depth of achievement is equally impressive. At the higher standard, 42% of pupils achieved greater depth in reading, writing, and mathematics, compared to the England average of 8%. This level of performance is driven by particularly strong results in specific disciplines:

• Mathematics: Pupils achieved an average scaled score of 111, with 98% meeting expected standards and 57% reaching a high score.
• Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling (GPS): A standout area, with an average scaled score of 115 and 83% of pupils achieving a high score.
• Reading: Pupils attained an average scaled score of 109, with 95% meeting the expected standard.

Ranked 102nd in England for primary outcomes (FindMySchool ranking) and 1st among all primary schools in Chelmsford, Perryfields represents the pinnacle of state primary education in Essex. These proprietary FindMySchool rankings are based on official Department for Education data.

The curriculum at Perryfields is designed to challenge and inspire, with a clear focus on core mastery alongside broad enrichment. Teachers possess expert subject knowledge, particularly in mathematics and literacy, which allows them to stretch the most able pupils while providing targeted support for those who need it. The high average scaled score in GPS (115) reflects a meticulous approach to the technical aspects of English that underpins all other writing tasks.

Learning is not confined to the traditional classroom setup. The school utilises its grounds for outdoor learning and has invested in digital resources to ensure pupils are tech-literate by the time they transition to secondary school. There is a strong emphasis on writing for different audiences, and the 23% of pupils achieving greater depth in writing demonstrates a successful focus on creative and technical proficiency.

With an Outstanding rating from Ofsted following its February 2024 inspection, the school's approach to pupil welfare is highly regarded. Inspectors noted an embedded culture of generosity and respect that begins with pupils being greeted warmly at the gate. The transition from infant schools at age seven is handled with particular care; Perryfields works closely with local feeder schools, such as Perryfields Infant School, to ensure a seamless move.

The school operates a house system that encourages a sense of belonging and healthy competition. Pastoral support is integrated into the daily routine, with class teachers and teaching assistants maintaining a close watch on social and emotional development. The school's behaviour policy is based on mutual respect, resulting in a calm and orderly environment where pupils feel safe to take risks in their learning.

The extracurricular life at Perryfields is diverse, reflecting the school's commitment to developing the whole child. Music is a particular strength, with several ensembles and a choir that performs at local events. The school offers a variety of clubs including The Coding Club, Leg Robotics, and various sports teams that compete in the Chelmsford Primary Schools leagues.

The school also makes use of its local context in Essex for educational visits, including trips to Colchester Castle and residential stays that focus on team building and outdoor pursuits. These activities are designed to build resilience and social skills, ensuring that the elite academic results are matched by personal growth.

As a state-funded academy, admissions are coordinated by Essex County Council. Perryfields Junior School is a popular choice, and given its top-ranking status in Chelmsford, it is frequently oversubscribed. The primary entry point is Year 3, following completion of Year 2 at an infant school.

The application window for September 2026 entry runs from 10 November 2025 to 15 January 2026. Priority is typically given to siblings and children attending Perryfields Infant School, followed by those living within the local priority area. Parents should use the FindMySchoolMap Search to check their precise distance from the school gates to assess their chances of entry. Families comparing local performance can use the Local Hub page to view these results side-by-side using the Comparison Tool.

Fees & Financial Aid

This is a state school with no tuition fees. As an academy, Perryfields receives its funding directly from the Department for Education. Parents are not required to pay for the standard curriculum or basic learning materials. However, voluntary contributions may be requested for optional school trips or specialist instrument hire.

The school also offers comprehensive wraparound care. Breakfast Club runs from 7:45am at a cost of £5.50 per session. Afterschool Club is available Monday to Thursday until 6:00pm (£12.50) and on Fridays until 5:00pm (£8.50). Bookings are typically managed through the school's cashless system on a half-termly basis.

The school day typically begins at 8:40am and concludes at 3:15pm. Wraparound care is run by school staff, ensuring familiar faces and consistent safeguarding standards. The school is well-served by local transport links in Chelmsford, and there are designated walking routes encouraged to reduce traffic congestion around Lawn Lane.

• Entry at Year 3: Unlike all-through primaries, families must manage the transition from an infant school. This requires a separate application and an adjustment period for the child at age seven.
• Elite Academic Pace: The school sits in the top 2% of schools in England. While this is a mark of quality, the curriculum is fast-paced and demanding. Children who thrive on challenge will do well, but the academic intensity may not suit every learner.
• Oversubscription: Being the 1st ranked school in Chelmsford (FindMySchool ranking) makes securing a place difficult for those outside the immediate priority area or feeder schools.
• Junior Specialism: The lack of younger years means a more mature environment. This is a benefit for independence but might feel less nurturing than a traditional 4-11 primary for some families.

Perryfields Junior School is a powerhouse of primary education that consistently delivers results in the elite tier of English schools. It combines traditional academic rigour with a forward-thinking curriculum, making it the premier choice for families in Chelmsford seeking a high-attaining state school. Best suited to academically ambitious pupils who will benefit from a structured and challenging environment. The main hurdle is the competitive entry process at Year 3.