At drop-off, Kale Road reveals a school where pupils arrive genuinely eager to learn. St John Fisher serves the Thamesmead area of Erith as a small, one-form entry primary where every child is known by name. The school ranks 236th in England for primary attainment, placing it in the top 2% nationally (FindMySchool ranking). In January 2025, inspectors rated the school Outstanding across all key areas including Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, and Leadership and Management. This represents a significant step forward from Good in 2019. With 199 pupils on roll and a waiting list reflecting consistent demand, the school combines academic excellence with Catholic values that genuinely shape daily life. Three admissions requests arrive for every place available, making entry highly competitive.
What strikes visitors first is the visible love of learning. The Ofsted report captures it plainly: pupils love coming to this school. They feel safe and cared for. This is not hyperbole but repeated observation. Staff have built an environment where resilience matters as much as attainment. When pupils struggle, they persist. When they succeed, they celebrate authentically.
The school's mission statement, "We stand united in our faith with the courage to build a loving world of truth, justice, peace and wisdom," is displayed prominently but lives more visibly in behaviour. Pupils reference values like 'hope' and 'courage' naturally in conversation. One pupil summed the atmosphere using words on the school hall wall: 'Love for all, hatred for none.' This is the ethos. It shapes everything from how children treat each other at lunch to how they handle disappointment in lessons.
Ms Sarah Griffin leads the school as Headteacher, supported by a deeply committed team. The staff survey reveals that teachers feel part of a family here. Workload is managed intentionally. Leaders are described as supportive and approachable. Parent feedback is overwhelmingly positive. Many parents comment that their children are "nurtured and feel loved." For a state primary in a challenging area, this emotional security is foundational to everything else the school achieves.
Performance is elite. In 2024, 94% of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics combined, compared to the England average of 62%. This represents a substantial gap of 32%age points well above. Performance across individual subjects is equally striking.
Literacy is a strength. A scaled score of 109 in reading (England average 100) shows strong fluency and comprehension. The school prioritises phonics from Reception, using precise teaching of letter sounds. Teachers identify pupils at risk of falling behind quickly and intervene with extra teaching. The school's approach to reading is uncompromising. Pupils love reading. A diverse range of books stock the classrooms, and choice matters. Teachers model enthusiasm for texts. Pupils read increasingly difficult books with confidence as they progress through the school.
Mathematics performance is exceptionally strong. A scaled score of 111 (England average 101) indicates pupils can apply reasoning and problem-solving at depth. Representation across the year groups shows consistency. 97% of pupils reached the expected standard in mathematics, with 63% achieving greater depth. Teachers explain new concepts clearly and give precise feedback. Learning is built sequentially, with regular recaps ensuring nothing is left behind.
GPS results are outstanding. A scaled score of 112 and 73% achieving greater depth indicates meticulous teaching and high pupil attainment. This precision with language supports writing across the curriculum.
The school ranks 236th in England for overall primary performance (FindMySchool data), placing it among the top 2% of schools nationwide. Locally within Erith, it ranks 1st, indicating exceptional performance relative to similar areas. The inspection confirmed that pupils achieve consistently high results in national tests, with some achieving above expected standards for their age. Beyond academic results, pupils develop strong values and become well-rounded individuals exceptionally well prepared for secondary school.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
Reading, Writing & Maths
94.33%
% of pupils achieving expected standard
The curriculum is exceedingly well thought through. Teachers have identified the precise knowledge and skills pupils should learn. Recap and revision happen regularly, embedding learning before it builds further. This is evident across subjects.
In science, for example, younger pupils learn how to work as scientists, recording experimental results in tables. Older pupils develop deeper understanding by planning and recording experiments independently. When studying the impact of exercise on the heart, pupils conduct investigations, record findings, and explain causation. This progression is intentional.
Teachers have strong subject knowledge and explain new information clearly. They give precise guidance on improvement. Learning activities are interesting and exciting, designed to help pupils build and apply knowledge confidently. In art, pupils skilfully apply their knowledge of materials to design masks and headdresses for carnival work. DT, drama and dance are integrated into topic work. Music and art are taught as discrete subjects to all pupils, ensuring breadth.
The school emphasises Catholic social values throughout. PSHE is integral. French begins in Year 1, taught by a specialist. Setting in mathematics begins in Year 4, allowing targeted teaching. All of this is delivered in a safe, secure learning environment where behaviour is exemplary and pupils feel supported to take risks.
Quality of Education
N/A
Behaviour & Attitudes
N/A
Personal Development
N/A
Leadership & Management
Good
Safety and care are non-negotiable. Pupils report no concerns about bullying and are confident any issues would be fairly and properly dealt with. Staff adapt lessons and provide equipment to help pupils with identified needs access the curriculum fully. Task management boards help pupils with SEND break down complicated tasks independently. For a school serving a diverse community, the commitment to inclusion is visible.
Adults trust pupils to take responsibility for their behaviour, and pupils respond with exemplary conduct throughout the day. High attendance reflects that pupils value coming to school. The school provides carefully considered support for families where attendance may be a concern.
The school provides many exciting opportunities beyond the curriculum to develop character and outlook. Pupils benefit from a range of clubs and activities that nurture their interests. Named offerings include drama, sewing and football. Beyond school-based clubs, enrichment experiences are extensive.
Virtual reality workshops expose pupils to cutting-edge technology and immersive learning. These sessions allow pupils to explore worlds and concepts beyond the classroom walls, fostering curiosity about digital futures.
Pupils receive formal first aid training, giving them practical life skills and confidence to help others. This reflects the school's commitment to developing responsible citizens.
Pupils make deeply meaningful contributions to the life of the school and community. Older pupils help younger pupils with reading and resolve issues in the playground. Members of the school council and pupil faith leaders meet with the governing body and actively contribute to discussions about school life. Pupils understand the importance of charity and are particularly proud of recent visits to a local care home where they read stories and sang songs. These experiences embed values of care and compassion that extend beyond the school gates.
Pupils participate in junior citizenship events that build understanding of responsibility, democracy and community. These structured experiences help pupils see themselves as active participants in civic life.
The school offers between 10 and 15 different sports over the course of a year. Representative teams in major sports begin from Year 3, allowing high achievers to compete at inter-school level. Football, netball, athletics and cross-country are regular fixtures.
Art and music are taught as discrete subjects to all pupils, ensuring every child experiences performance and creativity. Drama is particularly encouraged, with school productions providing memorable learning experiences. The school hall hosts termly performances where pupils showcase their talents.
The breadth of opportunities reflects the school's belief that education extends far beyond academic attainment. Character, resilience, compassion and curiosity are cultivated as intentionally as reading and mathematics.
Admissions to Reception are coordinated through Bexley Local Authority, not directly to the school. The school is consistently oversubscribed. In the most recent admission cycle, 39 applications were received for 15 places, a ratio of 2.6:1, reflecting strong demand.
Places are allocated primarily on faith grounds (as a Catholic voluntary aided school) with consideration of proximity to the school for families not of the faith. The school has updated its admission criteria. Priest forms are no longer required. The school explicitly welcomes children of all faiths or none into its learning community. This signals an intentional openness while respecting the school's Catholic character.
Siblings of current pupils are prioritised. Distance from the school gate is a secondary factor. No formal catchment boundary is published. Families are advised to check the school's admissions policy on its website for current information, as distance criteria vary annually.
For families considering application, the school holds open events during the school year where prospective parents can visit, meet staff and pupils, and gain a sense of the community. Details of open days are published on the school website and Bexley LA website.
Applications
39
Total received
Places Offered
15
Subscription Rate
2.6x
Apps per place
8:45am to 3:15pm.
The school offers after-school clubs extending care until later in the afternoon. A range of activities operate on different days, changing termly to maintain variety and engagement. Holiday club provision operates during main school holidays, helping working families.
Meals are available daily. Families can apply for free school meals if eligible. The school provides a balanced menu with vegetarian and dietary options available.
The school has a uniform policy. Details are available on the school website.
Being located at Kale Road in Thamesmead, the school is served by public transport links. The 99 and 401 buses connect to the local area. For families by car, parking is limited on nearby streets. Many pupils walk or cycle to school given the tight catchment area.
Pupils with identified SEND are supported through careful assessment and tailored provision. The school holds the Inclusion Quality Mark, recognising its commitment to inclusive practice.
Extreme oversubscription. With 2.6 applications per place, admission is fiercely competitive. Unless your address is very close to the school or you meet faith criteria, a place is uncertain. Families should have realistic secondary preferences and contact the school directly to understand current distance criteria. This is not a school to assume a place exists.
Faith integration is genuine. While the school welcomes children of all faiths, Catholic practice is woven through daily life. Prayer happens regularly. Catholic values shape curriculum choices and school assemblies. Families uncomfortable with explicit religious teaching should consider whether this fits their family's values.
Early years is an area for development. While the early years provision was rated Good, the Ofsted report notes that occasionally children in Reception are not taught the precise knowledge and vocabulary that will most helpfully prepare them for Key Stage 1. Families sending children to the school from Reception should be aware that while the year is positive, teaching in early years is less prescriptive than in later years.
A school where excellence is pursued with generosity. Results place it among the highest-performing primaries in England, yet the atmosphere never feels pressured or overly competitive. Pupils genuinely love coming to school. Teachers are committed. Leadership is thoughtful. Parents are overwhelmingly positive. The January 2025 Outstanding inspection confirms what the community already knows: this is a place where children thrive academically and grow as people. Best suited to families within the tight catchment who value strong academics alongside genuine pastoral care and Catholic formation. The main barrier is securing a place; once you do, the educational experience is exceptional.
Yes. The school was rated Outstanding across all key areas by Ofsted in January 2025, including Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development, and Leadership and Management. It ranks 236th in England for primary attainment (top 2% nationally on FindMySchool data), with 94% of pupils meeting expected standards in reading, writing and mathematics combined, well above the England average of 62%. Parents describe it as an excellent school where children are nurtured and feel loved.
Results are elite. In 2024, 94% of pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics combined (England average 62%). Mathematics is particularly strong, with 97% reaching expected standard and 63% achieving greater depth. Reading scaled scores of 109 and grammar/punctuation/spelling scores of 112 both exceed England averages. The school ranks 1st locally in Erith and 236th nationally (top 2% nationally on FindMySchool data).
Applications for Reception entry are made through Bexley Local Authority by 15 January for September entry, not directly to the school. The school is consistently oversubscribed with approximately 2.6 applications per place. Places are allocated based on Catholic faith criteria (reflecting its voluntary aided status) and distance from the school gate for families of other faiths. The school has updated its admission criteria and no longer requires priest forms; all children are welcome. Contact the school or Bexley LA for current distance thresholds, which vary annually.
The school provides a range of clubs and activities including drama, sewing, and football. Enrichment experiences include virtual reality workshops, first aid training, and junior citizenship days. The school offers between 10 and 15 different sports over the year, with representative teams in major sports from Year 3. Music and art are taught as discrete subjects to all pupils. After-school club provision extends care, and holiday club operates during main school holidays.
The school provides excellent support for pupils with identified special educational needs and disabilities. Needs are clearly identified early, and staff adapt lessons and provide equipment to help pupils access the curriculum. Task management boards help pupils break down and complete complicated tasks independently. The school holds the Inclusion Quality Mark. Pupils with SEND are integrated into mainstream classes with targeted support tailored to their needs.
Yes, St John Fisher is a Roman Catholic voluntary aided school under the Archdiocese of Southwark. Catholic values shape daily life through prayer, assemblies and curriculum content. However, the school explicitly welcomes children of all faiths or none. Families choosing to apply should be comfortable with explicit religious teaching and Catholic formation, though this does not mean pupils must be Catholic themselves. Faith criteria prioritise Catholic pupils, but other families may apply.
Get in touch with the school directly
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