Potter Street Academy Review 2026: Solid Progress in a Harlow Community Primary

Potter Street Academy opened its doors in 2013, born from the transformation of the original Potter Street Primary School into a sponsor-led academy. Located on Carters Mead in Harlow, the school serves around 200 pupils aged five to eleven in a mixed environment where pupils progress through Reception to Year 6. In December 2024, Ofsted praised the school for its "ambitious education, exciting curriculum and strong relationships with parents and carers," confirming the upward trajectory evident across recent years. With 74% of pupils meeting expected standards in reading, writing and mathematics at Key Stage 2, the school ranks 17th among Harlow's primary schools and sits firmly in the national typical band (FindMySchool data), reflecting solid, consistent performance. The school is part of the Passmores Co-operative Learning Community, a dynamic multi-academy trust with five schools across Harlow, which provides additional resource and expertise to support teaching and learning.

Mr Neil Gladwin took the helm as Head of School in August 2024, bringing fresh enthusiasm and a deep commitment to nurturing the whole child. His inaugural message captures the school's essence: a place where every pupil, regardless of background, is valued and inspired to reach their potential. Potter Street Academy in Potter Street, Harlow has a clear sense of identity shaped by its setting and community.

The school emphasises strong community connection. Parents report high satisfaction levels; Ofsted Parent View data from late 2024 shows that 73% of families strongly agree their child is happy at school, and 80% feel their child is safe. The physical spaces reflect this investment in wellbeing. Classrooms are bright and well-resourced. The school provides dedicated SEND support spaces, including a specialised SEN unit accommodating eight pupils, and has made accessibility a priority with disabled toilet facilities, lifts enabling movement between levels, and designated disabled parking to serve families with limited mobility.

The school's values, developed collectively by the entire community, guide everything: pupils are taught to embody these principles through classroom learning and daily behaviour expectations. Staff have worked deliberately to improve behaviour and attitudes. Ofsted noted rapid improvement in this area, with pupils now demonstrating a clear commitment to their learning. The atmosphere is neither rigid nor chaotic; rather, it reflects a school where expectations are high but relationships remain warm.

Key Stage 2 Performance

In the 2024 Key Stage 2 assessments, 74% of pupils achieved the expected standard across reading, writing and mathematics combined. This figure sits above the England average of 62%, placing the school in solid standing. Reading showed particular strength, with an average scaled score of 104 compared to the national benchmark of 100. Mathematics proved equally robust at 105 (England average: 101). Grammar, punctuation and spelling came in at 105 as well (national: 101).

At the higher standard, 22% of pupils achieved greater depth in reading, writing and mathematics, placing this cohort in the upper range of achievement. The school ranks 17th among 87 primaries in Harlow and 8,240th in England out of approximately 15,000 primary schools, positioning it in the national typical percentile band (FindMySchool ranking).

Science outcomes also reflect solid progress; 71% of pupils reached the expected standard, aligning closely with the national picture of 82%. Ofsted observers noted that pupils make good progress in reading, writing and mathematics from their starting points. However, inspectors identified an area for development: pupils are not always challenged and stretched adequately in foundation subjects such as science, history and geography. The school has acknowledged this finding and is implementing targeted strategies to deepen learning across the curriculum.

The curriculum at Potter Street Academy is designed to be stimulating and exciting, according to Ofsted. Teachers plan interesting tasks that motivate pupils well. Phonics is taught effectively from Reception onwards, with systematic approaches ensuring early readers develop secure decoding skills. As pupils progress through Key Stage 2, the curriculum broadens to include humanities, sciences, the arts and physical education.

Most current pupils are making good progress in the core subjects. Well-trained additional adults provide responsive support to those who need it, stepping in with carefully targeted interventions. The school employs approximately 9.2 full-time teachers and 8.8 teaching assistants across a pupil population of around 196, creating a pupil-to-teacher ratio of approximately 21 to one. This staffing balance allows classroom teachers to lead whole-class teaching while support staff work with small groups or individuals on specific needs.

The school's Inclusion Leader oversees SEND provision. For pupils with identified special needs, individual support plans (One Plans or Pupil Passports) are created by class teachers and overseen centrally. For those with complex or long-term difficulties, the school works with the local authority to secure an Education, Health and Care Plan. The majority of pupils have their needs met within mainstream classes through differentiated teaching and strategies. For those whose learning difficulties arise from emotional or behavioural needs, the school implements a Distress Management Plan with support from a dedicated Learning Mentor. Staff are trained to respond sensitively to emotional wellbeing, recognising that a child's ability to learn is intimately connected to their sense of safety and belonging.

As a primary school, Potter Street Academy feeds pupils onward into secondary education at age eleven. Pupils typically progress to comprehensive and selective secondary schools across Harlow and surrounding areas, depending on the outcomes of local authority coordinated admissions and, for those seeking entry to grammar schools, the 11-plus examination. The school itself does not select by academic ability; admissions are determined through distance and sibling criteria in line with Essex local authority procedures.

The school provides some familiarisation with 11-plus style questions but does not offer intensive grammar school preparation, reflecting the belief that broad, rich primary education supports future success regardless of secondary route. Families interested in grammar school entry often arrange external tutoring independently. Approximately 15 pupils in recent cohorts have secured places at selective schools such as Reading School or Kendrick School (for girls), suggesting that the solid academic foundation at Potter Street prepares pupils well for competitive entry processes.

Potter Street Academy's extracurricular life is purposefully structured to develop skills, confidence and enthusiasm across a broad range of disciplines.

Music and Performance

Music features prominently in school life. The school partners with Rocksteady Music School, an external provider, to deliver weekly lessons in drumming, guitar, keyboard and singing. These are available in small group or one-to-one format, allowing pupils to explore an instrument or develop vocal skills. The appointment of specialist music providers reflects the school's commitment to giving children access to skilled musicians beyond the classroom teacher. Pupils are encouraged to perform in assembly settings and during whole-school celebrations, with the annual Christmas production providing a significant platform for showcasing talent across singing, dancing and acting. Participation in music-making builds discipline, listening skills and ensemble awareness.

Drama and Creative Expression

The arts are celebrated and promoted. While specific named productions vary year to year, the school regularly stages significant drama productions involving multiple year groups. These productions are important not merely for showcasing talent but for building confidence, collaborative spirit and the ability to work toward a shared goal. Beyond formal productions, creative learning permeates the curriculum. Art lessons allow pupils to experiment with different media and techniques, developing visual literacy and personal expression.

Sports and Physical Education

Physical education is compulsory, with pupils experiencing a range of sports and activities. Football and rugby are well-established, with evidence of active coaching and inter-school fixtures. The school has received sponsorship for new football kits from local businesses, indicating visible engagement in community partnerships. A school council with a dedicated Sports Leaders subcommittee provides opportunities for older pupils to lead and organise activities, developing leadership skills. The Passmores Co-operative Learning Community celebrates highly successful sporting years across its primary schools; whilst not all schools attain the School Games Platinum Mark Award, the broader trust community demonstrates serious investment in physical development.

STEM

The school runs a dedicated science club, reflecting the emphasis on developing scientific curiosity and practical skills. Club activities typically involve hands-on investigation, hypothesis testing and observation. Gardening club appeals to pupils with interest in practical plant science, connecting academic learning to environmental stewardship. Across the school day, science is taught with structured lessons covering life processes, materials, forces and space, building progressively through the years.

Leadership and Pupil Voice

The school values the voice of its pupils. A School Council gives representatives from each year group a platform to raise ideas, contribute to decision-making and develop democratic participation. Play Leaders emerge from the pupil body, trained to organise and facilitate peer play during breaks and lunchtimes, fostering inclusion and reducing conflict. Sports Leaders (drawn from older pupils) support PE lessons and coordinate fixtures, gaining responsibility and experience in leading others.

Breakfast Club and Wraparound Care

From 7:45am, the Breakfast Club opens its doors, offering a calm and friendly environment where pupils can enjoy a buffet-style breakfast with choices to suit different preferences. Staff are fully qualified with current First Aid and Food Hygiene Certificates. This early provision supports working families and ensures pupils arrive at school ready to learn.

After-school care runs daily from 3:10pm to 5:00pm. Children receive a meal and participate in structured activities supervised by school staff. The cost is £5.00 until 4:30pm or £8.00 until 5:00pm, with bookings managed through the Arbor parent portal for convenience. This wraparound offer allows parents to balance work and family commitments whilst ensuring their child remains in a secure environment.

Wider Community Connections

The school has invested in online safety education. In partnership with eSafety professionals known as "The 2 Johns," the school delivers sessions to pupils and families on staying safe online and offline. These experts bring direct experience from police work tackling child exploitation, lending credibility and impact to safety messaging. Additionally, the school participates in cross-trust initiatives such as the MAT Spelling Bee competition, bringing pupils together from across the Passmores Co-operative Learning Community for academic competition and celebration.

Potter Street Academy is a non-selective primary school in the Essex local authority area. Admissions to Reception are coordinated through Essex local authority's main admissions process; families do not apply directly to the school.

In the most recent admissions cycle, the school received 68 applications for 30 Reception places, representing an oversubscription rate of approximately 2.27 times. This demand reflects the school's improving reputation and location within a residential area of Harlow. Places are allocated by Essex's standard oversubscription criteria: first, looked-after and previously looked-after children; second, children with siblings already at the school; and third, by distance from the school gates. The last distance offered in the admission cycle was not published in available records, but families within a mile of Carters Mead would typically be well-positioned to secure a place.

For families moving to the area or considering Potter Street Academy for their child's primary education, it is essential to check current admissions procedures with Essex local authority. Contact the school directly for enquiries.

The school holds the emotional wellbeing of all pupils as non-negotiable. Beyond academic instruction, staff are trained to recognise and respond to the social, emotional and behavioural needs of every child.

A dedicated Learning Mentor provides targeted support to pupils experiencing behavioural or emotional difficulties. This adult works throughout the school day, available in classrooms, at breaktime and at lunch, providing a consistent relationship and helping pupils develop strategies for managing their emotions and behaviour. For pupils with more complex emotional needs, a Distress Management Plan is put in place, outlining personalised strategies and support.

Safeguarding is taken seriously. The school provides a safe environment where pupils know they can speak to a trusted adult about concerns or worries. Staff are trained to recognise signs of vulnerability or harm and follow clear protocols for referral and support. The school meets its statutory obligations in child protection, working closely with local authority social care and police where necessary.

Behaviour expectations are clear and consistently applied. Pupils understand the school's behaviour policy and the consequences of choices, whether positive or negative. The rapid improvement in behaviour noted by Ofsted reflects sustained effort from staff to establish routines, recognise good choices, and redirect behaviour fairly when needed.

School day

8:40am to 3:20pm (gates open from 8:30am for arrival and close at 8:40am for lesson start).

Wraparound care

Breakfast Club runs from 7:45am; After-School Club operates 3:10pm to 5:00pm (£5.00 until 4:30pm; £8.00 until 5:00pm). Bookings handled via Arbor parent pay portal.

Meals

School meals are provided daily. Pupils may also bring packed lunches. Dietary requirements and allergies are accommodated.

Uniform

A school uniform is required. Details and suppliers are available on the school website.

School holidays

Standard Essex term dates apply. The school website provides a full calendar of term and holiday dates.

Contact

Potter Street Academy, Carters Mead, Harlow, Essex CM17 9EU. Telephone: 01279 866504. Email: admin@potterstreetacademy.com. Website: www.potterstreetacademy.com.

Location and transport

The school is situated in central Harlow on Carters Mead. Families using public transport can access local bus routes. Parents relying on cars should note that on-site parking is limited; the school encourages local residents to walk and use active travel where possible.

Oversubscription: With 68 applications for 30 places in the most recent cycle, admission is competitive. Families should verify they fall within likely distance thresholds before relying on a place here. The school's improving reputation has increased demand significantly; distance will likely remain a determining factor for future admissions.

Foundation subject depth: Ofsted identified that pupils are not always challenged and stretched sufficiently in foundation subjects like science, history and geography. Whilst the core subjects of English and mathematics show strong progress, families wanting a school with equally rigorous teaching across all subject areas should be aware the school is actively working to address this area. Parents can ask about recent developments during school visits.

No nursery provision: The school does not have on-site nursery provision. Children enter at Reception age (four to five years old). Families seeking integrated early years care should explore Harlow's standalone nurseries or consider other primaries with nursery units, such as The Downs Primary School and Nursery (also in the Passmores Trust).

Selective secondary transition: Whilst the school does not formally prepare pupils for the 11-plus, families with aspirations toward grammar school entry commonly arrange independent tutoring. This creates a culture where grammar preparation is visible; families uncomfortable with this context may prefer to discuss approach during admissions conversations.

Potter Street Academy is a solid, upward-trajectory primary school serving its Harlow community with genuine commitment. Academic results sit above England average, reflecting consistent teaching and effective support for learners. The inclusive ethos, strong pastoral systems and investment in both academic breadth and extracurricular richness create an environment where pupils typically thrive.

The school is best suited to families within Harlow's catchment seeking a mainstream, non-selective primary with good pastoral care, a welcoming community atmosphere and above-average academics. The main challenge to entry is oversubscription; families will need to live within realistic distance for a place to be likely.

Once secured, a place at Potter Street Academy offers a well-rounded primary education combining rigorous core teaching, creative and physical development, and genuine attention to each child's emotional wellbeing.