Harrington Hill Primary School Review 2026: Behaviour and Personal Development Excellence in Clapton

Harrington Hill Primary School stands out with its Outstanding Ofsted ratings for behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision – a rare combination placing the school among the strongest community primaries in Hackney. Based in Clapton on Mount Pleasant Lane, this one-form entry state mainstream primary serves 186 pupils aged 3 to 11 with nursery provision. The school features a distinctive on-site forest school, offering outdoor learning in a densely urban neighbourhood where such facilities are scarce. Rated Good overall in its November 2023 Ofsted inspection, Harrington Hill achieves well above national average results: 84% of pupils reach the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, compared to the national average of 62%, ranking the school 3,312th in England and 23rd locally in Hackney. From August 2025, Harrington Hill will merge with Oldhill Community School, expanding to two-form entry and incorporating specialist SEND provision for children with autism.

Harrington Hill's ethos centres on the principle that children learn better when they feel happy, safe and valued. This nurturing approach, validated by the school's Outstanding rating for behaviour and attitudes, creates an environment where confidence and enthusiasm for learning flourish. The school provides what it describes as a rich and exciting curriculum designed to develop pupils holistically rather than focus narrowly on test preparation.

Leadership has been stable under Rebecca Kennedy, who serves as Head of School, supported by Geraldine Fitzmaurice as Executive Headteacher since March 2020. The school's improvement trajectory over the past decade is notable: from Satisfactory in 2011 to Good in 2013, and maintaining Good with strengthening sub-judgements through 2018 and 2023. The governance structure includes Simon Brandon as Chair of Governing Body, with additional executive support from Jane, a Community Governor and Executive Headteacher from Millfields Community School.

Situated in the vibrant and diverse community of Hackney, the school serves a multicultural intake with 92.8% ethnic minority pupils and 41.8% eligible for free school meals. This diversity shapes the school's inclusive character, where all pupils are welcomed and supported regardless of background. The upcoming merger with Oldhill reflects Hackney's strategic reorganisation to maximise resources and expand specialist SEND provision across the borough.

Harrington Hill delivers strong academic outcomes that place it well above national benchmarks. In the most recent results, 84% of pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined – 22% above the national average of 62% – placing the school in the 22nd percentile nationally and ranking 3,312th in England. This performance earns Harrington Hill the 23rd position among Hackney primaries.

The school's scaled scores demonstrate consistent strength across core subjects: pupils averaged 107 in reading, maths and grammar, punctuation and spelling – all above the national benchmark. In reading, 83% reached the expected standard and 37% achieved high scores, both above average. Maths performance is particularly robust, with 87% meeting the expected standard and 37% scoring highly. Science results are similarly strong at 87% reaching expected levels, exceeding the 82% national average.

Higher attainment outcomes reveal the school's capacity to stretch able pupils: 31% of pupils achieved the higher standard in reading, writing and maths combined, nearly four times the national average of 8%. In writing, 20% reached greater depth, and across reading, maths and grammar, 37% achieved high scores. These figures suggest effective differentiation and challenge for pupils working beyond age-related expectations.

Ofsted's November 2023 inspection rated the quality of education as Good, with inspectors noting that the curriculum has been redesigned to be broad and ambitious for all pupils, including those with special educational needs. The school accommodates 17% of students with SEN statements or Education, Health and Care plans, reflecting an inclusive approach where additional support is integrated into mainstream provision. The Outstanding rating for early years provision indicates that children in nursery and reception classes receive exceptional teaching and care, setting strong foundations for later achievement.

With a pupil-to-teacher ratio of 14.8, class sizes remain manageable. The school employs 12.6 full-time equivalent teachers supported by four teaching assistants and 11.99 non-teaching staff, ensuring adequate adult-to-child ratios. The upcoming merger with Oldhill will add specialist SEND provision, including an additional resource provision for children with autism, broadening the school's capacity to meet diverse learning needs.

Harrington Hill's on-site forest school is a standout feature, providing outdoor learning opportunities uncommon in inner London primaries. Pupils engage with nature and the environment through hands-on activities, including sessions during the school's 'no pens' day when traditional classroom work gives way to outdoor exploration. This facility supports both the curriculum and the school's Outstanding personal development provision, giving children experiential learning beyond textbooks.

Extracurricular opportunities include gymnastics, football and dance clubs offered by Nation Sports after school. Drama workshops, music, and an annual talent show give pupils creative outlets, while residential trips for Key Stage 2 pupils offer outdoor education experiences beyond the school grounds. Leadership roles within the school, mentioned in inspection reports, allow older pupils to develop responsibility and confidence.

The school provides wraparound care through breakfast and after-school clubs, supporting working families. All pupils receive free school meals prepared daily by the school's head chef and kitchen team, removing financial barriers to healthy eating. The school uses a mobile app available on iOS and Android to keep parents informed and connected.

Physical facilities will expand significantly following the merger with Oldhill in August 2025. The consolidation is expected to maximise opportunities for improved accommodation and facilities, offering enhanced wraparound and extended provision for both school communities. Specific details of the merged campus have not yet been publicly confirmed, but the expansion to two-form entry will require additional classroom space and resources.

Harrington Hill Primary School is oversubscribed, with admissions data showing 32 applications for 18 Reception places – a subscription ratio of 1.78. Every first-preference applicant who received an offer obtained one, indicating that families who prioritise the school strategically are successful, though not all applicants secure places. The furthest distance offered in the most recent cycle was 6.438 miles, an unusually wide figure likely reflecting the allocation of sibling places or children with specific priority criteria rather than a true catchment radius. Proximity to the school remains important for families without sibling connections.

Admissions to Reception and Years 1 to 6 are coordinated by Hackney Local Authority. Parents apply through the council's centralised process, and admissions are determined according to the local authority's oversubscription criteria, which typically prioritise looked-after children, siblings, and distance. For mid-year applications or families new to the area, contact the Admissions Team at Hackney Education, 1 Reading Lane, London E8 1GQ, or call 020 8356 3000.

Nursery admissions are handled directly by the school. Families wishing to apply for nursery places must contact Harrington Hill Primary School at admin@harringtonhill.hackney.sch.uk or call 020 8806 7275. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place, so parents must apply separately through the local authority for primary entry.

Living near Harrington Hill historically improved admission chances, though catchment boundaries are not fixed. The forthcoming merger with Oldhill and expansion to two-form entry will double Reception intake from 30 to 60 places annually. This expansion should ease competition and widen access for families in the surrounding area, though precise catchment data for the enlarged school will depend on demand patterns from September 2025 onwards.

Common secondary destinations include Skinners' Academy (19% of leavers), Our Lady's Catholic High School (11%), and Mossbourne Community Academy (11%), reflecting a mix of comprehensive and faith schools popular with Hackney families.

Harrington Hill Primary School offers strong academic results, Outstanding behaviour and personal development provision, and a nurturing environment in the heart of Clapton. With 84% of pupils reaching expected standards in reading, writing and maths – 22% above the national average – the school delivers outcomes that place it among the top quarter of primaries in England. Its rare combination of Outstanding judgements for behaviour, personal development and early years, alongside Good overall effectiveness, reflects a well-rounded educational offer prioritising pupils' character as well as their attainment.

The on-site forest school and inclusive ethos distinguish Harrington Hill from many urban primaries, offering experiential learning and a supportive community atmosphere. The school's ability to achieve higher-standard outcomes for 31% of pupils – nearly four times the national rate – demonstrates effective teaching for pupils working above age-related expectations. Stable leadership, a favourable pupil-to-teacher ratio, and strong governance underpin this performance.

The forthcoming merger with Oldhill and expansion to two-form entry brings both opportunity and uncertainty. Families can anticipate improved facilities, expanded SEND provision including specialist support for children with autism, and greater access to places. However, the integration of two school communities and the doubling of intake will test leadership and resource management. Parents considering Harrington Hill should monitor how the transition unfolds and seek updates directly from the school during 2025.

For families prioritising strong pastoral care, inclusive values, and above-average results within a community primary setting, Harrington Hill presents a compelling option. Oversubscription and distance patterns suggest that proximity matters, though the expanded intake from September 2025 may widen access. Nursery provision offers an early introduction to the school, but parents must apply separately for Reception. Overall, Harrington Hill Primary School combines academic strength with outstanding personal development, making it a well-regarded choice for Clapton and wider Hackney families.

Is Harrington Hill Primary School a good school?

Yes, Harrington Hill Primary School is rated Good by Ofsted as of November 2023, with Outstanding judgements for behaviour and attitudes, personal development, and early years provision. Academic results are well above national averages: 84% of pupils achieve the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, compared to 62% nationally. The school ranks 3,312th in England and 23rd in Hackney, placing it in the top quarter of primaries nationally. Strong pastoral care, an inclusive ethos, and effective teaching make it a solid choice for families in Clapton and surrounding areas.

How do I apply to Harrington Hill Primary School?

For Reception and Years 1 to 6, apply through Hackney Local Authority's coordinated admissions process. Visit the Hackney Education website or contact the Admissions Team at 1 Reading Lane, London E8 1GQ (020 8356 3000). The normal admissions round for Reception typically opens in autumn for the following September. For nursery applications, contact the school directly at admin@harringtonhill.hackney.sch.uk or 020 8806 7275. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place; you must apply separately through the local authority. For mid-year transfers, contact Hackney Education directly.

What is the catchment area for Harrington Hill Primary School?

Harrington Hill does not operate a fixed catchment area. Admissions are determined by Hackney Local Authority using oversubscription criteria that typically prioritise looked-after children, siblings, and proximity to the school. In recent years, the furthest distance offered was 6.438 miles, though this figure likely reflects sibling priority or exceptional circumstances rather than a typical catchment. Families living closer to the school on Mount Pleasant Lane generally have better chances, though distance patterns vary annually. The school's expansion to two-form entry from September 2025 will double intake and may widen accessibility.

What are the Ofsted ratings for Harrington Hill Primary School?

Harrington Hill Primary School was inspected in November 2023 and rated Good overall. The specific judgements were: Quality of Education – Good; Behaviour and Attitudes – Outstanding; Personal Development – Outstanding; Leadership and Management – Good; Early Years Provision – Outstanding. The school's previous inspection in 2018 resulted in a Good rating overall. This consistent Good rating, strengthened by three Outstanding sub-judgements, reflects a well-rounded school with particular strengths in pastoral care and early years teaching.

What secondary schools do Harrington Hill Primary pupils go to?

The most common secondary destinations for Harrington Hill leavers are Skinners' Academy (19% of pupils), Our Lady's Catholic High School (11%), and Mossbourne Community Academy (11%). These schools reflect a mix of comprehensive and faith-based options popular with Hackney families. Parents should research secondary admissions criteria early, particularly for selective or faith schools that may require supplementary applications or evidence of religious practice.