John Betts Primary School Review 2026: Elite Results in the Heart of Ravenscourt Park

In Ravenscourt Park, where grand Victorian terraces line tree-shaded streets, John Betts Primary has carved out a reputation that belies its modest size. The 2024 KS2 results place this single-form entry school among the highest-performing primaries in England, ranking 235th out of 15,158 ranked schools and 5th out of 25 primaries in Hammersmith and Fulham. 96% of pupils met expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics combined, a figure that places the school in the elite tier (top 2% in England). With just 30 places available each year and 237 applications in 2024, securing a place requires both proximity and patience.

The Victorian building on Paddenswick Road has served the Ravenscourt Park community since 1877. Beyond the wrought-iron railings, the school's compact footprint creates an intimate environment where every child is known. At drop-off, the gates reveal purposeful activity: children greet staff by name, hang coats in orderly rows, and head directly to morning tasks.

The school's values, woven through daily routines, emphasise kindness, curiosity, and resilience. These are not simply aspirational statements. Teachers reference them explicitly when addressing behaviour, and children use the language naturally when resolving playground conflicts.

Staff stability has been a defining characteristic. Several teachers have served the school for over a decade, creating continuity that families value. The 2023 Ofsted inspection found leadership and management to be strong, with staff morale high and a shared commitment to maintaining the school's academic standards while nurturing each child's individual needs.

The single-form entry structure means approximately 30 children per year group, creating a close-knit community where older pupils look out for younger ones. Parents describe a school where children feel safe, supported, and challenged in equal measure.

The 2024 KS2 results tell a consistent story of exceptional achievement. 96% of pupils met expected standards in reading, writing, and mathematics combined, compared to the England average of 62%. This places John Betts among the highest-performing primaries in the country.

The school ranks 235th in England for primary outcomes (FindMySchool ranking based on official data) and 5th among 25 primaries in Hammersmith and Fulham, positioning it in the elite tier locally and in England.

Performance across individual subjects reinforces this picture. The average scaled score for reading was 111, well above the England average of 104. Mathematics showed similar strength at 110, compared to the England average of 103. Grammar, punctuation, and spelling also exceeded expectations, with an average scaled score of 111 against the England average of 105.

At the higher standard, 40% of pupils achieved greater depth in reading, writing, and mathematics combined, compared to the England average of 8%. This demonstrates the school's ability to stretch the most able learners while ensuring all pupils reach expected levels.

In reading, 60% achieved the high score, significantly above typical performance. Mathematics saw 56% at the high score, while grammar, punctuation, and spelling reached 64%. These figures indicate consistent strength across the curriculum rather than hotspots of excellence in isolated subjects.

Science outcomes matched the school's overall profile, with 96% reaching expected standards compared to the England average of 82%.

The curriculum follows the National Curriculum with notable enrichment. French begins in Year 1, taught by a specialist teacher who ensures progression across year groups. Mathematics teaching incorporates problem-solving and reasoning from Reception onwards, preparing children for the demands of KS2 assessments without narrowing the curriculum to test preparation.

Reading receives particular emphasis. The school uses a systematic synthetic phonics programme in early years, with daily phonics sessions ensuring all children develop strong decoding skills. By Year 2, most children have transitioned to fluent reading, allowing focus to shift to comprehension and literary appreciation. Class libraries are well-stocked, and children are encouraged to read widely across genres.

Writing is taught through a structured approach that balances creativity with technical accuracy. Children produce extended pieces across different text types, with teachers providing detailed feedback that helps pupils understand how to improve. Grammar and punctuation are taught explicitly and reinforced through editing and redrafting.

Class sizes average 30, typical for a single-form entry primary. Teaching assistants support small groups, particularly in English and mathematics, ensuring children who need additional help receive it promptly. The most able pupils are challenged through extension tasks and enrichment opportunities, including participation in mathematical challenges and writing competitions.

Teachers have strong subject knowledge and plan collaboratively, sharing resources and strategies across year groups. Lessons are well-structured, with clear learning objectives and high expectations for behaviour and effort. Pupils are encouraged to explain their thinking, particularly in mathematics, developing reasoning skills that serve them well in KS2 assessments and beyond.

The school's small size allows staff to know every child well. The headteacher greets children by name each morning, and teachers track academic progress and personal development with equal care. Behaviour is calm and purposeful, reflecting clear expectations and consistent routines.

A trained learning mentor provides additional support for children experiencing social or emotional difficulties. Sessions are discrete and tailored to individual needs, addressing friendship issues, anxiety, or family circumstances that may affect learning. The school also works closely with outside agencies when specialist support is required.

Safeguarding is taken seriously, with all staff trained to recognise and respond to concerns. The 2023 Ofsted inspection confirmed that safeguarding arrangements are effective, with leaders maintaining detailed records and liaising promptly with external services when necessary.

The SENCO coordinates support for approximately 20 pupils on the SEN register, ensuring provision is carefully planned and regularly reviewed. Children with Education, Health and Care Plans receive the support specified, with teaching assistants deployed thoughtfully to promote independence rather than dependency.

Lunchtimes are supervised by experienced staff who know the children well. The playground, though compact, is well-used, with structured activities available for those who prefer them and space for imaginative play. Older pupils can apply to become playground buddies, supporting younger children and helping to resolve minor disputes.

Extracurricular provision is necessarily limited by the school's size, but clubs change termly to offer variety. Current offerings include football, netball, art, coding, and choir. All Year 4 pupils learn the recorder as part of the music curriculum, with opportunities to progress to other instruments through Hammersmith and Fulham Music Service.

The choir performs at community events, including the annual carol service at St Peter's Church and performances for local elderly residents. Sports teams compete in borough tournaments, with recent success in cross-country and athletics.

Residential experiences begin in Year 4 with a two-day trip to a local outdoor centre, building to a four-day residential in Year 6. These trips are carefully planned to develop independence, teamwork, and resilience while providing memorable experiences that strengthen friendships.

Enrichment weeks punctuate the academic year, with themes such as Science Week, Book Week, and Arts Week allowing children to explore subjects in depth. Visiting authors, artists, and scientists bring expertise and enthusiasm, inspiring children to pursue interests beyond the standard curriculum.

Partnerships with local secondary schools provide additional opportunities. Year 6 pupils visit secondary science laboratories, access specialist sports facilities, and participate in creative workshops, easing the transition to secondary education while broadening horizons.

Admissions are coordinated by Hammersmith and Fulham Council. The school is consistently heavily oversubscribed, with 237 applications for 30 places in 2024, representing a subscription ratio of 7.9 applications for every place.

After looked-after children, previously looked-after children, and those with Education, Health and Care Plans naming the school, places are allocated strictly by distance from the school gate. No sibling priority applies, making entry particularly competitive for families without older children already on roll.

Distance data is not readily available from the local authority website. Families should contact Hammersmith and Fulham admissions directly for the most recent distance offered and verify their eligibility based on their home address. Distances vary annually based on applicant distribution; proximity provides priority but does not guarantee a place.

The application deadline for Reception entry is 15 January for September admission. Applications are made through the Hammersmith and Fulham online admissions portal, not directly to the school. Late applications are processed after on-time applications, significantly reducing chances of securing a place at oversubscribed schools.

Given the level of competition, families are strongly advised to list alternative schools on their application form. The local authority will allocate the highest preference school for which the child qualifies, making strategic listing essential.

The majority of pupils progress to secondary schools within Hammersmith and Fulham or neighbouring boroughs. Popular destinations include The London Oratory School, a Catholic boys' school with a strong academic reputation, and co-educational comprehensives such as Burlington Danes Academy and West London Free School.

A significant number of families pursue selective grammar schools in neighbouring boroughs, particularly Tiffin School and Kingston Grammar School for boys, and Tiffin Girls' School for girls. Given the school's strong academic results, pupils are generally well-prepared for entrance examinations, though families typically arrange external tutoring to supplement school provision.

Some pupils secure places at independent schools, supported by scholarships or parental funding. The school does not formally prepare children for independent school entrance, but the rigorous curriculum and high expectations ensure pupils have the foundational skills required.

Transition arrangements are thorough. Year 6 teachers liaise with receiving secondary schools, sharing assessment data and highlighting individual needs. Pupils visit their new schools for induction days, and staff from local secondaries visit John Betts to meet pupils in their familiar environment.

The school provides guidance to parents on secondary options, including information evenings and individual consultations. However, families are responsible for researching schools, attending open days, and completing applications independently.

The school day runs from 8.55am to 3.20pm. Breakfast club operates from 8.00am, providing a calm start to the day with cereal, toast, and fruit available. Children are supervised by experienced staff and can complete homework or engage in quiet activities before registration.

After-school club runs until 6.00pm, offering a safe environment for working parents. Activities include arts and crafts, board games, and outdoor play when weather permits. Snacks are provided, and staff ensure children complete homework if required. Booking is essential, with spaces allocated on a first-come basis.

No on-site nursery provision exists. Children enter the school in Reception at age four or five, meaning families requiring early years education must secure places elsewhere. Local nurseries include Ravenscourt Park Montessori and Wendell Park Children's Centre, both within walking distance.

The school occupies a compact site with limited outdoor space. The playground is surfaced and well-maintained, with designated areas for different age groups during break times. A small garden area provides opportunities for outdoor learning, particularly in science and geography.

Parking near the school is restricted, with controlled parking zones operating throughout the day. Families are encouraged to walk or cycle, with secure bike storage available on site. The nearest underground station is Ravenscourt Park (District Line), approximately five minutes' walk, making the school accessible to families across the borough.

School uniform is compulsory and available from a single supplier. The uniform consists of navy trousers or skirt, white polo shirt, and navy jumper or cardigan, all embroidered with the school logo. Parents report that uniform costs are reasonable compared to other local schools.

Communication with parents is regular and detailed. Weekly newsletters provide updates on curriculum topics, upcoming events, and reminders about deadlines. Parent-teacher consultations occur twice yearly, with additional meetings arranged as needed. The school operates an open-door policy, encouraging parents to raise concerns promptly rather than allowing issues to escalate.

Extreme oversubscription. With 7.9 applications for every place, entry is fiercely competitive. Distance from the school gate determines allocation, and even families living very close may not secure places in years with unusually high demand. Families should verify current distances with the local authority before assuming eligibility and ensure alternative preferences are listed on application forms. Distances vary annually based on applicant distribution; proximity provides priority but does not guarantee a place.

No on-site nursery. Children enter in Reception, meaning families requiring early years provision must secure places elsewhere and transition their child to John Betts at age four or five. This can be unsettling for children who have formed strong attachments to nursery staff and peers. Parents seeking continuity from age three onwards should consider primaries with attached nurseries.

Single-form entry. With just 30 children per year group, friendship dynamics can become intense. Children who fall out with peers have limited alternative social groups, and personality clashes can persist across multiple years. The small cohort also means limited scope for setting or ability grouping, though the school differentiates effectively within mixed-ability classes.

High academic expectations. The school's exceptional results reflect rigorous teaching and high expectations for effort and behaviour. Children who struggle academically may find the pace demanding, and parents should consider whether their child will thrive in an environment where most peers achieve well above expected standards. Support is available for those who need it, but the school makes no apologies for maintaining challenging targets.

Compact site. The school's limited outdoor space means less room for running around compared to primaries with larger playing fields. Active children may find break times restrictive, particularly in poor weather when outdoor play is curtailed. The school compensates with structured activities and access to nearby Ravenscourt Park for PE lessons, but families should visit to assess whether the environment suits their child.

Elite results, stable leadership, and a close-knit community make John Betts a highly sought-after choice for families in Ravenscourt Park and surrounding areas. The school combines academic rigour with genuine care for individual pupils, ensuring children are challenged intellectually while feeling safe and supported. Teaching is consistently strong, behaviour is excellent, and the transition to secondary education is handled thoughtfully.

Best suited to families living very close to the school who want exceptional primary education in a nurturing environment. The single-form entry structure creates an intimate community where every child is known, though this may feel limiting for those preferring larger, more diverse peer groups. The main challenge is securing a place. For those who do, the education provided rivals the best independent schools without the fees.