Brookfield Primary Academy Review 2026: High-Achieving Community in North Cheam

In a residential corner of Sutton where suburban quiet meets high academic expectation, Brookfield Primary Academy stands as a significant success story within the LEO Academy Trust. This two-form entry primary, serving over 440 pupils in the North Cheam area, has carved out a reputation for academic results that frequently outpace both local and England averages. The latest 2024 KS2 data places the school in the top 10% of primaries in England, a position supported by a curriculum that leans heavily into digital innovation and community values.

The school operates with a clear sense of purpose. While a 2019 Ofsted inspection confirmed a Good rating, a more recent ungraded inspection in October 2024 suggested the school's work may have improved significantly across all areas. This blend of traditional community feel and forward-looking digital integration defines the Brookfield experience for its families.

At drop-off, the gates reveal a school that is busy but exceptionally well-ordered. The site on Ridge Road feels secure and purposeful, with the LEO Academy Trust branding visible throughout, signaling the school's membership in a wider network of local educational excellence. Brookfield joined the trust in 2018, and the benefits of shared resources and staff expertise are evident in the breadth of the curriculum.

Ms Rachel Townsend became the Principal in September 2024, arriving with a clear commitment to inclusion and a holistic approach to education. Under her leadership, the school continues to foster a culture where high expectations are matched by a strong sense of belonging. The atmosphere is not that of an exam factory, but rather a community where children are encouraged to be curious and resilient.

Inside, the classrooms are bright and technology-rich. The school has been recognised for its digital excellence, often hosting visits from other educators to see how Chromebooks are used to enhance, rather than replace, traditional learning methods. This digital fluencies programme ensures that by the time pupils reach Year 6, they are exceptionally well-prepared for the technological demands of secondary school.

The academic outcomes at Brookfield tell a story of consistent excellence. In 2024, 89% of pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing, and mathematics combined. This is significantly higher than the England average of 62%. Such performance places Brookfield in the elite tier of primary schools, specifically within the top 10% of schools in England.

Specific subject strengths are equally notable. In mathematics, 92% of pupils met the expected standard, while 86% achieved this in reading. At the higher standard, the school is particularly dominant. Nearly 37% of pupils achieved the higher standard across reading, writing, and mathematics, a figure that dwarfs the England average of 8%.

Ranked 1008th in England for primary outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), Brookfield also holds a strong local position, ranking 11th among the many high-performing schools in Sutton. These figures reflect a proprietary ranking based on official 2024 data, confirming the school as a top-tier choice for families seeking academic rigour.

The curriculum at Brookfield is designed to be ambitious and inclusive. In the primary phase, there is a heavy emphasis on core literacy and numeracy, but this is balanced by a wider thematic approach to subjects like history, geography, and science. The LEO Academy Trust’s influence is clear here, with a curriculum that is designed centrally but delivered with a local Brookfield flair.

Technology is the differentiator. Key Stage 2 pupils benefit from a one-to-one device ratio, allowing for personalized learning pathways. In a typical mathematics lesson, a teacher might use digital tools to provide immediate feedback, allowing pupils to progress at a pace that suits them. This does not come at the expense of traditional skills; handwriting and physical books remain central to the school day.

Science is also a noted strength, with 92% of pupils reaching the expected standard in 2024, compared to the England average of 82%. This success is attributed to a hands-on approach and a curriculum that encourages pupils to think like scientists from an early age.

Nursery Provision

Brookfield provides integrated nursery provision, welcoming children from the age of three. The nursery environment is designed to bridge the gap between home and formal schooling, focusing on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) goals of communication, physical development, and social skills.

In the nursery, practitioners focus on play-based learning that prepares pupils for the transition to Reception. There is a strong emphasis on outdoor learning, with a dedicated area that allows for exploration and physical play. Transition to the main school is seamless, as nursery pupils are already familiar with the school site, staff, and older peers.

For details on nursery sessions and current availability, parents should visit the school website. Government-funded hours are available for eligible families; parents are encouraged to consult our guide to nursery funding for further details on eligibility.

Living in Sutton, Brookfield families are in a unique position regarding secondary transition. The borough is home to some of the highest-performing grammar schools in England, including Sutton Grammar, Wallington County Grammar, and Nonsuch High School for Girls.

A significant proportion of Brookfield pupils sit the Selective Eligibility Test (SET) for these schools. While the academy provides a rigorous curriculum that supports this ambition, it remains a mainstream primary school rather than a dedicated 11-plus prep centre. For those not moving to the grammar sector, popular local destinations include Cheam High School and Glenthorne High School, both of which are highly regarded and within easy reach.

Brookfield is a consistently oversubscribed school. In the most recent admissions cycle, there were 154 applications for just 37 offers, resulting in a subscription proportion of 4.16. This means there are over four applications for every available place, making entry highly competitive.

Admissions are managed by the London Borough of Sutton. Priority is given to looked-after children, siblings of current pupils, and those with exceptional medical or social needs. The remaining places are allocated based on distance from the school. Families should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their precise distance from the school gates compared to previous intake patterns.

The school operates a robust pastoral system that ensures every child is known and supported. With a two-form entry structure, staff are able to maintain close relationships with families. The inclusion team works closely with the LEO Academy Trust to provide specialist support for pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Behaviour is a clear strength, with the October 2024 inspection noting it as excellent. The school uses a positive reinforcement model, celebrating achievements both academic and personal. For pupils needing emotional support, the school provides a warm and nurturing environment where concerns are addressed swiftly and thoughtfully.

The extracurricular offer at Brookfield is extensive, benefiting from the academy trust’s ability to run inter-school competitions and events. Sport is a major pillar, with opportunities for pupils to represent the school in football, netball, and athletics. The school makes good use of local facilities and its own grounds for fixtures.

Musical and creative opportunities are also prevalent. The school choir frequently performs at community events, and there are opportunities for peripatetic music lessons in a variety of instruments. Named clubs such as the Digital Leaders and the Eco-Committee allow pupils to take on leadership roles, fostering a sense of agency and responsibility.

The school day typically runs from 8:45am to 3:15pm. Brookfield offers comprehensive wraparound care to support working families. The Sunrise Club provides breakfast care from 7:30am, while the Sunset Club offers after-school care until 6:00pm, featuring a range of activities and a light snack.

The school is located on Ridge Road, which can become congested during peak times. Walking or cycling is encouraged, and there are scooter racks available on site. The nearest rail links are at Cheam and West Sutton, though most families live within walking distance.

Fees & Financial Aid

As a state-funded academy, Brookfield Primary Academy does not charge tuition fees. There are no costs for standard education for pupils between the ages of 3 and 11. Families may be asked to contribute toward optional extras such as school trips, specialized music tuition, or certain after-school clubs. Financial support is often available via the school for families eligible for Pupil Premium, which can help cover the costs of uniforms and educational visits.

• High competition for places: With over four applications per place, Brookfield is one of the most oversubscribed schools in Sutton. Families living outside the immediate vicinity may find it difficult to secure a place through distance criteria alone.
• Digital focus: The one-to-one Chromebook programme is central to the school's identity. Families who prefer a more traditional, low-tech approach to primary education may find this emphasis challenging.
• Trust-led curriculum: As part of the LEO Academy Trust, many curriculum and policy decisions are made at a trust level. While this ensures high standards, it may mean the school has less individual autonomy than a standalone community primary.

Brookfield Primary Academy is an academic powerhouse that retains its heart as a community school. Its results are undeniably impressive, placing it among the highest-performing schools in England, yet it is the school’s commitment to digital innovation and pupil wellbeing that truly sets it apart. It is best suited to families in the North Cheam area who want a high-achieving, technology-forward education within a supportive and well-structured environment. The main hurdle is simply getting through the door.