Methodology

Primary composite score

The primary score (0–100) weights two KS2 measures: 65% on the percentage of pupils meeting the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined (PTRWM_EXP), and 35% on the percentage achieving the higher standard in those subjects (PTRWM_HIGH, scaled so 30% ≈ a top score).

Secondary composite score

The secondary score (0–100) is built from Attainment 8 (scaled with 80 as a notional ceiling) and adjusted by Progress 8, where each point of P8 contributes ±20 (capped at ±30). Schools without P8 data (typically grammar schools, which DfE excludes from progress measures) are scored on Attainment 8 alone.

Caveats

League-table positions are useful for orientation but should never be the sole basis for choosing a school. Composite scores can mask significant variation in cohort intake, value-added across subjects, pastoral provision, and many other factors that matter to families. We recommend visiting any school in person and reading its most recent Ofsted report.