The Department for Education has unveiled its latest primary school performance data, highlighting the institutions where pupils excelled in their end-of-primary assessments. The figures, which cover Key Stage 2 SATs taken in the summer of 2025, provide a clear snapshot of academic achievement across Birmingham.
How Schools Are Measured
Each school receives a score out of 120 based on pupil performance in reading and maths SATs. The crucial benchmark is the proportion of children meeting the 'expected standard'. According to the DfE, a pupil reaches this standard by achieving a scaled score of 100 or more in both reading and maths tests, alongside a teacher assessment confirming they are 'working at the expected standard' or better in writing.
An even higher benchmark recognises pupils working at 'greater depth'. To be classed as achieving a 'higher standard', a pupil must score 110 or more in reading and maths and be judged by their teacher as 'working at a greater depth within the expected standard' in writing.
Birmingham's Highest Achievers
The ranking of the top 27 schools is determined by the percentage of Year 6 pupils who met the expected standard. Leading the table is Cromwell Junior and Infants School in Nechells, where an impressive 97% of pupils met the expected standards. Furthermore, 20% of its cohort attained the higher standard.
Sharing the top spot for the proportion meeting expected standards is The Olive School in Small Heath, which also saw 97% of its pupils succeed. This school distinguished itself further, with a notable 33% of pupils reaching the higher standard, indicating exceptional performance.
Other schools featuring prominently in the top five include Four Oaks Primary School and St James' Catholic Primary School in Rednal. At Four Oaks, 93% met the expected standard and 23% achieved the higher standard. St James' also recorded 93% meeting the expected standard, with 17% reaching the higher benchmark.
What the Data Means for Parents
This annual data release offers valuable insights for families and educators. It highlights schools where teaching is effectively ensuring pupils are well-prepared for secondary education. The focus on both the 'expected' and 'higher' standards allows for a nuanced view, recognising schools that not only support the majority but also excel in challenging high-achieving pupils.
The performance tables, published by the DfE on 16th December 2025, are a key resource. They reflect the outcomes of assessments taken at the end of the 2024/2025 academic year, providing the most current picture of primary school performance available.
