YOUNGSTERS’ achievements in school in each key stage of their education now ranks among the country’s best - and Barnsley’s improvement model will be showcased on the national stage for others to replicate.
A report into Barnsley kids’ attainment at the borough’s 91 state-funded schools reveals significant upturns between key stages one to five, with year one phonics and year four pupils’ mathematics - in particular times tables - leading the way.
By the end of Key Stage Two - year six - Barnsley pupils were outperforming the national average in reading, writing and mathematics.
The town ranked first for maths and second for combined reading, writing and maths among statistical neighbours.
Due to the success, the Department for Education (DfE) has invited Barnsley Schools’ Alliance bosses to showcase what’s been done locally in an effort to replicate the model nationally.
The report, which was discussed by a panel of scrutiny councillors at Barnsley Town Hall on Tuesday, said: “Schools across Barnsley maintain a sharp focus on early reading.
“For the third consecutive year, outcomes in the year one phonics screening check place Barnsley among the top three local authorities nationally.
“Disadvantaged pupils in particular achieve well above average, highlighting the effectiveness of targeted support.
“There has also been further progress in helping pupils master their times tables by the end of year four.
“Barnsley now leads the country for the proportion of pupils achieving full marks on the multiplication table check and ranks second nationally for average pupil score.
“This achievement reflects the borough’s collective efforts to raise standards since the test was introduced in 2022.
“The proportion of pupils meeting the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics is now above the national average.
“Barnsley performs substantially better than comparator groups when considering the percentage of pupils achieving at least two A-levels.
“Due to consistently strong phonics outcomes over the past three years, Barnsley has been invited by the DfE to be a supporting organisation for the Regional Improvement for Standards and Excellence (RISE) project, sharing effective approaches to phonics and professional development.
“As part of this initiative, Barnsley will organise and lead a conference for local authorities.
“In addition, each authority will nominate ten primary schools to work
closely to mirror the approach adopted by Barnsley.
“The project will be delivered in partnership with the Jerry Clay English Hub and will showcase the Barnsley Schools’ Alliance’s wider system-led leadership model approach.”
Youngsters with special educational needs also performed well, with attainment increases of 11.2 per cent in maths, 11 per cent in reading and 7.6 per cent in writing.
Additionally, 100 per cent of SEND pupils achieved at least two A-levels at Key Stage Five.
Councillor Ashley Peace, cabinet spokesperson for children’s services, said: “These results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our pupils, teachers, setting and school staff and leaders.
“Barnsley has consistently demonstrated that with the right support and collaborative approach through the Barnsley Schools’ Alliance, we can achieve outstanding outcomes for all children, regardless of background.
“Our SEND improvements are particularly encouraging, showing that targeted support and inclusive practices make a real difference.
“Our focus now is on sustaining this progress, closing gaps for disadvantaged and vulnerable pupils, and ensuring every young person leaves education with the skills and confidence to thrive in life.”
