Belthorn Academy Primary School, Blackburn

In its own words: "Our school is a happy, safe and nurturing environment where each child is valued. We have high academic standards where every child has access to a broad and balanced curriculum. We value our strong partnership with parents who take an active role in the education of our children."

From the headteacher's welcome: "I’m delighted to introduce you to Belthorn Academy. We’re a school that prides itself in living its values. It means growing happy, kind, safe, accepting, passionate, ambitious, confident, resilient, valued, accepting and respectful children through one of the most important stages of their life."

The school runs a breakfast club and after-school care.

In 2025, 77% of Year 6 pupils at Belthorn Academy Primary School reached the expected standard in reading and 83% in maths. At the average state primary the figures were 75% and 74% in Lancashire and 77% and 75% across England.

Results fell from 90% in reading and 90% in maths in 2024.

With small year groups, a few pupils can move these figures by several points.

For September 2026 entry, 30 families put Belthorn Academy Primary School as their first choice and 35 named it as one of their preferences, for 30 places offered. That is one first choice for every place. Every family who put it first was offered a place there for 2026 entry.

The nearest other state primary schools to Belthorn Academy Primary School are Hoddlesden St Paul's Church of England Primary School (1.3 miles, Outstanding, 62% reading, 52% maths); St James' Church of England Primary School (1.5 miles, Good, 68% reading, 61% maths); Shadsworth Junior School (1.7 miles, Good, 69% reading, 76% maths); and Lower Darwen Primary School (1.7 miles, Good, 58% reading, 53% maths).

Belthorn Academy Primary School's 2025 results were higher than all 4 of them.

10.5% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, well below the average state school (25%), and 4.2% speak English as an additional language, against 18.8% on average, according to the 2026 school census.

The largest ethnic groups are White British (85%) and Asian (10%).

In 2026, 13 pupils (5.5%) received SEN support and 8 (3.4%) had an education, health and care plan, against 16.2% and 4.6% at the average state school. The most common need among them is social, emotional and mental health needs.

The nearest railway station is Darwen Rail Station, about 2 miles away in a straight line.

6 bus stops are within a five-minute walk; the closest is Foundation CEPS (opposite), 40 metres away.

In August 2026, police recorded 3 crimes within a mile of the school, most often anti-social behaviour and violence and sexual offences. That is well below the typical figure around schools in Lancashire (109).

In 2024/25, Belthorn Academy Primary School issued 2 suspensions, 0.8 for every 100 pupils (the average state school: 6.3), and no permanent exclusions.