West Rainton Primary School, Houghton le Spring

In its own words: "It is both a privilege and a pleasure to show you what our school has to offer. Our school is a fun and happy place to work, play, learn and grow. We care for each other like a big, extended family, and we are proud of our school values, achievements and every individual within it."

Clubs and activities named on the school's website include football, netball, gymnastics, yoga, dance, cooking and homework club.

In 2025, 94% of Year 6 pupils at West Rainton Primary School reached the expected standard in reading and 76% in maths. At the average state primary the figures were 75% and 74% in County Durham and 77% and 75% across England.

Results rose from 82% in reading and 82% in maths in 2024.

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

For September 2026 entry, 15 families put West Rainton Primary School as their first choice and 22 named it as one of their preferences, for 16 places offered. It had fewer first-choice applications than places. Every family who put it first was offered a place there for 2026 entry.

The nearest other state primary schools to West Rainton Primary School are East Rainton Primary School (1.4 miles, Good, 72% reading, 83% maths); Belmont Cheveley Park Primary School (1.6 miles, Good, 94% reading, 91% maths); Pittington Primary School (1.7 miles, Good, 81% reading, 73% maths); and Belmont CofE (Controlled) Primary School (2 miles, Good, 82% reading, 89% maths).

West Rainton Primary School's 2025 results were higher than 2 of these 4 schools.

52% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, well above the average state school (25%), and 2.7% speak English as an additional language, against 18.8% on average, according to the 2026 school census.

In 2026, 8 pupils (5.4%) received SEN support and 2 (1.4%) 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 a moderate learning difficulty.

West Rainton Primary School had 10 teachers in 2026, one for every 14 pupils: more teachers per pupil than a typical primary school, at about one for every 20.

The nearest railway station is Durham Rail Station, about 3.6 miles away in a straight line.

6 bus stops are within a five-minute walk; the closest is School Avenue (sw-bound), 180 metres away.

In August 2026, police recorded 27 crimes within a mile of the school, most often violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour and other theft. That is well below the typical figure around schools in County Durham (84).

West Rainton Primary School recorded no suspensions or permanent exclusions in 2024/25.