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A free, independent guide for parents — updated each admissions cycle. 26,506 schools · England & Wales
catchment.school

Barnwell Academy Catchment Area

Reviewed by the catchment.school editorial team · Last updated 15 March 2026

Barnwell Academy is a academy converter primary school in Houghton le Spring, Sunderland , serving pupils aged 3–11, with 317 pupils, and a capacity of 210 places. The school is currently at or above capacity, making catchment area proximity important for admissions.

3–11

Age range

317

Pupils

210

Capacity

151%

Fill rate

Outstanding

Ofsted 2023

Barnwell Academy Catchment Area Information

As an academy, Barnwell Academy sets its own admissions criteria, agreed with Sunderland. The catchment area boundary is defined in the school's annual admissions policy, which may differ from the LA's general school admissions arrangements.

Currently oversubscribed: 317 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 210 places. Living within the catchment area is especially important for this school.

Not getting a place? Learn how to appeal a school place →

The official admissions policy — including the catchment boundary map — is published by Sunderland before each admissions cycle. Always verify your address with the council before submitting an application, as boundaries can change year to year.

Find Sunderland catchment area documents →

Barnwell Academy — School Information

Full address
Whitefield Estate, Penshaw, Houghton le Spring, DH4 7RT
Local authority
Sunderland
School type
Academy converter
Phase of education
Primary
Age range
3–11 years
Free school meals
20.4% of pupils
DfE URN
140700

Other Primary Schools in Houghton le Spring

If Barnwell Academy is oversubscribed, these primary schools in Houghton le Spring are the next closest alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions — Barnwell Academy

Is Barnwell Academy oversubscribed?

Yes — Barnwell Academy currently has 317 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 210 places. Catchment area proximity is an important admissions criterion when applying.

What is the admissions policy for Barnwell Academy?

Admission to Barnwell Academy is managed by Sunderland. When oversubscribed, places go to looked-after children first, then siblings, then catchment area distance. Always verify the current policy with the council before applying.

What age range does Barnwell Academy cover?

Barnwell Academy is a primary school in Houghton le Spring, Sunderland, serving pupils aged 3–11. For the latest information, visit the school's website or the DfE Get Information About Schools service.

What is the Ofsted rating for Barnwell Academy?

Barnwell Academy was rated Outstanding by Ofsted in 2023. Full inspection reports are available at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.