Peacehaven school celebrates top SATs ranking
Peacehaven Heights Academy has been ranked 13th out of 200 primary schools across East Sussex in the 2025 Key Stage 2 SATs league tables.
The academy, located on Hoddern Avenue, has been praised for its exceptional performance, with pupils and staff welcoming the result as a powerful testament to the school’s culture of aspiration, positivity and commitment. As part of the highly successful STEP Academy Trust, Peacehaven Heights continues to set the standard for excellence in primary education.
The academy’s combined reading, writing and maths results reached 79% in 2025, significantly above the national average of 62%. This exceptional achievement reflects the remarkable transformation the academy has undergone since joining STEP Academy. In 2019, prior to academisation, just 27% of pupils met the expected standard across the three subjects, highlighting the scale of progress made in just six years.
This latest achievement builds on a wave of recent successes for the academy, including a strong Ofsted inspection outcome, which noted that “pupils are keen to live up to the school’s values by showing commitment to their learning”, laying firm foundations for sustained improvement and future growth. The school has also earned the Silver Rights Respecting Schools Award and an Active School Award, highlighting its commitment to nurturing wellbeing, inclusion and personal development alongside academic success.
Peacehaven Heights Academy prides itself on delivering a rich, well-rounded education that empowers every child and improves their life chances. Through inspiring teaching and inclusive practice, pupils are encouraged to build confidence, curiosity and aspiration, alongside a lifelong love of learning.
David Dowling, Headteacher at Peacehaven Heights Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud to be ranked among the top schools in East Sussex. This achievement reflects the outstanding efforts of our pupils, the dedication of our staff and the strong partnership we share with our families. Together, we are committed to nurturing confidence, curiosity and ambition in every child, ensuring they have the support and opportunities they need to truly thrive.”
PTA Parent said: “I have been the chair of the PTA for the past 3 years and I have seen Peacehaven Heights Academy go from strength to strength. There is a great relationship between teachers and parents and carers which allows us to put on all our events, from summer fairs and Christmas Pantos to fireworks nights and discos to name just a few. The Senior Leadership Team consistently support our work which has led to so many wonderful community events. I couldn’t be prouder at what a wonderful partnership we have and what an amazing school Peacehaven Heights Academy is to attend. I will be sad when my children are too old to stay here.”