Prospective Parents

Welcome to Dodworth St John’s

Belong. Believe. Become.

Choosing a school means finding a place where your child will feel safe, enjoy learning and be supported to achieve.

At Dodworth St John the Baptist’s CE Primary Academy, we take time to get to know our children and their families. Our Christian vision, Belong. Believe. Become., expresses what we want for every child: a sense of belonging, belief in what they can achieve, and opportunities to develop their knowledge, character and talents.

We welcome families of all faiths and none. Whether you are looking for a nursery place, preparing for Reception or considering a change of school, we would be delighted to meet you.

Come and meet us

Our Open Events are a chance to meet our staff, explore our learning spaces and ask questions about school life.

  • Wednesday 4 November 2026: 4.30pm or 6pm
  • Saturday 7 November 2026: 10am–12 noon

To book, call 01226 286514 or email dsj-office@dodworthstjohn.enhanceacad.org.uk.

If these dates do not suit you, please contact us to arrange a personal tour. You and your child are warmly welcome.

A happy, confident start

Our Nursery and Reception provision helps children settle into school, build friendships and develop independence. Through play, exploration and carefully planned teaching, children develop their language, early reading and mathematical understanding.

“Children are happy, safe and enjoy their learning.”

Ofsted, September 2026

Learning with ambition

Children follow a broad curriculum that builds their knowledge and skills over time. Reading, writing and mathematics provide strong foundations, alongside opportunities to explore science, the arts and the wider world.

Our September 2026 Ofsted inspection confirmed that the school meets high national standards across all seven areas evaluated, with safeguarding standards met. Inspectors recognised that pupils achieve well across the curriculum and are well prepared for their next steps.

Read about our latest Ofsted inspection

Support that starts with your child

We listen to families and work together to understand what each child needs. Our staff identify additional needs early and provide personalised support to help children learn alongside their classmates and take part in school life.

If your child has additional needs, we welcome an early conversation about the support available.

Find out about SEND support

Opportunities beyond the classroom

Clubs, visits, performances and community activities help children discover interests and develop confidence. Our clubs include sporting, creative and musical opportunities, with programmes shared each half term.

Pupils also take on responsibilities within school, learning to contribute, support others and take pride in their community.

Practical support for families

ProvisionTimes
School day8.45am–3.15pm
Breakfast Club7.30am–8.45am
After-school care3.15pm–5.15pm

Our Breakfast Club and after-school care are run by school staff. Please contact the office for current charges and availability.

Find out more about wraparound care

Joining our school

Reception in September 2027

Children born between 1 September 2022 and 31 August 2023 can start Reception in September 2027. The application deadline is 15 January 2027.

Apply through the local authority where you live. Families living in Barnsley can find out more and apply through Barnsley Council.

Nursery

Children can join school nursery from the term after their third birthday, subject to availability. Please contact us to discuss our provision and visit Barnsley Council’s nursery admissions page for application information.

Moving schools

We currently have places available. Contact the school office to check availability for your child’s year group and arrange a visit.

We look forward to welcoming you to Dodworth St John’s.

Have you seen our social media channels?