The school is smaller than the average-sized primary school. Almost all pupils are from White British backgrounds and speak English as their first language. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils known to be eligible for the pupil premium (funding for pupils known to be eligible for free school meals and children looked after by the local authority) is well below average but is rising. The proportion of disabled pupils and those with special educational needs is above average. Over the past three years, the headteacher (a Local Leader of Education) has worked with two local schools (Whiston and Anston Park Junior Schools) to provide interim leadership in a drive to raise standards and facilitate school improvement. The school meets the government’s current floor standards, which are the minimum expectations for pupils’ attainment and progress in reading, writing and mathematics. The school works closely with Harthill Pre-school for children aged two to five. This provision is based on the same site, but is run independently of Harthill Primary School. In 2013, the school experienced a number of unforeseen staffing issues. A significant number of experienced staff either left the school or took long-term leave for personal reasons. The school holds the Gold Standard International Award, the Rotherham Global Award and the Rotherham Charter Gold status for Parents as Partners for its commitment to inclusion and partnership working.