Knavesmire is an average sized primary school located within the south of the City of York. The number of pupils has increased over the last three years because of its increasing popularity, reversing a previously declining trend. The number of classes and nursery places has been expanded to meet demand although the Reception class is oversubscribed. Most of the children are of White British heritage. The proportion of pupils who speak English as an additional language is very low. The proportion of pupils who are eligible for a free school meal is below average. About 10% of pupils have been identified as having learning difficulties and/or disabilities. This is lower than in most schools. The school has several awards including a national Healthy Schools Award, an Artsmark, the Basic Skills Agency Quality Mark and a School Achievement Award. The Foundation Stage is used as an example of best practice by the local authority.