Great Denham Primary School
Bedford, MK40 4GG · Bedford · primary school
Check the area around this school
1st of 50 primary schools in Bedford we can score, 55 in total — the rest without enough published data. Local and same-phase on purpose: a national table mostly measures who attends.
Narrow the comparison to the 4,296 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 5.8/10 among them, against 6.3/10 nationally. Both figures are results only, without the inspection grade. A lower figure here means a stronger comparison group, not a weaker school.
How this is worked out
| Measure | Percentile | Weight | Adds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expected standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 72.0 · 71 | 40% | 2.83 |
| Ofsted | 96 | 35% | 3.37 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 7.0 · 51 | 25% | 1.27 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Great Denham Primary School overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 72.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The higher standard was reached by 7.0% of pupils, matching the national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Outstanding in July 2024. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 5.8 out of 10 among them, against 6.3 out of 10 nationally.
Getting in
The published school roll is 677 pupils against a stated capacity of 650. These whole-school figures do not establish entry-year vacancies or the likelihood of an offer. Confirm entry-year availability and admissions criteria with the school or local authority.
Worth asking on a visit
What specific support is available for pupils who do not reach the expected standard? How does the curriculum adapt to the diverse needs of the student body?
What Ofsted said about Great Denham Primary School
Overview
Great Denham Primary School is described as a "vibrant" institution where pupils are "excited to attend" and "inspired to learn." The report highlights an "ambitious and well-structured curriculum" that prepares students exceptionally well for secondary school and life in modern Britain.
Strengths
- The curriculum is "well-sequenced" and uses a "project-based approach" that builds complexity, ensuring pupils "remember their learning and achieve exceptionally well."
- Reading provision is highly effective; staff use "engaging, book-themed experiences" and "daily phonics sessions" so pupils "learn to say sounds accurately" and read with fluency.
- Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) receive "highly effective teaching and support," allowing them to access the same curriculum as their peers successfully.
- Personal development is of "exceptional quality," with a strong emphasis on music, sport, and community involvement, fostering "compassion and understanding."
- Leadership is cohesive, with staff who are "well-supported through effective training" and empowered to lead subject areas or school development.
Areas to improve
- The report identifies no significant areas for improvement.
Safeguarding
The report states that "the arrangements for safeguarding are effective."
Results over time
Expected standard (reading, writing, maths), the years we hold.
| Year | Expected standard (reading, writing, maths) |
|---|---|
| 2022/23 | 70% |
| 2023/24 | 68% |
| 2024/25 | 72% |
| England | 64% |
Source: DfE Explore Education Statistics. “England” is the median of the 14,326 state schools in England we hold a 2024/25 figure for — a school-level median, not the DfE's pupil-weighted national figure.
Your offer chance
—Based on official applications/offers, distance and catchment where we have it. Bands only — never a percentage.
Sibling, faith, looked-after and other criteria can override distance. Always confirm with the school or local authority.
Next dates
- Primary (Reception) application deadline15 Jan 2027
- Primary National Offer Day16 Apr 2027
- Primary (Reception) application deadline15 Jan 2028
- Primary National Offer Day17 Apr 2028
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