Harpenden Academy
Harpenden, AL5 4EL · Hertfordshire · primary school
47th of 340 primary schools in Hertfordshire we can score, 401 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 3,139 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 8.5/10 among them, against 9.0/10 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 | 81.0 · 89 | 40% | 3.57 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.81 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 19.0 · 90 | 25% | 2.26 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
Get to know the school
How it's doing. In 2024/25, 81.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. The school was rated Good by Ofsted in March 2025. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 8.5 out of 10 among them, against 9.0 out of 10 nationally.
Beyond the classroom. Pupils participate in cross-country, tag rugby, football, netball, chess, rounders, hockey, and the Kwik cricket festival, alongside choir. Both breakfast and after-school clubs are available.
Getting in. The school operates with a low proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals at 6.5%, well below the national average of 25%. This indicates a demographic distinct from the wider national population, often associated with higher local income levels.
Worth asking on a visit. How does the curriculum support pupils who are not yet meeting the higher standard? What specific activities are included in the after-school club? How does the school maintain its Good rating following the 2025 inspection?
Written by AI from this school's published results, inspection record and its own website — not by Ofsted, the school, or SchoolsGPT staff. Every figure above comes from the sources on this page. Check anything that matters with the school.
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.
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