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Maiden Beech Academy

Crewkerne, TA18 8HG · Somerset · primary school

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Ofsted report card · 2026 Lowest area: Needs attention Mixed Primary
2.4/10 Below average

135th of 156 primary schools in Somerset we can score, 219 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 3,673 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 2.6/10 among them, against 3.3/10 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
MeasurePercentileWeightAdds
Expected standard (RWM) 2022/23 44.0 · 12 40% 0.47
Ofsted 7 35% 0.24
Higher standard (RWM) 2022/23 10.0 · 66 25% 1.65

Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.

Maiden Beech Academy overview

How it's doing

In 2022/23, 44.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 62%. For the higher standard, 10.0% achieved it, against a national median of 7%. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 2.6 out of 10 among them, against 3.3 out of 10 nationally. Ofsted inspected the school in February 2026 under the new framework, which grades areas separately without an overall grade.

Getting in

The published school roll is 102 pupils against a stated capacity of 420. 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

How does the school support pupils who are below the expected standard in literacy? What does a typical day look like for a child in the early years? How does the leadership team monitor progress following the recent inspection?

AI-assisted overview based on this school's published results, inspection record and official website. Sources and dates are shown throughout this page. Verify information that could change directly with the school.

What Ofsted said about Maiden Beech Academy

Inspection report dated 3 February 2026

Overview

Maiden Beech Academy is a relatively new primary school that has established a positive culture where pupils feel happy and safe. While leaders have successfully improved attendance and behaviour, the report identifies that teaching quality and pupil attainment in reading and writing require significant attention to meet expected standards.

Strengths

  • Attendance has risen to above national averages through "meticulous analysis" and proactive work with parents.
  • Pupils behave well in a "calm learning environment, centred on mutual respect" where unkindness is rare.
  • Inclusion strategies are effective, with "targeted strategies" reducing barriers for pupils with special educational needs.
  • The early years curriculum is "well-organised" and prepares children effectively for Year 1.
  • Governance provides "useful support and challenge," ensuring resources are managed well during change.

Areas to improve

  • Staff must be trained to effectively assess pupil knowledge and address misconceptions, particularly in phonics and writing.
  • Teaching of vocabulary needs improvement so pupils can "talk readily and accurately about their learning."
  • Leaders must ensure staff have the expertise to teach letter formation and writing fluency to improve work quality.

Safeguarding

The safeguarding standards are met, with leaders establishing "an open culture in which safeguarding is everyone's responsibility" and concerns are actively identified and managed.

This is an AI-assisted summary of the official Ofsted report, not a statement written by Ofsted. Check the full official report before making a decision.
Expected standard
44%
2022/23
Higher standard
10%
2022/23
Demand
×1.0
1st prefs per place, 2026/27
Free school meals
19%
vs 25% across England

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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