St James' CofE Academy
Bedford, MK40 4BD · Bedford · primary school
Check the area around this school
14th 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 3,809 schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 3.8/10 among them, against 4.3/10 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 | 54.0 · 26 | 40% | 1.03 |
| Ofsted | 52 | 35% | 1.82 |
| Higher standard (RWM) 2024/25 | 11.0 · 71 | 25% | 1.77 |
Each measure is read as a position among comparable schools, so a school in the middle of the country scores 5. Full method.
St James' CofE Academy overview
How it's doing
In 2024/25, 54.0% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths, compared to the national median of 64%. For the higher standard, the school recorded 11.0%, against a national median of 7%. Ofsted rated the school Good in March 2025. Narrow the comparison to the schools whose pupils have similar backgrounds — a tougher field — and it places 3.8 out of 10 among them, against 4.3 out of 10 nationally.
Getting in
The published school roll is 194 pupils against a stated capacity of 210. 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 to bridge the gap between the 54.0% expected standard and the national median of 64%? What specific strategies are used to maintain the higher standard rate of 11.0%? How does the school ensure the Good Ofsted rating translates into daily classroom practice?
What Ofsted said about St James' CofE Academy
Overview
St James’ CofE Academy has taken effective action to maintain the standards identified at the previous inspection. The school provides a caring environment where pupils enjoy learning and behave exceptionally well, supported by a broad and stimulating curriculum.
Strengths
- Pupils thrive in a "caring and nurturing environment" underpinned by a strong ethos of "flourishing together."
- Teachers deliver a "broad and stimulating curriculum," making clear links between subjects to help pupils rehearse and build on prior knowledge.
- Behaviour is a strength, with pupils treating everyone "kindly and with respect" and following the code to "be ready to learn, show respect and stay safe."
- Provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) is effective, with staff skilfully adapting teaching to provide "personalised support."
- Attendance has improved due to the school’s efforts to support families in overcoming difficulties.
Areas to improve
- A small number of pupils are not receiving the necessary extra help to become fluent readers; the school must ensure these children receive "guidance and support by expertly trained teachers" to develop confidence when reading aloud.
Safeguarding
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 | 71% |
| 2023/24 | 52% |
| 2024/25 | 54% |
| 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
Saved schools live on this device only — no account, no tracking. Visit the school's website
Loading full school details…
Similar schools nearby
Same area, prioritising the same phase — useful for shortlisting alternatives.
Every school within 2.5 miles of MK40 4BD, with results, demand and deadlines — area report →
Have a specific question about admissions, scores or dates?
Ask SchoolsGPT