Great Bentley Primary School

About Great Bentley Primary School

Great Bentley Primary School holds an Outstanding rating from Ofsted, a grade it earned in its most recent graded inspection in 2015 and confirmed as still current in an ungraded inspection in 2022. The school’s academic story is best captured by its Key Stage 2 results from the 2023/24 academic year, where 67% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined. That figure sits above the local authority average of 62% for similar schools, placing Great Bentley 10th out of 33 primary schools in the Tendring area and in the top 50% nationally. The school also excels in reading, with 93% of pupils meeting the expected standard and 43% reaching the higher standard.

Digging deeper into the exam data, the school’s performance is particularly strong in maths, where pupils achieved an average scaled score of 107 and 87% met the expected standard, with 37% reaching the higher standard. Reading scores are similarly impressive, with an average scaled score of 108. Writing is a relative area for development, with 70% meeting the expected standard and just 10% achieving the higher standard. The school’s ranking within the East of England region places it in the 37th percentile, and nationally it sits in the 41st percentile among primary schools. These outcomes suggest a school that consistently delivers solid academic foundations, particularly in reading and maths, while maintaining a clear focus on raising writing attainment. The Ofsted report also highlights Outstanding early years provision, which sets a strong foundation for pupils entering the school.

The school operates as a state primary for mixed-gender pupils aged 5 to 11, with 244 pupils on roll against a capacity of 270. It is oversubscribed, receiving 121 applications for 34 places in the 2025/26 admissions round, with 31 first-preference offers made. The oversubscription ratio of 3.56 applicants per place indicates strong local demand. Facilities include music rooms, art studios, an ICT suite, a sports hall and a chapel. The school offers a range of clubs including drama, chess, eco club, book club and gardening, plus sports such as cross country, rounders, gymnastics and netball. SEND provision covers specific learning difficulties including dyslexia, speech and language needs, autistic spectrum disorder, physical disability and social, emotional and mental health support. This is a school that suits families seeking a well-regarded village primary with strong academic outcomes, a broad extracurricular offer and a clear commitment to inclusion.

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