Magna Carta Primary Academy

About Magna Carta Primary Academy

Magna Carta Primary Academy's headline Key Stage 2 results sit slightly below the Essex local authority average, with 59% of pupils reaching the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined against an LA average of 62%. That three-point gap places the school in the bottom half of primary schools nationally, ranked 8,251st out of 13,686. Within Uttlesford specifically, it ranks 25th out of 34 primary schools, putting it in the bottom 50% of its own district. The picture is more nuanced when you look at individual subjects: 86% of pupils met the expected standard in reading, well above the national benchmark, and the average reading score of 106 is solid. Maths and writing were weaker, with 69% and 72% reaching the expected standard respectively, and only 7% of pupils achieved the higher standard across all three subjects. So while the school isn't outperforming its local peers on the headline measure, it's not far off, and reading is a clear strength.

Ofsted's most recent graded inspection, back in 2019, rated the school Good overall, with Outstanding marks for both leadership and management and early years provision. An ungraded inspection in December 2024 confirmed that standards have been maintained. The parent view is overwhelmingly positive: 96% of the 71 respondents would recommend the school, and 100% agreed or strongly agreed that their child is happy and feels safe. Strong majorities also felt the school has high expectations (95% agree or strongly agree) and that their child does well (97%). The school is oversubscribed for 2025/26, with 80 applications for 30 places and 37 first-preference applications, giving a ratio of 2.67 applicants per place. That suggests strong local demand, even if the raw results don't put it at the top of the league tables.

The school offers a good range of facilities for a primary of its size, including a sensory room, forest school area, music rooms, gymnasium and art studios. Sports provision covers rounders, cricket, gymnastics, netball and cross country, while clubs include drama, science club, choir and art club. SEND support is listed for a broad spectrum of needs, including autistic spectrum disorder, speech and language communication needs, and social, emotional and mental health difficulties, though the parent view data on SEND support had no responses, so it's hard to gauge how well that provision works in practice. With 201 pupils on roll against a capacity of 210, the school is nearly full, and the 8% pupil premium rate is relatively low. This is a school that suits families who value a strong reading foundation, a happy and safe environment, and a headteacher who has maintained Good Ofsted standards, but who are realistic about its middling position on academic rankings.

Key Details

Frequently Asked Questions About Magna Carta Primary Academy

Helpful Guides for Parents