Oakley Primary Academy

About Oakley Primary Academy

Oakley Primary Academy’s headline KS2 results sit noticeably below the Bedford local authority average, which is a key point for parents to weigh up. In the 2023/24 academic year, 48% of pupils reached the expected standard in reading, writing and maths combined, compared with a LA average of 57%. That gap of nine percentage points places the school 33rd out of 46 primary schools in Bedford, putting it in the bottom half of the local league table. Nationally, it ranks in the 82nd percentile, meaning roughly four in five schools across England scored higher on this measure. The picture is mixed when you look at individual subjects: 71% hit the expected level in reading and 67% in maths, but writing dipped to 59%. At the higher standard, just 2% achieved the top tier across all three subjects, though 24% did so in reading alone. These figures suggest a school where core literacy is a relative strength, but overall attainment lags behind many nearby primaries.

Ofsted’s most recent inspection, in October 2024, rated the school Good overall, with a notable Outstanding grade for behaviour and attitudes. The leadership and management, quality of education, early years provision and personal development all scored Good. This is a step up from the previous inspection in 2011, which also rated the school Good but gave early years a lower grade of 2 (Good) at the time. Parent feedback is overwhelmingly positive: 91% of respondents would recommend the school, and 98% agreed or strongly agreed that their child is happy there. On safety, 97% felt their child is safe, and 93% agreed the school has high expectations. However, the SEND support question drew a more mixed response, with 83% agreeing but 8% strongly disagreeing. The school has capacity for 280 pupils but currently enrols 224, and it was oversubscribed for 2025/26 entry, with 29 first-preference offers made from 52 total applications.

Oakley Primary Academy is a mixed, non-denominational state primary for ages 4 to 11, located in Bedford. It offers a solid range of facilities including playing fields, an ICT suite, a sensory room, forest school area, art studios and music rooms. Sports provision covers swimming, athletics, cross country, rounders, netball and cricket, while clubs include chess, book club and choir. The school’s SEND register covers seven areas, including autistic spectrum disorder, speech and language needs, and social, emotional and mental health support. With 15.2% of pupils eligible for free school meals, the school serves a fairly typical demographic for the area. For families who prioritise a calm, well-behaved environment and strong pastoral care over top-tier academic results, Oakley could be a good fit. The nearest Outstanding-rated school is Ursula Taylor Church of England School, 2.3 km away, which may be worth comparing if academic outcomes are your main concern.

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