Priory Academy
115%
Capacity
808
Pupils
N/A
Demand
About Priory Academy
Priory Academy is a state-funded Does not apply secondary school serving the Central Bedfordshire community, welcoming children from age 9 to 16. The school has 808 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (115% of 700 places).
Ofsted has rated Priory Academy "Good", the school is led by headteacher Ian Bailey, it falls under Central Bedfordshire local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of -0.21 is below the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is developing at 41.7. Additionally, ranked 2027th out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 7th out of 16 in Central Bedfordshire.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 8 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 5 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Priory Academy include Dining Hall, Science Labs, Music Rooms, Art Studios, Sixth Form Centre, Playing Fields, Sports Hall, Library, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Hockey, Netball, Football, Gymnastics and 6 more, as well as clubs including Art Club, Debate, Model UN, Science Club and 4 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 13.7%, which is below the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Central Bedfordshire, Priory Academy is one of the options available in the East of England region. Use Classpot to compare it side-by-side with nearby alternatives and find the best fit for your child.
Key Details
| School Type | Secondary (State) |
| Age Range | 9 to 16 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Does not apply |
| Address | Priory Academy, Britain Street, Dunstable, Central Bedfordshire, LU5 4JA |
| Headteacher | Ian Bailey |
| Local Authority | Central Bedfordshire |
| Number of Pupils | 808 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 13.7% |
| School Capacity | 808 / 700 (115% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
20 Apr 2023Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (20 Apr 2023): School remains Good
Source: Ofsted, 18 Sept 2017. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (-0.21)
2027th of 3,141
Nationally
236th of 350
In East of England
7th of 16
In Central Bedfordshire
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make less progress than similar students nationally
Attainment 8 (vs national avg)
Students achieve significantly higher grades than the national average
Source: Department for Education, 2023/24. Progress 8 compares to students with similar Key Stage 2 results.
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
9Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
18Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Priory Academy
Helpful Guides for Parents
Ofsted Ratings Explained
Understand the 4 Ofsted ratings and what they mean
Understanding Progress 8
Learn how Progress 8 measures pupil progress from primary to GCSE
SEN & EHCP: A Parent's Guide
Understanding SEN support, EHC Plans and your legal rights
School Admissions Timeline 2026/27
Key dates for primary, secondary and nursery applications
Contact Information
Priory Academy, Britain Street, Dunstable
Central Bedfordshire, LU5 4JA
Priory Academy, Britain Street, Dunstable
Central Bedfordshire, LU5 4JA
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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