Ravensden CofE Primary Academy
Vicarage Close, Ravensden, Bedford, MK44 2RWOpen in maps (opens in a new tab)
Ravensden CofE Primary Academy is a primary school in Bedford for ages 2 to 11. It is one of the 84 schools in Bedford. It ranks 50th of 52 primary schools in Bedford. Its latest Ofsted rating is Good, from an inspection in July 2023.
Ofsted inspection
Inspected 3 July 2023, report published 18 September 2023
- Overall effectiveness
- Good
- Quality of education
- Good
- Behaviour and attitudes
- Good
- Personal development
- Good
- Leadership and management
- Good
- Early years provision
- Good
- Safeguarding
- Met
What Ofsted said
From the inspection on 3 July 2023
Everyone has the opportunity for their 'light to shine' at this small school. Pupils are part of an inclusive community. They grow in confidence because of the kind relationships that exist across the school. Pupils know the school values well. These help them to make wise choices in their behaviour and learning. They use the values to guide their interactions with others. Pupils know that their teachers expect their best efforts, and they respond with enthusiasm. Right from the start in early years, pupils learn to work and play together. Pupils behave well around the school. At breaktimes, pupils of all ages play happily in the spacious grounds. Older play leaders organise games so that everyone is included. Bullying is rare. Pupils are confident to share any worries with adults who they trust to help them. Any incidences of unkind behaviour are swiftly resolved. Pupils enjoy memorable moments from a wide range of trips that enrich the curriculum. They can take part in sporting clubs at lunchtime and after school. Clubs before and after school have a 'family feel'. Pupils and their families appreciate all that the school offers, typically commenting, 'Ravensden is a wonderful, caring school that puts the children first.'
What the school should improve
- In a few subjects, the curriculum is evolving, and the most important learning and vocabulary at each point are less clearly defined. In these subjects, assessment systems are less well developed. Some pupils develop gaps and misconceptions over time. Leaders should refine planning for these subjects so the key learning is clear. They should ensure teachers have the expertise to implement these plans effectively.
- The current leadership structure does not enable all leaders to fulfil their roles effectively. Some leaders have limited opportunities to accurately evaluate what is happening and ensure it is making a difference. Leaders, including the trust, need to clarify leadership roles and responsibilities and ensure that all leaders can carry out their roles highly effectively.
Exam results
SATs results (key stage 2), 2024/25
11 pupils took the tests
Pupil numbers and mix
51 pupils on roll, with places for 114
Schools near Ravensden CofE Primary Academy
| School | Distance | Ofsted | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilden CofE VA Primary School | 1 mile | Ofsted: Good | 63% met the expected standard |
| Renhold VC Primary School | 1 mile | Ofsted judgements: Good | 43% met the expected standard |
| Putnoe Primary School | 2 miles | Ofsted: Good | 57% met the expected standard |
| Brickhill Primary School | 2 miles | Ofsted: Good | 57% met the expected standard |
| The Hills Academy | 2 miles | Ofsted: Good | 63% met the expected standard |
School details
- School type
- Academy sponsor led
- Sector
- Academy
- Trust
- DIOCESE OF ST ALBANS MULTI-ACADEMY TRUST
- Age range
- 2 to 11
- Gender
- Mixed
- Religious character
- Church of England
- Nursery classes
- Yes
- Headteacher
- Mrs Alison Barden
- Phone
- 01234771316
- Address
- Vicarage Close, Ravensden, Bedford, MK44 2RW
- Local authority
- Bedford
- URN
- 148334
School details from Get Information about Schools, 17 September 2026. Ofsted outcomes published to 31 August 2026. Exam results for 2024/25 from the Department for Education. Pupil mix from the school census, 2025/26.