Christopher Reeves CofE VA Primary School, Podington

In its own words: "As a church school we firmly believe in the importance of a values-led curriculum which puts good relationships at the heart of our school community and continues to underpin the drive to improve standards. As a result there is a calm and purposeful feel in the school, which visitors often comment on."

From the headteacher's welcome: "We are a village school, serving the community of Podington and beyond. I am very proud to be the Executive Headteacher of this wonderful school. Our children, families, staff and governors work in close partnership to create enriching learning opportunities within a happy, secure Christian environment."

The school runs a breakfast club from 8:00am and after-school care, from £10 per day.

Coming up: an open day on Monday 9 November 2026. Check the school's website before you go, as dates can change.

In 2025, 57% of Year 6 pupils at Christopher Reeves CofE VA Primary School reached the expected standard in reading and 54% in maths. At the average state primary the figures were 74% and 70% in Bedford and 77% and 75% across England.

Results fell from 77% in reading and 62% in maths in 2024.

With small year groups, a few pupils can move these figures by several points.

For September 2026 entry, 8 families put Christopher Reeves CofE VA Primary School as their first choice and 21 named it as one of their preferences, for 8 places offered. That is one first choice for every place. Every family who put it first was offered a place there for 2026 entry.

The nearest other state primary schools to Christopher Reeves CofE VA Primary School are St Lawrence Church of England Primary School (1.5 miles, Good, 79% reading, 89% maths); Wollaston Primary School (2.1 miles, Good, 68% reading, 66% maths); South End Junior School (2.2 miles, Good, 81% reading, 91% maths); and Whitefriars Primary School (2.3 miles).

Each of them had higher 2025 results than Christopher Reeves CofE VA Primary School.

10% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, well below the average state school (25%), and 0% speak English as an additional language, against 18.8% on average, according to the 2026 school census.

The largest ethnic groups are White British (83%) and Mixed (7%).

In 2026, 1 pupils (1.4%) received SEN support and 8 (11.4%) had an education, health and care plan, against 16.2% and 4.6% at the average state school. The most common need among them is speech, language and communication needs.

Christopher Reeves CofE VA Primary School had 7 teachers in 2026, one for every 11 pupils: more teachers per pupil than a typical primary school, at about one for every 20.

There is no railway, tram or Underground station within about three miles of Christopher Reeves CofE VA Primary School.

2 bus stops are within a five-minute walk; the closest is Church (outside), 270 metres away.

In August 2026, police recorded 6 crimes within a mile of the school, most often burglary, anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime. That is well below the typical figure around schools in Bedford (136).

In 2024/25, Christopher Reeves CofE VA Primary School issued 1 suspension, 1.3 for every 100 pupils (the average state school: 6.3), and no permanent exclusions.