Harrold Primary Academy, Bedford

In its own words: "Harrold Primary Academy is part of Meridian Trust (CMAT ). The Trust was formed with a simple and clear vision: to ensure high quality education for all at the heart of the local communities. Our school is situated in the village of Harrold in North Bedfordshire."

From the headteacher's welcome: "Having joined the school in September 2024, I can say without doubt that Harrold Primary Academy is a happy, caring and supportive school, of which children and staff are rightly proud."

Clubs and activities named on the school's website include gymnastics and forest school.

In 2025, 88% of Year 6 pupils at Harrold Primary Academy reached the expected standard in reading and 94% in maths. At the average state primary the figures were 74% and 70% in Bedford and 77% and 75% across England.

Results rose from 83% in reading and 78% in maths in 2024.

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

For September 2026 entry, 9 families put Harrold Primary Academy as their first choice and 14 named it as one of their preferences, for 9 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 Harrold Primary Academy are Carlton CofE Primary School (0.7 miles, Outstanding, 92% reading, 67% maths); Turvey Primary School (2.5 miles, Good, 100% reading, 86% maths); Lavendon School (2.8 miles, 65% reading, 88% maths); and Pinchmill Primary School (2.9 miles, Good, 43% reading, 43% maths).

Harrold Primary Academy's 2025 results were higher than 3 of these 4 schools.

Harrold Primary Academy is one of 36 schools run by Meridian Trust, an academy trust.

Across the trust's primary schools, 67% of Year 6 pupils met the expected standard in reading, writing and maths in 2024/25.

15.6% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, well below the average state school (25%), and 2.1% speak English as an additional language, against 18.8% on average, according to the 2026 school census.

The largest ethnic groups are White British (88%) and Mixed (5%).

In 2026, 20 pupils (20.8%) received SEN support and 2 (2.1%) 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 social, emotional and mental health needs.

Harrold Primary Academy had 7 teachers in 2026, one for every 14 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 Harrold Primary Academy.

8 bus stops are within a five-minute walk; the closest is Harrold Priory Academy (nw-bound), 90 metres away.

In August 2026, police recorded 5 crimes within a mile of the school, most often criminal damage and arson, shoplifting and violence and sexual offences. That is well below the typical figure around schools in Bedford (136).

Harrold Primary Academy recorded no suspensions or permanent exclusions in 2024/25.