Cotton End Forest School

URN: 109446 • Bedford MK45 3AG

Overview

Name
Cotton End Forest School
URN
109446
Type
Community school
Phase
Primary
Status
Open
Gender
Mixed
Religious
Does not apply
Admissions
Not applicable
Trust
Private
No
Ofsted rating
Requires improvement
Ranking score
51.3 / 100
School thumbnail

Leadership & Contact

Headteacher
Karen Headland (since 2025) , Headteacher
Telephone
01234740100
Website
Visit
Address
High Road, Bedford MK45 3AG

Summary

Cotton End Forest School is a community primary school located in Bedford, catering to children aged 2-11 years. With a current enrolment of 418 pupils, the school has a capacity of 630 and is committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment. The school's ethos centres on hands-on learning experiences, particularly through its Forest School approach, which promotes confidence and self-esteem in a natural setting.

The curriculum at Cotton End is designed to inspire and engage students, fostering a love for learning while ensuring that individual needs are met. The recent Ofsted inspection in May 2025 rated the school as 'Good' in all areas, highlighting the positive outdoor ethos and the happiness of the pupils. The school also emphasizes values education, encouraging students to appreciate themselves, others, and their environment.

Cotton End Forest School actively involves parents and the wider community through various initiatives, including a Parent-Teacher Association and opportunities for parental engagement. The school’s commitment to creating a supportive and enriching educational experience is evident in its dedication to the personal growth of each child.

Key details

LA
Bedford
Age range
2 - 11
Boarders
No boarders
Sixth form
Does not have a sixth form
Trust
Capacity
630
Pupils
418
Boys
229
Girls
189
FSM %
17.00
Open date
Close date
Last Ofsted
2023-01-25
Next inspection
Data snapshot
2025-07-14
County
Bedfordshire

Trends

DatePupilsBoysGirlsCapacityFSM%
2025-07-14 418 229 189 630 17.00
2024-09-11 389 220 169 630 15.40
2023-09-11 330 172 158 630 14.20
2022-09-11 330 172 158 630 14.20
2021-09-11 296 158 138 630 16.20
2020-09-11 252 137 115 270 14.80

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