Harpenden Academy

My kids love going to school - that says it all
Feb 3rd, 2022

July 2021 There are many primary schools which are worse but after many years I have to reduce my rating of this school. Some teachers are great, the feel of the school is good. The play ground is small and several 'mishaps' meant that the available space was even smaller. The school has wonderful dedicated parent body. Unfortunately, if you disagree with school your position becomes difficult and I am not convinced that comments from families to improve matters are taken up as such. Or maybe they are seen as a nuisance or the voice of a minority that can be ignored? Speak to parents similar to you who already have a child in school, particularly around SEN. but find those yourself rather than those suggested to you by the school. June 2019 Since I first posted my comment the Ofsted report from June 2019 has now been published, don't look at the ratings, read the report! It tells a story and give a view from a scrutinising external source to validate what I wrote below 7 months ago. Dec 2018 Surprised by the previous review; we have seen this school as a nurturing supportive place with many innovative ways to teach and for the children to have fun doing so. The playground now looks absolutely fabulous and classes use the public green spaces. The grounds and rooms are planned such that the train noise does not interfere with learning or play and is certainly NOT a health hazard. I would suggest to everyone interested to see the school for themselves and make their own judgement. We are a multi-ethnic family. Have a look of the other reviews the person with the negative comment has posted on Google. It seems to tell a story.
Dec 9th, 2021

May 29th, 2019

Staff is very racist. They dont embrace diversity and teacher are not involve enough at individual level with the pupils. However parents are awesomely involved as community. The five stars for parents. But more quality teachers need to be recruited. My son was bullied and patronised .... he was aberrant to go there .... many children there cry histerically at entry time as they dont want to go there ..... Noise pollution from train passing constantly is a concern for health of children..... very weird all ignore it. There is no play ground space....
Dec 24th, 2018

As a Grandma who has been involved with educational institutions all my adult life, I have never come across such a School that not only deeply cares for every child, but positively uses every challenge as a learning opportunity for all. The Head, Mrs Davies is a total inspiration!
Sep 4th, 2018