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catchment.school

Priory Academy Catchment Area

Reviewed by the catchment.school editorial team · Last updated 15 March 2026

Priory Academy is a academy converter special school in Dunstable, Central Bedfordshire , serving pupils aged 9–16, with 808 pupils, and a capacity of 700 places. The school is currently at or above capacity, making catchment area proximity important for admissions.

9–16

Age range

808

Pupils

700

Capacity

115%

Fill rate

Good

Ofsted 2017

Priory Academy Catchment Area Information

Admission to Priory Academy follows a different process from mainstream schools. Central Bedfordshire assesses each child's Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) to determine appropriate placement — catchment area does not apply in the same way as mainstream admissions.

Currently oversubscribed: 808 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 700 places. Living within the catchment area is especially important for this school.

Not getting a place? Learn how to appeal a school place →

For more information on how Central Bedfordshire assesses EHCP placements and which schools are named, contact the council's SEND team directly. The council must publish its Local Offer explaining available provision.

Find Central Bedfordshire catchment area documents →

Priory Academy — School Information

Full address
Priory Academy, Britain Street, Dunstable, LU5 4JA
Local authority
Central Bedfordshire
School type
Academy converter
Phase of education
Special
Age range
9–16 years
Free school meals
13.7% of pupils
DfE URN
138181

Frequently Asked Questions — Priory Academy

Is Priory Academy oversubscribed?

Yes — Priory Academy currently has 808 pupils enrolled against a capacity of 700 places. Catchment area proximity is an important admissions criterion when applying.

What is the admissions policy for Priory Academy?

Admission to Priory Academy is managed by Central Bedfordshire. When oversubscribed, places go to looked-after children first, then siblings, then catchment area distance. Always verify the current policy with the council before applying.

What age range does Priory Academy cover?

Priory Academy is a special school in Dunstable, Central Bedfordshire, serving pupils aged 9–16. For the latest information, visit the school's website or the DfE Get Information About Schools service.

What is the Ofsted rating for Priory Academy?

Priory Academy was rated Good by Ofsted in 2017. Full inspection reports are available at reports.ofsted.gov.uk.