Welcome to Castle Newnham All-Through School – proudly part of the Bedforshire Schools Trust (BEST).
I am very proud to be the Principal of this lovely school at the heart of Bedford, offering high-quality and ambitious education and care for pupils from Reception up to age 16. Our CORE values of Community, Opportunity, Respect and Excellence underpin our work across our whole school and help guide us in serving our children and families.
Mrs Donna Neely-Hayes - Principal

The Castle Newnham Connect - Spring Term 2026 is now available to view.
Our Vision: Becoming an All-Through School Formal Consultation on the Proposal to Become an All-Through School and Changes to Admission Arrangements
In accordance with the statutory requirements set out in the School Admissions Code, the Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST) is required to undertake a six-week consultation on proposed changes to...
Join us for the Secondary Open Evening on Tuesday 8th October at 6pm - 8pm.
Please visit our Box Office to book your ticket for the Primary Open Events in advance
Today is #NationalOfferDay for primary schools, and we couldn't be more thrilled to welcome our newest cohort of pupils (Class of 2038) and families starting their all-through journey with us from September 2026! Choosing a school is a huge milestone, and we are honoured to have you join our community. At Castle Newnham, we live by CORE Values that will shape your child's experience: Community: We are a family. Your child enters a supportive environment where they are known, valued and encouraged to look out for one another. Opportunity: From the classroom to the stage and the sports field, we provide the platform for every child to find their "spark" Respect: We foster kindness and mutual understanding, ensuring every pupil feels safe to be their authentic self Excellence: We hold the highest expectations, challenging our pupils to strive for greatness in every lesson and interaction What's Next for Reception Families? If your child is joining us in Reception this September: Check your inbox: Keep an eye out for a welcome email from Mrs Neely-Hayes, Principal, arriving today! Watch the letterbox: A full welcome pack will be arriving by post in the coming weeks. We can't wait to meet you and start this incredible adventure together
We are delighted to welcome Mrs Donna Neely-Hayes as the new Principal. "Mrs Neely-Hayes is an exceptional leader, well-respected, with a proven track record of delivering Outstanding education. Since her appointment, I have been inundated by people both within and beyond the educational community telling me how excited they are by the appointment. I share this excitement and am extremely grateful that Mrs Neely-Hayes has chosen Castle Newnham School and BEST!" (Dr Alan Lee, CEO, Bedfordshire Schools Trust) https://www.bestacademies.org.uk/news/?pid=74&nid=3&storyid=131 #BESTfamily #CastleNewnham
It's the final day of the Spring Term. Wishing everyone a very peaceful and restful Easter holidays. We are looking forward to pupils returning on Tuesday 14th April 2026.
We currently have limited spaces to join our all-through school. Do you have a child in Year 1, Year 3, Year 4, Year 5, Year 7, Year 9 and Year 10 Come and see our exciting plans! Contact us at cnadmissions@bestacademies.org.uk or 01234 303403
@worldbookdaysocial @castlenewnham.official was so much fun! The children's dress-up ideas fit our theme of Heroes and Villains perfectly - thank you families for all your support! #worldbookday
South Site - Reception to Year 4
Goldington Road
Bedford
MK40 3EP
North Site - Year 5 to Year 11
Polhill Avenue
Bedford
MK41 9DT
01234 303403cnprimary@bestacademies.org.ukcnsecondary@bestacademies.org.uk