Houghton Regis Academy is a smaller than average-sized secondary school. It was previously a middle school. It first entered pupils for key stage 4 qualifications in summer 2016. The proportion of disadvantaged pupils known to be entitled to the pupil premium is above average. Most pupils are from White British backgrounds. The proportion of pupils with SEND is above average. The proportion of pupils with an education, health and care plan is broadly in line with the national average. The principal in charge at the time of the previous inspection left the school in December 2018. There have been significant changes in the school’s leadership team. The previous principal was succeeded by the deputy principal at the end of the autumn term. This inspection took place three weeks into his tenure.