“A learning environment that values kindess and community.”
Welcome from the Head
Welcome to Ackworth School, where your journey begins with your first step through our doors. The unique atmosphere here is tangible, from the rich history that echoes through our halls to the spark of curiosity and excitement in our pupils’ eyes. This is a place unlike any other.
Ackworth School, with over 245 years of history, is a treasure trove of stories and traditions. Yet, despite our age, we remain youthful in spirit, brimming with energy and optimism, much like the children who learn and grow within our community. As the oldest co-educational boarding school in the country, we take pride in our heritage and family values, but we are equally proud of our forward-thinking approach to education.
At Ackworth, our goal is to develop resilient individuals who think creatively and act responsibly and ethically. We encourage our pupils to express themselves confidently, embodying the Quaker values of respecting others while staying true to their beliefs and individuality.
Every member of our Ackworth community possesses unique talents ready to be nurtured and shared with the world. As our pupils navigate challenges and seize opportunities, we encourage them to embrace each moment with wonder and possibility. Whether our pupils aspire to be leaders, professionals, artisans, or changemakers, we guide them to act with empathy, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
Martyn Beer, Head
Welcome from Coram Head
Welcome to Coram House, the Junior School of Ackworth School! Here, our vision is to inspire and prepare our pupils for a bright and fulfilling future. We take great pride in offering a highquality education that allows each child to be their very best self. Our aim is for pupils to come to school each day with a smile, confidence, curiosity and an eagerness to learn.
Our school motto, “non sibi sed omnibus” (not for oneself, but for all), is at the heart of everything we do. Our values-led curriculum is woven into both academic and pastoral life, emphasising good manners, a mutual respect, high expectations and a drive to succeed. Coram House creates a nurturing environment where meaningful learning flourishes and where every pupil has an exceptional educational experience.
At Coram House, we encourage our pupils to take ownership of their learning journey by being proactive and being unafraid to embrace challenge. With small class sizes and specialist teaching, we ensure that every pupil receives personalised attention, enabling them to thrive and reach their full potential. Learning at Coram House extends beyond the classroom and into our beautiful grounds; through activities such as forest school and cross-curricular experiences, we teach the value of collaboration, we foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills - all these combine to develop resilience. A diverse range of after-school activities and an extended day provide opportunities for pupils to broaden their experiences, complete homework in a supportive environment, and enjoy tea together before going home.
We are proud to be an all-through school, welcoming pupils from the age of 2½ years with many remaining at Ackworth until they are 18. We focus on ensuring smooth transitions through each key stage of their education.
As the leader of this wonderful and well-rounded school, I am proud to work alongside a dedicated team of staff. I look forward to meeting you and showing you around our beautiful school and campus. Welcome to our community!
Amanda McShane, Head of Coram House
“Our purpose is to create a happy and secure environment.”
What makes Ackworth School unique?
Set in the beautiful heart of Yorkshire within easy reach of major UK cities and transport routes, Ackworth School is a welcoming, all-through co-educational day and boarding school for children aged two-and-a-half to eighteen years. Quaker values guide every aspect of our daily school life. With a focus on acceptance and quiet reflection, our ethos is rooted in the school’s motto of ‘non sibi sed omnibus’ – ‘not for oneself but for all’. At the heart of our community lie the Quaker testimonies of ‘STEPS’: simplicity, truth, equality, peace, and sustainability.
At Ackworth School, diversity is celebrated, with the majority of our pupils coming from non-Quaker families and 30% of our Senior students from outside the UK. Our tranquil and supportive atmosphere encourages students to embrace creativity, ethical thinking, and responsibility, preparing them for a bright future. With an emphasis on individual goal setting and encouragement, the learning journey your child will experience at Ackworth School enables them to realise outstanding results, often beyond expectation. Our pupils leave the school equipped to lead a fulfilled and responsible adult life and to play their part in creating a better world.
The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) carried out an inspection in February 2023 and found our school to be excellent in all areas that were inspected. The “excellent” rating is the highest possible grade awarded by the ISI, and it reflects the school’s commitment to providing outstanding educational opportunities for its students. Ackworth School has demonstrated exceptional teaching, excellent support for student wellbeing, and strong leadership at all levels.
The inspectors were impressed with how pupils progress across our Nursery, Coram House, and Senior School. They also commented on the wide range of community and volunteering activity that Ackworth School delivers within our local area.
“The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent. All pupils, including those with EAL, make rapid progress in their learning throughout the school.”
ISI Report February 2023
History
Our story begins in 1757 when Thomas Coram purchased a farm called Seaton’s in the village of Ackworth and built a Foundling Hospital upon it. Orphans, or foundlings as they were known, were transported from London and Birmingham to Ackworth where they would be taught the skill of weaving. After funding for the Foundling Hospital was stopped in 1774, it closed and remained empty for the next 5 years.
John Fothergill, a renowned Physician, Botanist and Quaker was visiting Yorkshire in 1779 when he heard about the sale of the Foundling Hospital and proposed the creation of a school to educate children of Quaker’s ‘not in affluence’. The first pupils arrived later that year on 18 October – a date we still celebrate with our Founders’ Day walks around the local area.
Ackworth Junior School opened its doors in September 1983 for pupils aged 7 years and above and remained a prep school for 16 years before admitting pupils from 4 years old in 1999 as well as changing the name to Coram House.
For over 245 years, we have proudly maintained this passion for exceptional teaching and learning that is non-selective and without prejudice.
“My children loved Ackworth School when they visited. It’s not elitist like some other schools we considered.”
Coram House
Nursery Children 2.5 to 4 years old
Our Nursery is open from 8:00am to 6:00pm and all children in our Nursery are happy and well cared for. All sessions include nutritious snacks during morning and afternoon snack time, and lunch is provided as part of morning and full day sessions over in the Senior School dining rooms. Menus are shared with you in advance to prepare your child to make a choice when they come to Nursery.
Nursery sessions are full of child-led activities and children have access to our Nursery outdoor area, trim trail, adventure playground and multiuse games area, as well as three classrooms within the Nursery. All our Early Years practitioners are well qualified with a wealth of experience. Your child will be assigned a key worker who will be responsible for monitoring, observations and target setting. Nursery also use two apps online: Tapestry for observations and digital uploads, and Seesaw for communication between key workers and parents as well as weekly updates relating to Nursery.
Children of nursery age are asked to attend a taster session where our highly trained staff will assess whether they are ready to attend our Nursery.
“I like playing with my friends and learning new things. We play music, sing songs and look for butterflies.” Nursery child
Kindergarten Sessions
During the Summer term, children who are about to enter our Reception class in September are invited to attend kindergarten sessions. These sessions give them a glimpse into what school life will look like. For example, they may experience a music lesson or an art session, run by one of the Coram House teachers; they may experience for the first time a mini maths lesson or phonics session; plus, they begin swimming lessons at this stage with our specialist PE teachers.
The whole experience allows them to get “schoolready”. This has proven to be very successful in that, when September arrives, the children know what they are walking into and the environments that they will be learning in. This reduces anxiety in both children and parents and helps them to get straight on with their learning. At the end of the kindergarten sessions, the children don their gowns and mortar boards and graduate from Nursery in front of their families.
Junior School Reception Class
Our Reception setting creates a nurturing, engaging and safe environment where young children can thrive. Its welcoming atmosphere and environment is warm, friendly and inclusive. All children and staff feel valued and respected. The setting celebrates diversity and promotes a sense of wellbeing. Activities are based on the interest and developmental stages of the children and uses a play-based approach with opportunities for children to discover, explore and experiment through hands-on activities. There is a balance between child-initiated and adult-led activities. A strong emphasis is placed on outdoor learning.
The outdoor area is safe and stimulating with a range of physical and sensory experiences. Children have daily opportunities to connect with nature, engage in physical activities and develop gross motor skills. Our staff are highly trained in early childhood development and show genuine care and enthusiasm for their work.
Staff are skilled in observing and assessing children’s progress and extending learning through interactions and questioning. There is a strong emphasis on good communication with parents and involving them in their child’s learning journey. There are regular updates on progress and parents are encouraged to attend “Stay and Play” sessions.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) creates a strong foundation for children’s future learning whilst ensuring your child feels valued safe and supported.
Key stage 1 (Pre-prep)
Children 5 to 7 years old
Pre-prep covers the first two years of primary education (and is characterised by several key features that promote a positive, supportive and stimulating learning environment). Our classrooms are bright and welcoming with pupil work displayed which creates a sense of ownership and pride. All our children feel valued, respected and included regardless of their background or ability. The curriculum is broad, balanced and stimulating, covering all areas of learning with specialist teaching in Languages, PE and Music.
There is a strong emphasis on hands-on practical activities that engage children and make their learning fun. We teach in mixed ability classes with teaching being adapted to meet the various needs and abilities of pupils that challenge and support all learners. We acknowledge that positive relationships between children and staff are crucial.
We prioritise the emotional and social development of all children. There is a good balance in the day between academic activities, playtime and outdoor learning to make sure that children are developing socially as well as academically. There is regular communication with parents and opportunities for you to be involved in your child’s learning and school life.
Children receive positive and constructive feedback and are encouraged to set their own targets wherever possible. Pupil voice is an integral part of Coram House and is held in high importance by the adults around. There are opportunities to access the forest and other outdoor areas around school, as well as chances to engage with nature through gardening, nature walks or outdoor play.
Pre-prep is a nurturing environment where children enjoy a balance between academic teaching and play, creativity and emotional development, giving every child the opportunity to thrive.
Key Stage Two (Prep) Pupils 7 to 11 years old
In our setting, there are clear expectations for behaviour and mutual respect. Lessons cater for different learning styles with children taught in mixed abilities. Our rationale is that children often get put into sets and never move out of that set during the whole of their primary school life.
Pupils are aware of what a good learner looks like, for example, are they answering questions in class; putting their hands up to answer questions; getting their equipment ready? Lessons cater for different learning styles and abilities, and children are taught by subject specialists in many lessons. We have an art room and a science lab where children can learn in a stimulating environment equipping them for their future in the Senior School. The quality of teaching is dynamic and based on a deep understanding of the curriculum using a variety of instructional methods including hands-on activities, group work and individual tasks.
Regular assessment, both formative and summative, is important and teachers give constructive feedback to pupils and parents on their progress as well as areas for improvement. Technology is integrated effectively with the use of interactive whiteboards, iPads and devices that enhance learning and make lessons more engaging. AI is also a tool used for teaching and learning.
There is a strong emphasis on reading, writing and mathematical skills which include phonics, comprehension, problem-solving and critical thinking.
Subjects are often integrated allowing pupils to make connections between different areas of learning. Our drama theatre is used at this stage for a regular lesson each week, increasing confidence building and self-esteem and using skills outside of the classroom environment. The outside area and our extensive grounds are also used as a stimulus for many different lessons such as drama, science and mathematics.
Science
Scientific learning does not always take place in a structured setting; young children’s willingness to learn, be inquisitive and explore is always encouraged through the strand ‘Understanding of the world’.
“I like school because you get really good teachers every year.”
Year 4 pupil
Children follow a Programme of Study outlined in White Rose Science. Children are encouraged to ask questions, make predictions, observe, perform tests, gather, record and interpret data.
Sciences are actively promoted in school through an annual whole school ‘Science Week’. We encourage future learning by working alongside Senior School Science staff and use of their laboratories.
Pupils from Year 3 to Year 6 are asked to take home an investigation kit with which they carry out an investigation and present this back to their class. Science lessons for Prep children take place in our Science/Art room within Senior School.
Art
We are strong believers in the impact of Art and Design as part of a broad and balanced curriculum. It provides children with opportunities to develop and extend skills to express their individual interests and ideas, whilst also contributing to the development of the child emotionally, aesthetically, spiritually, intellectually and socially. High-quality art education equips children with the skills to explore, experiment, create and invent their works of art whilst engaging, inspiring and challenging them. As artists, children should be able to critically evaluate their work and the work of others, taking influence from well-known artists and adapting their work accordingly. As their skill set progresses, they should understand how art has changed their landscape, culture and history.
“I like making structures and splashing the paint in Art.”
Year 4 pupil
Our principal aim is to develop children’s knowledge, skills and understanding. We ensure that the act of investigating and making something includes exploring and developing ideas and evaluating and developing work. We do this best through a mixture of whole class teaching and individual/group activities on projects in two and three dimensions and on different scales using a wide range of materials and resources, including ICT. We recognise the fact that we have children of differing abilities in all our classes, and provide suitable learning opportunities for all children by matching the challenge of the task to the ability of the child.
Assessment in Art acknowledges all aspects of pupils’ learning and achievement. This includes, not only what pupils make, but also how they make it, which skills they acquire and what they know about the tools and materials they use. Assessment also takes account of what they know about the world of Art, which places their own work in the wider cultural context. Teachers assess progress in Art through a variety of means and use different kinds of evidence. They consider both the quality of the products that pupils make and the skills they exhibit as they use tools, materials and processes. The evidence for assessment occurs in different forms and at different times through the course of a unit.
All our Art lessons take place in a specially designed Art room next to the Senior School Art department giving inspiration and stimulus.
Music
Music lessons in Coram House are led by specialist music teachers and provide opportunities for the development of cross-curricular themes, dimensions and skills. Wherever possible, links are made with their class work to see music as a relevant and enriching aspect of the curriculum. Links are also forged with the local and wider communities and other schools or educational establishments e.g. performing with children from local primary schools in Ackworth and taking part in workshops and performances with Opera North.
Many of the pupil’s musical education is enhanced and deepened through having instrumental lessons with peripatetic staff who visit the school, and this knowledge is shared and fostered in the class lessons. Chances to perform in Celebration Assemblies, take ABRSM exams, and perform in Senior School lunchtime concerts are offered to enhance the musical experience of as many pupils as possible. Theory Club enables those who are preparing for instrumental and singing exams to develop their knowledge of music theory and to take ABRSM theory exams if they so wish.
Coram Orchestra and Coram Choir are significant opportunities for instrumentalists and any vocalists who wish to further nurture their skills through regular rehearsal and performance. Percussion Club, Guitar Club, Drumming Club, Vioteenies, Cellitots, and Pre-Prep Choir also provide great opportunities for the children.
The music department has an active calendar, with a number of external performances and events in addition to termly concerts inside school, such as two annual concerts at Wakefield Cathedral and entry at the Rothwell Music Festival.
“You don’t have to travel to music lessons out of school as you can take them during the day at school. There are so many different instrument options, you are bound to find something that you like.”
Year 6 pupil
“I like drama because we learn plays and act on the stage.”
Year 4 pupil
Drama
Drama is a vital way of communicating in school, public life and internationally. Drama enables pupils to express themselves creatively and imaginatively and to communicate with others effectively. As a school, we want to give children the opportunity to use drama in many areas of the curriculum, as it is an extremely effective means of communicating ideas. Practical learning can be crucial to understanding.
Our aims in teaching Drama are that the children will:
• enjoy the subject and study it with a sense of achievement.
• develop an understanding and appreciation of a range of drama, developing and extending their own interests and abilities.
• develop the capacity and confidence to express ideas and communicate them through drama.
• have opportunities for presenting performances individually and in groups.
• evaluate their own and others’ contributions to drama and suggest improvements.
During their time at Coram House, pupils are introduced to a range of knowledge, skills and techniques.
ICT/Computing
Weekly sessions are timetabled for Computing. These lessons ensure that the coverage set out in the curriculum map is completed. In addition to these subject-specific lessons, Prep children have access to Apple iPads to enhance learning across the curriculum. Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 have access to a set of shared Apple iPads which are used to enhance teaching and learning across subjects.
The whole school scheme of work for Year 1 to Year 6 pupils fully meets the objectives of the National Curriculum for Computing and allows for clear progression in Computing.
Teachers regularly assess progress through observations and evidence. Key objectives to be assessed are taken from the National Curriculum to assess computing each term. The subject leader is responsible for monitoring the standard of the children’s work and the quality of teaching in line with the school’s monitoring cycle. This may be through lesson observations drop-ins, pupil voice and evaluating pupil work.
Children are asked to give feedback on their lessons, sharing what they have enjoyed and what they would like to learn more about.
Parents are encouraged to support the implementation of IT and computing where possible. Parents are made aware of issues surrounding e-safety and encouraged to promote this at home.
“Seeing your friends makes you feel excited and happy.”
Year 1 pupil
Sports
At Coram House, we believe that physical education, experienced in a safe and supportive environment, is a vital contributor to a pupil’s physical development and wellbeing. By providing a broad and balanced physical education curriculum we are giving pupils the opportunity to increase their confidence in their ability to manage themselves and their bodies within a variety of movement situations. Progressive learning objectives, combined with varied teaching approaches, endeavour to provide stimulating, enjoyable, satisfying and appropriately challenging learning experiences for all pupils. Through the activities and opportunities provided, it is intended that all pupils, irrespective of their ability, will enjoy success and be motivated to further develop their potential. Physical education also provides opportunities for pupils to develop a wide range of other skills and attributes, such as growth mindset, problem-solving, leadership skills, learning to be a team player and developing creativity.
There are three sports sessions a week using the facilities at Ackworth School – PE, swimming and games, all delivered by PE specialist teachers. Competitions and fixtures take place between local state schools as well as other independent schools.
Sporting facilities at Ackworth School
• Five football pitches
• Indoor heated swimming pool
• Five all-weather tennis courts
• Dedicated table tennis centre
• Multi Use Games Area (MUGA)
• Athletics field
• Multi-sports hall
• Two all-weather pitches
• Cross-country running course
“I am so happy that my new school has a swimming pool as my friends do not go to a school with a pool.”
Reception class pupil
Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural Development
SMSC is essentially concerned with “the search for meaning and purpose in life and for values by which to live”. This is evidenced in a variety of contexts across Coram House. For example: during form time, break times, lunch times, indoor and outdoor lessons within the curriculum, forest school and extra-curricular activities.
As part of SMSC development, British values are lived through the school’s ethos and values. They are part of our meaningful, character-building approach. We use assemblies and silent meeting sessions to address how British values are relevant to all pupils. We take a holistic approach rather than focusing on how to cover British values in individual subjects.
“Forest school teaches you life skills.”
Year 6 pupil
Forest School and Outdoor Learning
Learning outside of the classroom is part of the culture of Coram House. We have extensive and beautiful grounds which are incorporated into lessons wherever possible. We believe the benefits of moving lessons outside are extensive both for the pupils’ engagement in lessons and for their mental wellbeing. Outdoor Learning and Forest School are an integral part of our curriculum and range from cross-curricular lessons, Forest School sessions and residential trips in Years 3, 4, 5, and 6.
Coram House takes a cross-curricular approach to Outdoor Learning. Any subject can be delivered outside the classroom. Teaching outside promotes engagement and enthusiasm in lessons and supports the learning objective. Staff are encouraged to make use of the school grounds to deliver high quality lessons with clear learning objectives. All year groups participate in weekly Forest School sessions. The sessions involve practical hands-on activities which aim to build up skills, ability and confidence week by week and across the seasons. Forest School leaders follow a clear progression of skills, which are built on year by year. Half a term is dedicated to each of the following areas: play and exploring, shelter building, knots, tools, fires/cooking, rivers/ponds.
All sessions are designed and led by our trained Level 3 Forest School practitioners. However, Forest School strongly encourages participantled learning, so as the weeks progress, learners are given more freedom and responsibility to explore their interests and therefore initiate and direct their own learning. Forest School uses natural resources to stimulate imagination, creativity and investigation.
“I love making fires in Forest School and making dens with your friends is fun.”
Year 4 pupil
Meals
We believe that well-fed pupils are happier and more successful. That’s why we are dedicated to serving delicious and nutritious meals throughout the day in our 2 dining rooms at no extra charge. Our menus feature a diverse selection of dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, prioritising balanced nutrition with whole grains, lean proteins, and abundant fruits and vegetables.
In addition to our main menu, we provide alternative options to cater to various dietary preferences and needs. Vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free choices are offered at every meal, and our catering team gladly accommodates other dietary restrictions upon request.
Wellbeing and Pastoral Care
Wellbeing
At Coram House, prioritising wellbeing is paramount. We believe that happy children thrive, and nurturing their wellbeing is fundamental to their success.
Our approach to wellbeing is multifaceted and tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Grounded in positive relationships and the Quaker ethos, our pastoral care ensures that children’s voices are not only heard but also valued in our decision-making process. We foster honest and equal relationships, empowering pupils to develop meaningful connections with others.
Pastoral care
The pastoral support system is robust and accessible. Upon arrival, pupils are integrated into a House, gaining a sense of belonging and community. They have easy access to guidance from their Form teacher, who is with them daily to address social, emotional, and academic needs.
Our pastoral team excels at guiding pupils through challenges, emphasising reflective and restorative approaches. Comprehensive PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education), RSE (Relationship and Sex Education), and careers programs ensure pupils are equipped with essential life skills and prepared for the future. These messages are reinforced through morning meetings, tutorial sessions, and guest speakers, ensuring our pupils thrive and succeed.
Emotional and physical wellbeing
At Ackworth, we understand the importance of providing extra support when needed. Pupils have a Yoga and mindfulness session each week, and access to the counselling and the nurture room. Our Health Centre is staffed daily with a nurse, which ensures pupils receive medical care when required.
Wraparound Care Clubs and Activities
Coram House school day is from 8:25am until 3:30pm, however, we offer extended hours both at the beginning and end of every day. Morning childcare is available from 7:45am each morning.
After school, there are a range of clubs that the children can sign up to from 3:30pm until 4:30pm. For pre-prep children, Squirrel Club provides an opportunity to play with children in other year groups, join in organised activities, play out or watch a movie. Squirrel club runs until 6:00pm every evening from Monday to Friday.
For prep children clubs are offered Monday to Thursday inclusive. Pupils sign up to clubs for a term and each term the clubs’ change. Clubs include activities such as sports, swimming, chess, art and design, IT, STEM, choir and gardening. At 4:30pm there is a homework session and at 5:00pm childcare is available until 6:00pm. All extended hours are offered at no extra charge to parents.
“We are really lucky that we have clubs after school. If your parents can’t pick you up at 3:30pm you have something fun to do while you are waiting.”
Year 6 pupil
Transition to Senior School
Transition to Senior School begins during Year 6 when pupils, who already have some lessons in Senior School, start to get to know their new Head of Year. The transition takes place both within Coram House and our Senior School. Pupils enjoy the increased freedom whilst getting to know new staff and new routines.
This makes transition in September so much easier and more seamless. Parents are also invited to attend meetings in July before the children start in September so that they too get to know some of the differences. Pupils get to recognise new faces and places, and what new routines will look like. We appreciate that it is a big jump for them, and we aim to make the transition as easy as possible. Our pastoral and academic care at this transition point is outstanding.
Admissions procedure/applying/fees
Admissions procedure
Our Admissions team is here to help your family on its education journey. Choosing the right school for your child’s individual needs and aspirations can positively influence their personal, and professional sense of achievement, happiness and fulfilment.
The Ackworth admissions process is designed to ensure that your child would benefit from the opportunities of an Ackworth education. An offer of a place at Coram House Nursery is dependent on an informal assessment session and the availability of sessions. For EYFS and Key Stage 1, an informal assessment will be done during a taster day and for children applying for Key Stage 2 (Year 3 to Year 6), they will complete Ackworth School’s entrance assessments. A reference from the pupil’s previous school will also be required and an offer is dependent on there being a vacancy in that year group.
How to apply
To apply for a place at Ackworth School you will need to complete the online registration form which can be found here: https://ackworthschool.com/admissions
Fees, bursaries and scholarships
Details of our current fees can be found on the above page of our website. You will also find more information relating to bursaries and scholarships that we may be able to offer.
We’re here to help with any questions you may have. You can contact our Admissions team at:
+44 (0)1977 233 621 Admissions@ackworthschool.com
Supporting communities
We encourage our pupils to support communities both at home and abroad. We foster a sense of social responsibility and integrate community outreach into our curriculum and enrichment days and weeks.
Through the work of our Houses, School Council and Global Committee, our pupils are given opportunities to engage in fundraising and projects that benefit both local and global communities.
By nurturing kindness, leadership and an understanding of diverse social needs, we help our pupils develop a lifelong commitment to positively impacting the world they live in.
