Ackworth International Brochure

Open a

WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES

ackworthschool.com

Go Ackworth Go further

International Senior School

Welcome from the Head Welcome to Ackworth School, where your journey begins with your first step through our doors. The unique atmosphere here is palpable, 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.

All our international pupils are integrated fully into the school and describe the school as their second family.

Our international students achieve exceptional academic results and parents hear stories of busy days full of learning, achievement and new activities, with friends from all over the world.

At Ackworth, our purpose is to develop resilient individuals who think creatively and act responsibly.

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 2

“Our purpose is to provide an exceptional, holistic and inclusive Quaker education, nurturing young people to flourish and therefore play their part in creating a better world.”

3

International Senior School

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 school offering full boarding from the age of 11 years until 18 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.

4

“I love the diversity – there are so many nationalities here!

It’s like having a tiny piece of the world right here at Ackworth!”

Andrew, Kenya

At Ackworth, diversity is celebrated, with the majority of our students 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 5

International Senior School

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 Quakers ‘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.

For over 245 years, we have proudly maintained this passion for exceptional teaching and learning that is non-selective and without prejudice.

Our established international reputation is founded on providing students from overseas with the confidence to learn the English language, and the skills they need to succeed within the UK educational system.

“ My children loved Ackworth School when they visited. It’s not elitist like some other schools we considered.”

6

Ackworth

14

average class size

in numbers

50 acre campus, 200 acre site

320

pupils in senior school

27

50+

clubs and societies

30%

nationalities

international senior pupils

1 boarding house 20

sports

70+

boarders

5,000

strong Old Scholar network

3

sport academies 7

International Senior School

Getting to

8

Ackworth

•

Central UK location in the county of Yorkshire. The largest region in England, with an international reputation for business, manufacturing, major sporting events and sites of historic and natural beauty.

•

Excellent transport links and airport transfers from Manchester Airport and Leeds Bradford Airport.

•

Leeds. The largest legal and financial city in England (outside London), just 25km, or 30 minutes, by car from Ackworth School.

•

York. A historically important city just 40 minutes from Ackworth School.

9

International Senior School

International

pupil pathways

Ackworth School provides well-established, fully supported academic pathways to ensure that all of our international students settle quickly, feel welcome and equally valued.

Depending on the individual’s level of English and desired qualification, pupils can start their studies at Ackworth via four main points of entry.

Short-stay immersion courses are available too, from a minimum stay of two weeks. See page 14.

Pre A-Level (15+) (1 year, EAL preparatory course)

A-Levels/BTEC (16+) (Two year qualification)

10

Years 7-9 (11+)

GCSE (14+) (Two year qualification)

EAL

support

The English as an Additional Language Department provides overseas students with extra help and support. For students in Year 7 to Year 11 we provide at least 4 sessions of EAL each week.

We provide general English tuition which helps students develop their language skills and so cope better with life and study in Britain as well as preparing students to take Cambridge English exams (KET/PET/FCE) and General IELTS. Students in the Sixth Form prepare for academic IELTS which they will need for university. For students in the Sixth Form, we usually offer five lessons per week.

The EAL Department provides a lively, dynamic environment in which to learn. As groups are small, there is scope for individual learning programmes which cater for the specific requirements of each student. Most students find that EAL provides them with a place to ‘touch base’; time and space to discuss language problems that may be difficult to bring up in other class environments.

In this way it gives them a chance to experience more student-driven learning which goes beyond just grammar and vocabulary practice. We aim to develop the student as a whole and so help them be better prepared, all round, for long-term study in the UK.

“EAL lessons are helping improve my English skills which is fundamental for all my subjects I am studying.”

11

International Senior School

Senior School

Students 11 to 16 years old First-class learning is at the heart of Ackworth School life and our Senior School curriculum, based on the National Curriculum, provides a solid academic foundation while nurturing students’ interests and talents.

Our enthusiastic and high-quality teachers inspire genuine curiosity and understanding.

From Year 7, students explore diverse subjects including arts, sciences, languages, practical skills, technology, and sports. We encourage students to make curriculum choices which suit them best and we value each child’s uniqueness, supporting them in discovering strengths and fostering individuality. At GCSE level, most students study nine subjects, including compulsory English, English Literature, Mathematics and Science, alongside four additional options. Our school is extremely well resourced with spacious science laboratories, exceptional facilities for the arts, a first-class library, outstanding sports amenities, and advanced ICT and technology suites.

12

Throughout their Senior School journey, students receive continuous encouragement and individual recognition for their achievements.

Embracing digital learning, each student is provided with an Apple iPad and Apple Pencil to support their studies, enhancing their educational experience at Ackworth. Classroom teaching and learning is supported with digital platforms, which students can use to receive and submit work to tutors, send messages to their project groups and receive year group updates. Apple TVs in classrooms enable staff and students to share work and collaborate on big ideas.

GCSE subjects • English • English Literature

• Design & Technology • Drama

• Mathematics

• Food & Nutrition

• Science (Double Award Science GCSE or three separate Science GCSEs: Biology, Chemistry and Physics)

• French • Geography

• Academic Physical Education

• Music

• Art • Business Studies • Computer Science

• History • Religious Studies • Spanish

13

International Senior School

In-term immersion

programme

At Ackworth, we open doors to a truly British boarding school experience in our stunning, historical buildings. Our Immersion Programme welcomes international students to join our vibrant community, build lifelong friendships, and improve their English while studying alongside UK peers in our rural, Yorkshire setting.

Key Highlights: • Minimum stay of 2 weeks – tailored to your needs • £1,300 per week – all-inclusive experience* • Available all year-round during term-time • Live and learn within a supportive boarding environment in our beautiful, rural campus • Study the full curriculum with specialist teachers • English language support throughout your stay • Make friends for life – both British and international students

“The classes were enjoyable and supportive, helping me improve while feeling at home as a short-stay student. The friendships I made will last a lifetime, and the memories are truly irreplaceable. Without doubt, it was the best year of my life.”

Andres, Mexico

*airport transfers arranged (charges apply) 14

Pre A-Level The Pre A-Level course prepares pupils for the demands of A-Level study, with a combination of English language and academic skills development.

The Pre A-Level at Ackworth includes: • Regular testing of reading, speaking and writing skills • Intakes in September and January • English as an Additional Language (EAL) • Small teaching groups • Half-termly academic reports • Regular testing and monitoring of progress • A range of exams: Cambridge IGCSE EAL, Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language and GCSE English Language • Introduction to academic subjects offered at A-Level • Introduction to iconic works of English literature • Compulsory evening study supervised by teachers - Designed to prepare international students for A-Level study - A standard of 4.5 on the IELTS scale is required

• Learn research skills, essay writing skills, comprehension skills, public speaking and presentation skills • Well-qualified EAL Teachers • Subjects; EAL, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Business Studies and/or Economics • PE and Games lessons • Aim is to improve English language proficiency in preparation for A-Level study • 1-to-1 University adviser • Access to after-school Clubs and Societies programme which supports the academic curriculum • Weekend activities, sports and excursions to assist in use of English in informal settings • Assistance with travel arrangements to and from Leeds and Manchester Airports • Access (subject to ability) to the School’s Football Academy, Table Tennis Academy and Hockey Academy 15

International Senior School

Sixth Form

Young people 16 to 18 years old In the Sixth Form, our exceptional teaching team aim to inspire students to develop their own perspectives and aspirations.

We equip them with the resilience, confidence, and respect needed for life beyond school. Each Sixth Form student is provided with an Apple iPad and Apple Pencil to support their A-Level or BTEC studies.

Whether continuing their studies at Ackworth or joining us from another school, our Sixth Form provides a welcoming environment for students to explore their chosen subjects in greater depth, supported by smaller class sizes and with ample room for discussion and informality.

16

Ackworth Sixth Form offers a diverse range of A-Level and BTEC courses, with the majority of students pursuing Higher Education at university.

Guidance is provided to ensure students choose subjects that align with their career and university goals, including support through programmes like our Oxbridge Programme which is designed to support students in their applications to their chosen universities, whether it be a Russell Group university such as Oxford or Cambridge, or any other competitive course.

While academic success is paramount, our comprehensive co-curricular and super-curricular activities encourage students to explore diverse interests and maintain a balanced lifestyle.

Sixth Form subjects • A-Level Academic Physical Education • A-Level Art • A-Level Biology • A-Level Business Studies • A-Level Chemistry • A-Level Computer Science • A-Level Design & Technology • A-Level Economics • A-Level English • A-Level Geography • A-Level History • A-Level Mathematics • A-Level Further Mathematics • A-Level Music • BTEC Performing Arts • A-Level Physics • A-Level Politics • A-Level Psychology • A-Level Spanish • BTEC Sport • EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)

17

International Senior School

Boarding

and meals

Boarding Ackworth School was designed from the start to be a mixed boarding school and boarding is an integral part of our school community, with a third of the Senior School students opting to board in our mixed boarding house. Here they experience living as one family with separate and secure sleeping areas for girls and boys and access to communal common rooms and kitchens.

Many of the rooms are dual occupancy with some triple and quads for younger students and have a mix of ensuite and shared facilities. There are a limited number of single rooms for Upper Sixth Form students.

Boarding helps students to focus on study, with access to the school’s excellent facilities late into the evening and at weekends.

Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of boarding at Ackworth School can be seen in the strong and lasting friendships developed among our global community of students. Every student instantly becomes an integral part of that ready-made international community, enriched by its multiple languages, cultures and experiences. Joining together to flourish in sporting, artistic and academic pursuits creates relationships that last beyond school days to form the foundations of lifelong global networks.

“We are made to feel a community in the boarding house. The staff are really supportive and helpful in creating the home-away-from-home environment and supporting us through our education.”

18

Meals We believe that well-fed students are happier and more successful.

That’s why we are dedicated to serving delicious and nutritious meals throughout the day and at the weekend in our 2 dining rooms. 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.

19

International Senior School

Routine

20

Monday – Friday Time Rising and room tidy

7:00am – 7:25am

Breakfast

7:45am

Boarding house registration & notices

8:25am

Form registration

8:40am

Morning meeting

8:55am

Classes

9:15am – 10:20am

Break time

10:20am – 10:40am

Classes

10:40am – 12:50pm

Lunch

12:50pm – 1:50pm

Classes

1:50pm – 4:00pm

After-school activities

4:00pm – 5:15pm

Tea

5:30pm

Prep (Mon – Thurs) Years 7 & 8 Years 9 to Sixth Form

6:30pm – 7:30pm 6:30pm – 8:00pm

Saturday Time Rising and room tidy

8:45am

Breakfast

9:15am

Boarding house registration & notices

9:50am

Activities

10:00am – 12:00pm

Lunch

12:30pm

Free time/trips

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Tea

6:00pm

Free time

Sunday Time Rising and room tidy

8:45am

Boarding house registration & notices

9:50am

Activities

10:00am – 11:00am

Brunch

11:30am

Free time/trips

12:00pm

Tea

6:00pm

Free time

21

International Senior School

Wellbeing

and pastoral care

Wellbeing Prioritising wellbeing is paramount to us. We believe that happy children thrive, and nurturing their wellbeing is fundamental to their success.

Our approach to wellbeing is multifaceted, 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 students to develop meaningful connections with others.

Pastoral care Our pastoral support system is robust and accessible. Upon arrival, students are integrated into a House, year group, and small tutor group, fostering a sense of belonging and community. They have easy access to guidance from their Head of Year (Pastoral and Academic Lead) as well as their Tutor, who meets with them daily to address social, emotional, and academic needs.

Our pastoral team excels at guiding students through challenges, emphasising reflective and restorative approaches. Comprehensive PSHE (personal, social and health education), RSE (relationships and sex education), and careers programs ensure students 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 students thrive and succeed.

Emotional and physical wellbeing During your time in boarding there may be times when you feel low or homesick. You may not even know the reason why you feel that way.

House staff will support you, try to identify the issue and best guide you to finding a solution. There are a number of individuals you can talk to including a friend or older pupil, boarding staff and form tutor.

We understand the importance of providing extra support when needed. Students have access to mindfulness sessions, counselling, the nurture room and peer mentor support. Our Health Centre, staffed daily with a nurse, and a weekly surgery by a visiting doctor, ensures students receive medical care when required.

22

After school clubs and

Duke of Edinburgh’s award

With a wide variety of after-school activities available daily, students can make the most of their time beyond the classroom.

Clubs and societies We have a full academic, co-curricular and extra-curricular calendar, with a wide choice of clubs and societies, both sporty and non-sporty, on offer after school daily Monday to Thursday at no extra charge. Some of the recent clubs include Pokémon, Lego, Politics, Yoga, Manga and Art. These are updated every term and more details can be found on our website.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award A nationally recognised award, providing opportunities for pupils to develop their resilience, sense of responsibility, teamwork, and organisational skills.

Our GCSE students (Years 10 and 11) must complete volunteering, physical, skill and expedition sections to gain the Bronze and Silver Award. For the Gold Award, completed in the Sixth Form, there is a residential section.

23

International Senior School

Art Art plays an important role within the curriculum followed by students at Ackworth. It is our belief that Art stimulates creativity and imagination, as well as enable students to acquire skills which are transferable to other subject areas and to life beyond school.

We embrace Pablo Picasso’s viewpoint that “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” Implementing this belief has served to enrich our students’ lives through developing their sensory perceptions and analytical skills.

24

“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.”

Pablo Picasso

Art at Ackworth increases our students’ self-confidence as they exercise their ability to make judgements and to express opinions. In doing so, they can then form their own individual ideas and perceptions.

Throughout the KS3 Art curriculum, students can explore their creativity through a variety of mediums including painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking and digital photography, which provides a rich foundation for those continuing their studies onto GCSE Fine Art. In addition, we offer opportunities for students to demonstrate their creativity by involvement in set design and prop making for the school plays and running competitions within school as well as externally.

Our students’ experiences are enhanced by the access they have to the studios during evenings and at weekends and by visits to local, national and international galleries. In the Sixth Form art students benefit from having their own studio space to work in, which promotes independence and prepares students for further creative study. Our students have gone on to study across a diverse range of creative courses from Fashion to Architecture, Game Design to History of Art. Furthermore, Art provides a sound background for other less obvious careers where the ability to think differently and creatively gives an individual the edge on the competition.

Art at Ackworth provides students with the opportunity to enjoy interacting with, and creating, art in a stimulating and supportive environment. Self-expression is actively encouraged through the artwork, the written word and discussion. These are valuable tools for all aspects of future life.

25

International Senior School

Drama Drama at Ackworth has no less a vision than to give to students the abilities, opportunities and experiences to transform themselves, to affect others and to change the world. We may be a small school, but our dreams and aspirations in Drama are huge, and students at Ackworth have an equally huge palette of possibility to express themselves and grow through the discipline.

Drama is taught as a discrete subject throughout Year 7 to Year 9, and students learn to work imaginatively, creatively, empathically, collaboratively and with discipline, through the medium of play - they are encouraged to embrace the opportunities presented of working in a very different mode and manner to students’ usual classroom experiences, all in our purpose-built, 200 seat Fothergill Theatre.

Students can elect to take drama as a GCSE option and practical creative work is at the heart of the GCSE course, with 60% of the final grade coming from a performance coursework portfolio comprising of monologues, group scripts and devised work. In the Sixth Form, students can deepen their understanding of Drama by studying the BTEC in Performance, a vocational, work-focused course equivalent to the A-Level.

Extra-curricular Drama at Ackworth is broad, rich and ever-expanding. At the heart of the Drama programme are four major productions a year.

“Great theatre is about challenging how we think and encouraging us to fantasise about a world we aspire to.”

Willem Dafoe

26

“ Theatre can be the place where we come together, reaching with and through stories, to who we are and to who we can be.”

Juliet Stevenson The largest scale play we do is the Senior Production, open to all students from Year 7 to Year 13. Recent drama productions include Nell Gwynn, Blue Stockings and Coram Boy, while musical productions - which take place every other year - include Legally Blonde, Whistle Down the Wind and The Theory of Relativity. Students lead the work both on stage and backstage, with technical teams (from lighting to makeup, choreography to marketing) all being student-led.

The Spring Term hosts the annual Interhouse Drama Festival. All productions are student-performed, student-directed, student-teched and, when necessary, student-written: the festival is two nights of student-driven leadership where we hear a genuinely original student voice.

Students at Ackworth have the opportunity to develop their drama skills further through extracurricular LAMDA Speech and Drama lessons.

Taught by experienced LAMDA teachers and examiners, students can progress through the LAMDA grades in disciplines as varied as Solo Performance, Musical Theatre or Public Speaking, all the way up to diploma-level.

Wider enrichment is at the cornerstone of our Drama provision, with over a dozen theatre trips organised every year, available to all students. We also hold a variety of workshops every year, inviting industry professionals - in areas as wide-ranging as poetry workshops, spoken word master classes and playwriting seminars to develop both the theatre-specific skills of our drama students as well as providing enriching experiences for all interested students of the school.

We actively encourage students to take part in national initiatives and competitions, such as the ESU Shakespeare Competition and National Theatre’s New Views playwriting competition. We additionally look to hold National Youth Theatre auditions every year for students from Year 10 to Upper 6th: despite our school’s small size, we consistently have students secure places among thousands of young people applying, highlighting the strength in depth of Drama at Ackworth School.

27

International Senior School

Music We pride ourselves on the range of ensembles and groups we have on offer at Ackworth School, including two choirs, orchestra, string orchestra, percussion ensemble, guitar group, jazz ensemble and our newest ensemble – flute choir! Our ensembles also have regular opportunities to perform with concerts held at the end of each term.

As well as the Director of Music, and the teacher in charge of music for Coram House, the music department has eight visiting music teachers, specialising in a range of instruments, including piano, upper strings, lower strings, percussion and drum kit, guitar, woodwind, brass and voice. Students get the opportunity to practise in our practice rooms and are encouraged to perform as events. Students also get the opportunity to take practical music exams, with the ABRSM exam board.

Ackworth School is an All-Steinway School, and we have a range of Steinway grand and Essex upright pianos in our practice rooms and performance spaces. As an All-Steinway School, we get the opportunity to visit Steinway Hall in London each year, where a selected number of our pianists get the chance to take a masterclass with a professional Steinway artist.

Our Music Centre is a spacious, well-equipped building with the large recital in the centre, serving as a hub for lessons, rehearsals and performances.

To the left are a series of individual teaching rooms in which instrumental and vocal lessons take place, while on the right are the main teaching classroom, an IT suite equipped with iMacs, and several breakout practice rooms.

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.

28

“The Music department is an alternate universe where pupils are often unrecognisable from who they are outside of it. The shy become confident. The agitated become calm. The lonely become included. The quiet become heard. And the lost become found. Music reveals the real child” Vaughan Fleischfresser

29

International Senior School

Sports

and academies

Sports, physical and mental wellbeing are very important to us here at Ackworth and can be a platform for academic success. Students have access to a vast array of sporting facilities as well as multiple extra-curricular sports and wellbeing clubs.

Our sports academies offer the chance for talented students to train under world class coaches in tailor-made programmes. Students in the academies often go on to compete at county and even international level.

Sporting facilities at Ackworth School:

30

•

Five football pitches

•

Athletics field

•

Indoor heated swimming pool

•

Multi-sports hall

•

Fitness suite

•

Five all-weather tennis courts

•

Two all-weather pitches

•

Dedicated table tennis centre

•

Cross-country running course

•

Two squash courts

Football

Academy

Ackworth School, in proud partnership with Paris Saint-Germain Academy England, offers a first-class football development programme for both boys and girls. Under the expert leadership of our Director of Football, John McDermott, and Assistant Director of Football, Gary Childs, young players are guided in developing their technical ability, tactical awareness, and love for the game. Rooted in the renowned philosophy of Paris Saint-Germain, the programme gives our students the unique opportunity to train and play the Parisian way—combining excellence, creativity, and passion both on and off the pitch.

Many players will choose to join the Academy alongside their Sixth Form studies. Two study routes are available: traditional A-Levels, or the BTEC Extended National Diploma in Sport (equivalent to three A-Levels) for those wanting a more vocational education. Others may join earlier alongside their GCSE or Pre A-Level courses.

We take a holistic approach to looking after our players, providing nutrition guidance, mindfulness practices and yoga sessions to ensure players are physically and mentally prepared for success. With individual and group coaching to develop skills, strength and conditioning training, and regular matches, both against other schools and Football Academies, we nurture well-rounded athletes primed for success on and off the field.

“Ackworth is the perfect place for me to develop as a football player whilst completing my A-Levels.”

Recent Football Academy teams played include: Leeds United

Grimsby Town

South Shields

Sheffield Wednesday

Harrogate Town Doncaster Rovers Bradford City

Tottenham Hotspur Norwich City 31

International Senior School

Table Tennis

Academy

Our Table Tennis Academy is a pre-eminent programme not only within UK boarding schools, but within the junior game. The programme offers students the chance to excel under a world class coach within a school environment which champions traditional values. Our students compete in division one of the Junior British League and train in our bespoke table tennis centre. Pupils also have the opportunity to travel abroad to train and play in international tournaments.

The excellent coaching programme marries academia and sport, this gives many students the opportunity to excel at national and even international level without compromising their studies.

“With over 15 years of coaching experience, I’ve had the opportunity to work at various levels within the sport.

As a UKCC Level 3 coach, I’ve been fortunate to contribute to England youth squads and participate in international competitions. Currently, I’m involved with the England Schools teams, coaching the boys’ squads at World Schools events, where we were honoured to win a bronze medal in Rio, as well as competing in Senior School Internationals. I’ve also taken players to training camps in China, France, and across Britain, always eager to learn from the talented coaches there and improve our approach.”

Chris Parker, Lead Table Tennis Coach

32

Hockey

Academy

Through our partnership with Wakefield Hockey Club, both boys and girls have the unique opportunity to benefit from first-class facilities and expert coaching at one of the premier hockey clubs in the North of England. Founded in 1899, Wakefield Hockey Club boasts two Olympicstandard water-based astro-turf pitches, an excellent clubhouse, and a proud tradition of producing players who have gone on to represent England and Great Britain at international level.

Membership includes full access to the club’s renowned Junior Talent Programme, with talented players (aged 14+) able to train with, and where appropriate play for, one of the adult league teams. For those not yet ready for the intensity of adult hockey, Development Hockey provides an inclusive stepping stone, with mixed junior and adult teams offering in-game coaching and support from experienced players both on the pitch and in the dugout.

Training is held after school Monday to Friday, with matches played on Saturdays (adult or development teams) and Sundays ( junior teams). Most players will find themselves involved in at least two programmes, giving them the chance to develop their skills, experience a variety of competitive environments, and enjoy being part of a thriving hockey community.

Wakefield Hockey Club is one of just 33 England Hockey Talent Centres in the UK and regularly hosts county, regional, national and international tournaments.

Its Men’s and Ladies’ 1st XI teams play in the England Hockey National Leagues, offering pupils an inspiring pathway of progression and aspiration.

International Senior School

Our

results

Our small, family-like setting helps pupils to achieve their very best and we are committed to nurturing the leaders, innovators, and compassionate global citizens of tomorrow. By fostering a culture of creativity, responsibility, and respect, we empower our students to navigate the complexities of the world with confidence and integrity. Our non-selective approach means every individual has the opportunity to strive for standout achievement and we aim to inspire excellence and make a meaningful difference in the lives of our students and beyond. We believe in cultivating not only bright minds, but also compassionate and resilient individuals prepared to make a positive impact on the world.

As a non-selective school, we are always proud of our results and know that our pupils will have achieved the best they can.

In 2025, over a quarter of all GCSE grades were awarded at 9 – 7, with 41.6% of grades falling between 9 – 6 and an impressive 83.7% within the 9 – 4 range.

In our Sixth Form, our students continued to excel, with 25.2% achieving A*- A grades, 43.1% achieving A*-B grades and 62.6% achieving A*-C grades in 2025.

“At Ackworth it’s not about being the best, it’s about being your best.”

34

Higher

education

Ackworth School gives pupils everything they need to prepare for their life’s next step. As a non-selective school, it is always rewarding to see Ackworth students being offered places and first choices at some of the UK’s most competitive institutions, including Oxford and Cambridge universities.

Among these successes are many international pupils who come to Ackworth to propel them onto their chosen paths of study.

Supported by our Oxbridge Programme, which includes one-to-one mentoring and application guidance to their chosen universities, whether it’s a Russell Group university such as Oxford or Cambridge, or any other competitive course, our school leavers go on to prestigious universities around the world. Although academic achievement is our primary focus, this programme encourages students to explore other interests and strike a healthy work-life balance.

In recent years our pupils secured places at some of the UK’s top universities, including: Durham University University College London (UCL) University of Oxford University of Cambridge Kings College, London University of Nottingham University of York University of Edinburgh London School of Economics & Political Science University of Leeds University of Bristol University of Exeter Hull York Medical School Manchester Metropolitan University Newcastle University Queens University, Belfast 3 Universities in the USA, including Yale 35

International Senior School

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 need and aspirations can positively influence their personal, and professional sense of achievement, happiness and fulfilment.

The admissions process is designed to ensure that the young persons concerned would benefit from the opportunities of an Ackworth education.

An offer of a place at Ackworth depends on the completion of entrance assessments, a reference from the pupil’s previous school, and there being a vacancy in the relevant year group.

In the case of entry into the Sixth Form, conditional offers are made on the basis of a reference from the pupil’s current school and the achievement of appropriate grades at GCSE or equivalent.

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 Membership of the Football Academy is subject to assessment of ability by the Director of Football. This can be in person or via video footage.

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 36

After

Ackworth

Old Scholar’s Association Ackworth’s ‘Old Scholars’ community is a vibrant and diverse group of over 5,000 members that spans the globe. They keep in contact with both each other and the school, attending key events such as Celebration Day, concerts, school productions and Founders’ Day. Reunions of year groups take place in school as well as regional meetups of Old Scholars which allows chance to catch up with former classmates and meet new Old Scholars. A key date in the diary for Old Scholars is Easter Gathering which is a residential gathering that takes place in School over the Easter weekend. With a full programme of events, not only does it bring together Old Scholars and gives them the chance to reminisce about their school days, but it also allows their families to experience Ackworth School.

Our aim is to encourage a sense of community amongst Old Scholars and maintains a visible connection between the school today and former students.

“I feel it is a privilege to have had the education and training that started at Ackworth. Being a surgeon and researcher is how I follow the ethos Non Sibi Sed Omnibus – Not For Oneself But For All.” Professor Fiona Wood, Director of the Burns Service of Western Australia, Member of the Order of Australia 2003, Australian of The Year 2005, Old Scholar 1970 - 1975

37

International Senior School

Supporting communities

Aligned with our Quaker heritage, we emphasise teaching students how to make a positive contribution to society. We encourage participation in initiatives and operate outreach programs, aiming to be at the heart of our community. Our goal is to remove barriers, create opportunities, and elevate hopes and aspirations within Ackworth and beyond.

Charity week Charity Week is organized by members of the Sixth Form and each year, large sums of money are raised for two charities chosen by the students.

The Charity Week student committee operate as a functioning charitable organisation with a variety of roles.

Community initiatives Community initiatives empower our students to make a real impact, boosting confidence and acquiring essential life skills. This can be through supporting the local community with the Senior Citizens Christmas Party, participating in national events such as the Wakefield Christmas Hamper appeal, or engaging in international charity projects in Ghana. Students gain valuable experiences and these voluntary activities enrich their education and foster personal growth.

Projects abroad Ackworth Sixth Form students engage in overseas youth volunteering, with trips customised to meet their and the school’s needs. Whether working on a care project in rural Africa or a conservation program in South America, each trip fosters confidence, self-awareness, and a global perspective, enriching their educational journey.

38

“Ackworth School helped me shape who I am today.”

Noodee, Thailand

39

This is my

HAPPY SPACE

Pontefract Road, Ackworth, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF7 7LT Tel: +44 (0)1977 233600 Email: admissions@ackworthschool.com

www.ackworthschool.com

Go Ackworth Go further