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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
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“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.”
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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.
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“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. In January 2026, Ackworth School welcomed inspectors from the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) for a detailed review of school life. We were delighted to be found meeting all required standards, with inspectors recognising the strength of our teaching, pastoral care, safeguarding, leadership, boarding and wider opportunities for pupils. For both day and boarding families, the report reflects what matters most at Ackworth: pupils are known, supported and encouraged to become confident, independent young people. Inspectors highlighted our inclusive and respectful community, strong pastoral systems and the positive relationships between pupils and staff. They also recognised the friendly, supportive culture within boarding, helping students from the UK and overseas feel part of the wider Ackworth community.
“ Pupils grow in self-confidence and self-esteem in an environment characterised by mutual respect and inclusivity.” Independent Schools Inspectorate, January 2026 5
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
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average class size
in numbers
50 acre campus, 200 acre site
340
pupils in senior school
32
50+
clubs and societies
30%
nationalities
international senior pupils
1 boarding house 20
sports
80+
boarders
5,000
strong Old Scholar network
2
sport academies 7
Senior School
Getting to
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Ackworth
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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.
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Excellent transport links and airport transfers from Manchester Airport and Leeds Bradford Airport.
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Leeds. The largest legal and financial city in England (outside London), just 25km, or 30 minutes, by car from Ackworth School.
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York. A historically important city just 40 minutes from Ackworth School.
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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.
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Throughout their Senior School journey, students receive continuous encouragement and individual recognition for their achievements. 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.
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
• History • Religious Studies • Spanish
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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. 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.
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Ackworth Sixth Form offers a diverse range of A-Level, BTEC and CTEC 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 • Art and Design (Fine Art) • Biology • Business Studies • Chemistry • Design Technology • Economics • English Literature • French • Geography • Government and Politics • Health and Social Care • History • Maths • Further Maths • Music • Performing Arts • Physics • Psychology • Spanish • Sport • EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)
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Senior School
Additional support English as an Additional Language Moving to a new country and learning in another language can feel like a big step. Our friendly EAL team is here to help students settle in, grow in confidence and get the most from life at Ackworth. Students in Years 7–11 have at least four EAL sessions each week, helping them develop their English for lessons, everyday life and Cambridge English qualifications. In the Sixth Form, five lessons each week focus on academic English and IELTS preparation for university. Small groups mean we can get to know each student and give them the support they need. It’s not just about grammar and vocabulary – it’s about helping students find their voice, become more independent and feel confident studying in English. Learning Development Centre At Ackworth School, our Learning and Development Centre (LDC) delivers targeted, high-impact intervention designed to unlock each student’s potential and ensure academic and personal success. In the LDC students will work 1:1 or in small-group tuition led by qualified professionals, providing a level of tailored expertise that goes significantly beyond standard classroom support. Through personalised pathways delivered by dedicated specialists in Speech and Language Therapy (SaLT), Dyslexia Tutoring, Emotional Literacy Support (ELS), Literacy, and Study Skills, these sessions ensure bespoke instruction, rigorous progress mapping, and seamless integration into the timetabled school day.
“EAL lessons are helping improve my English skills which is fundamental for all my subjects I am studying.” 14
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 • £1,200 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) 15
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 part of a community in the boarding house. The staff are really supportive and helpful in creating the home-awayfrom-home environment and supporting us through our education.”
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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.
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Senior School
Routine
Monday – Friday Time Wake up and room tidy
7:00am – 7:25am
Breakfast
7:45am – 8:15am
Sign out
8:35am
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
Free Time
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Saturday Time Wake up and room tidy
8:30am
Breakfast
9:15am – 9:50am
Activities
10:00am – 12:00pm
Lunch
1:00pm
Free time/trips
2:00pm – 4:00pm
Tea
6:00pm
Free time
Sunday Time Wake up and room tidy
9:00am
Brunch
11:30am
Free time/trips
12:00pm
Tea
6:00pm
Free time
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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 their stay in boarding there may be times when a student feels low or homesick. They may not even know the reason why they feel that way. Boarding staff will support students, try to identify the issue and best guide them to finding a solution. There are a number of people students can talk to including a friend or older student, 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. 20
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. 21
Senior School
Performing arts
Academy
Launching in September 2027, the Ackworth Performing Arts Academy is for students who want to do more of what they love - and discover just how far their creativity can take them. Bringing together theatre, music and dance, the Academy will combine specialist teaching with workshops and masterclasses from visiting industry professionals, exciting performance opportunities and inspiring new and refurbished spaces. Whether you dream of a future on stage or simply want to be part of something exciting, this is your chance to get involved from the very beginning.
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Drama
At Ackworth, drama is about getting involved, being brave and discovering just how much you can do. And from September 2027, our new Performing Arts Academy will take that experience even further. Work with specialist teachers and visiting industry professionals. Audition for productions. Explore acting and musical theatre. Create new work. Learn what happens behind the scenes and perform in our newly refurbished Fothergill Theatre. Whether you already love being centre stage or are just beginning to find your confidence, there is a place for you here.And you’ll be joining a drama community already making its mark nationally.
Music
From September 2027, our Performing Arts Academy will give young musicians even more opportunities to play, create, collaborate and perform. You’ll work with specialist teachers and visiting professionals, develop your own sound and make music alongside other students who share your passion and you’ll have the spaces to match your ambition. Our Music Centre includes a recital hall, 14 practice rooms, music technology facilities and an outstanding collection of Steinway pianos. Play solo. Join the band. Sing with others. Try something new. Perform for an audience.
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Senior School
Dance
From September 2027, dance will be at the heart of Ackworth’s new Performing Arts Academy - giving students the chance to train, create and perform as part of an exciting creative community. Develop your technique. Explore choreography. Work with specialist teachers and visiting professionals. Create your own pieces and collaborate with students across music and theatre. You’ll also train in our brandnew bespoke dance studio, with a professional dance floor, full-length mirrors and ballet barres. Whether you have been dancing for years or are ready to take your passion further, this is your chance to be there from the beginning.
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*artists impression
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. As we continue to invest in sport at Ackworth, our swimming pool will undergo an extensive planned refurbishment in summer 2027, ready for the launch of our new Swim Club from September 2027 - creating even more opportunities for students to enjoy swimming and develop their skills.
Sporting facilities at Ackworth School:
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Five football pitches
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Athletics field
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Indoor heated swimming pool
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Multi-sports hall
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Fitness suite
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Five all-weather tennis courts
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Two all-weather pitches
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Dedicated table tennis centre
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Cross-country running course
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Two squash courts
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Senior School
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 Directors of Football, Gary Childs and Lee Elam, 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. With a development pathway, open to students from Year 7 (age 11 +) onwards, players combine elite football training with a tailored academic programme suited to their age and ability. Students follow a core curriculum including GCSEs in Years 10 and 11. In the Sixth Form, students choose between: A-Levels for a traditional academic route or the BTEC Extended National Diploma in Sport – a vocational qualification equivalent to three A-Levels. 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 26
Tottenham Hotspur Norwich City 26
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. 27
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 2026, over 30% of GCSE grades were awarded at 9 - 7 with 47.5% at 9 - 6 and an impressive 83.1% at 9 - 4. Our top-performing 25% of students delivered particularly impressive results, achieving 73.2% of their grades at 9 - 7, including 45% at grades 9 - 8, while more than nine in ten of their grades were awarded at 9 - 6.
Our 2026 Sixth Form students continued to excel. The top-performing 25% of students achieved an exceptional set of results, with 58.1% of grades awarded at A* – A or equivalent, 77.4% at A* - B or equivalent and 93.5% at A* - C or equivalent. Across the whole cohort, 52.2% of A-Level grades were awarded at A* – C, alongside an overall pass rate of 85%..
“At Ackworth it’s not about being the best, it’s about being your best.” 28
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 Newcastle University Queens University, Belfast Imperial College, London University of Southampton 29
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 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 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 30
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.
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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