History of the School
Ackworth School was founded in 1779 by John Fothergill on behalf of The Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) and the School Committee (or Board of Governors) is still accountable to this body. The School was established for Quaker boys and girls and the Quaker ethos, with its emphasis on quiet reflection and the search for God (or good) within oneself and within others, lies at the heart of the School.
Pre-16 qualifications
Ackworth provides a broad academic curriculum allowing young people to gain solid foundations and to discover and develop their talents. In the first three years pupils follow a wide-ranging programme which includes, Art, Biology, Chemistry, Design Technology, Drama and Music, English, Food and Nutrition, French, Geography, German, History, Information Communication Technology, Mathematics, PE and Sport, Physics, Religious Studies and Spanish.Most pupils study 9 subjects at GCSE. English, English Literature, Mathematics, Science (2 or 3 GCSEs) are compulsory, and then an additional four option subjects are taken. All pupils also take PE and Games and Personal and Social Education.
Post 16 qualifications
Sixth Form the School offers a range of academic A level courses, with almost all of our Sixth Formers choosing to apply to University to continue their education.
Ackworth School offers a two-year, terminally-assessed A-Level Programme, with almost all students opting to study for three A-Levels that are examined at the end of the Upper Sixth. Full details of options available and information on each of the Sixth Form courses can be found in the Sixth Form options booklet, which is available from the School or on the School website.
The School ensures that students are guided, with careers and university entrance in mind, towards choosing a sound platform of subjects where they can realise their potential.
Academic performance
Boarding accommodation
The two Boarding Houses are staffed by teachers at the school, so that students have regular contact with staff throughout the day.
Pastoral care
Day pupils in Years 7 to 10 are assigned two tutors who keep checks on the pupil’s academic progress, welfare and involvement in school life. They provide the bridge between School and home and are there to reassure and guide students as they progress through the School. Pupils have the same two tutors throughout their time in Years 4 and 5, which helps to ensure continuity of care and allows tutors to get to know their tutees very well. Sixth Formers have one tutor who acts as their mentor throughout the two-year course. This tutor plays a key role in helping with applications to university and other institutions of further education.Flexible boarding is a popular option with busy parents. Students can take advantage of the benefits of staying overnight at School, which means that parents can go away on business or on holiday safe in the knowledge that their son or daughter will be well looked after.Our School also encourages senior students to take on a caring role, whether through the Charity Committee or sharing a lunch table with their younger peers. Charity Week is organised by members of the Sixth Form and, each year, large sums of money are raised for two charities chosen by the students.
Extra-curricular activities
Ackrowth have a broad range of clubs and societies, ranging from Art club to Orchestra and Yoga Click Here to learn more.
General school facilities