Ackworth School
Pontefract, West Yorkshire
Embrace the transformative power of education guided by our Quaker values. At Ackworth School, 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.
| Secondary Gender | Co-ed |
| Sixth Form Gender | Co-ed |
| Boarding/Day | Boarding, Day & Flexi |
| Age Range | 11 – 18 |
| Entrance Exam | No |
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.
Martyn Beer
Head
Exam Performance
This year, the School’s highest-performing 25% of students achieved an especially impressive set of results. Among this group, 58.1% of grades were awarded at A* – A or equivalent, 77.4% at A* – B or equivalent and 93.5% at A* – C or equivalent. This included an outstanding D*D*D in BTEC Sport. Overall, 52.2% of A-Level grades were awarded at A* – C, with an overall pass rate of 85%.
GCSE
A*/A (9-7) Results
A-Level
A*/A Results
Annual Fees
For the 2026/27 academic year, Ackworth School is proud to freeze our day school fees and reduce full boarding fees to just £37,500 per annum. In a climate where many families continue to face financial pressures, and where independent school fees have risen sharply across the sector, we have taken a deliberate and values-led decision to prioritise affordability and access.
Underpinned by careful long-term financial planning and a strong financial foundation, this decision reflects our commitment to widening opportunity while continuing to invest in excellent teaching, facilities and the holistic education that defines an Ackworth education.
All fees shown are annual and are inclusive of VAT.
Boarding at Ackworth School
Our main aim is to provide a ‘home from home’ – a place where boarders can relax, feel safe, enjoy each other’s company, or at times find a quiet place to wind down or work, and somewhere where they can find support and help if they have any concerns or worries.
Strengths at Ackworth School
Ackworth School’s distinctive strengths reflect our commitment to developing the whole person. From our ambitious Football Academy and outstanding provision in Performing Arts to the values of our Quaker faith, pupils are encouraged to discover their talents, pursue their passions and grow in confidence. These strengths enrich everyday school life, creating opportunities for achievement, creativity, teamwork, leadership and personal growth within a supportive, inclusive community.
Performing Arts
Performing Arts is a major strength at Ackworth School, giving pupils the confidence, creativity and skills to excel on stage and beyond. Our award-winning Drama Department was named Outstanding School Drama Department at the 2026 Music & Drama Education Awards, while Ackworth was also commended for Performing Arts in the Independent School of the Year Awards. Pupils benefit from expert teaching, ambitious productions and outstanding facilities, including our dedicated Music Centre and newly refurbished Fothergill Theatre. From drama and musical theatre to orchestras, ensembles and individual tuition, every pupil is encouraged to participate, perform and discover their own unique creative potential.
Football (Soccer)
Football is a major strength at Ackworth School, combining first-class education with an ambitious player-development programme delivered in partnership with Paris Saint-Germain Academy England. Led by experienced UEFA A Licence coaches John McDermott, Gary Childs and Lee Elam, pupils benefit from more than eight hours of weekly training, strength and conditioning, match analysis, goalkeeper coaching and competitive fixtures. Recent successes include U16 and U19 West Yorkshire County Cup victories and an ISFA Bowl Final appearance. With opportunities for boys and girls across several age groups, the Academy helps talented players develop their skills, confidence and understanding while progressing academically.
Hockey
Hockey is a growing strength at Ackworth School, supported by a local partnership that provides pupils with access to specialist coaching and clear opportunities for development. Players of all abilities are encouraged to build their technical skills, tactical understanding, fitness and confidence through structured training and competitive fixtures. The programme complements Ackworth’s wider sporting provision, helping pupils develop teamwork, resilience, leadership and a strong sense of commitment. Whether discovering hockey for the first time or aspiring to perform at a higher level, pupils benefit from an inclusive and ambitious environment that supports their progress both on the pitch and in the classroom.
Faith-Based Ethos
Quaker values of Peace, Equality, Sustainability, Simplicity and Truth are inherent in everything we do. Whilst most staff and pupils are from non-Quaker families, these relevant principals set the foundations for a life based on mutual respect and trust, and a belief that every member of the community has equal value.
SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) Support
It’s our aim to ensure that pupils with SEND have the maximum opportunity to achieve and succeed in line with their peers. Timetable adjustments, in class or out of class support, and exam arrangements can, and are, frequently made to support a level playing field.
Affiliated Schools
Location
Pontefract Road
Ackworth
Pontefract
WF7 7LT
Nearest Airports
- Doncaster Sheffield18.0 miles (29.0km)
- Leeds Bradford19.9 miles (32.0km)
- Manchester43.5 miles (70.0km)
- Nottingham East Midlands56.5 miles (91.0km)
- Liverpool John Lennon65.9 miles (106.0km)
James Busson
Director of Marketing, Admissions and Communications
Ackworth School
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