Jul 6, 2026 | Ackworth School, Boarding, Drama, Junior School, Latest News, Music, Senior School, Sixth Form
Ackworth School are delighted to announce that we have been named a Commended School in the Independent School of the Year for Performing Arts category at the prestigious Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2026.
Organised by Independent School Parent magazine, the Independent Schools of the Year Awards celebrate excellence across the independent education sector. This year’s awards attracted a record number of entries from schools across the UK, making the judges’ decisions more competitive than ever. Schools receiving a commendation now progress to the next stage of the judging process, with finalists announced on 10 September and winners revealed at the awards ceremony on 14 October.
The commendation is the latest in a series of national recognitions for Ackworth School’s flourishing performing arts provision. Earlier this year, the School was named Drama Department of the Year at the Music & Drama Education Awards 2026, recognising the exceptional work of our drama department. This latest commendation celebrates the wider strength of performing arts at Ackworth, recognising the collaboration between music and drama, and the wealth of opportunities available for our students to develop their talents both on and off the stage.
Alistar Boucher, Head of Drama, said:
“Following our recent Drama Department of the Year award, it is incredibly rewarding to see Ackworth recognised once again on the national stage. While that award celebrated the work of our drama department, this commendation acknowledges the strength of the performing arts across the whole School.
“The magic happens because of the collaboration between so many talented colleagues and the enthusiasm of our students. Whether they are acting, directing, designing, building sets or working backstage, every student plays a part in creating something special. This recognition belongs to all of them.”
Oliver McCarthy-Bell, Director of Music, added:
“This commendation reflects something we are incredibly proud of at Ackworth; that music and drama are not separate disciplines, but work together to create a rich and inspiring performing arts culture.
“Our students throw themselves into every opportunity, whether that’s performing in concerts, singing in choirs, playing in ensembles or supporting our theatre productions. Their creativity, commitment and willingness to challenge themselves are what make performing arts at Ackworth so special, and it is wonderful to see that recognised nationally.”
Performing arts are a cornerstone of life at Ackworth School, with students benefiting from an extensive programme of productions, concerts, ensembles, workshops and performance opportunities throughout the year. Underpinned by the School’s Quaker values, these experiences help young people develop confidence, creativity, resilience and compassion, while encouraging them to discover and nurture their individual talents.
Everyone at Ackworth School is immensely proud of this latest recognition. It is a tribute to the extraordinary commitment of our staff and the remarkable achievements of our students, whose creativity, hard work and willingness to embrace every opportunity continue to make Ackworth’s performing arts provision one of the finest in the country. We now look forward to the announcement of the finalists in September.
Jun 29, 2026 | Ackworth School, Boarding, Latest News, Senior School, Sixth Form, Sport
Ackworth School is delighted to announce the appointment of Lee Elam as Assistant Director of Football, joining Director of Football John McDermott and Assistant Director of Football Gary Childs as the School continues to expand its ambitious football programme in partnership with PSG Academy England.
Elam brings a wealth of experience from across the professional and grassroots game, having enjoyed an accomplished playing career before establishing himself as a highly respected coach and football leader.
During his playing career, Elam represented a number of clubs across the English football pyramid, including Yeovil Town, Exeter City, Morecambe, Crawley Town and Halifax Town, earning a reputation as a talented and versatile attacking player. His achievements also extend onto the international stage, having represented England Veterans, where he was part of the squad that won the Seniors World Cup.
Following his retirement from playing, Elam transitioned successfully into coaching and football leadership. He spent eight years as Lead Youth Coach at Bradford City Academy, helping to develop and nurture young players within a professional academy environment. He has also gained significant experience in senior football management, leading Eccleshill United in the Northern Counties East League before being appointed manager of Albion Sports in May 2026.
Working alongside former professional footballers John McDermott and Gary Childs, Elam will play a key role in developing Ackworth School’s football programme and supporting the next generation of talented young footballers.
The appointment means that Ackworth School’s football programme is now led by three UEFA A Licence-qualified coaches, providing students with access to one of the most experienced football leadership teams in the independent school sector. Together, McDermott, Childs and Elam bring decades of experience across professional football, academy development, talent identification and elite player progression.
John McDermott, Director of Football at Ackworth School, said:
“We are delighted to welcome Lee to Ackworth School. He is someone who understands football from every angle – as a player, coach and manager. Lee is passionate about developing young people and helping them maximise their potential, which aligns perfectly with our vision for football at Ackworth. As we continue to develop our programme alongside PSG Academy England, his experience and expertise will be invaluable.”
Lee Elam said:
“I am incredibly excited to join Ackworth School and become part of such an ambitious and forward-thinking football programme. The opportunity to work alongside John McDermott and Gary Childs, and contribute to the development of young players within the PSG Academy England framework, is one I am genuinely looking forward to. Ackworth has a clear vision for football and education, and I am excited to help build on that success.”
Ackworth School’s football programme continues to go from strength to strength, providing talented young footballers with access to elite coaching, performance analysis, strength and conditioning, competitive fixtures and clear progression pathways. Through its partnership with PSG Academy England, the School offers a world-class football experience while maintaining a strong focus on academic excellence and personal development.
The programme has already helped players progress into the professional game, with recent signings at clubs including Chelsea, Sheffield Wednesday and Málaga CF, highlighting the strength of the pathways available to aspiring footballers at Ackworth.
Head Martyn Beer said:
“Lee’s appointment is another significant step forward for football at Ackworth School. His experience across playing, coaching and management brings tremendous value to our pupils. Alongside John McDermott and Gary Childs, we now have three UEFA A Licence-qualified coaches leading our football programme, providing an exceptional level of expertise and mentorship for our young players. Combined with our partnership with PSG Academy England, this further strengthens our commitment to delivering one of the country’s most ambitious and comprehensive school football programmes.”
As Ackworth School prepares for the next phase of its football development alongside PSG Academy England, the addition of Lee Elam further reinforces its commitment to creating an environment where young players can thrive academically, personally and athletically.
About Ackworth School Football
Ackworth School’s football programme combines academic excellence with elite player development. Delivered in partnership with PSG Academy England, the programme is led by Director of Football John McDermott, supported by Assistant Directors of Football Gary Childs and Lee Elam.
Together, the trio hold three UEFA A Licences and bring extensive experience from the professional game, academy football, coaching and player development. The programme provides high-performance coaching, competitive fixtures, strength and conditioning, performance analysis and player progression opportunities within a nurturing independent school environment.
Recent graduates of the programme have secured opportunities with professional clubs including Chelsea, Sheffield Wednesday and Málaga CF. From September 2026, students will also benefit from the School’s landmark partnership with PSG Academy England, bringing one of the world’s most recognised football development philosophies to Ackworth School.
Jun 8, 2026 | Ackworth School, Junior School, Latest News, Senior School, Sport
Ackworth School is delighted to host the PSG Academy England Holiday Camp from 3 – 7 August, giving young footballers the opportunity to train using the methodology of one of the world’s leading football clubs.
Delivered by UEFA-qualified PSG Academy England coaches, the camp is designed to help players develop their technical ability, tactical understanding and confidence in a fun and professional environment.
Open to players of all abilities, the programme follows the Paris Saint-Germain training philosophy, helping participants improve key areas of their game through structured coaching sessions and match play.
Throughout the week, players will work on:
- Ball mastery and dribbling
- Passing and receiving
- Shooting and finishing
- Tactical awareness and decision-making
- Small-sided games and match scenarios
The camp provides an excellent opportunity for players to develop their skills, build confidence and enjoy their football during the summer holidays.
Each participant will receive a certificate of attendance and individual feedback from the coaching team at the end of the week.
Camp Information
Dates: 3 – 7 August
Venue: Ackworth School
Cost: £30 per day
Open to: Players of all abilities
As part of Ackworth School’s exciting partnership with PSG Academy England, the holiday camp offers a genuine insight into the coaching methods used across the global PSG Academy network.
With excellent facilities and expert coaching, the camp promises an enjoyable and rewarding experience for young players looking to develop their game this summer.
Places are limited and early booking is recommended.
To secure a place, visit the PSG Academy England booking page.
May 13, 2026 | Latest News
Ackworth School is excited to announce the completion of a major refurbishment programme across our boarding provision, further strengthening the School’s commitment to providing an exceptional home-from-home experience for pupils from across the UK and around the world.
The investment has transformed key boarding spaces, creating modern, comfortable and welcoming environments designed to support pupils’ wellbeing, independence and academic success. The refurbished accommodation combines contemporary design with the warmth and character that have long been at the heart of boarding life at Ackworth.
Pupils returning this term have been welcomed into refreshed kitchens, upgraded communal areas and enhanced study spaces, all carefully designed to promote both relaxation and community living. Improvements have also included updated furnishings, improved lighting, modern décor and enhanced facilities throughout the boarding houses.
Martyn Beer, Head said:
“Boarding is a central part of life at Ackworth School, and we are delighted to unveil these fantastic new spaces for our pupils. We want every boarder to feel safe, supported and inspired, and this refurbishment reflects our continued investment in the pupil experience.”
The boarding refurbishment forms part of a wider programme of development across the School, ensuring facilities continue to match Ackworth’s outstanding reputation for pastoral care, academic excellence and co-curricular opportunity.
Boarders at Ackworth benefit from a vibrant and supportive community, with access to a wide range of activities including sport, music, drama and outdoor education. Families visiting the boarding houses during recent open events have praised the transformation, with many commenting on the welcoming atmosphere and high-quality finish of the new spaces. The refurbishment also supports Ackworth School’s growing international community, ensuring pupils from all backgrounds feel comfortable and at home from the moment they arrive.
Applications for boarding places are now open for September entry, with interest continuing to grow from both UK and overseas families seeking an outstanding all-round education in a nurturing boarding environment.
Mar 5, 2026 | Ackworth School, Boarding, Drama, Junior School, Latest News, Music, Senior School, Sixth Form
Ackworth School is pleased to share the outcome of its recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) inspection, which confirms that the school is meeting all required standards under the current national framework.
While the ISI no longer awards graded judgements, inspectors undertook a thorough and detailed review of leadership and governance, the quality of education, pastoral care, boarding, safeguarding and students’ wider development. The final report recognises the strength and coherence of Ackworth’s provision across all areas of school life.
Inspectors noted that leaders have established a culture of continuous improvement, with a clear focus on promoting the wellbeing of each pupil. The report highlights that the school’s Quaker values are central to the daily lives of students and staff, shaping a community characterised by mutual respect and inclusivity.
The quality of education is recognised through a well-planned and regularly reviewed curriculum that enables students to expand their knowledge and develop increasingly complex understanding. Inspectors found that students make good progress over time, supported by knowledgeable and enthusiastic teachers, effective assessment processes and strong individual support. The school’s Autism Resource and BRIDGE provision are described as highly effective in enabling students with SEND to access the curriculum and make good progress. Students who speak English as an additional language are also supported effectively to achieve well.
Pastoral care is described as highly effective in promoting pupils’ emotional wellbeing. Inspectors observed strong collaboration between pastoral, safeguarding and specialist staff, ensuring that students feel supported and valued. Students were seen to grow in self-confidence and self-esteem within an environment characterised by respect and inclusivity.
Boarding provision is praised for promoting a culture of collaboration, sharing and mutual support, with a positive impact on boarders’ confidence and independence. The junior and early years settings are recognised as happy and secure learning environments in which children make good progress from their starting points.
Safeguarding is identified as a particular strength. Inspectors report that safeguarding procedures are implemented robustly, that staff understand safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and that safer recruitment procedures are followed meticulously.
Martyn Beer, Head of Ackworth School commented:
“We are very pleased with the outcome of this inspection and the way the inspection team were able to identify and celebrate what makes Ackworth such a unique and wonderful school. What stands out most strongly in the report is the recognition of our Quaker values and the way they shape daily life at Ackworth. Inspectors saw a school community built on respect, reflection and care for one another, alongside a clear commitment to strong academic progress and individual support.
This outcome reflects the dedication of our staff, the engagement of our pupils and the continued support of our families. We are grateful to everyone who contributes to the life of the school.”
Ackworth School is particularly encouraged that the findings reflect its long-standing vision of providing a values-led education that balances academic development with emotional wellbeing and social responsibility. The full ISI inspection report is available to view and download here. You can also read an easy to digest version of the highlights of the report here.
If you are interested in applying for a place at Ackworth School, please contact the admissions team on 01977 233621 or admissions@ackworthschool.com
