Aug 1, 2025 | Ackworth School, Boarding, Coram House, Junior School, Senior School, Sixth Form
We are deeply saddened to hear the news regarding Mount St Mary’s College and Barlborough Hall School. Our heartfelt thoughts are with all pupils, parents, and staff as they navigate this unsettling and uncertain time.
At Ackworth School, our priority is to provide warmth, care, and a sense of belonging for every child. We understand how challenging change can be — especially when it comes unexpectedly — and we are committed to making transitions as smooth as possible.
As a co-educational boarding and day school, we take pride in ensuring every pupil is known, nurtured, and encouraged to thrive. Many pupils who join Ackworth quickly come to think of our campus as their “happy place” — a safe, inspiring environment where they can flourish academically, socially, and personally.
We offer:
- A nurturing, values-led community built on kindness and respect
- Tailored academic support for pupils transitioning from other schools
- Excellent boarding provision with flexible options for families
- A rich co-curricular programme encouraging pupils to lead, create, and achieve
- An inclusive co-educational environment where every child is encouraged to grow in confidence
If you are exploring the next chapter for your child, we are here to guide and support you. Please contact James Busson, Director of Marketing, Admissions and Communications via WhatsApp on 07874 452377 or email admissions@ackworthschool.com.
Mar 5, 2025 | Ackworth School, Coram House, Latest News, Old Scholar, Quaker

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Amanda McShane as the next Head of Coram House from September 2025. Amanda brings a wealth of experience in educational leadership and a deep-rooted connection to Ackworth School as she is an Old Scholar.
Amanda joins us from Cumnor House School in Croydon, where she has been Head for the past seven years. During her tenure, she has overseen significant growth and success, fostering a culture of academic excellence, pastoral care, and innovation in teaching. Her leadership has strengthened the school’s reputation and enriched the learning experience for students, ensuring they thrive both academically and personally.
We are excited for Amanda to bring her passion and expertise to Coram House, building on its strong foundations and vibrant community. Throughout the recruitment process Amanda displayed real vision, and her understanding of the Ackworth ethos, combined with her proven track record in school leadership, made her the standout choice to guide Coram House into its next chapter. We look forward to the enthusiasm and leadership she will bring to our community.
Commenting on her appointment, Amanda said: “I am delighted to be returning to the Ackworth family. It is a privilege to join this wonderful community, and I look forward to building upon existing foundations while embracing the opportunities that lie ahead. Having spent some time with pupils and staff, I can see that Coram House is a truly special place. I am excited to meet more of you in the coming months, and to work together to shape a bright future for the school.”
Reflecting on Amanda’s appointment, Martyn Beer, Head of Ackworth School, said: “We are delighted to welcome Amanda back to Ackworth in this important leadership role. Her experience, vision, and deep affinity with the school will ensure Coram House continues to flourish as a warm, inspiring, and forward-thinking learning environment. We look forward to the enthusiasm and leadership she will bring to our community.”
We will be arranging opportunities for parents and pupils to meet Amanda in the coming months as she prepares to take up her new role. In the meantime, please join us in warmly welcoming her back to Ackworth School.
Jul 6, 2023 | Ackworth School, Boarding, Coram House, Junior School, Latest News, Quaker, Senior School, Sixth Form
Ackworth School and Coram House have been shortlisted in the Independent School Parent Magazine ‘Independent Schools of the Year 2023’ awards. Senior School has been shortlisted for ‘Independent Boarding School of the Year‘ and Coram House for ‘Independent Prep School of the Year‘.
Dr. Helen Wright, Chair of Independent Schools of the Year 2023 said ‘It has been truly wonderful to receive nominations which showcase transformative and innovative projects that are underway across the country, and it is with great pleasure that I am able to tell you that Ackworth School and Ackworth School – Coram House has been shortlisted for Independent Boarding School of the Year and Independent Prep School of the Year‘.
Anton Maree, Head said ‘Following our recent Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) rating of ‘Excellent’ earlier this year it is now wonderful to have our school shortlisted for these two awards. Our staff work tirelessly to provide an outstanding educational and pastoral experience for our pupils so it is great to see this recognised in this way. We look forward to the next stage of the awards later this year‘.
A list of Finalists will be published on 6 September and the winners, chosen by the Independent Schools of the Year judging panel will be announced at an awards ceremony in October.
More information about the awards can be found at www.independentschoolsoftheyear.co.uk.
Jun 2, 2020 | Ackworth School, Coram House, Junior School, Morning Readings, Senior School
Today, Sam Baker discusses how the coronavirus has made an impact on our language.
Jun 1, 2020 | Ackworth School, Coram House, Morning Readings, Senior School
Deputy Head, Sam Baker takes us on a walk around the school in her first morning reading of the week.