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
Ackworth School is celebrating national recognition after being named a winner at the prestigious Music & Drama Education Awards 2026, a leading celebration of excellence and innovation in performing arts education across the UK.
The award recognises the strength and impact of Ackworth’s drama provision, highlighting the creativity, ambition and dedication of both pupils and staff. The Music & Drama Education Awards are judged by respected figures from across the creative and educational sectors, shining a spotlight on schools that demonstrate outstanding commitment to the arts.
In announcing the award, the judges praised Ackworth’s distinctive ethos and high standards:
“The judges liked the school’s integrated approach in balancing students’ needs and development with quality output. They were impressed with the level of internal support for the department and the challenging play choices made for productions.”
This commendation reflects Ackworth School’s belief that drama is about far more than performance alone. Through an ambitious programme of productions and curriculum drama, pupils are encouraged to take creative risks, explore complex themes and develop the confidence, resilience and collaboration skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
Ackworth was shortlisted alongside a strong field of outstanding schools from across the country:
Ackworth School, West Yorkshire
Chiswick School, Chiswick
Guildford High School, Surrey
Hill House International Junior School, London
The Marlborough Science Academy, St Albans
Moreton Hall, Oswestry
Sevenoaks School, Kent
Trinity Catholic School, Nottingham
Wellington School, Somerset
To be recognised among such distinguished company underlines the national standing of Ackworth’s performing arts provision.
As a Steinway School, Ackworth is proud to place creativity at the heart of school life. Its drama success complements a broad and ambitious curriculum, strong academic outcomes and a rich co-curricular programme that enables every pupil to discover and develop their talents.
This latest national award further strengthens Ackworth School’s reputation as a leading independent day and boarding school, where academic excellence and creative opportunity go hand in hand.
You can view the full list of nominees and winners here.
For more information about joining Ackworth School and our range of performing arts opportunities, please contact us on admissions@ackworthschool.com or 01977 233621.
On Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd March, Ackworth School were lucky enough to take seventeen students down to London, to perform at Steinway Hall.
This comprised of our Senior Choir, and three pianists, who received a masterclass each from internationally renowned pianist, Ashley Wass. The students also received a tour of the Steinway showrooms, learned about the history of the company, and got to play on the piano that is used in the Royal Albert Hall during the BBC Proms! The first day ended with a recital given in the Steinway Hall by the pianists, Senior Choir and other selected musical numbers. The opportunity to then watch a matinee performance of Hamilton the following day was very well earned!
“I extremely enjoyed our visit to London. The masterclass on Wednesday afternoon was extremely interesting and I learned so much from it as it allowed me to develop my skills to a further extent, and explore different aspects of music. Exploring the different pianos, and learning about the wider context of steinway’s pianos. I also really enjoyed exploring the streets of London, and engaging in musical activities such as ‘ creating a piano by using only our bodies’. Hamilton was also extremely exciting. The music was great, and the choreography was phenomenal. The actors were very talented and a great inspiration” – Charlotte
“First, I want to appreciate Mr. McCarthy, Miss Strong, and Miss Younger for planning this wonderful trip to London. I was astonished by the Steinway Spirio’s ability to accurately capture your playing, stimulate the pianist’s style, and actually show the keys moving up and down, note by note. I occasionally join the choir, sometimes with the wrong lyrics, but it’s a lot of fun. I had the great fortune to attend Ashley Wass’ Master Class, during which he demonstrated a novel fingering technique and described the importance of breathing properly. I love this trip!” – Brian
Sally Harby taught piano here at Ackworth School until a serious road accident in 1982 sadly put an end to her career.
Sally has lived in France for the last 16 years, but on February 3rd she visited Ackworth to see the school’s new Steinway pianos.
After a tour of the Music Department, Sally played a piece of Rachmaninoff on the Steinway Grand, much to the delight of a Coram House class. Her verdict on the Steinway was, “Formidable!”
In January 2019, Ackworth School became the 15th member of the All-Steinway Group of Schools. As a member of this prestigious group, we demonstrate a commitment to excellence and an unparallelled educational experience by providing our students with the rich, unrivalled sound, incomparable tone, and pristine touch of STEINWAY & SONS pianos.
These pianos inspire students to realise their artistic talents, and best prepare them to compete at the highest level in the professional world.
In this photo Sally is seen with family members, including her sister, Celia Wolfe (left) who taught History at Ackworth for 25 years, and now holds the position of Archivist, as well as Daniel Marks, Director of Music (second from right).
Here is a short clip of Sally playing the Steinway Grand.
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