Aug 14, 2025 | Ackworth School, Boarding, Old Scholar, Quaker, Senior School, Sixth Form
Ackworth School is delighted to announce the achievements of our 2025 A-Level and BTEC students, whose dedication, growth, and resilience reflect the strength of both our academic environment and our caring, inclusive ethos.
This year’s results speak not only of high academic attainment but also of the many ways our students have flourished, through their creativity, leadership, community engagement, and personal development. 43.1% of our results were at grades A* to B, which as a non-selective school is outstanding. Of particular note are our results in English Literature, with 100% of our Y13 cohort achieving grades A* – B.
Students across the school have excelled in a wide range of subjects, from the sciences and humanities to the arts and vocational courses. Among the many success stories, Noah achieved A*A*A in English, Music and History and will go on to study Music at the University of Cambridge, Joel achieved A*AA in Biology, Chemistry and Maths and will study Medicine at the University of Manchester and Francis achieved AAB in Psychology, English and History and has secured a place at Durham University to study Combined Social Sciences.
Our first BTEC Sport cohort have excelled with superb results across the board. A special mention must go to Taha from our Football Academy who was awarded D*DD – 1 Distinction star and 2 Distinctions (equivalent to A*AA at A-Level) and has a place at UEL to study Sport and Exercise Science.
These individual journeys show that success at Ackworth takes many forms, and every student’s path is valued and celebrated.
Our commitment to holistic education means that our students leave with more than just qualifications. Through an extensive co-curricular programme, they have developed leadership skills, resilience, and creativity, whether on the sports field, in the concert hall, on stage, or through service in the community. Many have contributed to charitable projects, taken part in national competitions, or pursued passions that will shape their future careers.
Reflecting on the Class of 2025, Martyn Beer, Head of Ackworth School, said:
“We are immensely proud of every one of our students. Their achievements are the result of hard work, determination, and the support of our dedicated staff. At Ackworth, we measure success not only by exam results, but by the character, confidence, and curiosity our students take with them into the world.”
Looking ahead, as the Class of 2025 moves forward, they bring with them a range of destinations, from top universities and specialist colleges, to apprenticeships and gap-year opportunities. They join a supportive Old Scholar network that roots their achievements in our wider Ackworth community, and they carry with them the values that have guided their time here – non sibi sed omnibus (Not for oneself, but for all) – as they make their mark in the world beyond Ackworth. We wish them every success in life as they carry forward the values, skills, and friendships forged here with them.
About Ackworth School:
Ackworth School is a co-educational independent school in West Yorkshire, offering day and boarding education for students aged 2 to 18. Founded in 1779, the school is committed to nurturing individual talent and promoting academic excellence within a caring and supportive environment.
If you would like to find out more about how Ackworth School can support your child to unlock their full academic potential, why not book a place at our Open Morning on Tuesday 23 September 2025 or contact our admissions team on admissons@ackworthschool.com or 01977 233621 to arrange a bespoke visit.
Jun 14, 2025 | Ackworth School, Boarding, Quaker, Senior School, Sixth Form
We are truly saddened by the closure of Queen Margaret’s School and the uncertainty it brings to so many families. At Ackworth School, we want to offer support, care and a sense of belonging during this time of change.
Ackworth is a co-educational boarding and day school where every pupil is known, nurtured and encouraged to thrive. Many girls joining us from single-sex schools quickly come to call our campus their happy space — a place where they feel safe, confident and inspired.
We offer:
A nurturing, values-led community
Tailored academic support for transitioning pupils
Excellent boarding provision and flexible options
A full co-curricular programme where girls are encouraged to lead and achieve
A vibrant, inclusive co-ed community rooted in kindness and confidence
If you’re exploring options for your daughter’s next chapter, we’re here for you. You can call James Busson, Director of Marketing, Admissions and Communications directly on WhatsApp: 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.
Aug 22, 2024 | Ackworth School, Latest News, Quaker, Senior School
Ackworth School is delighted to announce another year of remarkable GCSE achievements. Over one-third of all grades earned by students were at the top levels (grades 9-7), with 48.1% of grades falling between 9 and 6, and an impressive 87.9% within the 9 to 4 range. These results underscore the commitment, diligence, and academic prowess of our students, supported by fantastic support and guidance from our teaching staff.
Among the standout performers is Jodie from Wormersley, who secured an impressive six grade 9s and four grade 8s. Other remarkable achievements include Eleanor from Billingley with five grade 9s, four grade 8s, and one grade 7; Jessica from South Elmsall with six grade 9s, two grade 8s, and two grade 7s; and Shanali from Knottingley, who achieved six grade 9s, two grade 8s, one grade 7, and one grade 6. Additionally, Marvin from Hong Kong earned four grade 9s, two grade 8s, and one grade 7, while Caitlin from Pontefract secured two grade 9s, six grade 8s, and two grade 7s.
Headteacher Martyn Beer expressed his pride in the students, stating, “I am immensely proud of all our pupils’ achievements this year. Their hard work has truly paid off, as reflected in today’s excellent results. I am looking forward to witnessing their continued success as they move on to Sixth Form, not only in their academic pursuits but also as they grow and thrive as individuals, guided by our holistic approach to education and our Quaker values.”
About Ackworth School:
Ackworth School is a co-educational independent school in West Yorkshire, offering day and boarding education for students aged 2 to 18. Founded in 1779, the school is committed to nurturing individual talent and promoting academic excellence within a caring and supportive environment.
If you would like to find out more about how Ackworth School can support your child to unlock their full academic potential, why not book a place at our Open Morning on Thursday 10 October 2024 or contact our admissions team on admissons@ackworthschool.com or 01977 233621.
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.
May 26, 2023 | Ackworth School, Junior School, Old Scholar, Quaker, Senior School, Sixth Form
Ackworth School is pleased to announce the appointment of Martyn Beer as the new Head, effective April 2024. Martyn, who is currently Senior Deputy Head at Bootham School in York, will succeed Anton Maree as Head, bringing with him a wealth of experience in education and a passion for nurturing the potential of each student.
Martyn joins Ackworth School with an impressive background in leadership and a deep understanding of the educational landscape. He brings a range of senior leadership experience from the independent and state sectors across the areas of pastoral, academic, boarding, and enrichment. This has been supplemented by national leadership work in ethical leadership and Quaker values in education.
As the incoming Head, Martyn expressed his excitement about joining Ackworth School, saying, “I am honoured and delighted to have been chosen as the new Head of Ackworth School. I am passionate about the lifelong, transformative potential of education and look to foster an educational approach which nurtures open-minded, thoughtful, compassionate, socially responsible young people who are ready, willing, and able to make the world a better place and celebrate its diversity. I am excited to see these values at the heart of Ackworth’s Quaker heritage and ethos and am looking forward to joining such a vibrant and diverse school community.”
David Bunney, Clerk to the School Committee at Ackworth School, shared his confidence in the appointment of Martyn Beer, stating, “The School Committee is thrilled to welcome Martyn Beer as the incoming Head of Ackworth School. His passion for education, proven leadership skills, a deep understanding of our shared Quaker values, and the importance of individualised pupil development make him the ideal candidate to lead Ackworth into the future. We look forward to working with him as we continue to provide an exceptional learning environment for our students.“
Ackworth School would like to extend its sincere gratitude and thanks to Anton Maree, the outgoing Head, for his dedicated service over the past ten years. Under his leadership, Ackworth School has flourished and maintained its position as a leading institution in the field of education, despite unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic crisis. Anton’s commitment to the students, staff, and community has left an indelible mark on the school, and his contributions will be remembered fondly as Ackworth School enters this exciting new chapter.
Martyn’s tenure as the Head of Ackworth School will commence in April 2024. Ackworth School is eagerly looking forward to the new era under Martyn’s leadership and anticipates further growth and accomplishments as the institution continues to provide an outstanding educational experience to its students.
About Ackworth School:
Established in 1779, Ackworth School is a leading independent Quaker day and boarding school situated in the picturesque surroundings of Ackworth, West Yorkshire, UK. Ackworth provides an exceptional education for students aged 2.5 to 20, focusing on academic excellence, character development, and the cultivation of a global perspective, underpinned by Quaker values. The school’s commitment to holistic education and its unwavering dedication to the success of each student have earned it a distinguished reputation both locally and internationally.
For media inquiries, please contact:
James Busson
Director of Marketing, Admissions and Communications
Ackworth School
Phone: +44 1977 233620
Email: james.busson@ackworthschool.com
