Principal's Welcome

The taught curriculum is broad; is academically ambitious; and embraces the arts, STEM and sport.  The personal development of our students, the Global Citizens of tomorrow, is priority and is supported through an extensive co-curriculum, which encompasses trips, visits, music, drama, careers education information and guidance, and ecology.  As one of the country's leading partners in the delivery of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, our students are challenged and supported to push themselves physically and mentally, and to give back to the community.

We believe that a first class education requires exemplary safety and behaviour, and we work very hard to establish this.  The pastoral care offered to our students is second to none.  All of our staff are responsible for the well-being of our students; we ensure we know what is required for each of them to be at their best and are committed to offering this.

We enjoy great success.  The progress made by students at Key Stage 4, including those less advantaged members of the community, is routinely significantly above other schools nationally.  Similarly, at Key Stage 5 our students make great strides forwards, with the 2024 results placing Woodkirk as one of the top 5 Sixth Form providers in the city.  As the only school based Sixth Form locally, students who remain with us from Year 7 to Year 13 benefit from the wealth of knowledge teachers gather about each of them.  Our Sixth Form is also the choice of new-to Woodkirk students as we provide a more personalised approach and excellent subject offerings, including through our expertise in music and performing arts.   Recent graduates of Year 13 have secured places at Oxbridge and other Russell Group universities; acquired placements on competitive and high level apprenticeships; and have found employment of their choice.

The heart of our success is the tremendously hardworking and dedicated staff whose energies are devoted to providing the best opportunities for all students in the school.  We believe that most success can be achieved by working in collaboration with all stakeholders and were proud that Ofsted recognised this when they visited in March 2023 stating:  

“Pupils are happy and feel safe at Woodkirk Academy. Pupils and staff are committed to the school ethos of ‘be kind, work hard and take responsibility’. This shines through in all aspects of school life. Respectful, positive relationships are at the heart of this school. Pupils know that staff value them and care about their education.”  Ofsted, March 2023

As a member of Leodis Academies Trust, we work closely with East Ardsley, Hill Top, Westerton and Blackgates Primary Academies.  A well-qualified, experienced and enthusiastic staff and an active Friends of the School Association also ensure that students at Woodkirk are given every opportunity to excel.

I hope you enjoy looking through our website and that you are able to find what you need.  Please do not hesitate to contact us should you require any further information about the school or if you would like to visit.