Ackworth School’s purpose is to create a happy and secure environment in which all pupils realize and develop their special abilities in constant awareness of the needs and claims of others.
Ackworth School was founded in 1779 by John Fothergill on behalf of The Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) and the School Committee (or Board of Governors) is still accountable to this body. The School was established for Quaker boys and girls and the Quaker Christian ethos, with its emphasis on quiet reflection and the search for God within oneself and within others, lies at the heart of the School.
Periods of reflective silence form part of each day, during Morning Meeting and before meals for example, and each Thursday there is a short silent Meeting for Worship for the whole School. On Sunday morning boarders attend Quaker Meeting for Worship unless they wish to attend another place of worship. The importance of respect for others and honesty at all times emphasized by the Quaker faith helps to produce a calm, friendly atmosphere that is supportive and reassuring for young people.
The majority of pupils are from non-Quaker families and about 10% come from other countries. Indeed, the international nature of the School, especially in the Sixth Form, is one of its distinctive features. As in any such community, there has to be a clear disciplinary framework and our expectations are high. Ackworth pupils respond well to this and to the opportunities provided for assuming responsibilities, for example within the boarding houses and on the School Council.
First-class teaching is at the heart of any good school and Ackworth benefits greatly from the quality and experience of its teaching staff.
We aim to provide a broad and balanced curriculum based on the National Curriculum but taking advantage of the flexibility we enjoy as an independent school. We encourage students to make curriculum choices that suit them best and much advice and guidance is on offer to help them to do this.
Aims & Ethos
- To develop a well-integrated and self-disciplined community, with an international dimension, in which the values of Quakers are seen to underpin the school.
- To help all pupils to progress at a pace appropriate to their age, aptitude, interests, and ability, to achieve the best external examination results of which they are capable, and to leave school equipped to lead a full and responsible life in the adult world.
- To provide, and encourage the use of, the widest possible range of opportunities, e.g. sporting, creative and recreational, outside the formal curriculum.
- To help pupils to grow in self-respect and to appreciate and enjoy the benefits of good health.
- To encourage pupils to consider others before themselves, to look for the good in people, and to be honest and trustworthy at all times.
- To encourage service to others within and beyond school.
- To provide, in conjunction with parents and guardians, care and support for pupils as they develop and mature.
- To help pupils to value their fine surroundings and the work of those who maintain them and to extend their appreciation to an understanding of wider environmental issues.
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