The sisters of the Society of the Holy Child Jesus arrived in Blackpool in 1856 with twelve girl boarders, establishing what would become one of Lancashire's largest Catholic secondary schools. The current campus at Layton Hill occupies the former Convent site, preserving Grade II listed Victorian buildings alongside modern facilities including a Sports Hall, Dance Studio, and state-of-the-art science laboratories. Today, St Mary's educates over 1,100 pupils across a comprehensive secondary and sixth form, serving Blackpool's diverse community as a state-funded Catholic academy under the Blessed Edward Bamber Catholic Multi Academy Trust.
The Ofsted report of May 2022 rated St Mary's as Good across all areas examined. GCSE results rank the school 2nd locally within Blackpool but 2nd from bottom nationally in the top 50% percentile range (FindMySchool ranking). The school's Attainment 8 score of 42 sits slightly below the England average (45.9), reflecting a typical school for the coastal town. The sixth form performs at a higher level, with A-level grades placing the school around the middle 35% nationally (FindMySchool data). One student achieved a place at Cambridge in the most recent cohort. The school has no tuition fees, serving as a state academy open to all faiths, though Catholic students benefit from prioritized admission (minimum five baptised places in each year group).
St Mary's operates as a Catholic academy where religious observance and academic life interweave naturally. Morning registration includes prayer, weekly collective worship occurs in form time, and the Upper Chapel provides a dedicated space for reflection and the school's chaplaincy team. The chaplaincy is described by inspectors as having outstanding impact, with trained student chaplains and pupil leaders supporting emotional wellbeing. While the Catholic character is pervasive, the school explicitly welcomes students of all faiths; approximately 1,100 pupils attend, with significant numbers for whom English is an additional language and a notable minority with special educational needs and disabilities.
Headteacher Simon Eccles has led the school since September 2014. His educational philosophy centers on developing what he terms "CV virtues" (attainment, qualifications, resilience) and "eulogy virtues" (character, kindness, integrity). This dual focus shapes pastoral systems: staff-to-pupil ratio stands at 14:1, with dedicated form tutors who remain with cohorts across multiple years. The Ofsted report confirmed that pupils feel secure, behaviour is orderly and respectful, and staff set high expectations. Many students express enjoyment in learning and appreciation for teacher support, though parent feedback on school forums has reflected concerns about bullying procedures and toilet access policies; the school's anti-bullying page indicates structured protocols are in place and monitored.
The school expanded significantly in 2024, adding two new classrooms to accommodate rising demand, demonstrating ongoing investment despite Blackpool's challenging demographics. The campus blends history (Victorian convent buildings remain visually prominent) with modern learning environments designed as interconnected "Learning Houses" for different year groups.
In 2024, GCSE outcomes reflected the realities of a comprehensive school serving a predominantly working-class, coastal town. The Attainment 8 score stood at 42, marginally below the England average of 45.9. Progress 8 measured a notable decline: at -0.7, this indicates pupils made below-average progress from their starting points compared to pupils nationally with similar Key Stage 2 outcomes. This negative Progress 8 is a significant challenge and suggests pupils do not achieve as well at GCSE as would be predicted from their prior attainment.
Grade distribution showed: 27% of pupils achieved grade 5 or above (strong pass) in both English and Mathematics; 14% of GCSE entries were awarded grade 7 or above; only 4% of pupils achieved five or more passes in the English Baccalaureate (well below the England average of 41%). For pupils with English as an additional language, 50% achieved strong passes in both subjects, indicating targeted support is showing effect. The school ranks 2nd in Blackpool but falls within the bottom 34% nationally, placing it below the England average (FindMySchool ranking).
The sixth form offers a stronger academic picture. A-level A*-B grades accounted for 42% of entries in 2024, compared to the England average of 47%. The A* percentage stood at 5%, with a further 13% achieving A grade, indicating a small cohort achieving elite grades. The sixth form ranks around the middle 35% of schools in England (FindMySchool data), positioning it in the national typical band. In the 2023-24 cohort of 76 leavers, one student secured a Cambridge place, and 64% progressed to university (representing strong progression from a non-selective school). 25% entered employment and 1% each completed further education and apprenticeships.
The school offers a broad range of A-level subjects including English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), History, Geography, Modern Languages, and specialist options such as Psychology and Sports Studies. Year 12 students have the option to join specialist Health and Sports Academies, gaining vocational qualifications alongside traditional A-levels.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
42.14%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
GCSE 9–7
—
% of students achieving grades 9-7
Ofsted inspectors confirmed that teaching is good overall. Teachers demonstrate detailed subject knowledge and use skilful strategies to help pupils remember and apply learning. The curriculum is ambitious and empowers learners to achieve across a range of subjects; leaders have deliberately structured learning to revisit concepts regularly, building retention.
The school operates a structured four-lesson day of seventy minutes each (forty lessons across a two-week timetable), allowing extended learning time and subject depth. Religious Studies is non-negotiable, taught to all pupils as part of the school's Catholic identity. Within that framework, the core curriculum covers English (6 lessons per fortnight), Mathematics (6), Sciences (5), and a broad range of humanities and creative subjects. Reading forms a cornerstone: pupils across Years 7-10 engage in dedicated reading time four times per week from the school's curated Literary Canon — a carefully selected body of challenging texts spanning genres, cultures, and eras. Teachers are expected to integrate reading across all subjects.
STEM provision includes dedicated Lab facilities and a STEM Club that meets after school on Tuesdays, engaging pupils in hands-on experiments (recent activities included testing which substances dissolve candy canes fastest, illustrating learning through inquiry). Computer Science is taught from Key Stage 3, preparing some pupils for GCSE and A-level pathways.
Quality of Education
Good
Behaviour & Attitudes
Good
Personal Development
Good
Leadership & Management
Good
Diocesan inspection in October 2023 graded the school as Good overall and Outstanding specifically for Catholic Life and Mission, and for Collective Worship. Inspectors noted "exceptionally high standards of pastoral care and support," with student welfare prioritised across dedicated services. The chaplaincy team creates a sense of spiritual formation and community, extending beyond religious observance to practical support (visits to hospices, hospital volunteering, and mentoring younger pupils).
The school employs a Head of Learning Support who leads specialist provision for pupils with SEND. Robust mechanisms exist to identify early-stage readers and provide structured intervention. Classroom assistants support pupils within mainstream classes, and the school has adapted its curriculum and assessment approaches for pupils with education, health and care plans.
Mental health support is embedded: trained counsellors visit weekly, peer mentoring occurs through structured programmes, and a "Life Coaching" programme during lunch allows staff and pupils to address wellbeing concerns in low-key, supportive settings. A dedicated "Colour & Chat" lunchtime club and "Colour & Craft" after-school session target vulnerable pupils.
A minority of parent feedback on internet forums has cited bullying and staffing concerns; the school's formal anti-bullying policy sets procedures for reporting, investigation, and resolution. Teachers' responsiveness is noted in Ofsted findings as effective, with quick resolution of concerns when raised.
Beyond the classroom, St Mary's fields a comprehensive extracurricular programme across sports, creative arts, STEM, and enrichment. At least 25 named clubs and activities operate each week:
Football (girls and boys teams at multiple year groups), Badminton (Years 7-10), Basketball (girls and boys, Years 7-11 plus sixth form), Dance (twice-weekly Wednesday sessions), Rugby (Years 7-8 with Fylde Rugby Community Foundation partnership), Volleyball (all years), Fitness Suite access (Years 9-11), and Outdoor Adventurous Activities (skiing trips to France, camping in the Trough of Bowland, Duke of Edinburgh Award Bronze for Year 9-10, with progression to Gold in the sixth form).
A dedicated School Choir meets after school on Thursdays and performs at major events (featured at an Advent Service in December 2025). The school hosts a biennial School Musical Production, involving hundreds of pupils in ensemble performance. General Music Extracurricular sessions run Mondays for all students. A dedicated Music Learning House provides instrument tuition alongside classroom study.
The STEM Club is the school's most visible enrichment programme, meeting Tuesday afternoons in Lab 1 for Years 7-9. Recent activities showcase active, exploratory learning (chemistry experiments with everyday items, design challenges, coding projects). Year 9 Graphics Club runs Mondays. Computer Science pathways prepare students for OCR Cambridge National Level 2 and BTEC Level 3 qualifications at Key Stage 4.
Shakespeare Club (Mondays, after school), Games Club (daily lunch-time gathering in the library), Warhammer Club (Wednesdays, for tabletop gaming), Year 9 Graphics Club, Art Support Sessions, and an annual Baking Club run once per term.
Student-led interventions flourish: Pupil Chaplains serve younger pupils, Student Ambassadors represent the school, Year 12 CAFOD Young Leaders organise charity initiatives, and sixth form students volunteer regularly at Trinity Hospice, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, and even participate in a two-week placement in Nepal. School Council provides democratic voice, meeting after school on Thursdays.
Dedicated support sessions run for English, Mathematics, Science, French, Business Studies, Computer Science, Graphics, Art, Food Preparation & Nutrition, Photography, Religious Studies, Textiles, and Sports Studies — most meeting after school throughout the week.
Beyond the year-group ski trips to France and camping expeditions, the school organises visits to London for educational and cultural purposes. A Nepal trip for Years 10-11 is planned for July 2026.
The breadth of offering reflects the school's stated belief that education extends beyond examinations. The Ofsted report noted that pupils "experience a wealth of opportunities which interest and inspire them." Staff encourage all pupils to engage; participation is monitored and celebrated. The challenge remains balancing inclusive provision with the need to deepen engagement in core academic subjects for pupils showing below-average progress nationally.
Applications are coordinated by Blackpool Local Authority, open to all families regardless of faith. The Admission Number for September 2026 is 210. The school was heavily oversubscribed at Year 7 entry in 2024: 489 applications for 227 places (2.15 applications per place). Baptised Catholic pupils are prioritised in admissions; families must provide a copy of the child's baptismal certificate as part of the application. Siblings of pupils already at the school receive priority. After looked-after children and those with education, health and care plans, places are allocated by distance.
No formal catchment area exists, but proximity to the school (St Walburga's Road, Layton area) is the principal determining factor once faith criteria are met. All families — Catholic, other faiths, and those without religious affiliation — may apply.
The sixth form welcomes external applications from students at other schools. Minimum entry requirement is five GCSE passes at grade 4 or above (including GCSE English and GCSE Mathematics). Historically (2005-2017), all students meeting this standard were offered places; recent demand suggests this may change. A dedicated Sixth Form Open Evening runs in October. Students from other secondary schools may apply online.
Applications
489
Total received
Places Offered
227
Subscription Rate
2.1x
Apps per place
The school operates on a four-day, 70-minute-lesson cycle, running from 8:50am to 3:20pm. Layton Train Station is one mile away; Blackpool North Train Station is 1.7 miles away; multiple bus routes serve the site (routes 5, 5A, 5C, 12, 18, 24, X2, and others stop outside or within walking distance). The postcode is FY3 7EQ. Parking is available on-site. The school is 4.3 miles from Junction 4 of the M55 for families travelling by car.
As a state school, tuition is free. Families incur costs for uniform, school trips (typically £30-£50 per year for local visits, higher for residential trips such as France ski trips estimated at £400-500), music lessons if taken (student musicians may pursue instrumental tuition), and optional contributions to school activities. Lunch is available in the dining hall or pupils may bring packed lunches. School bus services operate for some pupils at a nominal cost.
The school offers a Sports Hall (available for community hire at £35/hour), Dance Studio, Main Hall, Fitness Suite, Learning Resource Centre (library), science labs, dedicated Music and Technology spaces, and outdoor facilities (grass pitches, tennis courts). The Victorian convent buildings provide character; the 2010-2013 Building Schools for the Future expansion delivered modern learning spaces designed as year-group Learning Houses.
Dedicated sixth form accommodation with pastoral tutors and ongoing support. A-level subjects, Health Academy, Sports Academy pathways, and enrichment opportunities (university preparation, volunteering, overseas placements). Uniforms are optional for sixth form students. Extended pastoral care and university application support are provided.
Progress 8 Challenge: The school's Progress 8 score of -0.7 indicates pupils do not make as much progress as expected from their starting points. While Attainment 8 remains solid, the underperformance against prior attainment suggests either pupils are entering secondary with higher-than-recorded prior attainment or the school is not translating that potential into examination outcomes as effectively as could be achieved. This is an honest weakness and merits investigation by prospective families: how is the school addressing this, and what evidence exists of improvement initiatives?
Demand & Oversubscription: Entry at Year 7 is highly competitive. Distance-based admissions mean that unless families live very close to the school or meet faith criteria, securing a place may prove difficult. Baptist children, other-faith pupils, and those living beyond walking distance face lower priority. Families interested should verify their distance from the Layton Hill campus and understand that proximity does not guarantee admission.
Bullying & Safeguarding: Parent feedback online reflects concerns about anti-bullying procedures and implementation. While the school has formal policies and Ofsted noted staff respond quickly to resolve issues, families should satisfy themselves during visits that behaviour management and anti-bullying work would be effective for their child. The school website contains detailed anti-bullying guidance and contact information for reporting concerns.
Coastal Deprivation Context: Blackpool faces significant socioeconomic challenges reflected in local GCSE performance. This is not a criticism of the school but a reality: pupils at St Mary's are statistically less likely to achieve top grades and progress to selective universities than pupils in more affluent areas, all other things equal. The school works hard to raise aspiration and provide additional support, but this context shapes realistic expectations.
St Mary's Catholic Academy is a Good school operating in challenging circumstances with genuine commitment to each child and to Catholic formation. The Ofsted rating reflects solid teaching, safe behaviour, and ambitious curriculum design. For families within reach of the Layton Hill campus who value Catholic education and seek a comprehensive secondary with real pastoral depth, the school offers a credible option. The sixth form particularly merits attention, as A-level outcomes and student satisfaction exceed the main school, suggesting the academy excels with older, more self-directed learners.
The honest challenge is that GCSE progress lags national expectations. This suggests either pupils are entering secondary with higher ability than testing shows or the school's teaching and support, while good, do not fully close attainment gaps. Families considering entry should explore what impact recent curriculum changes and investment in learning support have had, and whether trajectory is improving.
The school is best suited to families seeking a Catholic education within Blackpool, living in close proximity to the Layton Hill site, and comfortable with a comprehensive intake serving a diverse, economically varied community. Those prioritizing highest exam outcomes or seeking highly selective peer groups should explore alternatives. Those committed to Catholic values and neighbourhood education will find a caring, well-led school with clear moral foundation.
Yes. Ofsted rated St Mary's as Good in May 2022, with positive judgements across quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership, and sixth form provision. The Diocesan inspection in 2023 rated Catholic Life and Mission as Outstanding. GCSE Attainment 8 (42) sits near the England average (45.9), though Progress 8 (-0.7) indicates pupils do not always progress as expected from starting points. The sixth form is stronger, with 42% achieving A*-B at A-level and 64% of leavers progressing to university.
In 2024, the school achieved an Attainment 8 score of 42 (England average: 45.9). 27% of pupils secured grade 5 or above in both English and Mathematics (strong passes). 14% of GCSE entries were grade 7 or above. Only 4% achieved five passes in the English Baccalaureate qualifications. Progress 8 was -0.7, indicating pupils made less progress than expected compared to peers nationally with similar starting points. The school ranks 2nd locally within Blackpool but falls in the bottom 34% nationally.
A-level A*-B grades accounted for 42% of entries in 2024 (England average: 47%). In the 2023-24 cohort of 76 leavers, 64% progressed to university, 25% entered employment, and 1% each completed further education and apprenticeships. One student secured a Cambridge place. The sixth form offers a broad range of subjects and specialist Health and Sports Academy pathways for Year 12 students alongside traditional A-levels.
The school provides over 25 named clubs and activities. Sports include Football, Badminton, Basketball, Rugby, Volleyball, Dance, and Fitness Suite access. Creative activities include School Choir, School Musical Production, Shakespeare Club, Graphics Club, and Art sessions. Academic enrichment includes STEM Club (highly active with hands-on experiments), Warhammer Club, Games Club, and Chess Club. Leadership opportunities include Student Chaplains, Pupil Council, and CAFOD Young Leaders. Residential trips include skiing in France, camping in the Trough of Bowland, a Nepal placement for older pupils, and Duke of Edinburgh Award progression from Bronze to Gold.
The Diocesan inspection rated pastoral care as exceptionally high. Each year group has dedicated form tutors with low turnover, ensuring continuity. The chaplaincy team supports spiritual and emotional wellbeing. Mental health support includes weekly counselling visits, peer mentoring, and a Life Coaching programme during lunch. The Head of Learning Support leads specialist provision for pupils with SEND. Support sessions run after school for English, Mathematics, Science, and other subjects. Pupil Chaplains and a dedicated counselling service address emerging concerns.
St Mary's is a Catholic academy where prayer, reflection, and religious education permeate school life. Daily prayer occurs during form registration, collective worship in form time, and dedicated Religious Studies is taught to all pupils. The Upper Chapel provides space for reflection and Sacraments. Diocesan inspection graded Catholic Life and Mission as Outstanding. The school is open to all faiths: approximately 1,100 pupils attend, many from other faith backgrounds and those without religious affiliation. Baptised Catholic pupils receive priority in admissions (minimum five places per year group), but families of any faith may apply.
Year 7 entry is highly competitive. In 2024, 489 applications were received for 227 places (2.15 applications per place). Applications are coordinated by Blackpool Local Authority. Baptised Catholic pupils are prioritised; families must provide a baptismal certificate. After looked-after children and those with EHCPs, places are allocated by proximity to the school (St Walburga's Road, Layton area). No formal catchment exists. Sixth form entry requires a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English and Mathematics). External applications are welcomed.
Get in touch with the school directly
Disclaimer
Information on this page is compiled, analysed, and processed from publicly available sources including the Department for Education (DfE), Ofsted, the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI), the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, and official school websites.
Our rankings, metrics, and assessments are derived from this data using our own methodologies and represent our independent analysis rather than official standings.
While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that all information is current, complete, or error-free. Data may change without notice, and schools and/or local authorities should be contacted directly to verify any details before making decisions.
FindMySchool does not endorse any particular school, and rankings reflect specific metrics rather than overall quality.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, we accept no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on information provided. If you believe any information is inaccurate, please contact us.
