Lostock Hall Academy

On a quiet residential street in Lostock Hall, the academy stands as a popular choice for families seeking a grounded, community-focused secondary education. With a capacity for 800 students, it maintains a size that allows staff to maintain a visible presence and know students individually, avoiding the anonymity sometimes found in larger urban secondary schools.

The academy's Year 7 admissions are coordinated through Lancashire County Council, and families should plan around the current secondary-transfer timetable. Its academic performance reflects a solid, reliable standard, with a GCSE academic rank of 2,033rd out of 3,895 and an overall GCSE rank of 1,962nd out of 3,688 (FindMySchool rankings). Led by Principal Mrs Gaynor Gorman, who has been at the helm since 2018, the school focuses on a balanced curriculum and a strong sense of local identity. It serves a diverse catchment across Preston and South Ribble, providing a steady transition for students from its partner primary schools.

The atmosphere at Lostock Hall Academy is defined by a sense of order and mutual respect. The school motto, Working together to thrive and succeed, is visible in the structured way students move through the building and the high expectations regarding uniform and conduct. The physical environment is a mix of the original school structures and modern additions, including a well-equipped sports hall and specialist technology suites that reflect its history as a former technology college.

Parents often describe the school as approachable. The community feel is reinforced by the active Parent Forum and regular coffee mornings, which allow for a direct dialogue between the leadership team and families. The culture is one where effort is celebrated as much as achievement, creating an environment that feels encouraging rather than high-pressure.

In the 2024-25 / 2025 dataset, Lostock Hall Academy achieved an Attainment 8 score of 47.6. This performance sits within the typical range for secondary schools across the country. The school ranks 2,033rd out of 3,895 in England for GCSE academic outcomes and holds the 11th position among secondary schools in Preston (FindMySchool rankings).

The Progress 8 score of 0 indicates that students at the academy make progress exactly in line with the England average based on their starting points from primary school. This suggests a consistent and dependable teaching environment where students are supported to achieve their projected potential.

Teaching is organised around a traditional academic core, but with a clear nod to practical and creative applications. In the lower years (Years 7 to 9), students follow a broad curriculum that includes two modern foreign languages, performing arts, and design technology alongside the core subjects.

In the GCSE years, the school offers a varied range of options. In the 2024-25 / 2025 dataset, the percentage of pupils achieving Grade 5 or above in the EBacc (English Baccalaureate) stands at 9.5%, while the academy provides a wide array of vocational and creative qualifications that cater to students with different interests and career aspirations. Teachers are noted for their subject expertise and their willingness to provide additional support sessions after school for students approaching their final examinations.

The extracurricular life of the academy is designed to offer something for everyone, moving beyond standard sports teams. While football and netball are staples, the school has developed a strong reputation for its performing arts and STEM activities.

STEM: Innovation and Technology

The STEM programme is a particular highlight, featuring a dedicated Robotics Club where students design and programme their own units for regional competitions. The academy also participates in the Formula 24 Greenpower racing project, where students build and race electric cars, fostering engineering skills and teamwork.

The music department is active, with the Academy Band performing at local community events, and the drama department stages an annual production that involves students in everything from lighting design to stage management. The school also offers the Duke of Edinburgh Award, which is highly popular among Year 9 and 10 students.

Pastoral care is a visible strength, organised through a house system that encourages a sense of belonging and healthy competition. Each student is part of a tutor group that meets daily, providing a consistent point of contact. The academy employs a dedicated Wellbeing Coordinator and offers a range of support services, including a "Quiet Room" for students who need a calm space during busy school days.

The latest Ofsted inspection awarded a Good rating, confirming that pupils feel safe and well-cared for. Inspectors noted that staff are quick to identify and support those who may be struggling. Bullying is handled through a clear, transparent policy that emphasises restorative justice and personal responsibility.

For Year 7 entry in 2027, Lancashire County Council's verified secondary-transfer timetable opens applications on 1 September 2026, closes them on 31 October 2026, and lists offer day as 1 March 2027. Families should check the council's oversubscription criteria and use preferences carefully.

Admissions are coordinated by Lancashire County Council. Priority is given to looked-after children, siblings of current students, and those attending specific partner primary schools. Parents should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their precise distance from the school gates compared to the local trends. Because demand is high, families living outside the immediate Lostock Hall area may find it more difficult to secure a place if they do not meet the sibling or feeder school criteria.

Fees & Financial Aid

As a state-funded academy, Lostock Hall Academy does not charge tuition fees. Education is provided free of charge for all students aged 11 to 16. Parents are responsible for costs related to school uniforms, certain elective school trips, and specialized equipment for certain clubs. The school provides support through the Pupil Premium fund for eligible students, which can assist with these supplementary costs.

Where Students Go Next

As an 11 to 16 academy, students transition to local sixth form colleges or further education providers after Year 11. Popular destinations include Cardinal Newman College and Runshaw College, both of which have strong reputations in the Preston area. The academy provides a robust careers programme starting in Year 7, including mock interviews and work experience placements in Year 10, ensuring students are well-prepared for their next steps.

The school day begins at 8:45 am and concludes at 3:05 pm. For students arriving early, a breakfast service is available in the canteen from 8:00 am. The academy is well-served by local bus routes, and many students walk from the surrounding Lostock Hall and Walton-le-Dale areas. Secure cycle storage is provided on-site for those who choose to bike to school.

• Admissions timetable: For September 2027 Year 7 entry, Lancashire's verified timetable opens applications on 1 September 2026, closes them on 31 October 2026, and lists offer day as 1 March 2027. Families should review the published oversubscription criteria and use realistic preferences.
• No On-site Sixth Form: Students must be prepared to move to a new environment at age 16. While the school provides excellent transition support, the move to a large college like Runshaw or Cardinal Newman is a significant step.
• EBacc Entry: In the 2024-25 / 2025 dataset, 27.8% of pupils were entered for the full EBacc suite, with 9.5% achieving Grade 5 or above. Families should review the Key Stage 4 option blocks to ensure the specific mix of GCSEs matches their child's long-term university or career goals.

Lostock Hall Academy is a reliable, high-performing community school that succeeds by staying true to its local roots. It offers a safe, structured environment where students make steady progress and benefit from a particularly strong STEM and extracurricular programme. Best suited to local families who want a school that is large enough to offer variety but small enough to feel like a community. The primary challenge for prospective families is navigating the competitive admissions process.