Sarum Academy Review 2026: Vocational Strength & Community Focus

"Working Hard, Achieving More" is the motto that greets visitors at Sarum Academy, a modern 11-18 school serving the western side of Salisbury. Housed in purpose-built facilities on Westwood Road, the academy is part of the Magna Learning Partnership and offers a distinct alternative to the city’s grammar school system. The ethos is inclusively Christian, with values of "Respect, Aspiration, and Excellence" underpinning a culture that prioritises vocational pathways and pastoral support as much as academic grades.

The first thing you notice is the building itself—a £15 million development designed to feel more like a college than a secondary school. Open-plan learning zones and a glass-fronted atrium create a sense of space and transparency.

Mrs Toni Hayzen leads the school, overseeing a community that is genuinely comprehensive. Unlike many local competitors, Sarum Academy does not select by ability. Instead, it serves a diverse intake, including a higher-than-average proportion of students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). The atmosphere is described by inspectors as calm and safe, a testament to the strong relationships between staff and students.

The school operates a House system which provides a "family within a school" feel. This structure is crucial in ensuring that in a large building, every child remains known and valued.

Performance data reflects the academy's inclusive intake and vocational strengths.

In 2024, the school ranked 3,657th in England for GCSE outcomes (FindMySchool ranking) and 10th among secondary schools in Salisbury. The Attainment 8 score was 34.4, with 9% of pupils achieving Grade 5 or above in English and Mathematics. These figures are below the England average, reflecting the mixed-ability nature of the cohort.

However, the Sixth Form tells a stronger story. Ranked 2,524th in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), the school creates viable pathways for students staying post-16. The focus here is often on applied general qualifications where students perform well, rather than purely on traditional academic A-levels.

The curriculum is broad but leans significantly towards practical and creative subjects. While English, Mathematics, and Science form the core, the school invests heavily in vocational options.

Art, Photography, and Food Technology are popular and well-resourced. The school’s approach to teaching is designed to build confidence, particularly for students who may have struggled in primary school. Support staff are deployed effectively in classrooms to assist those with literacy or numeracy gaps.

The academy uses "The Cloud" and other dedicated zones to support learning for students with Special Educational Needs, ensuring they can access the mainstream curriculum while receiving targeted intervention.

Destinations data highlights the academy's role as a pipeline to the workforce rather than solely to university.

In 2024, 14% of leavers progressed to university. In contrast, 43% entered employment directly, and 12% began apprenticeships. This high rate of progression into work and training underscores the school's success in preparing students for the realities of the local job market.

For those pursuing higher education, local institutions such as Winchester, Bournemouth, and Southampton Solent are common destinations, often for courses in nursing, creative arts, or sports science.

Admissions are coordinated by Wiltshire Council. The academy is a popular choice for families in the Westwood, Bemerton Heath, and Wilton areas.

For Year 7 entry in September 2026, the application deadline is 31 October 2025. In 2024, the school received 190 applications for its 160 places, making it oversubscribed. Places are allocated primarily by distance from the school gate.

The academy welcomes children of all faiths and none. Despite its Church of England designation, admissions are open to all, and faith is not used as a selection criterion for general entry.

Pastoral care is a standout feature. The House system ensures that students mix across year groups, fostering a sense of responsibility in older students who mentor their younger peers.

The 2023 Ofsted inspection rated the school Good, specifically praising the personal development and welfare of pupils. Safeguarding is robust, with a dedicated team supporting vulnerable families. Non-teaching pastoral managers are available throughout the day, providing an immediate point of contact for students needing emotional support.

The extracurricular offer is robust, with a strong emphasis on sport and the arts.

The academy boasts impressive sporting facilities, including a floodlit 3G pitch, a sports hall, and tennis courts. These are well-used for fixtures in football, netball, and dodgeball. The "Active Sarum" programme encourages participation for all abilities, not just elite athletes.

Music and Drama are central to school life, with a recording studio and performance spaces enabling students to explore their creative talents. Annual productions and talent shows are key dates in the school calendar.

The school day runs from 8:45am to 3:00pm. A breakfast club operates from 8:00am, ensuring students start the day ready to learn.

Located on Westwood Road, the academy is well-served by local bus routes. There is ample parking on-site for Sixth Form students and visitors.

Academic profile: Families should be aware that GCSE attainment is below the national average. The school focuses on progress and vocational skills rather than high-stakes academic drilling.

Vocational bias: If your child thrives in practical learning environments—Sports, Art, Technology—this school offers facilities and teaching that rival colleges.

Inclusivity: The diverse intake includes many students with additional needs. This creates a tolerant community but requires resources to be shared across a wide spectrum of ability.

Sarum Academy is a community hub that prioritises wellbeing and vocational skills over league table position. It suits students who prefer a modern, supportive environment to a high-pressure academic hothouse. For children with practical talents or those who need a nurturing start to secondary education, it offers a safe and structured pathway to employment.