Brayton Academy Review 2026: North Yorkshire Academic Excellence

Consistently strong results and a genuine community atmosphere define Brayton Academy, a school that has undergone a remarkable transformation over the last decade. Serving the town of Selby and its surrounding villages, the academy provides a co-educational environment for approximately 1,200 students aged 11 to 16. Since joining the Resilience Multi Academy Trust (formerly part of the Rodillian Multi Academy Trust), the school has moved from a period of challenge to being one of the highest-performing secondaries in North Yorkshire. The 2024 GCSE outcomes place the school in the top 25% of schools in England (FindMySchool ranking), reflecting a culture of high expectations and academic rigour that permeates every classroom.

The atmosphere at Brayton Academy is purposeful and calm, characterised by a "no excuses" culture that prioritises learning. Students move between lessons with a sense of urgency and order, dressed in a smart uniform that reflects the school's professional tone. The campus, located on Doncaster Road, features a blend of traditional school architecture and modernised internal spaces designed to facilitate the trust's specific pedagogical approach.

Mr Paul Carney serves as the Principal, maintaining the high standards established during the school's rapid ascent to its Outstanding status. The academy's identity is closely tied to its membership in the Resilience Multi Academy Trust, which is known for its disciplined environments and focus on social mobility. There is a palpable sense of pride among the students, many of whom are the first in their families to benefit from such a high-performing local option.

The results tell a consistent story of academic success. In 2024, Brayton Academy achieved an Average Attainment 8 score of 51.4, significantly exceeding the England average of 46.2. This performance places the academy 1st among secondaries in Selby and 959th in England (FindMySchool ranking).

Perhaps most impressive is the Progress 8 score of +0.59. This indicates that, on average, students at Brayton Academy achieve more than half a grade higher per subject than peers with similar starting points in other schools across England. In the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) subjects, 33.6% of students achieved a grade 5 or above, compared to the England average of 25%. These metrics highlight that the school sits above the England average, placing it comfortably within the top 25% of schools in England (national strong band).

Teaching follows a highly structured format consistent with trust principles, ensuring that every minute of the school day is used effectively. Lessons often begin with recall activities to consolidate previous learning, and teachers use techniques to ensure all students are engaged. The curriculum is traditional and academic, with a strong emphasis on the core subjects of English, Mathematics, and Science.

In Science, students benefit from well-equipped laboratories where practical work is integrated into the theoretical curriculum. The school also maintains a strong focus on literacy, with dedicated reading time and a well-stocked library that serves as a hub for independent study. Teachers have expert subject knowledge and clear expectations, which helps students of all abilities make strong progress.

The extracurricular programme is a central pillar of the Brayton experience, intended to develop character alongside academic achievement. Through the Big Deal initiative, students are encouraged to engage in activities that broaden their horizons.

STEM: Innovation and Discovery

The academy has a particularly strong STEM offering. The Robotics Club is a highlight, where students design and program machines for regional competitions. The Science Society frequently hosts guest speakers and organises trips to university laboratories, while the Coding Club introduces students to Python and web development.

Beyond STEM, the school offers a variety of clubs including the Debating Society, Creative Writing, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. Sports facilities are extensive, hosting fixtures in football, netball, and rugby. The annual school production is a major event, involving students in everything from performance to technical stage management.

Pastoral care is organised through a traditional house system, which fosters a sense of belonging and healthy competition. Each student belongs to a house and has a dedicated form tutor who acts as their first point of contact. The academy's behaviour policy is strict but fair, focusing on rewarding positive contributions through a system of "stamps" and certificates.

The school employs a dedicated safeguarding team and provides access to mental health support for students who need it. Transition from primary school is handled through a comprehensive "bridge" programme that includes summer school sessions, helping Year 7 students feel confident before their first full term begins.

As a state academy, admissions are coordinated by North Yorkshire Council. The school is currently oversubscribed, reflecting its status as the top-ranked school in Selby. In the most recent intake, there were 447 applications for 217 places, resulting in a subscription proportion of 2.06.

Parents should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their precise distance from the school gates compared to historical intake patterns. While the school serves a broad area, the high demand means that proximity is a significant factor in securing a place for those without siblings already at the school.

Where Students Go Next

As a school for 11 to 16-year-olds, the focus is on preparing students for the next stage of their education. The majority of leavers progress to Selby College or York-based sixth forms such as York College or Archbishop Holgate's School to pursue A-levels or vocational qualifications. The academy provides robust careers guidance, ensuring students are aware of apprenticeship opportunities and university pathways from an early age.

The school day typically runs from 8:25am to 2:45pm, though many students stay for enrichment sessions which can run later. For travel, the school is accessible via local bus routes serving Brayton and Selby, and there is ample cycle storage on site for those who bike to school.

Fees & Financial Aid

This is a state-funded academy with no tuition fees. All core education is provided free of charge to students. Families may be required to contribute to optional extras such as residential trips or individual music lessons. For those eligible, the Pupil Premium grant provides additional funding to ensure all students can access the full curriculum and extracurricular offerings.

• High Demand for Places: With more than two applications for every available place, securing entry is the primary hurdle. Parents should verify their distance from the school before relying on a place here.
• Disciplined Environment: The "no excuses" policy is strictly enforced. While this leads to excellent results, it requires total buy-in from both students and parents.
• No On-site Sixth Form: Because the school ends at Year 11, students must navigate a transition to a new college or sixth form at age 16. While the school supports this transition well, it is a significant change for students to manage.

Brayton Academy is a school firing on all cylinders, providing a level of academic rigour and disciplined learning that rivals the most prestigious institutions in North Yorkshire. Its status as an Outstanding provider is evidenced by its exceptional Progress 8 scores and its position as the top school in Selby. Best suited to students who thrive in a highly structured environment and families who value traditional academic success. The main hurdle is admission; once inside, the education is exceptional. Families interested in this option can use the Saved Schools feature on FindMySchool to manage their shortlist.