Biddick Academy
97%
Capacity
1,069
Pupils
1.8x
Demand
About Biddick Academy
Biddick Academy is a state-funded Does not apply secondary school serving the Sunderland community, welcoming children from age 11 to 16. The school has 1,069 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (97% of 1,100 places).
Ofsted has rated Biddick Academy "Good", the school is led by headteacher Kate Morris, it falls under Sunderland local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of -0.25 is below the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is developing at 43.9. Additionally, ranked 2127th out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 9th out of 17 in Sunderland.
Biddick Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 388 applications for 220 places, making it 1.8x oversubscribed. Of these, 196 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 8 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 5 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Biddick Academy include Music Rooms, Theatre, Dining Hall, ICT Suite, Library, Science Labs, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Swimming, Cross Country, Athletics, Basketball and 2 more, as well as clubs including Eco Club, Coding, Film Club, Debate and 4 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 30.8%, which is above the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Sunderland, Biddick Academy is one of the options available in the North East region. Use Classpot to compare it side-by-side with nearby alternatives and find the best fit for your child.
Key Details
| School Type | Secondary (State) |
| Age Range | 11 to 16 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | Does not apply |
| Address | Biddick Lane, Washington, Sunderland, NE38 8AL |
| Headteacher | Kate Morris |
| Local Authority | Sunderland |
| Number of Pupils | 1,069 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 30.8% |
| School Capacity | 1,069 / 1,100 (97% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
17 Nov 2021Overall Effectiveness
Good
Source: Ofsted, 3 Feb 2022. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (-0.25)
2127th of 3,141
Nationally
76th of 142
In North East
9th of 17
In Sunderland
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make less progress than similar students nationally
Attainment 8 (vs national avg)
Students achieve significantly higher grades than the national average
Source: Department for Education, 2023/24. Progress 8 compares to students with similar Key Stage 2 results.
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
7Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
14Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed220
388
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
196 families put this school as their 1st choice (51% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Biddick Academy
Helpful Guides for Parents
Ofsted Ratings Explained
Understand the 4 Ofsted ratings and what they mean
Understanding Progress 8
Learn how Progress 8 measures pupil progress from primary to GCSE
SEN & EHCP: A Parent's Guide
Understanding SEN support, EHC Plans and your legal rights
Understanding School Catchment Areas
How admission distances work and tips for maximising your choices
Contact Information
Biddick Lane, Washington
Sunderland, NE38 8AL
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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