Irlam and Cadishead Academy
74%
Capacity
775
Pupils
1.1x
Demand
About Irlam and Cadishead Academy
Irlam and Cadishead Academy is a state-funded Does not apply secondary school serving the Salford community, welcoming children from age 11 to 16. The school has 775 pupils on roll, operating at 74% capacity.
Ofsted has rated Irlam and Cadishead Academy "Good", the school is led by headteacher Chris Leader, it falls under Salford local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of -0.07 is below the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is developing at 40.5. Additionally, ranked 1693rd out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 6th out of 15 in Salford.
Irlam and Cadishead Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 213 applications for 198 places, making it 1.1x oversubscribed. Of these, 174 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 Irlam and Cadishead Academy include Tennis Courts, Art Studios, Gymnasium, Music Rooms, Sixth Form Centre, ICT Suite, Astro Turf, Library, Dining Hall, Playing Fields, Sports Hall, Science Labs, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Dance, Cricket, Tennis, Cross Country and 4 more, as well as clubs including Choir, Eco Club, Orchestra, Film Club and 7 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 38.7%, which is well above the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Salford, Irlam and Cadishead Academy is one of the options available in the North West 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 | Station Road, Manchester, Salford, M44 5ZR |
| Headteacher | Chris Leader |
| Local Authority | Salford |
| Number of Pupils | 775 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 38.7% |
| School Capacity | 775 / 1,050 (74% full) |
| Sixth Form | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
28 Feb 2024Overall Effectiveness
Good
Source: Ofsted, 25 Apr 2024. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (-0.07)
1693rd of 3,141
Nationally
189th of 445
In North West
6th of 15
In Salford
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make similar progress to students nationally with the same starting point
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
13Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
19Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed198
213
Balanced
Applications roughly match available places
174 families put this school as their 1st choice (82% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Irlam and Cadishead 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
Station Road, Manchester
Salford, M44 5ZR
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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