Manchester Communication Academy
108%
Capacity
1,299
Pupils
2.5x
Demand
About Manchester Communication Academy
Manchester Communication Academy is a state-funded Does not apply secondary school serving the Manchester community, welcoming children from age 11 to 16. The school has 1,299 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (108% of 1,200 places).
Ofsted has rated Manchester Communication Academy "Good", the school is led by headteacher Susan Watmough, it falls under Manchester local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of +0.15 is above the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is developing at 44.0. Additionally, ranked 1199th out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 17th out of 31 in Manchester.
Manchester Communication Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 580 applications for 234 places, making it 2.5x oversubscribed. Of these, 178 were first-preference applications.
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 10 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 7 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Manchester Communication Academy include Art Studios, Astro Turf, Sports Hall, Gymnasium, Library, Music Rooms, Theatre, Science Labs, Playing Fields, Dining Hall, Tennis Courts, ICT Suite, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Netball, Gymnastics, Athletics, Rugby and 5 more, as well as clubs including Science Club, Art Club, Model UN, Eco Club and 5 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 59.6%, which is well above the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Manchester, Manchester Communication 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 | Silchester Drive, Manchester, Manchester, M40 8NT |
| Headteacher | Susan Watmough |
| Local Authority | Manchester |
| Number of Pupils | 1,299 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 59.6% |
| School Capacity | 1,299 / 1,200 (108% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
21 May 2024Overall Effectiveness
Good
Source: Ofsted, 3 Jul 2024. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (+0.15)
1199th of 3,141
Nationally
124th of 445
In North West
17th of 31
In Manchester
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make more 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
13Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
18Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed234
580
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
178 families put this school as their 1st choice (31% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manchester Communication 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
Silchester Drive, Manchester
Manchester, M40 8NT
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
Parent Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience at Manchester Communication Academy!
Write a Review