Park Lane Academy
About Park Lane Academy
Park Lane Academy is a secondary school in Calderdale that is significantly oversubscribed, with 472 pupils on roll against a stated capacity of just 150. That ratio alone signals strong local demand, and the school’s intake reflects a community with above-average economic disadvantage: 39% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, compared with the national secondary average of around 23%. The school is mixed, non-denominational, and serves the 11–16 age range, with no nursery or boarding provision. Headteacher Stuart Hillary leads a school that has clearly grown in reputation since its most recent Ofsted inspection, which saw the overall rating jump from Requires Improvement to Good. The previous inspection in 2020 had rated the school Requires Improvement across most categories, but the 2024 graded inspection marked a clear turnaround, with Behaviour and Attitudes and Early Years Provision both rated Outstanding.
Key Details
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
21 May 2024Source: Ofsted, 27 Jun 2024. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
Facilities
9Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
18Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Park Lane 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
School Admissions Timeline 2026/27
Key dates for primary, secondary and nursery applications