The Excel Academy
101%
Capacity
1,208
Pupils
2.4x
Demand
About The Excel Academy
The Excel Academy is a state-funded Does not apply secondary school serving the Stoke-on-Trent community, welcoming children from age 11 to 16. The school has 1,208 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (101% of 1,200 places).
Ofsted has rated The Excel Academy "Good", the school is led by headteacher Anna Steele, it falls under Stoke-on-Trent local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of -0.57 is well below the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is developing at 39.8. Additionally, ranked 2704th out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 8th out of 13 in Stoke-on-Trent.
The Excel Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 567 applications for 233 places, making it 2.4x oversubscribed. Of these, 310 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 The Excel Academy include ICT Suite, Gymnasium, Library, Science Labs, Music Rooms, Art Studios, Tennis Courts, Astro Turf, Sports Hall, Dining Hall, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Tennis, Football, Dance, Netball and 6 more, as well as clubs including Debate, Choir, Eco Club, Drama and 3 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 32.7%, which is well above the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Stoke-on-Trent, The Excel Academy is one of the options available in the West Midlands 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 | Milton Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 6LG |
| Headteacher | Anna Steele |
| Local Authority | Stoke-on-Trent |
| Number of Pupils | 1,208 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 32.7% |
| School Capacity | 1,208 / 1,200 (101% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
25 Nov 2021Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (25 Nov 2021): School remains Good
Source: Ofsted, 11 Nov 2013. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (-0.57)
2704th of 3,141
Nationally
321st of 371
In West Midlands
8th of 13
In Stoke-on-Trent
Source: Classpot analysis of DfE Progress 8 data
GCSE Results
2023/24Progress 8 Score
Students make significantly 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
11Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
17Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed233
567
Good Demand
Popular school with more applications than places
310 families put this school as their 1st choice (55% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Excel 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
Milton Road, Stoke-on-Trent
Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 6LG
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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