The Hollins
99%
Capacity
794
Pupils
3.1x
Demand
About The Hollins
The Hollins is a state-funded Does not apply secondary school serving the Hyndburn community, welcoming children from age 11 to 16. The school has 794 pupils on roll and is near full capacity (99% of 800 places).
Ofsted has rated The Hollins "Good", the school is led by headteacher Helen Dougan, it falls under Lancashire local authority.
In terms of academic performance, its Progress 8 score of -0.16 is below the national average. Additionally, Attainment 8 is developing at 42.0. Additionally, ranked 1913th out of 3,141 schools in England. Additionally, 2nd out of 6 in Hyndburn.
The Hollins is a popular choice with families — it received 497 applications for 158 places, making it 3.1x oversubscribed. Of these, 164 were first-preference applications.
The Hollins parent feedback on Ofsted Parent View is positive, with 77% recommending the school (53 responses).
For children with special educational needs, the school offers support across 9 areas, including Specific Learning Difficulty (Dyslexia), Moderate Learning Difficulty, Social, Emotional & Mental Health and 6 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at The Hollins include Playing Fields, Science Labs, Music Rooms, Sixth Form Centre, Gymnasium, ICT Suite, Theatre, Chapel.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Cricket, Rounders, Netball, Football and 3 more, as well as clubs including Debate, Eco Club, Book Club, Model UN and 3 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 32.8%, which is well above the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Hyndburn, The Hollins 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 | Hollins Lane, Accrington, Hyndburn, BB5 2QY |
| Headteacher | Helen Dougan |
| Local Authority | Lancashire |
| Number of Pupils | 794 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 32.8% |
| School Capacity | 794 / 800 (99% full) |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
9 Oct 2024Overall Effectiveness
Good
Latest inspection (9 Oct 2024): Standards maintained
Source: Ofsted, 17 Jan 2018. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
League Table Position
Based on Progress 8 (-0.16)
1913th of 3,141
Nationally
224th of 445
In North West
2nd of 6
In Hyndburn
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.
Ofsted Parent View
53 responsesWould Recommend This School
Source: Ofsted Parent View (GOV.UK statistical data), Sep – Sep 2025
SEND Support
Source: Department for Education, 2024/25. Support availability based on current student population.
Facilities
8Facilities may vary. Contact the school for current availability.
Extracurriculars
14Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed158
497
High Demand
Competitive - many more applications than places available
164 families put this school as their 1st choice (33% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Hollins
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
Hollins Lane, Accrington
Hyndburn, BB5 2QY
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
