Watling Academy
67%
Capacity
1,500
Pupils
3.1x
Demand
About Watling Academy
Watling Academy is a state-funded None secondary school serving the Milton Keynes community, welcoming children from age 11 to 18. The school has 1,500 pupils on roll, operating at 67% capacity.
the school is led by headteacher Emma Anderson, it falls under Milton Keynes local authority.
Watling Academy is a popular choice with families — it received 1,093 applications for 356 places, making it 3.1x oversubscribed. Of these, 375 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, Severe Learning Difficulty and 7 more. Parents should contact the school's SENCO for specific details about provision.
On-site facilities at Watling Academy include Tennis Courts, Sixth Form Centre, Music Rooms, ICT Suite, Theatre, Library, Gymnasium, Science Labs, Playing Fields, Astro Turf, Sports Hall.
Beyond the classroom, pupils can take part in sports such as Football, Cricket, Martial Arts, Cross Country and 3 more, as well as clubs including Eco Club, Coding, Model UN, Debate and 3 more.
The proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals is 22.7%, which is close to the national average for secondary schools in England.
For families exploring secondary schools in Milton Keynes, Watling Academy is one of the options available in the South East 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 18 years |
| Gender | Mixed |
| Religious Character | None |
| Address | Barrosa Way, Milton Keynes, Milton Keynes, MK8 1EP |
| Headteacher | Emma Anderson |
| Local Authority | Milton Keynes |
| Number of Pupils | 1,500 |
| Free School Meals (FSM) | 22.7% |
| School Capacity | 1,500 / 2,250 (67% full) |
| Sixth Form | Yes |
Ofsted Inspection Breakdown
16 May 2023Overall Effectiveness
Outstanding
Source: Ofsted, 2 Jul 2023. Ratings: 1=Outstanding, 2=Good, 3=Requires Improvement, 4=Inadequate.
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
14Sports
Clubs & Activities
Activities may vary by term. Contact the school for current offerings.
Admissions
2025/26Oversubscribed356
1,093
High Demand
Competitive - many more applications than places available
375 families put this school as their 1st choice (34% of all applications)
Source: Department for Education, 2025/26. Data reflects national offer day applications and offers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Watling 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
Barrosa Way, Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes, MK8 1EP
Journey to School
Journey times are estimates based on current conditions. Actual times may vary.
Opening Hours
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