Branthwaite Academy

About Branthwaite Academy

Branthwaite Academy is a free special school for autistic children and young people. Our vision is to be a centre of excellence for autism in West Cumberland. We believe that with the right environment, all autistic children have the potential to excel in every aspect of their academic and personal lives.

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Key Facts

Head/Principal Kris Williams

Rating Breakdown

Based on published reviews

Safety & Security 4.7

Teaching Quality 4.3

Communication 4.7

Student Wellbeing 4.3

Facilities 4.7

Parent Survey

Official Ofsted Parent View data • 24 responses • 36.4% response rate

View on Ofsted

My child is happy at this school

83.3% positive 12.5% negative

My child feels safe at this school

91.7% positive 4.2% negative

The school makes sure its pupils are well behaved

75% positive 8.3% negative

The school has high expectations for my child

62.5% positive 20.8% negative

My child does well at this school

75% positive 12.5% negative

I would recommend this school to another parent

Data from Ofsted Parent View as of September 2025. Based on 24 parent responses to the official Ofsted survey.

School Workforce

Teacher and staff information • 2024-2025

Note: These figures are estimated based on national averages. Actual school-level data not yet available.

20.0:1

Pupil-Teacher Ratio

Good

3.3

Teachers (FTE)

Estimated workforce data based on GIAS enrollment and national average ratios. Academic year 2024-2025.

Secondary School Results (Key Stage 4)

Exam performance data • 2023-2024

1.8

Attainment 8

Average grade across 8 subjects

-3.77

Progress 8

Well below average

0.0%

English & Maths 9-5

Strong pass in both

0.0%

English & Maths 9-4

Standard pass in both

Additional Information

0.0% entered EBacc

0.0% achieved EBacc

6 pupils in cohort

Data from DfE Performance Tables for academic year 2023-2024. Published January 2024. View full performance tables

Reviews 4

E

Emily W Unconfirmed

Parent Sep 10, 2022

5.0

"A Game Changer for My Son"

Branthwaite Academy has transformed our family's life. The school's focus on inclusivity, innovation, and high expectations has given my son the confidence to excel. The staff are approachable and caring, and the facilities are fantastic. We feel so lucky to have found this school!

Safety & Wellbeing 5/5

Teaching & Learning 5/5

Communication 5/5

Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 5/5

Facilities 5/5

Helpful

S

Sophie T Unconfirmed

Parent Mar 20, 2022

5.0

"A Positive and Supportive Environment"

My child has thrived at Branthwaite Academy. The school's values of inclusivity, honesty, and high expectations have created a positive and supportive environment that encourages our child to reach their full potential. The staff are friendly and approachable, and the facilities are modern and well-maintained.

Safety & Wellbeing 5/5

Teaching & Learning 4/5

Communication 5/5

Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 4/5

Facilities 5/5

Helpful

R

Ruth G Unconfirmed

Parent Jan 15, 2022

3.0

"Still Finding Our Feet"

We're still in the early stages of our journey with Branthwaite Academy, and there are some areas that need improvement. However, the staff are friendly and welcoming, and the facilities are impressive. We're hopeful that our child will settle in and make the most of the opportunities provided.

Safety & Wellbeing 3/5

Teaching & Learning 3/5

Communication 3/5

Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 3/5

Facilities 3/5

Helpful

J

John D Unconfirmed

Parent Jun 1, 2021

4.0

"Excellent Support for Autistic Children"

My son attended Branthwaite Academy from Year 7 to Year 11, and the support he received was second to none. The school's commitment to autism is evident in every aspect of the education and care provided. The staff are passionate and knowledgeable, and the facilities are well-equipped to meet the needs of autistic children.

Safety & Wellbeing 4/5

Teaching & Learning 4/5

Communication 4/5

Mental & Emotional Wellbeing 4/5

Facilities 4/5

Helpful