Admissions

We are delighted that you are considering Airedale Academy for your child. Here, every pupil is valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Choosing a school is an important decision, and we are committed to making the admissions process as welcoming and straightforward as possible. Our aim is to provide you with all the information you need to make the right choice for your child.

If you are considering Airedale Academy, we highly recommend attending our annual open evening in September, where you can experience first-hand the excellent opportunities, a first-class learning environment, and the guidance and support to help every child thrive.

Pupil Admission Number (PAN)

Our published pupil admission number for Year 7 is currently 240

How to Apply

The Local Authority is responsible for allocating places to Airedale Academy. To apply for a place, you must live in Wakefield; if you live outside Wakefield, you must apply through your home authority.

The deadline for applying for a secondary school place for September 2026 is 31 October 2025. Late applications may reduce your chances of securing a place.

Key Date	What Happens
1 September 2025	Applications open. Online applications are preferred
September – October 2025	Open Evenings are held at secondary schools.
31 October 2025	Closing date for applications. Late applications will only be considered after all on-time applications have been processed.
1 March 2026	Allocation Day. Emails sent to online applicants after 9am; letters posted to non-online applicants.
31 March 2026	Last day for submitting an appeal.
May- July 2026	Appeal hearings take place
Within 5 working days of hearing wherever possible	Appeal decision letters to be sent

For more information and to apply online, visit the Wakefield Council website.

Secondary School Admissions – Wakefield Council

In-Year Admissions

If you wish to apply for a place outside the normal point of entry, in-year applications are also coordinated by Wakefield Council. You can find the application form and guidance below.

In-Year Admissions – Wakefield Council

Admission Appeals

If your application is unsuccessful, you have the right to appeal. Wakefield Council provides guidance on the appeals process.

School Admission Appeals – Wakefield Council

For appeals, the following rules apply:

You will receive at least 10 school days’ notice of the appeal hearing.

The best time to send evidence is with your appeal form. If you are unable to do this, please send all evidence at least 7 school days before the hearing. If evidence is received after this time the Independent Appeals Panel will decide whether this evidence can be heard or not.
The academy will send its evidence to you at least 7 days before the hearing.
Wherever possible a decision letter will be sent out to you within 5 school days of the hearing.
*School days are those days on which students are taught at the school. They do not include, for example, school holidays or weekends.

Further Information

For detailed information on our admissions arrangements, please refer to our Admissions Policies on the Policies page.

Open Evening

Our annual Open Evening is a chance for prospective pupils and their families to see the Academy in action. You can explore classrooms, enjoy displays and activities, and meet our staff and pupils to learn more about the subjects and opportunities we offer.

Open Evenings take place in September each year. If you cannot attend, please contact the Academy to arrange a mutually convenient visit.

Pupil Admission Number (PAN)

How to Apply

In-Year Admissions

Admission Appeals

For appeals, the following rules apply:

Further Information

Open Evening

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