The Whitehaven Academy

The Whitehaven Academy is a comprehensive co-educational secondary school with academy status, located in Whitehaven, for students aged 11-18.

Headteacher's Welcome:

As a proud member of Cumbria Education Trust, we enjoy the benefits of being part of a family of schools who are all committed to the core values of Respect, Responsibility, and Resilience.

The past three years have seen significant developments for the school with rising student numbers, the expanding West Coast Sixth Form, improving academic performance, increasing capacity in staff and a successful move to the new build in spring 2022.

We are a community with ambition, determination and a strong sense of collaboration. A core element of learning at our school is kindness. As a community we are supportive of each other, respecting the views, needs and beliefs of one another.

Our strong, broad and balanced curriculum ensures students can develop as rounded global citizens. We offer a rigorous academic curriculum that is strengthened with an innovative Creative Curriculum to ensure that each student develops the key skills they need to excel as learners. Our Key Stage 3 students will have the opportunity to work towards the Cumbrian Award, ‘developing their confidence, independence and a sense of adventure, increasing their exposure to and engagement with Cumbrian culture and developing and applying their enterprise skills’.

Our diverse enrichment programme enables students to discover their new passions, explore their talents and thrive, whether it is through music, sport, visits, outdoor pursuits, volunteering, charity work or residentials. With Cumbria Education Trust’s centre at Eskdale and contacts with local organisations, we are  passionate about embracing the incredible opportunities  available in the region.

Nigel Youngman