The Alternative School

URN: 136237 • Accrington BB5 1NT

Overview

Name
The Alternative School
URN
136237
Type
Other independent school
Phase
Not applicable
Status
Open
Gender
Mixed
Religious
None
Admissions
Not applicable
Trust
Private
Yes
Ofsted rating
n/a
Ranking score
41.9 / 100
School thumbnail

Leadership & Contact

Headteacher
Kirsty Swierkowski (since 2025)
Telephone
01282851800
Website
Visit
Address
30 St. James Street, Accrington BB5 1NT

Summary

The Alternative School, located in Accrington, Lancashire, is an independent educational institution catering to students aged 6-18 who struggle to engage with mainstream education. Established in 2007, the school operates with a pupil-centred approach, offering a flexible and holistic learning experience tailored to individual needs. The school currently has 152 pupils enrolled, with a capacity of 260.

The curriculum is designed to support a diverse range of needs, including those with special educational needs (SEN), mental health challenges, and students at risk of exclusion. The school provides various educational packages across its seven campuses, focusing on smaller class sizes and nurturing environments. Assessments such as dyslexia screening and educational psychologist reports help to create personalised learning plans for each student.

The Alternative School has received positive recognition for its leadership and management, achieving a "Good" rating with "Outstanding" leadership in its latest Ofsted report. The school aims to foster a supportive community where students can thrive academically and socially, preparing them for their next stages in education and life.

Key details

LA
Lancashire
Age range
6 - 18
Boarders
No boarders
Sixth form
Has a sixth form
Trust
Capacity
260
Pupils
152
Boys
118
Girls
34
FSM %
Open date
2010-09-20
Close date
Last Ofsted
Next inspection
Data snapshot
2025-07-14
County
Lancashire

Trends

DatePupilsBoysGirlsCapacityFSM%
2025-07-14 152 118 34 260
2024-09-11 103 74 29 260
2023-09-11 73 56 17 260 0.00
2022-09-11 73 56 17 260 0.00
2021-09-11 104 71 33 190
2020-09-11 151 101 50 190

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