Priestley College

Priestley College is a founder member of The Challenge Academy Trust (TCAT) which currently consists of 9 schools and the College, working together to deliver a cohesive education pathway from primary through to sixth form.

We are an inclusive college with a consistent record of high achievement. We offer around 70 A-Level and Vocational courses and we are a college of several firsts.

The quality of education we provide in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths was recognised when we became the first dedicated sixth form in the country to receive STEM-assured status.

In September 2020, Priestley was chosen to be among the first tranche of colleges to provide T-Levels. In the same year our rugby academy became the first in the UK to receive ‘dual status’ as both boys and girls were excelling.

In its most recent OFSTED report the College was praised by inspectors who said ‘teachers ensure students develop the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in their qualifications and in their working life’.

In 2021 Priestley retained its matrix accreditation after an inspection found the quality of advice and guidance it provided met the internationally-recognised standard.

There are now over 2000 students at Priestley with the latest investment a £1.5M technology centre that boasts more than 200 computers. The Crescent Building has also been extended to provide extra café and study space whilst the Performing Arts facilities have been modernised. More than £15M has been invested in the campus since 1999 on projects including the Learning Resource Centre and an all-weather sports pitch.

Priestley’s growth in numbers has also gone hand in hand with increasing the range and scope of provision as well as significant improvements in quality.

By responding to student demand and national curriculum development, we have been able to broaden the choice by offering new curriculum lines.

Priestley is not a college that stands still. All tutors and staff constantly look for ways to improve in order to make the biggest difference to the highest number of young people.

The College’s goal will always be to inspire, challenge and support its students to ensure they reach their full potential.