St Aidan's Church of England Academy

St Aidan’s Church of England Academy is a co-educational, Christian, non-selective secondary school for children aged 11-16. It is situated in Darlington, near Middlesbrough. This smaller-than-average school currently has 600 pupils on its roll.

St Aidan’s opened in September 2007 following the closure of Eastbourne School. It originally opened as Eastbourne Academy, but changed its name after moving to new premises in 2009. These new facilities provide a bright and motivational learning environment, with flexible spaces and break-out areas. St Aidan's joined Northern Lights Learning Trust on 1st June 2024.

Headteacher

Mr. Dean Lythgoe

Values and vision

St Aidan’s Church of England Academy provides a Christian learning environment, promoting care, respect, responsibility and high expectations. Its aim is to build a community based on the principles of love, forgiveness and integrity, and the unique value of each individual.

The secondary school's vision is to set high standards for every learner in a stimulating and active learning environment. St Aidan’s is working towards becoming a Thinking School so teachers have the tools to deliver high-quality questioning, using visual tools to map out ideas and working collaboratively.

Ofsted report

“Teaching is improving rapidly and so pupils in all year groups are doing much better than previously. The information that the academy produces on progress of all groups of pupils is organised in a highly effective manner. It immediately identifies underachievement and triggers interventions to counteract it. Attendance has improved substantially. The newly appointed senior team is beginning to be very effective in assisting the Principal to raise attainment and improve teaching.”

View St Aidan’s Church of England Academy's latest Ofsted report