Thomas Deacon Academy

Thomas Deacon Academy

The Thomas Deacon Academy that we know today opened in 2007 as one of the UK’s first and largest academies. Whilst a building does not make a school, it is worth noting that Thomas Deacon Academy was designed by Norman Foster and Partners and in addition to our impressive main academy our beautiful 43-acre campus includes TDA Juniors - a modern, light and purpose-built Key Stage 2 facility - and expansive playing fields and sporting facilities.

TDA's core purpose is:

“To ensure that each student acquires the necessary knowledge, skills and character to make a positive contribution to society and ‘thrive’ as a global citizen”

TDA believes that young people should leave them as citizens that are fully equipped with the character and qualifications to take their place in the world. They place great emphasis on ensuring they experience a broad and balanced curriculum, with a wide range of extra-curricular activities, opportunities for them to develop their 'character' and a strong pastoral system to support them with life’s challenges.

In September 2018, a new extension to the existing main building led to new accommodation being created for a sixth form study centre, refectory expansion and staff professional learning centre.

In September 2019, TDA received a very positive Ofsted report, judging the academy to be Good overall. Ofsted commented favourably, amongst other things, on the overall leadership of the academy, good teaching, positive relationships between staff and students and students’ behaviour. These aspects of the academy have been maintained alongside the identified areas for development being addressed.

TDA is part of the Thomas Deacon Education Trust which provides a great community and a network of support and expertise. Importantly, the Trust's vision is to give students the highest-quality of education possible and the best start in life.