Record Applications and a Bright Future for Leigh Academy Minster

Leigh Academy Minster is proud to celebrate its ongoing success and increasing popularity amongst families in the local community. With a record-breaking 123% oversubscription on first preferences alone for Year 7 places, the academy is now working closely with Kent County Council to explore options for accommodating more students in year 7 next year to ensure access to high-quality education.

Exceptional Demand and Community Engagement

  • Unprecedented Interest: Over 1,000 people attended the academy’s Open Evening in November, demonstrating the community’s keen interest in what it offers.
  • Full Waiting Lists: Every year group currently has a waiting list, further highlighting the academy’s popularity.
  • Strong Primary School Links: Leigh Academy Minster actively engages with local primary schools and regularly participates in Sheppey Headteachers’ meetings, fostering a seamless transition for younger students.
  • Expanding Capacity: Due to overwhelming demand, the academy is discussing additional 30 places for next year with KCC as a bulge year group, with additional places allocated to its highly-regarded Grammar College, Cody.

The Minster Way: A Formula for Success

Families are embracing the academy’s unique approaches to behaviour, standards, and academic achievement, underpinned by its “Minster Way” ethos. Key highlights include:

  • High-Quality Academic Curriculum: As an IB World School, the academy offers a rigorous and well-rounded education that prepares students for global opportunities.
  • Integrated Digital Learning: Every student is equipped with a 1:1 Chromebook device, enabling access to a fully integrated digital curriculum and fostering innovative learning methods, at no cost to families.

Enhanced Opportunities for Students

  • Extra-Curricular Excellence: Students benefit from a wide range of extra-curricular activities, including the use of a brand-new library and state-of-the-art sports facilities.

A School of Choice

Families are increasingly choosing to stay on the Island and putting Leigh Academy Minster as the preferred option for their children, with students even transferring from Sittingbourne schools, including local grammars, to join our thriving academy. This reflects the trust and confidence the community places in the academy’s ability to deliver a top-tier education close to home.