Principals Welcome
It is with great pride and pleasure that I welcome you to The JCB Academy.
We are an innovative and truly unique institution—unlike any other school in the country—dedicated to developing the engineers and business leaders of tomorrow. From Year 9 through to Sixth Form, and through our Intermediate (Level 2) and Advanced (Level 3) apprenticeship programmes, we offer a dynamic and purposeful education for learners aged 13 to 18 who have a passion for engineering and/or business.
Our learners benefit from:
- Cutting-edge facilities
- World-leading industry partners
- Genuine industrial challenges that bring theory to life
These experiences equip our learners with the aptitudes and skills that prestigious apprenticeship providers, universities, and global companies actively seek.
The Academy’s curriculum is developed in collaboration with our core partners—including Bosch Rexroth, JCB, Toyota, and Harper Adams University—and is embedded in real industrial practice. Learners tackle authentic challenges that mirror the demands of modern industry.
The JCB Academy is a challenging place to learn. Our working day mirrors business hours, and our learners pursue academic and technical excellence through a blend of project-based learning and conventional subjects. We are committed to ensuring quality of access for all, and we offer rich opportunities to build confidence, leadership, and creativity.
To support our learners, we provide substantial wellbeing services. Our small cohort and dedicated support team allow us to respond to a wide range of needs—including stress, anxiety, lifestyle, relationships, and bereavement—with compassion and care.
We foster a nurturing environment built on high emotional currency between staff, learners, and families. Diversity and difference are celebrated, and learners are encouraged to communicate openly, express emotions, and uphold a superior standard of conduct through co-regulation with staff.
Our purpose-built apprenticeship training centre delivers Level 2 and Level 3 programmes in engineering, fabrication, and welding. Leading companies—including Michelin, JCB, Marston’s, Alpha Manufacturing, Bri-Stor Systems, and Merlin Entertainments—trust us as their chosen training provider.
In Sixth Form, we offer both traditional A-levels and vocational diploma pathways in engineering and business. We are also proud to be at the forefront of the new T-Level qualifications in engineering and manufacturing, with courses launched in August 2022. Learners benefit from a powerful blend of 80% classroom study and 20% industry placement.
At The JCB Academy, we believe in high standards, strong discipline, and purposeful learning. Our curriculum is rigorous, our expectations are clear, and our support is unwavering. Our learners become part of a community that challenges them to grow, achieve, and lead.
Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions a family can make. At The JCB Academy, we don’t just prepare learners for exams—we prepare them for life.
Thank you for considering us. I invite you to explore our website, visit us in person, and discover what makes The JCB Academy truly special.
Warm regards,
Mr J. Bailey
Principal, The JCB Academy