West Lakes Academy is a vibrant 11-18 secondary school nestled in the western edge of the picturesque Lake District of Cumbria, serving a dynamic community of 1,200 students. Since opening in September 2008 and moving into our state-of-the-art £26m building in 2012, we have been committed to delivering the highest quality education in an environment that inspires success.
Our vision is to succeed in ‘Changing Lives through Learning’ by providing the very best possible educational opportunities for young people in West Cumbria. We have extremely high hopes for all of our students and our highly skilled and enthusiastic members of staff encourage children to have high ambitions and to work hard to achieve these.
Mr Stephen Grant
West Lakes Academy is committed to the creation of a fully inclusive, aspirational, high achieving Centre of Excellence, firmly rooted in the local community. Our vision is to succeed in ‘Changing Lives through Learning’ by providing the very best possible educational opportunities for young people in West Cumbria.
Changing Lives Learning Trust is a Multi-Academy Trust with Sponsor Status and is a not for profit charity which sponsors primary and secondary academies.
What a fantastic achievement Lucy! We are so proud of you! 👏🏻 🌟So unbelievably proud of Lucy Forster! Promoted to Deputy Head Cadet and also awarded Cumbria Police cadet of the year 2025-2026 🎉🎉🎉
Thanks to all those who help and support her and without you it would not be possible ♥️♥️
#NationalVolunteerWeek #CumbriaPolice #policecadets
National Volunteer Police Cadets Safeguarding and Standards Hub
West Lakes Academy Whitehaven News
High Sheriff of Cumbria
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Upcoming Dates – Second Half of the Summer Term 🗓️
As we move into a busy and exciting second half of the summer term, we’d like to share some key dates and events with parents and carers to support planning for the weeks ahead.
Thursday 4th June – Year 7 Parents’ Evening
An opportunity for families to meet with subject teachers and discuss progress so far this year.
Saturday 13th June – Uniform Selling Event
Students joining the academy in September are invited to attend for uniform fittings and to purchase required items. This will take place in the academy atrium. Parents will receive a timeslot in advance.
Thursday 18th June - Year 8 Parents' Evening
An opportunity for Year 8 families to meet with subject teachers and discuss progress so far this year.
Tuesday 30th June – Sports Day
All students will take part in a full day of sporting activities and inter‑house competitions.
Wednesday 1st July – Taster Day
A transition day for students joining the academy, giving them the chance to experience lessons, meet staff and explore the school environment.
Week Beginning Monday 6th July – Year 7 Residential
Our current Year 7 students will take part in a one‑night residential at Muncaster Castle.
If you have any questions about these events or require further information, please get in touch.
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From Rock Challenge to Centre Stage: Zara's Story 🌟
Zara studied at WLA from 2012–2019 and was a huge part of our performing arts community. She’s now living her dream as a holiday park entertainer, running activities by day and performing on stage by night.
Read her inspiring journey and her advice for future performers on our website: wla.education/student-alumni/ 💃🌟
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ATTEND TO THE END 🗓️
Welcome back to the second half of the Summer Term.
We’re looking forward to a focused and productive few weeks, and being in school every day really does make a difference.
Consistent attendance helps keep everyone on track, and we appreciate the effort families put into making that happen.
Attendance competition details will be shared soon!
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Well done to our PE department on this fantastic achievement!A fantastic start to the half term with West Lakes Academy achieving their Gold school Games mark!
Massive Congratulations!
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🌞May half term is nearly here, and the forecast is looking sunny and warm next week. Perfect timing for a well‑earned break.
Let’s finish strong… ATTEND TO THE END!
Every single day of learning matters.
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