Bangor Academy and Sixth Form College is a co-educational secondary school serving students aged 11 to 18. It is one of the largest post-primary schools in Northern Ireland, with an enrolment of approximately 1,871 pupils as of the 2024/25 academic year.
History
The school was established in 2001 following the merger of two non-selective schools: Bangor Girls High School and Gransha Boys’ High School. In 2008, all year groups moved into a new purpose-built campus on Castle Park Road, funded by a £21 million investment.
HRH The Earl of Wessex officially opened the new school building for Bangor Academy and Sixth Form College in County Down on the 3rd of December 2009.
School Ethos and Values
Bangor Academy promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment, with a strong emphasis on:
- Pastoral care
- Academic achievement
- Personal development
- Community engagement
The school adopted the Gryphon as its emblem, inherited from Gransha Boys’ High School, symbolising strength and wisdom.
Curriculum and Sixth Form
The school offers a broad curriculum at Key Stage 3, GCSE, and A-Level, including both academic and vocational pathways. The Sixth Form provides over 18 subjects at AS/A2 level, alongside BTEC and OCN qualifications, preparing students for university, apprenticeships, or employment.
Special Awards and Recognitions
- British Council International School Award accreditation
- University of Ulster, Confucius Institute Classroom
- UNICEF, Rights Respecting Schools, Silver Rights Award, 2024 -2027
- IFA School Gold Quality Mark
- Queen’s University Academy School
- Girls On Board
- Evidence Based Education – Great Teaching School Recognition
- Young Enterprise, Excellence in Enterprise School
- The Lyric Theatre’s Schools Affiliation Scheme
