CAPA College, Wakefield

Ofsted's report card from its 21 April 2026 inspection grades CAPA College on 5 areas: 5 exceptional. Report cards replaced single-word judgements in November 2025, on a five-point scale from exceptional to urgent improvement.

Inclusion - Exceptional. "Leaders have developed a culture at the college which embraces inclusivity."

Leadership and governance - Exceptional. "Leaders, trustees and governors provide excellent leadership that has a life-changing and transformational impact on students' learning and their futures."

Achievement - Exceptional. "Students achieve exceptionally well, both academically and personally."

Curriculum and teaching - Exceptional. "Leaders collaborate with their extensive network of education and arts professionals, employers and alumni, to provide a high-quality curriculum informed by current industry practice."

Participation and development - Exceptional. "Students rapidly develop mature and professional behaviours, thriving in the culture of very high expectations."

Safeguarding standards were met.

In its own words: "Welcome to CAPA College, a place where creativity thrives and visions take shape. As Creative Director, I invite aspiring artists to join us on a transformative journey that will fuel passion and shape the future of the Arts. Eddie Copp We offer five distinct pathways, each designed to discover each student’s potential."

From the headteacher's welcome: "First, Accessibililty ; We believe that everyone who is serious about pursuing a career in the Arts should have access to the best training. We provide incredible experiences, high-quality education and exceptional support - and, as Wakefield’s only Department for Education-funded Free School, there are no course fees to pay at CAPA College."

CAPA College is one of 17 schools run by Enhance Academy Trust, an academy trust.

Of the 200 students who left the sixth form in 2023/24, 62% went on to university or other higher education, 4% to apprenticeships and 24% into work. 7% went to one of the most selective third of universities.

11% of pupils are eligible for free school meals, and 4.4% speak English as an additional language, according to the 2026 school census.

The largest ethnic groups are White British (88%) and Mixed (6%).

In 2026, 125 pupils (24.9%) received SEN support and 7 (1.4%) had an education, health and care plan. The most common need among them is a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia.

The nearest railway station is Wakefield Westgate Rail Station, about 290 metres away (roughly a 4-minute walk).

15 bus stops are within a five-minute walk; the closest is Westgate B, 110 metres away.

In August 2026, police recorded 677 crimes within a mile of the school, most often violence and sexual offences, anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. That is well above the typical figure around schools in Wakefield (130), as is usual near a town centre.

CAPA College recorded no suspensions or permanent exclusions in 2024/25.