About Us

On 1 January 2009 Essa Academy in Great Lever, Bolton officially opened its doors as the first of the new type specialist, state-funded independent academy. Essa Academy replaced the former Hayward School and is sponsored by Cohens Chemist and Bolton Council.  

Essa Academy’s Vision

Our Sponsors’ aim is to create an Academy which is fit for purpose in the 21st Century, which will prepare students for a successful adult and working life in a constantly changing world; an Academy at the heart of the area’s regeneration; and an Academy that does not select by ability, aptitude, faith, race or gender.

The Academy is an inclusive institution providing an innovative technologically advanced, exciting, creative and engaging approach to learning and teaching. It is committed to excellence and continuous improvement in all that it does. Its’ aim is to have each of its students remain in education and training post 16 with a majority progressing to higher education.

Essa Academy’s Ethos

The Ethos statement for the Academy is an expression of the Academy’s core values. Its purpose is to support and raise the aspirations of all learners whilst providing the underpinning principles, focus and direction by which the Academy seeks to achieve its mission.

“To transform the learning and life opportunities of students”

This mission is rooted in the context provided by the twin specialisms of Science and Languages and underpinned by an ethos of Business and Enterprise.

Essa Academy is transforming learning and the aspirations for all members of the Great Lever and wider Bolton Communities by working collaboratively with students, their families, staff, partners and the wider community. The mission reflects this passion and commitment to this transformation and to the development of excellence. The Academy is committed to ensuring inclusion and valuing diversity. It focuses on the learners’ needs by working in partnership to co-construct the learning experiences in the context provided by specialisms to ensure that learners are excited, challenged and motivated by the experiences provided.

Essa Academy’s commitment is not simply to our students but their families too, because the sponsors recognise the vital role that families have to play in supporting and encouraging their children.

Essa Academy’s Core Values

  • Leadership
  • Inclusion and Diversity
  • Achievement and Attainment
  • Enterprise
  • Pride and Respect
  • Community