Opinions on Carrickfergus Academy

[popana]

Does anyone have any experience of Carrickfergus Academy?

We're moving to the area (not Carrickfergus itself) soon and this is the only school with places available to our 2 sons that isn't oversubscribed and is within reasonable commutable distance.

Really, please don't get offended anyone but we know the area quite well and it doesn't have the best reputation. I've got to be honest the school doesn't look great. Does anyone have any experiences good or bad they can share? Hopefully I'm worrying for nothing.

Many thanks in advance.

Hi OP. I have no personal experience of the school but I've asked for some feedback from a local Carrickfergus site.

I know that it is in what could be described as a deprived area of Carrickfergus and some of the pupils attending will be a bit rough round the edges.

I will report back if I get any more information.

I have had about 14 replies.
The majority were positive, with a few negative.
The positive were saying their children loved it and have excelled, most have went on to university or vocational training. Very good pastoral care and good SEN support.

The negative comments were the frequency of using sub teachers and lack of homework and just their children not liking the school.

I had a reply from a Board of Governors member suggesting that you request a private tour or speak with the Principal. I see from their social media page they are having their open night tonight.

Hope this helps in some way.

Thank you so much @Countrygirlatheart1 that's really helpful.

Hi again Popana. If you would like to read these comments yourself, I can pm you the site.

There is an integrated school close to the Academy - Ulidia that has just had a large extension added so they may have more spaces available.
Or if you're willing to travel I hear Ballyclare Secondary is a good school if they had places available.

Yes please that would be great.

No space at Ulidia!

I have pm'd you.