AKS Lytham
Part of United Learning, Secular
Updated July 2026
IGCSE
CIS
AKS Lytham is an independent, co-educational school for students aged 0 to 18, located on the Fylde Coast in Lytham St Annes. It is part of the United Learning group and provides a tailored, nurturing environment focused on academic success and personal ambition.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school aims to empower students to embrace challenges and opportunities with confidence, preparing them to make a difference in an uncertain future. It fosters a compassionate community where students are known, supported, and challenged. As a Round Square school, it integrates character education and internationalism into its approach to learning.
Programmes
The school provides a continuous academic pathway from Nursery through to Sixth Form. The curriculum includes core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, Art, Computing, Design & Technology, Drama, Music, PSHE, and Religious Studies. In the Senior School and Sixth Form, the curriculum expands to include subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Business Studies, Economics, Philosophy, Ethics and Religion, Psychology, and Sociology. The school also utilizes the 'Learning2Learn' programme and 'PEAKS' in the Senior School to support student development.
Outcomes
AKS Lytham is recognized as one of the top ten independent schools in the North West by The Sunday Times (2024). In 2025, 45% of A-level grades were A*/A, and 48% of GCSE grades were 9-7. The school notes that because students take IGCSE examinations in English and Mathematics, it does not feature in annual DfE League Tables.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides a nurturing and supportive environment where staff are dedicated to understanding the developmental and individual needs of each student. Pastoral support is a core component of the school's approach to ensuring students are cared for and challenged.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does AKS Lytham offer?
- AKS Lytham offers IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
- How much is tuition at AKS Lytham?
- Annual tuition at AKS Lytham is £13.2K–£18.7K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does AKS Lytham hold?
- AKS Lytham holds accreditations including CIS.
- Is AKS Lytham co-educational?
- AKS Lytham is a co-ed school.
- Where is AKS Lytham located?
- AKS Lytham is an international school in Preston, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025/26| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Nursery - Baby Room (Full Day) | 0–2 | — |
| Nursery - Over 2's and Pre-School (Full Day) | 2–4 | — |
| Nursery - Over 2's and Pre-School (Morning Session) | 2–4 | — |
| Nursery - Over 2's and Pre-School (Afternoon Session) | 2–4 | — |
| Preparatory School | 4–11 | £13.2K |
| Senior School | 11–16 | £18.7K |
| Sixth Form | 16–18 | £18.7K |
Other fees(3)
| Mealsterm· Prep School Lunch Contract Charge (Compulsory) | £245 |
|---|---|
| Mealsterm· Senior School Lunches (Compulsory) | £290 |
| Mealsterm· Sixth Form Lunches (Optional) | £290 |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 10%
Admissions
AKS Lytham welcomes applications for students from Nursery through to Sixth Form. Prospective families are encouraged to arrange a visit to the school, and the admissions team provides guidance through the application process, including entry assessments. The school offers means-tested financial assistance and scholarships for academic performance, sport, and the performing arts. While many students join at key transition stages, applications for other year groups are accepted throughout the academic year, subject to availability.
Calendar
Term dates are published on the school website for upcoming academic years. The school provides a calendar for parents to track events and school life.
Facilities
About the campus
Located on a beach-front site on the Fylde coast, the school features well-equipped buildings and grounds. The Nursery includes specialized areas such as a role-play kitchen, a mark-making zone, a wet play area, a creative space, a library, and IT facilities with smartboards. The secure outdoor environment for the youngest pupils includes a water exploration zone, a construction area with various building blocks, and a range of climbing equipment.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a wide range of co-curricular opportunities across sport, performing arts, and other activities. Students participate in sports teams, performing arts productions, and various clubs, with opportunities for students to gain places in national orchestras, national youth choirs, and prestigious music schools. As an accredited Round Square school, AKS Lytham also emphasizes character education, leadership, and the development of a global mindset.
David HarrowHeadmasterDavid graduated from the University of Cambridge with a Masters in Mathematics and has worked in independent education for over 25 years. Prior to joining AKS as Headmaster in 2019, he served as Deputy Head (Academic) at Oakham School and as an ISI inspector.
- Allan McKeownSenior Deputy Head
Originally from Belfast, Allan holds a BSc in Zoology, a PGCE, an MA in Educational Leadership and Innovation, and a Level 7 qualification in Executive Coaching and Mentoring. He has been at the school since 1998, previously serving as Head of Sixth Form and Assistant Head, and continues to teach Science, Biology, and Learning2Learn.
Amanda IlhanHead of Nursery & Prep SchoolAmanda holds a B.Ed. from Bristol and an M.Ed. from Manchester, with experience working in schools across the UK and internationally, including the British International School in Istanbul. She has worked with the Council of International Schools to accredit schools worldwide and was previously seconded to an Ofsted task force in Manchester.
- Phil HaydenDeputy Head (Pastoral)
Phil is an English teacher, Pastoral Lead, and DSL at AKS Lytham. He is one of the longest-serving members of staff at the school and has extensive experience coaching rugby, football, and cricket.
- Annie MillardDirector of Finance and Operations
Annie holds a first-class honours degree in Business Management and Leadership from Lancaster University, along with additional qualifications in accounting and health and safety. She has 25 years of experience in the education sector, specializing in operational leadership and large-scale project management.
- Sarah WaltonDirector of Marketing, Development and Engagement
Sarah is a Chartered Manager with degrees from the University of Central Lancashire and Manchester Metropolitan University, and holds a CMI Level 7 in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice. She has 17 years of experience in business development roles within the education and charity sectors.