Cardiff Academy
Founded 1999
Updated July 2026
National Curriculum (England)
IGCSEAccreditations
IBLanguages
EnglishEstablished in 1999, Cardiff Academy is the oldest independent academy in Cardiff, providing a pathway to UK university success for students aged 14-25. It combines rigorous academic standards with personalized support for a diverse student body representing over 40 nationalities.
Term structure
Teaching approach
The academy’s ethos centers on fostering academic excellence through dedication, integrity, and innovation within a supportive, multicultural environment. It emphasizes personalized guidance, small class sizes, and a commitment to helping every student reach their full potential.
Programmes
The academy offers a comprehensive range of qualifications, including GCSEs (1-2 years), A-Levels (2 years), and a one-year Foundation Programme. Post-secondary and undergraduate pathways include an International Year One, a Pre-Masters Programme, and intensive English language preparation, such as Pre-Sessional English courses (6-12 weeks).
Outcomes
Cardiff Academy maintains a 95% success rate and a strong record of university placements. Students have progressed to prestigious institutions, including Oxford, Cambridge, and other Russell Group universities, to study competitive disciplines such as Medicine, Law, and Engineering.
Student support
Learning support
The academy prioritizes student wellbeing and pastoral care, providing dedicated support to help students settle in and navigate their academic journey. Every student receives personal tutor support, university application guidance, and access to welfare services as part of their tuition.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Cardiff Academy offer?
- Cardiff Academy offers National Curriculum (England), IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
- How much is tuition at Cardiff Academy?
- Annual tuition at Cardiff Academy is £15.5K–£22.5K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Cardiff Academy hold?
- Cardiff Academy holds accreditations including IB.
- Is Cardiff Academy co-educational?
- Cardiff Academy is a co-ed school.
- Where is Cardiff Academy located?
- Cardiff Academy is an international school in Cardiff, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| GCSE Programme | — | £15.5K |
| A-Level Programme | — | £17.5K |
| Foundation Programme | — | £22.5K |
| Pre-Masters / Pre-Sessional Programme | — | — |
| English Language Course | — | — |
Other fees(3)
| Materials· Textbooks and learning materials are not included in tuition fees | — |
|---|---|
| Boarding· Accommodation costs are not included in tuition fees | — |
| Meals· Living expenses are not included in tuition fees | — |
Admissions
The admissions process begins with the submission of an application form, followed by a review by the academy team. Prospective students are then invited to an interview before receiving an offer letter. The academy welcomes inquiries from both UK and international students aged 14-25.
Calendar
The academic year is divided into three terms. The Autumn 2025 term runs from 15 September to 12 December, with a half-term break in late October. The Spring 2026 term spans from 5 January to 13 April, including a February half-term, and the Summer 2026 term runs from 6 April to 26 June, with a short break in late May.
About the campus
Located at 8 Drake Walk, Cardiff, the academy provides modern facilities designed to support an effective learning environment. The campus is accessible for tours, allowing prospective students and parents to view the learning spaces and meet the staff.
Co-curriculars
The academy integrates extra-curricular activities into its programmes to support student development. Additionally, the Summer School programme offers a 2-6 week experience that combines English language learning with cultural exploration in Cardiff.
Dr. Ronald BarnettPrincipal & History TeacherDr. Barnett has over thirty years of teaching experience in secondary schools and Sixth Form Colleges in South Wales. He holds a Ph.D. in History from Cardiff University and has served as Head of History at Cardiff Academy for ten years.
Mr Sajid HussainCEOSajid Hussain has over a decade of leadership experience in education, including roles as Bursar at Cardiff Sixth Form College and International Projects Manager at WeBridge Academy. He is focused on academic excellence, student success, and sustainable growth at Cardiff Academy.
Mr Razwan NazirCFO & BDMRazwan Nazir joined Cardiff Academy in 2025 with over two decades of experience in corporate and SME sectors, including founding a corporate finance practice. He previously served as a Regional Director at HSBC Bank, overseeing the Islamic Banking Division across the Midlands and Wales.
- Ann ThomasDirector of Studies and English
Dania HamandiAssistant Director of Studies and English