Yorkshire Academy
Secular
Updated July 2026
Yorkshire Academy is a private school in West Houston serving children from 18 months through 5th grade. It provides a secure, nurturing environment that attracts families from the local community and around the world.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Yorkshire Academy aims to cultivate qualities of character, citizenship, and academic curiosity within a safe, secure, and loving environment. It emphasizes personal and engaging educational opportunities that span both academics and the visual and performing arts. The school fosters a joyful community where students are encouraged to learn, grow, and build lasting memories.
Programmes
The academic program is structured to build intentionally year after year, starting with early childhood education for children as young as 18 months. The curriculum includes core subjects such as literature circles, science, and math, alongside enrichment offerings like art, music, Spanish, and computer studies. The school provides a comprehensive educational pathway from the cottage/early learning stage through 5th grade.
Outcomes
The school is recognized as Houston’s first Ocean Guardian School, reflecting its commitment to environmental initiatives. Students are encouraged to develop character, citizenship, and academic curiosity, with many participating in leadership opportunities and community service projects throughout their time at the school.
Student support
Learning support
The school employs dedicated faculty for social-emotional support and dyslexia intervention. Additionally, primary reading and math support are available to assist students in their academic development.
Tuition & fees
Admissions
The admissions process begins with an inquiry and a scheduled tour of the campus. The school maintains a non-discriminatory policy and accepts students from 18 months through 5th grade, with dedicated admissions directors for early childhood and elementary levels. Prospective families can access a viewbook, review tuition schedules, and utilize various payment plans.
Calendar
The school operates on a traditional academic calendar with a variety of annual traditions and events. The schedule includes musicals, graduations, talent shows, family breakfasts, and the annual Yorkshire Olympics. Additionally, the school offers a summer program featuring enrichment camps.
Facilities
About the campus
The campus is located on Memorial Drive in Houston and provides a secure, nurturing environment for approximately 300 students. Facilities include specialized classrooms, an art gallery, a library, and outdoor spaces such as the Rainbow Flower Garden and an area for rodeo chickens. The school also maintains technology integration resources to support its academic programs.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a wide range of enrichment programs, including art, music, physical education, health, Spanish, and computer enrichment. The school also hosts the Memorial Afterschool Program (MAP) and provides before and after-school care. Students engage in community service projects, leadership seminars, and participate in the Private Schools Interscholastic Association (PSIA) competitions.
Shirley SwinbankFounder & Executive DirectorFounder and Executive Director of Yorkshire Academy.
Elizabeth WilliamsPrincipal, Elementary AdmissionsPrincipal of Elementary Admissions.
Dayna AllenAssociate PrincipalAssociate Principal.
Vivien CrainDirectorDirector.
Shelby McClellandDirector, Early Childhood AdmissionsDirector of Early Childhood Admissions.
Jill DavisFinanceFinance administrator.
Phylene JakobsenCampus OperationsCampus Operations administrator.