Darwen Aldridge Community Academy
Darwen Aldridge Community Academy (DACA) first opened its doors in 2008 and moved to its striking town-centre home two years later. As the very first academy in the Aldridge family of schools, DACA has played a defining role in shaping education across Darwen, and remains firmly rooted at the heart of its community.
With almost 1,000 learners in the lower school and a rapidly expanding sixth form, D6 - delivered in partnership with fellow Darwen Aldridge schools - DACA offers a truly comprehensive and ambitious education for young people from across the town.
Enterprise sits at the core of the academy’s ethos. Students are encouraged to think creatively, take initiative and develop an entrepreneurial mindset that builds confidence and independence. This is complemented by a rich programme of cultural capital, particularly within Technology and Creative Arts, where competitions, industry projects, visits and professional guests bring learning to life.
Around a third of DACA’s learners are supported through the pupil premium, and the academy works tirelessly to ensure every student is engaged, supported and able to achieve strong outcomes. Guided by four key improvement levers - culture, coaching, curriculum and data-informed instruction - the school continues to strengthen its offer. In 2024/25, this commitment was recognised with an improved Ofsted judgement, rating four out of five key areas as “Good”, and the team at DACA remain committed to this journey of improvement.
