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LCE Academy, Oldham

LCE Academy: your questions answered

Straight answers to the questions families, schools and local authorities ask us most about LCE Academy.

4 minute readUpdated November 2026

About the school

What is LCE Academy?

LCE Academy is a proposed independent special day school in Oldham for young people aged 11 to 16 with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs. It is applying to register as a mixed-sex independent special school and is part of Life Changing Education Ltd. About LCE Academy

Is LCE Academy the same as LCE School?

Yes. Families sometimes call us LCE School or LCE Academy Oldham. Our full name is LCE Academy, and we are part of Life Changing Education.

Where is LCE Academy?

Unit 4, Howarth Court, Oldham Gateway, Gateway Crescent, Chadderton, Oldham, OL9 9XB. Open in Google Maps

Is LCE Academy open?

LCE Academy is preparing for registration as an independent special school. We will not admit pupils or operate as an independent school until registration is confirmed. Statutory information

Who leads the school?

Our Headteacher is Sam Gray, and our Deputy Headteacher and Head of Curriculum is David Jeal. Meet our staff

Places and admissions

Who is LCE Academy for?

Young people aged 11 to 16 (Years 7 to 11) whose main need is social, emotional and mental health, and whose needs are best met in a small, specialist setting.

How many places are there?

We plan 48 places in our opening phase, within an applied-for maximum of 108, with teaching groups of no more than six.

Does my child need an EHCP?

Yes. Our confirmed opening admission route requires an EHCP and written local-authority commissioning. How to request an EHCP in Oldham

How is a place arranged?

Through local-authority consultation. You or your local authority contact us, the authority shares the EHCP and reports securely, we check we can meet the needs, and a written offer and commissioning arrangements are agreed before any start date. How a place is offered

Can we visit?

Yes. Call 07414 197687 or send us a message to arrange a time. Visits do not create a trial or informal school place.

Learning and school life

What qualifications can pupils take?

Our confirmed opening offer includes Functional Skills English and maths and AQA GCSE English Language and Literature, alongside a broad curriculum. Qualifications and pathways

What does the school day look like?

Optional supervised arrival begins at 08:30. See the school day and timetable

Is there a uniform?

Yes, with an approach rooted in belonging, dignity, safety and readiness to learn. Our approach to uniform

Who do I contact about safeguarding?

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead is Raheemot Kaffo. Safeguarding information

Getting in touch

How do I contact LCE Academy?

Call the school office on 07414 197687, email office@lifechangingeducation.uk or use our contact form. Our SENDCo can be reached on 07414 173028.

Ready to partner
with LCE Academy?

Make an initial enquiry, arrange a visit or find out more about our specialist SEMH provision.

Get in touch 07414 197687