FAQ

Q: When can I apply to The JCB Academy?
A: Applications to join The JCB Academy are open from 1 August to 31 January. The academy serves an 18-mile (as the crow flies) catchment area from ST14 5JX, but applicants from outside this radius may still apply. To check if you’re within the radius, please click here. If the academy is oversubscribed (which it has been since opening), learners are randomly selected using an independent, computer-generated numbering system. All applicants must have completed the Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT) to be eligible for the random allocation process.

Q: How do I apply to The JCB Academy?
A: You can apply through The JCB Academy’s website by clicking here.

Q: What year can I join?
A: You can join The JCB Academy in Year 9.

Q: What is the catchment area for The JCB Academy?
A: The catchment area is an 18-mile radius from ST14 5JX. However, applications from outside this radius are accepted but may be placed on a waiting list if the academy is oversubscribed.

Q: Is there an entrance exam?
A: No, there is no entrance exam. However, applicants are required to sit the Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT) to be eligible for entry. The CAT is used to allocate learners across the full ability range and does not involve pass or fail criteria.

Q: What is the CAT, and why is it required?
A: The GL Assessment Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT) measures a learner’s cognitive processing abilities across three areas: verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. It is a requirement for all applicants and helps ensure The JCB Academy admits learners across the full ability spectrum.

Q: When will the CAT take place?
A: Once you apply, a date for the CAT will be allocated to you. The test will be held either in the evening, on a Saturday, or during a school holiday period at The JCB Academy.

Q: Can learners prepare for the CAT?
A: The CAT measures cognitive abilities and does not require specific preparation. However, learners should be relaxed as there is no pass or fail for the test.

Q: Will a place be offered if the CAT is not completed?
A: No, all applicants must take the CAT to be considered for a place at The JCB Academy.

Q: Can I visit the academy other than open day?
A: Unfortunately, due to the demand, we cannot offer individual tours of the academy

Q: What are the financial commitments when joining The JCB Academy?
A: Upon joining, learners will have the following financial commitments:

• Laptop: £700* (payable in monthly instalments)

• Harper Adams Residential Trip: £250*

• Transport: £1,300-£1,500* depending on distance you travel (payable in monthly instalments)

• Uniform: £200*

*Please note that all costs are approximate and subject to change. Financial support is available for eligible learners.

Q: Does The JCB Academy provide transport services?
A: Yes, The JCB Academy offers several bus routes within an 18-mile radius. The annual transport cost is between £1,300-£1,500* depending on distance you travel and can be paid in instalments via Direct Debit. Further information on transport services, including routes, can be found here.

Q: What time do the buses pick up learners?
A: The earliest pick-up times for each route start at approximately 7:00 am, to ensure learners have ample time to reach the academy.

Q: How are bus routes and stops assigned?
A: Each learner chooses their bus stop when they accept their offer of a place.

Q: What curriculum does The JCB Academy offer?
A: The JCB Academy offers the core subjects of English, mathematics, and science, alongside a curriculum tailored around engineering and business. Learners engage in practical, hands-on engineering projects with industry partners such as Harper Adams University, Rolls-Royce, and JCB, throughout their time at the academy.

Q: What engineering projects do learners undertake?
A: Learners participate in real-world engineering challenges, such as the Toyota Challenge, Harper Adams Challenge, and the JCB Challenge. These projects are designed to develop problem-solving skills and provide insight into industry practices.

Q: Do learners from The JCB Academy go on to work for JCB?
A: While some learners do go on to work for JCB, all learners have the same opportunities as other schools, with pathways to further/higher education, apprenticeships, and employment. The academy’s strong industry links make learners attractive to a wide range of employers.

Q: Is The JCB Academy a private or fee-paying school?
A: No, The JCB Academy is a state-funded free school supported by the Department for Education.

Q: Is The JCB Academy a boys’ school?
A: No, The JCB Academy is a co-educational school with a growing number of female learners each year. Currently, around 20% of the intake is female.

Q: Does The JCB Academy have an open day?
A: Yes, The JCB Academy holds an annual open day on the first Saturday of October. An additional open evening is also held for the Sixth Form.

Q: What is the connection between The JCB Academy and JCB?
A: The JCB Academy is sponsored by JCB, and the company works alongside other major partners, including Rolls-Royce, Bosch Rexroth, National Grid, and Toyota Manufacturing (UK), to develop the academy’s unique curriculum and learning experiences.

Q: Does The JCB Academy have a Sixth Form?
A: Yes, the academy has a Sixth Form that offers diplomas in engineering and business, a T-level in Engineering and Manufacturing, and a variety of A-level subjects. More details can be found on the Sixth Form website.

Q: Does The JCB Academy offer apprenticeships?
A: No, we do not directly offer apprenticeships. Apprenticeships are offered by employers. Therefore, to explore apprenticeship opportunities, we recommend reaching out to employers who offer these programs.