This year we celebrate a special milestone: sixty years of educating and shaping the future at Lostock Hall Academy. Our Diamond Jubilee honours a long tradition of high expectations, warm relationships and strong community partnerships that continue to define our school. 

Our beginnings 

Lostock Hall first opened as Lostock Hall Community High School on 21st  September 1966. The inaugural intake was 127 students, taught by seven full‑time teachers, one part‑time teacher and supported by a part‑time school clerk under the leadership of Headmaster Mr Penketh. Much of the building was still under construction, including the dining room, so early school meals were kindly provided by the local community and served on paper plates. Despite limited facilities, staff and pupils quickly forged a warm and inclusive school community. 

In that first year, students enjoyed residential trips to Keswick and Slaidburn, visits to the Harris Museum and Preston Docks, walks on Longridge Fell, and trips to local mills. They performed a Christmas carol service and tableaux for parents and took part in many sporting activities, including swimming at Brinscall Baths before indoor sports facilities were available. 

The school was formally opened by Lord Pilkington on 18th  September 1967; he was introduced by Councillor Worgan, Chair of Governors, and presented with a silver‑gilt and wooden fruit bowl as part of the ceremony. 

Growth and development 

Over the decades Lostock Hall has evolved while remaining true to its founding purpose: to serve our community and inspire success in young people. Key moments include: 

  • 2011: The school converted to academy status and became Lostock Hall Academy.  
  • 2017: We celebrated our fiftieth anniversary.  
  • 2019: The refurbished ROSLA block opened, providing modern teaching spaces, a well‑resourced library and a new conference area. The block was named in memory of our first headteacher, Mr Penketh, and was officially opened by his son and daughter. 

From the earliest days to the present, the Academy has been committed to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, values and behaviours they need to flourish. Our students leave with strong foundations and a lasting connection to the community that helped to shape them. 

Celebrate with us! 

As we mark sixty years, we give heartfelt thanks to the generations of staff, students, governors and local partners whose care and commitment have enriched and nurtured our school. Their contributions and stewardship have made Lostock Hall Academy what it is today. Looking ahead, we remain determined to inspire aspirations for all and to steward the Academy responsibly for generations to come. 

If you are an alumnus or alumna, we would love to hear from you. Please contact the Academy office or visit the Alumni section of our website to share your memories and tell us how your time at Lostock Hall Academy has shaped your life. Your stories of success are a treasured part of our history. 

Throughout the year, we will update this page with news of our celebrations and hope that you are able to celebrate with us.