Albany Academy, Chorley
Albany Academy (formerly Albany Science College, Albany High School and St Alban's) is a secondary school with academy status located on the south side of Chorley, Lancashire, England. Albany Academy has specialist status in science and was one of the first schools in the country to convert to academy status. The school is the founding member of the Albany Learning Trust, a Multi-academy trust - the first Trust of its type in Lancashire. History. Secondary school. The school was originally opened as St. Alban's, and was built on the former Yarrow House next to the  river of the same name. In 1982, the School adopted a new name, Albany High School, and was subsequently renamed Albany Science College, before becoming Albany Academy when it converted to academy status. Buildings. The former house was the birthplace and childhood home of "Titanic" first mate Charles Lightoller. This has been commemorated by a blue plaque on the school gates and the renaming of the school's canteen to "Lightoller's Diner". Albany Academy has a long and successful history in engaging with the local community. They have developed opportunities and social activities focused on leisure, health and career  development. In addition, a wide range of services and facilities available to hire by community groups, local sports clubs and businesses in the local area. Facilities are available for hire seven days a week, 50 weeks of the year. These include: Sports Hall, Gymnasium, Fully fitted fitness suite Classrooms with ICT facilities and large hall with stage and a sports field which can host a wide range of events. All facilities have full disability access including a lift onto the stage. Educational Results. Albany Academy is consistently one of the top ten performing schools in Lancashire. The school is outstanding  in pupil behaviour and safety and is also outstanding in leadership and management The school also consistently gets outstanding GCSE results; the school always attains the national average, six of the pupils getting the brand new grade 9 score in English language, English literature and Maths. This grade is equivalent to A**. The school has also never achieved below A*-C in art and design and photography. Media. The school appeared on the TV Show Canteen Rescue in 2010, after winning an award to have the school canteen re-decorated. The theme was a 1950s style American Diner. Employment. Albany Academy  is accredited as a Living Wage Employer