The Link Academy: A ‘Strong’ School Where Hard Work Beats Talent!


The Link Academy in Dudley invites prospective learners and their families to their Open Evening on Thursday 1st October. See firsthand how they inspire and empower learners to achieve their dreams.
Following its May 2026 inspection, The Link Academy has been praised by Ofsted as an “ambitious and inclusive school” where learners flourish. Inspectors recognised a calm, respectful and supportive school community, where learners feel safe, have excellent attitudes to learning and benefit from strong pastoral care. The academy’s ethos of ‘Rewarding Effort’ continues to be central to daily life, with the mantra ‘Hard Work Beats Talent’ helping learners build confidence, resilience and a strong work ethic so that they can achieve their full potential, whatever their background or starting point.


The Link Academy is continuing to go from strength to strength. In 2026, the academy celebrated its best ever, record-breaking results, building on seven years of sustained progress and achievement. Outcomes now stand consistently at or above the national average, with particularly strong improvements in the number of learners achieving Grade 5 and above in English and mathematics. Alongside academic success, The Link Academy is proud to offer a gold-standard careers programme, helping every learner explore their ambitions, understand future pathways and prepare confidently for life beyond school, whether that is college, apprenticeships, further training or employment.
Ofsted recognised the strong learner support at The Link Academy, where staff provide care, guidance and encouragement so every learner feels valued and motivated to succeed. This spirit of Team Link helps create a welcoming community where learners support and inspire one another. To further support families, Dudley Academies Trust will provide a free blazer and tie to every Year 7 learner who joins The Link Academy in September 2027.


Significant investments have been made in The Link Academy's learning environment. Recent upgrades include state-of-the-art refurbishments of the science labs and food technology room, along with the installation of new computers, software, 3D printers, and laser cutters. These enhancements ensure learners have the best opportunities to explore new subjects, discover new ambitions, and achieve their full potential.
The Link Academy's Open Evening will take place on Thursday 1st October from 17:30 to 20:00. Principal welcome talks are scheduled for 17:45 and 18:45. In addition, tours during the day will be available to book.
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