The school's buildings were constructed in two distinct phases; the older building, comprising mainly the former Wheelwright Grammar School for Girls and a newly built wing connected by a bridge c. 1980.

The intake of the school was reflected by the surrounding area, most pupils were taken from the Batley/Dewsbury area due to the school's central location and its position on many bus routes through the surrounding towns.

In May 2015 the CBBC show Hank Zipzer was filmed at the closed school premises after production was relocated from St Catherine's Catholic High School to Birkdale for Series 3 and onwards.

The main entrance sign was carved as Westbrook Academy.

Despite a campaign by parents, staff, pupils and members of the local community to keep Birkdale High School open,[1][2][3][4] Kirklees Council formally closed the school in August 2011.