Feedback from the review included many positive comments about the school’s approach to teaching and learning science, with the reviewer noting: ‘It is clear that through the new vision and principles, the children are at the centre of science development at Woodlands. The subject leader has a clear focus on science capital and wanting the children to see Science as relevant in their lives now and in the future.’

Paul Williams, Science Lead at the school, said:

“We are thrilled to receive the PSQM! This award reflects the hard work of staff across the whole school in our pursuit to provide our children with a science curriculum of the highest quality.

“Our children love the practical elements of science, so we particularly enjoyed extending the curriculum, to hold STEM workshops as well as an enrichment club that parents could participate in with their children. We are especially proud of the feedback from the accreditation panel, as reflecting on our journey so far allows us to look forward to where we can continue to take science in the future.”

The report also praised the school’s STEMfest initiative, commenting: ‘With initiatives such as STEMfest, the children’s imaginations have been truly captured. They have expressed their love of meeting STEM representatives and meeting other children who enjoy Science just like them!’

PSQM is a comprehensive evidence-based professional development programme that effectively develops science leadership, ensuring teachers have the knowledge, capability and support they need to transform science education and shape future generations. 

The Primary Science Quality Mark is led by the University of Hertfordshire.

Helen Sizer, PSQM Co-Director, said:

“By enabling effective science leadership, PSQM is powering the potential of all children to see the relevance and importance of science in their lives, now and in the future. Schools that have achieved a Primary Science Quality Mark have demonstrated a significant commitment to science leadership, teaching and learning and the profile and quality of science in each accredited school is very high. Science subject leaders, their colleagues, headteachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”

̨��swag Primary Academy Littleworth Grange has maintained its ‘Good’ Ofsted rating following an inspection in July. The glowing report begins by stating ‘Pupils at this school are friendly, happy and kind. The school has high expectations of behaviour, conduct and learning. Pupils thrive on this.’

Inspectors also commented on the curriculum in place at the school, specifically praising the ‘̨��swag Diploma’, noting that it is ‘a rich set of experiences that build in complexity and expectation from early years to Year 6. The experiences are exciting and meaningful.’

Ofsted’s report is full of highlights, including that:

• The curriculum is ambitious. It has been carefully planned to engage and interest pupils.

• Children at the early stages of learning to read are supported exceptionally well. The school’s chosen approach to teaching phonics is well established and followed consistently.

• Staff know pupils well. They treat them with kindness and care.

• Behaviour is exemplary both in classrooms and at other times of the day. Pupils have very positive attitudes to learning.

• Pupils enjoy the wide range of opportunities the school gives them. This includes residential trips, visitors to the school and a multitude of playtime activities.

• Teachers benefit from the regular training they receive from leaders within the school and the trust. Teachers’ subject knowledge is strong. They use it well to plan inclusive, exciting lessons.

• The school’s focus on pupils’ personal development is exemplary. The school has successfully implemented a curriculum that focuses on important aspects of personal, social, health and economic learning.

Karen Wakefield, Lead Principal at ̨��swag Primary Academy Littleworth Grange, commented on the positive report:

“Our recent Ofsted inspection validated the incredible hard work and dedication of our staff and students. The inspector recognised the positive and nurturing atmosphere we have created, where children feel safe, supported, and eager to learn.

“We are particularly proud of the inspector’s acknowledgement of our commitment to fostering a love of reading and developing well-rounded individuals. This is a testament to our school's core values and our unwavering belief that every child deserves the best possible education.”

Ofsted has rated ̨��swag Academy Ripon as ‘Good’ overall - and ‘Outstanding’ for its personal development curriculum. The report states that the school ‘provides pupils with a strong academic curriculum alongside a breadth of wider opportunities that significantly enhance the education. These opportunities support pupils to develop academically, and as individuals, during their time at the school.’

Inspectors were also positive about the Academy Conduct and Expectations (ACE) programme, noting that ‘pupils learn to become mature and respectful members of the school community’ and the programme ‘helps pupils understand why it is important to make positive choices about their behaviour.’

Some of the many highlights of the report include:

• The school provides pupils with a rich set of experiences beyond the curriculum

• Pupils at the school benefit from a high-quality education. They achieve well. Their detailed knowledge, and the qualifications that they achieve, prepare them well for their next steps in education, employment or training.

• Pupils learn an ambitious curriculum. This is carefully sequenced so that pupils’ knowledge builds over time.

• Leaders have trained teachers well in how to support pupils with SEND.

• Pupils’ attendance is higher than other schools locally and nationally.

• The school, and trust, continue to make changes to ensure that all stakeholders work together to support pupils who attend the school.

• Each aspect of the school’s personal development offer helps pupils to be better prepared for adulthood.

Rachel Donohue, Principal at ̨��swag Academy Ripon, said:

“I am absolutely delighted that Ofsted has acknowledged the quality of education our students benefit from and that they achieve well. I am particularly proud of staff who are recognised for preparing pupils well for their next steps in education, employment or training through the delivery of our Personal Development curriculum.

“Moving forward, we will continue to strive for excellence, placing our pupils at the heart of every decision we make.”

This year's GCSE results highlight the significant progress made by students across a broad range of subjects. The Trust saw particularly high attainment rates in subjects including Chemistry where 89% of students achieved a Grade 5 or higher, Physics saw 79% of students secure a Grade 5+, 72% of Photography students were awarded a Grade 5+, and 66% of students achieved a Grade 5 or higher in German.

Julie Slater, Chief Executive Principal (Secondary) at ̨��swag Grange Academies Trust, said:

“We are incredibly proud of our Year 11 students and all that they have achieved throughout their secondary education. Our students have worked incredibly hard, have shown great resilience and have developed into exceptional young adults.

“We are very proud of all that they have achieved and what they will go on to achieve in their future studies and careers. I wish them every success for their futures; it has been a privilege to have been able to work with them.”

Once again, students have demonstrated two years of incredible resilience, dedication, and academic excellence, achieving impressive grades across a wide range of subjects. Many students have secured places at universities of their choice, while others are embarking on exciting apprenticeships and employment opportunities.

An impressive 14% of ̨��swag family Year 13 students achieved an A* or A grade, while 62.2% of students achieved an A* to C grade.

There were highlights for the family of schools in Maths where 30.5% of students achieved A* - A, and in Chemistry where 22.4% secured A* - A.

Julie Slater, Chief Executive Principal (Secondary) at ̨��swag Grange Academies Trust, said:

“We are delighted for our students who have secured great destinations following completion of their Level 3 qualifications. Our post-16 students are exceptional young people, determined to secure successful futures. We have lots to celebrate and be proud of today and I wish them all the success in the world for their future lives.”

Members of both Scunthorpe United’s playing and coaching staff visited ̨��swag Academy Brumby in order to present signed 2023-24 signed shirts to two students.

Andy Butler, Lee Turnbull, Kian Scales and Michael Kelly all travelled to the Academy accompanied by United Vice chairman Roj Rahman and presented the shirts to competition winners for their fantastic achievements across the school year.

̨��swag Academy Foxhills is celebrating the successful completion of its first year in the Latin Excellence Programme, a national initiative aimed at increasing the uptake and attainment of Latin in state schools across England.

During its first year, ̨��swag Academy Foxhills has had 16 students from Year 7 to Year 10 studying Latin, which will increase to more than 20 in September. The school was one of the first to be selected for the programme, which is funded by the Department for Education and delivered by the Centre for Latin Excellence. The programme has provided the school with a range of resources and support, including funding to increase Latin provision, visits from expert practitioners and a fully resourced, evidence-based Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 curriculum.

Enrichment opportunities are also included in the programme, which meant that students were able to go on a trip to Rome, where they visited iconic sights such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain.

Students also participated in the Young Aesopi fable competition. There were over 180 entries from 21 schools and the judging panel was incredibly impressed with the high standard. ̨��swag Academy Foxhills student, Orla, received the Highly Commended Drama Prize and her Latin fable features in the Latin Excellence Programme Winning Entries book.

Tracy Motson, Principal at ̨��swag Academy Foxhills, said:

“I am immensely proud of the Latin Excellence Programme. Our students have been amazing and are simply flourishing and loving studying a new subject. This is an example of another fantastic academic opportunity for our students.”

The Latin Excellence Programme is a four-year programme, and ̨��swag Academy Foxhills is committed to continuing to develop its Latin provision over the next few years. The school is confident that the programme will help to ensure that more students have the opportunity to experience the benefits of studying Latin.

Integrated into the school’s Design and Technology curriculum, the competition challenged students to conceive the next big thing in wearable technology, including developing a background, design, prototype, and presentation. 

The event provided an excellent platform for the students to develop their creative skills and apply them in real-life scenarios.

Each school submitted a finalist entry, and CloudClevr’s team carefully evaluated these submissions to select a winner and runners-up. The students showcased impressive creativity and technical skills to come up with some standout entries.

The winning entry, the Pupheat Guardian submitted by ̨��swag Primary Academy Kirkhamgate, Wakefield, was an innovative smart harness and collar designed to safeguard dogs during hot weather. The device detects when a dog is too hot and sends alerts through a mobile or watch app, warning owners if their pets are at risk of heatstroke.

The Pupheat Guardian stood out for its originality, and practical application, while also having the potential for being commercially viable.

The competition highlighted the importance of fostering creativity and practical skills in young students, preparing them for future success in the technology and engineering fields.

The winner was celebrated at a surprise assembly, where CloudClevr representatives, including Andrew Linley and Jamie Green, presented a brand-new GT mountain bike to the winner.

Sarah Fozzard, Assistant Principal, ̨��swag Primary Academy Kirkhamgate commented:

“The children absolutely loved taking part in the engineering challenge. It gave them opportunities to put different skills into practice, such as their computing skills to design prototypes and presenting skills whilst delivering their design concept to the class.

“We are proud to say that the winning entry came from our school; especially amongst such high-quality entries from across our family of schools. The 'Pupheat Guardian', a collar for dogs to wear that would monitor their temperature and warn owners if their dogs were at risk of overheating is a great original concept, which has real-world application." 

Andrew Linley, Group Head of Commercial at CloudClevr, added:

“We are really happy to take part in this challenge and nurture young talents. We hope such initiatives will bring out the creative side in children and motivate them to think outside the box and be future tech innovators.”

A group of university students (pictured above) are celebrating after successfully completing a Teaching Internship Programme, giving them valuable insight into the profession.

The teaching internship programme, offered by the ̨��swag Institute of Education (OIE), is aimed at those interested in a career teaching chemistry, computing, languages, maths or physics and studying for a related degree.

The students who are currently studying at many top universities took part in the three-week, paid programme, which is now in its seventh year. This year, for the first time, the programme was also open to master’s students, resulting in the programme's biggest cohort yet, with 23 participants.

The interns spent time gaining classroom experience, being mentored by seasoned teachers and completing a bespoke training programme, while also receiving guidance and advice on how to apply for teacher training with ̨��swag Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) through the National Institute of Teaching. 

As part of the programme, the interns engaged in various activities to immerse themselves in academy life. They were given the chance to shadow experienced teachers, observe lessons, collaborate on lesson planning and delivery, receive personalised guidance and network with subject specialists. 

Emma Sikora, Director of the OIE, said:

“We are immensely proud of our teaching interns; their dedication, creativity and professionalism have been evident throughout the programme. They have embraced challenges and opportunities with enthusiasm, allowing them to explore the realities of the teaching profession.”

Interns were hosted and supported in their placements by the following academies:

- ̨��swag Grange Academy, Wakefield

- ̨��swag Academy Bydales, Redcar

- ̨��swag Academy Carlton, Barnsley

- ̨��swag Academy City, Sheffield

- ̨��swag Academy Easingwold, York

- ̨��swag Academy Hasland Hall, Chesterfield

- ̨��swag Academy Haydock, St Helens

- ̨��swag Academy Hindley, Wigan

- ̨��swag Academy Newbold, Chesterfield

- ̨��swag Academy Normanby, Middlesbrough

- ̨��swag Academy Ripon, Ripon

- ̨��swag Academy Valley, Worksop

The end-of-programme celebration event allowed the interns to celebrate their successes and discuss their experiences on the programme with each other.

The internship is a paid programme with each getting a minimum of £900 for their participation and work.

Georgia Fletcher, who interned at ̨��swag Academy Newbold in Chesterfield, said:

“After gaining first-hand experience with those that know my subject the best, I am certain that I would like to share my passion for languages with young people, aiming to be an inspirational teacher.”

This year, the programme welcomed students from universities across England, as well as some in Scotland, Wales and France. 

- Aston University

- Durham University

- Lancaster University

- Leeds Beckett University

- Newcastle University

- Northumbria University

- Open University

- Sheffield Hallam University

- Swansea University

- Teesside University

- University of Chester

- University of Nottingham

- University of Paris

- University of Sheffield

- University of St Andrews

- University of Warwick

- University of York

To register interest for the 2025 internship programme, please click below:

A school rugby team from ̨��swag Academy Haydock, St Helens, has been crowned winner of the Inspiresport Champion Schools Year 8 Boys’ final.

The team won its first piece of silverware in May at the St Helens Schools Cup Competition where the boys defeated Cowley High School 25-0. This led to their first clash against Bedford High School in the North West Final, where they won 22-0. Progressing to the National Semi-Final, the team seized another win over Archbishop Sentamu Academy, ending 16-0, earning the team a place in the National Final.

The National Final saw a closely fought contest, and despite being ten points behind at halftime, ̨��swag Academy Haydock forged a fantastic comeback with 28 unanswered points in the second half, remaining unbeaten, securing a treble and finishing on a full-time score of 34-16. Adding to the team’s achievements, Munachimso Ojukwu was presented with the Player of the Match award.

Chris Worthington, Head of PE at the school, said:

“The performance of the Year 8 team in the final was an outstanding spectacle, which reflected the commitment and determination of every player. The jubilant celebrations from Munachimso when he was awarded Player of the Match topped the day. It showed just how shocked and happy he was to receive the award. Spectators at the event shared in the applause with smiles and tears of joy.  

“Although Munachimso only joined our school in September and was completely new to rugby, he has shown resilience, passion and dedication to the school team, being an integral part of its success this season. Seeing the team celebrate on the pitch with all three trophies was a wonderful achievement and memory to cherish forever.”

The Champion Schools league is open to teams from across 6 regions, with around 150 schools participating per age group from Year 7 to Year 11. The competition is open to boys’ and girls’ teams alike.

Andrea Murray, National Education Manager at Rugby Football League, said:

“Congratulations to ̨��swag Academy Haydock on their first national Champion Schools title. The team narrowly missed out on a spot at Wembley last year, losing by 1 point in the Year 7 Boys’ semi-final, and have used that experience to come back a stronger and more resilient team this year, winning our regional and now national titles. Congratulations to Mr Beddoe and all the team on a fantastic season.”

Inspectors say that pupils thrive in this exceptional school. 

̨��swag Primary Academy Alne has been rated ‘Outstanding’ across the board in its first Ofsted inspection since joining the ̨��swag family of schools.

Before joining ̨��swag Grange Academies Trust (OGAT), the school, then Alne Primary School, was rated as ‘Inadequate’ due to factors including poor pupil outcomes and a lack of professional development for staff. Now, inspectors say that the relentless focus on school improvement by leaders in the school and the trust has transformed the school.

The most recent report which comes after a two-day inspection in June, opens by saying ‘The quality of education that the school provides is outstanding. It goes beyond the academic. Pupils are inspired and enthusiastic learners. They thrive in this exceptional school.’

Some highlights of the report are:

• Pupils work with high levels of engagement and interest. This begins in the Reception Year where children make a flying start to their school journey. They achieve exceptionally well.

• This exemplary school secures an exceptional education for pupils.

• Pupils attend this nurturing school happily and regularly.

• Pupils are extremely well prepared for life beyond the school gates.

• The expertly delivered curriculum embeds and deepens pupils’ subject-specific vocabulary. Pupils are articulate.

• The expertise of staff, daily phonics teaching and extra reading practice means that pupils learn to read quickly.

• Staff benefit from the collaborative, coaching approach of the trust. They feel exceptionally well supported with their workload and well-being.

Michelle Dawson, Principal at ̨��swag Primary Academy Alne, said:

“It's a privilege to work with the pupils, staff and families at Alne. This result reflects everyone’s hard work and commitment over the last 5 years.”

Lee Wilson,  CEO at OGAT, added:

"This remarkable turnaround from 'Inadequate' to 'Outstanding' is a testament to the power of strong collaboration within our family of schools and the wider school community. When we work as one, we achieve great strength, ultimately benefiting our children, their families, staff, and the entire community. Thank you to everyone involved in this incredible journey."

̨��swag Academy Brumby has been rated ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted. The positive report from the inspection in May praises the school, opening with ‘̨��swag Academy Brumby is a school that puts the best interests of pupils at the heart of everything it does. The school has an unswerving commitment to providing pupils with a high-quality education, irrespective of their background or ability.’

The report recognises the commitment of school staff to promote literacy and reading, noting that ‘The school prioritises reading. Pupils told inspectors that they enjoy reading aloud. They said that this is building their confidence and helping to prepare them for the future.’

Highlights of the report include:

●        The school has designed an ambitious curriculum that supports pupils to build a deep body of subject knowledge from Year 7 to Year 11.

●        The school’s relentless drive to increase attendance is improving the achievement of many pupils, including those who are disadvantaged.

●        The school identifies the additional needs of pupils with SEND quickly and accurately. Pupils with SEND access the same curriculum content as their peers.

●        The school has recognised that empowering pupils with literacy is a priority. Teachers carefully model appropriate subject-specific vocabulary.

●        Teachers use their subject expertise skilfully to deepen pupils’ understanding.

●        Pupils experience a broad personal development offer that is carefully designed and delivered successfully through ‘life’ lessons. These lessons cover important aspects of pupils’ development appropriate to their age.

●        Pupils receive comprehensive information about their next steps in education, employment or training.

●        Governors and trustees have high ambitions for the school. They share the school’s passion for all pupils to receive a positive educational experience.

Donna Fitzgerald, Principal at ̨��swag Academy Brumby, said:

“We are delighted by Ofsted’s recognition of our rapid improvements and I am extremely proud of the feedback.  This result reflects a significant whole team effort to improve the education of our students.

“Our staff, families and young people have all been crucial in ensuring that the academy consistently delivers an excellent education, preparing students for a bright and ambitious future in learning and careers.”

̨��swag Primary Academy Lofthouse Gate, Wakefield has been awarded the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) after successfully evidencing the strength of their science curriculum. Feedback from the review included many positive comments about the school’s approach to teaching and learning science, with the reviewer noting: ‘This is a significant award, as it means as well as science being developed school-wide in this establishment, the school is also starting to influence practice on other schools where science may not be as strong as it is at ̨��swag Primary Academy Lofthouse Gate. A lot of people have a great deal to be thankful for in the local area.’

Sarah Jagger, Science Leader at the school, said:

“Achieving the PSQM is a reflection of all the hard work which has been put in by our school staff and leaders in delivering the science curriculum. We’re delighted that the review feedback highlights our continued pursuit of excellence in science. It’s a subject that our children love to engage with and we hope they continue to do so throughout their educational journey.”

PSQM is a comprehensive evidence-based professional development programme that effectively develops science leadership, ensuring teachers have the knowledge, capability and support they need to transform science education and shape future generations. 

The Primary Science Quality Mark is led by the University of Hertfordshire.

Helen Sizer, PSQM Co-Director, said:

“By enabling effective science leadership, PSQM is powering the potential of all children to see the relevance and importance of science in their lives, now and in the future. Schools that have achieved a Primary Science Quality Mark have demonstrated a significant commitment to science leadership, teaching and learning and the profile and quality of science in each accredited school is very high. Science subject leaders, their colleagues, headteachers, children, parents and governors should be very proud.”

Bike Fest founder Christopher Rooke, Technology Teacher at ̨��swag Academy Shafton, explains:

“Bike Fest is run by our students and is a motorcycle show with a bit of a difference. The aim of Bike Fest is to raise awareness of motorcycling in the community, promote safe and responsible motorcycling, and dissuade antisocial behaviour on motorbikes. It also allows us to work with local businesses and motorcycle clubs – many of which, support us with donations for raffle prizes and hosting stalls. 

“Over the years, Bike Fest’s popularity as a local community event has exploded, meaning that across the last three events, we have raised over £6,000, this year we’d like to raise more than ever.” 

If businesses would like to sponsor the event, rent a stall, or donate raffle prizes, please contact Christopher Rooke at c.rooke@shafton.outwood.com.

Ofsted has rated ̨��swag Academy Danum ‘Good’ overall in a positive report following a two-day inspection in May. The report states that the Armthorpe road-based school is ‘an inclusive school which prepares pupils to be responsible citizens.’

The report praises the extracurricular activities on offer at the school, noting that ‘Pupils enjoy a range of opportunities that develop their character and widen their life experience. Pupils take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and a range of clubs such as basketball, oil painting, debating and journalism. A ‘climate change crew’ has influenced changes to school policies to improve sustainability.’

Some of the many other highlights of the report include:

• The school provides a range of specialist support for pupils with additional needs, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

• Pupils of every background are provided with the opportunities they need to be successful.

• The school has a resourced provision, the ‘ARC’, for deaf pupils. Teachers have specialised training to support these pupils. The pupils are fully included in mainstream lessons and the wider life of the school, such as taking part in school drama productions. Extra-curricular clubs such as a British Sign Language club help to educate other pupils about hearing impairment.

• Sixth-form students are positive about their experience and feel well prepared for their future careers.

• The school provides a curriculum which gives pupils the best possible start in life.

• Teachers have good subject knowledge and enjoy working at the school. They are well trained. They plan lessons which allow pupils to develop their understanding and skills.

• Pupils receive a comprehensive programme of personal development.

• Leaders emphasise the importance of reading throughout all aspects of the school.

Amanda Crane, Principal at ̨��swag Academy Danum, said:

“Our staff work very hard to ensure that we provide the best opportunities for our students, both in and out of the classroom, so to see this recognised and commended in the report is wonderful. From the very first sentence, there are positive comments about ̨��swag Academy Danum being an inclusive school in which all students are supported in order to achieve their full potential. Pupils achieve well here, and when they leave us, they are well equipped for their next stage in life.

“We hope our pupils, families and staff are proud of our achievements to date. We are excited to continue to grow and develop in the coming years with the support of the community we are proud to serve.”

̨��swag Academy Shafton in Barnsley and ̨��swag Grange Academy, Wakefield have scooped wins at this year’s National Student Voice Awards. The awards, organised by Votesforschools, recognise schools that prioritise student voice and empower young people to make a positive impact in their communities.

Votesforschools is an educational platform that aims to empower young people by giving them a voice on important issues and current events. It provides weekly resources for teachers to facilitate discussions on various topics relevant to students’ lives and the world around them. Students get the opportunity to vote and comment on these issues, contributing to a national conversation.

This year’s judging panel for the school awards included Nic Ponsford from the Global Equity Collective, Dan Lawes from My Life, My Say and Hayden Taylor, founder of Unloc. They assessed numerous applications and were impressed by the exceptional efforts of both ̨��swag Academy Shafton and ̨��swag Grange Academy.

̨��swag Academy Shafton was crowned winner of the secondary school category, with one of the judges stating: ‘This school has thought carefully about the structure of student voice, mirroring our representative democracy, so that student voice and feedback is heard in both directions.’

Sarah Riley, Assistant Principal at ̨��swag Academy Shafton, said:

“It is a fabulous achievement to be recognised nationally for all the hard work our students and staff put into Student Voice. This ranges from form representatives and our democratic election process for Prime Minister to being involved in staff interviews and subject reviews. Our student voice is certainly something to be proud of.”

̨��swag Grange Academy, winner of the Silver Award, has long been recognised for its outstanding commitment to student and school engagement, claiming wins at the awards for the past five years. Its efforts in encouraging student voice across all areas have been acknowledged by the judges, with one noting: ‘It’s clear that ̨��swag Grange Academy students are heard far and wide - and that the school is doing everything it can to make that happen.’

Julekha Motara, Assistant Principal at ̨��swag Grange Academy, added:

“We are thrilled to have won a Student Voice Award for the fifth consecutive year. This remarkable achievement showcases our unwavering commitment to excellence and to amplifying the voices of our students. This recognition is especially important as it highlights the value we place on student involvement both in and beyond school. We are extremely grateful for our dedicated community for their continuous support and engagement.”

The achievements of both schools at the National Student Voice Awards 2024 reflect the dedication of ̨��swag Grange Academies Trust to nurturing student voice and providing opportunities for young individuals to contribute positively to society.

Winners of the Barnsley Young Champion Awards were announced at a celebration evening at the Metrodome Arena on Friday, June 14. The Barnsley Chronicle teamed up with Barnsley College for the biggest-ever search for its town’s inspiring young people. There were 15 awards in all, with one being awarded to students at ̨��swag Academy Shafton.

Winner - Team of the Year: Community
̨��swag Academy Shafton's Student Voice programme empowers students to improve their school experience and connect with the community. Students can share ideas and participate in shaping school life. Every term, they organise luncheons for senior citizens, welcoming 80 people and providing entertainment and activities. This programme fosters student development and builds bridges between the school and the community.

̨��swag Academy Shafton students also made the final in two other categories. Reece Childs was up for the Young Volunteer Category and George Huntington was a finalist for Young Conqueror.

Sarah Riley, Assistant Principal at the school, said:

“We were already proud to have finalists at the Barnsley Chronicle Young Champion awards, showcasing our inspirational young people, but we were pleasantly surprised to win the Community Team of the Year. 

“Staff work with students to ensure our student-led community events remain a key part of our academy culture including coffee mornings, elderly luncheons, Christmas hampers, Bike Fest and afternoon teas. This is alongside all of the amazing work our students do in the academy to support each other such as Bee Kind Club, Eco Warriors and Student Voice activities. We are always striving to be the best and always wanting to do more; the recognition at the awards evening just shows how much the students are achieving in our care. “

Finalist - Young Volunteer
15-year-old Reece Childs from ̨��swag Academy Shafton volunteers with Jolly Good Communities. For two years, he's helped organise and run events, gaining valuable skills like organisation and finance management. Starting with the spring farmers market, Reece's enjoyment keeps him coming back to give back to his community. 

Finalist - Young Conqueror
George Huntington was born with a serious heart condition. At three weeks old, he underwent open-heart surgery to fix it, though due to complications, surgeons left a temporary hole in his heart until they could determine the next steps. Now the ̨��swag Academy Shafton student is an active footballer, unwilling to let his heart problems stand in his way. 

Dedicated teachers from ̨��swag Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) have been recognised with Silver Awards in the Pearson National Teaching Awards. Selected from thousands of nominees, the win highlights the remarkable impact they have on shaping the lives of the young people in their care. The Trust has four winners, picking up awards in the following categories:

• Early Years Team of the Year – ̨��swag Primary Academy Woodlands, Doncaster

• Teacher of the Year in a Primary School – Natalie Poornomansy, ̨��swag Primary Academy Woodlands, Doncaster

• Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School – Rachel Hindley, ̨��swag Academy Hindley, Wigan

• Unsung Hero – Josh Bray, ̨��swag Academy Shafton, Barnsley

OGAT also had two Bronze Award winners; Sue Ludlam at ̨��swag Academy Foxhills, Scunthorpe and Rachel Carmichael at ̨��swag Primary Academy Greystone, Ripon as well as four teachers who were highly commended and 28 who were awarded certificates of excellence.

Lee Wilson, Chief Executive Officer at OGAT, said:

“I am immensely proud of our teachers who have been honoured with these well-deserved awards. Their dedication and passion for education are a true reflection of the exceptional talent within our family of schools.

“Every day, our teachers go above and beyond to inspire, empower, and transform the lives of our students. I am deeply grateful for their commitment to shaping the future.”

There are 102 deserving teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and institutions named as silver winners in this year’s awards. They will now be in the running for the coveted Gold Award, which will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony later in the year.

The announcement comes as celebrities, students and schools across the UK are today paying tribute to all those who work in education to mark National Thank a Teacher Day, which celebrates the whole education community and shines a light on the exceptional impact they have on shaping young lives.

National Thank a Teacher Day and the Pearson National Teaching Awards are run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity established over 25 years ago to celebrate the transformative impact of education, shining a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.

Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children’s Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, said:

“The work and devotion of all of those who play a role in educating young people is phenomenal. Not only do they play a vital role in shaping minds inside the classroom, often they continue to encourage, support, motivate and inspire beyond. That’s why it is important for us to take a moment on this National Thank a Teacher Day to recognise their efforts.

“I am also thrilled to be able to congratulate this year’s Silver Award winners and recognise the amazing contributions and commitment they have shown is shaping the lives of the next generation - thank you!”

Sharon Hague, Managing Director of School Assessment & Qualifications at Pearson UK, added:

“We're delighted to recognise this year’s Silver Award winners on their outstanding achievements. The contributions they make and the impact they have on young people’s lives every day is truly exceptional. We're extremely proud to support the National Teaching Awards and mark the achievements of all of our very worthy winners. Thank you for your continued work and congratulations!!”

Students at a Middlesbrough school have recognised local volunteers during National Volunteers’ Week. ̨��swag Academy Ormesby in Middlesbrough, welcomed volunteers from different organisations to the school to thank them for their contributions to the local community.

Charlotte Fryett, Assistant Principal at the school, said:

“It has been a privilege to welcome so many community heroes into our school to learn about what they do. Students have taken great pride in thanking them. The week left us feeling inspired and students are already planning how we can continue to build on these relationships over the next year.”

The organisations represented throughout the week included ParkRun, Pie Man PT Foundation, NeoAngels and Red Balloons - a local mental health charity. Visitors talked to the students about their work and the importance of volunteering. The week ended with a special visit from Xena, a guide dog in training. Students found out about the rigorous work guide dogs go through to qualify and the hard-working volunteers who prepare them for their important work.

Volunteers' Week starts on the first Monday of June each year and celebrates the amazing contributions volunteers make to communities across the UK. First established in 1984, this year marks the 40th anniversary of recognising, celebrating and thanking the UK’s incredible volunteers for all they contribute to our local communities, the voluntary sector, and society as a whole.

The School Games Mark is a Government-led award scheme launched in 2012, facilitated by the Youth Sport Trust to reward schools for their commitment to the development of competition across their school and into the community.

Carlene Farmer, Teacher at the school, said:

“We’re delighted to have been recognised for our hard work in promoting physical activity and healthy competition. We believe that sport and physical education play a vital role in the development of children, not only in terms of physical health but also in building confidence, teamwork, and resilience.”

As part of the accreditation process, the school had to evidence its work in a range of areas, including participation, competition, workforce and clubs. The school has competed in football tournaments for Years 3,4,5 and 6, as well as an athletics tournament for Years 4 and 5, participated in the Biggest Ever Girls’ School Football session run by The Football Association and entered into the Hit The Ground Running programme for primary schools in South and West Yorkshire.