A SCHOOL is celebrating a hat-trick of awards, including one which ranks it among just five sites in the country.
Astrea Academy Dearne, Goldthorpe, has received the ‘Excellence in Pupil Development’ award from AwardPlace, run by awarding and consultancy group Optimus Education.
It highlights the school as one that develops children’s sense of responsibility, their behaviour and positive attitudes towards each other and the wider community.
Staff and students are also celebrating being named the most dedicated mainstream SEND – special educational needs and disabilities – learning environment in South Yorkshire at the Corporate Vision Education and Training Awards.
Reports note the school’s ‘palpable sense of fun’ and ‘an appreciation of the whole person’.
The third in the trio of awards is from charity Barnardo’s, which has named the school a ‘Beacon School’ for its work around homophobic bullying and LGBTQ+ awareness.
Principal Joanne Wilson said: “If we have learned anything from the last few months, it is that whilst academic achievement undoubtedly opens many doors for our young people, providing a safe and inclusive space that allows children to become exactly who they want to be is of even greater importance in our changing world.
“Gaining these prestigious awards showcases the importance we place on developing our young people so they can discover a strong sense of self, enjoy fulfilling, safe and cherished family networks and friends and build ambitious, successful futures.”
Vice principal Vicky Conway added: “We strive to fulfil the potential of all students throughout their five years with us.
“Academic success is a priority, but ensuring students have the skills to prepare them for life out of school in an ever-evolving society is also a key area of focus.
“We are delighted to have gained recognition for our work.”
