The Centre of Excellence award recognises schools that demonstrate a deeply embedded commitment to inclusion and continually seek to develop their practice so that every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Following a comprehensive review involving pupils, staff and leaders from across our Primary and Secondary phases, the assessor concluded:

“It is clear from the review process that the leaders at Appleton Academy continue to be fully committed to inclusive education.” The report celebrates the strong sense of belonging that exists across Appleton:

“The school fosters a sense of belonging and community where every child can thrive. It is a place where every child is valued, empowered to discover their unique talents and achieve their full potential.”

Our pastoral support was also particularly praised, with the assessor describing “an outstanding system of pastoral care” operating across the Academy and recognising how confidently pupils access support when they need it. 

The review highlighted many other strengths across Appleton, including:

• the way pupil voice is increasingly embedded in school life, with pupils feeling listened to and able to influence developments; 

• our commitment to making enrichment accessible to disadvantaged pupils and pupils with SEND; 

• the excellent mentoring and proactive support provided to colleagues, particularly Early Career Teachers and trainee teachers; 

• the development of our Primary Hub and secondary Mainstream Plus provision, providing bespoke support to help vulnerable pupils remain engaged in education; 

• and our ongoing work to ensure pupils understand and value equality, diversity and the rights of others. 

Perhaps most importantly, our pupils made a fantastic impression.  The assessor described the Primary and Secondary pupils involved in the review as:

“Ambassadors for the school, demonstrating politeness, respect, and enthusiasm.” 

The final recommendation stated:

“I am firmly of the opinion that the school fully meets the standard required by the Inclusion Quality Mark to maintain its status as a Centre of Excellence.” 

We are incredibly proud of this recognition.  Inclusion at Appleton is about much more than particular programmes or interventions.  It is about creating a school where every pupil feels that they belong, where individual needs are understood and where every child is supported and challenged to Be Your Best.

A huge thank you to our pupils, families and staff who contribute every day to making Appleton such an inclusive community.