Academy honoured as Bronze Winner in 2024 Pearson National Teaching Awards

Entered in the ‘Making a Difference – Secondary School of the Year’ category, this accolade highlights the exceptional hard work and dedication of the academy's staff.

The award entry showcased a variety of initiatives and impressive academic outcomes that highlight the academy’s commitment to excellence, including:

• Kingswood Secondary Academy addresses financial barriers with initiatives like a summer uniform swap shop benefiting 60 families.
• Free breakfast programme for all students and staff.
• Partnership with Barclaycare supports over 120 children and 80 families during Christmas with a Christmas lunch and presents, easing financial burdens and spreading joy.
• Annual careers event connects 40 local employers with students, enriching their educational experience and career prospects.
• Kingswood Secondary Academy celebrates diversity through initiatives like ‘Kingswood Ethnic Minorities Group’ and ‘Pride Club’, fostering inclusivity and cultural awareness.
• Extra-curricular activities like Duke of Edinburgh and Emergency Cadets build life skills, with accolades including a national award and recognition from the House of Commons.
• Kingswood's Got Talent event raises £2000 for local charity Be More Fab, showcasing student talent and community spirit.
• Standards Hub provides easy access for students to borrow any uniform or equipment items they might need for the day before the school day begins, without consequence.
• Despite contextual challenges, Kingswood Secondary Academy excels with a 2023 GCSE ‘Progress 8 Score’ above national average.

As a Bronze Winner, Kingswood Secondary Academy received a certificate of achievement, a personal letter from Michael Morpurgo, the president of the Pearson National Teaching Awards, and a special Bronze Winner lapel pin. These honours serve as a testament to the significant impact the academy has made in fostering a positive and effective learning environment.

To commemorate this achievement, the academy will be celebrating on National Thank a Teacher Day, recognising the contributions of all staff members who have worked tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of their students.

Principal, Matt Gamble, expressed immense pride in the academy’s accomplishment, stating, “This award is a reflection of the collective effort and commitment of our entire school team. It underscores our mission to provide the highest quality education and support to our students.”