Community First Academy Trust

In being awarded this prestigious award, the Academy fought off stiff competition from Local Authorities, Schools and Academies nationwide. The awards were held yesterday, at a champagne reception, held on a terrace at the Houses of Parliament, overlooking the Thames. New minister for children and families, Robert Goodwill, opened the ceremony. Sponsored by Tes, in partnership with the Department for Education, the awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of schools and early years providers, in using the pupil premium – worth £2.5 billion this year – to make a difference to the lives of disadvantaged pupils. Rose Bridge Academy, was among the winners: winning the pupil premium plus category, awarded to the school that has done the most nationally to help looked-after children. What an achievement! Rose Bridge consistently shows high levels of attainment and significant rates of improvement among its disadvantaged pupils. We cannot congratulate the team at Rose Bridge enough on what is a truly fantastic achievement. Debra Wood, Headteacher said “These children go through all sorts of difficulties in their lives,” she said. “Sometimes these students need extra-special care. “It’s about making sure that every teacher in the classroom understands the needs of children from disadvantaged backgrounds. We don’t let not having a pen to bring to school become a barrier to learning." Sue Darbyshire, CEO said "The award is a wonderful endorsement of all the hard work and dedication the team at Rose Bridge Academy give to its students. This award also recognises that Rose Bridge spends its pupil premium funding well to maximise the children's achievement. I couldn't be more pleased for them.’’ Tony Clifford (formerly of NAVSH and until recently the VSH for Stoke-on-Trent) couldn’t make it to the ceremony, but had this to say about the Academy “Rose Bridge clearly demonstrated its commitment to meeting the challenge of asking “Would this be good enough for my child?” and taking action if it would not be. We felt that if all schools took this approach outcomes for children in care would radically improve. Rose Bridge clearly articulated an approach based on strong principles – they are authentic champions for children-underpinned by rigorous self-evaluation and continuous improvement and very impressive outcomes. They are making a difference to the lives and learning of children in care.” Full details of all winners can be found on the TES website. Please ensure you join us in congratulating the dedicated team at Rose Bridge Academy on their achievements and truly deserved award and national recognition for pupil premium outcomes. About Pupil Premium: Pupil premium was introduced in 2010, offering schools additional funding for every pupil who has been entitled to receive free school meals (FSM) at any point over the last six years

Link: http://www.pupilpremiumawards.co.uk/ppawards2017/en/page/2017-winners