Five Astrea Academy Trust primary schools are praised for their “significant achievements” in ensuring excellent outcomes for disadvantaged pupils.
Denaby Main, Gooseacre, Greengate Lane, Intake and Waverley primary academies were delighted to receive a letter of praise from Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, for their work to ensure strong outcomes for disadvantaged students.
Each school received a personal letter from Ms Phillipson, recognising their excellent outcomes for disadvantaged pupils at the end of the academic year 2024/25.
In her letter, the Education Secretary praised the performance of the primary academies, noting that this places them “among the very best nationally” and describing this achievement as “significant”.
She also highlighted the dedication of staff and hard work of pupils, as well as the impact of strong ambition and commitment across the school communities.
The letter went on: “We encourage you to lead the way as a system leader – sharing effective practice, championing networks, supporting collaboration, and helping raise standards across the sector.
“Please pass on my thanks and congratulations to your staff and pupils. I look forward to working with you as we strive together to raise standards for all.”
Joanna White, Principal at Denaby Main, said: “We are delighted to receive this letter from the Secretary of State, which highlights the commitment of our staff, the support of our families and the hard work of our pupils.”
Jack Moore, Principal at Gooseacre, said: “We are committed to ensuring that every young person is inspired, engaged and challenged to achieve at the highest possible level.”
Kara Robinson, Principal at Greengate Lane Primary Academy, said: “We are so pleased to have received this letter from Bridget Phillipson, which highlights the commitment of our staff, and the hard work of our pupils.
“At Greengate Lane Academy, we want all children to be happy and successful and to achieve their best. We do this through high expectations, excellent teaching and an ambitious, well thought-out curriculum.
“We are delighted to share our experience with other schools and to learn from others across the education sector.”
Helen Broad, Principal at Intake, said: “At the heart of our vision is a commitment to ensuring that all children, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, achieve their very best and are equipped for a life of opportunity; we are excited to share our experience and learn from others across the education sector.”
Louise Stanton, Principal at Waverley, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this letter that recognises our collective effort as a school community, ensuring that our vision of ‘all in – no learning lost’ is lived and breathed for all children.”
Rowena Hackwood, Chief Executive Officer of Astrea Academy Trust, added: “I am immensely proud of Denaby Main, Gooseacre, Greengate Lane, Intake and Waverley and the dedication shown by their staff and leadership in making sure disadvantaged pupils thrive.
“This recognition from the Secretary of State reflects their unwavering commitment to ensuring every pupil, regardless of background, is supported to achieve their very best.
“These outcomes also reflect our mission as a trust to provide a brilliant, academically rich education that empowers every pupil to learn deeply, thrive personally and lead a successful life.”
