City of Peterborough Academy shortlisted for major special needs award

Pupils and staff at the City of Peterborough Academy are celebrating after being shortlisted for Most Inclusive Practice Across a School at the National Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) Awards.

The SEND and Inclusion Team at the academy has been working hard to introduce new measures to further support its pupils - including animal assisted therapy; bespoke interventions, to remove as many learning and social barriers as possible; and behaviour mentors.

The academy has more than 16 per cent of SEND pupils across the school, higher than the national average.

Ben Pearce, principal at City of Peterborough Academy, said: “I am extremely proud of our school community – our pupils, staff and parents – and was thrilled to be shortlisted.

“Our teachers and staff are passionate about ensuring all pupils at the academy receive the support they need to fulfil their potential, and this award is a testament to their incredibly hard work.”

Wayne Norrie, chief executive of Greenwood Academies Trust - which sponsors the academy - said: “I am delighted that the hard work of the staff, pupils and parents at City of Peterborough Academy has been recognised by the National SEND Awards.

“As a trust, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, safe and supportive learning environment for all pupils and it is incredibly rewarding for the trust, academy and Mr Pearce to be recognised in this way.”