Thorns Collegiate Academy has achieved the Inclusive Attendance Bronze Award, recognising its commitment to creating an inclusive academy culture where students feel valued, supported and able to participate fully in school life.
The award was presented during a Trust-wide Inclusive Attendance Conference, held at the new Shireland Training Centre in Oldbury. The event brought together academy leaders and attendance teams from across the Trust to celebrate progress, share learning and look ahead to the next stage of the Inclusive Attendance Standard.
At Thorns Collegiate Academy, the development journey has provided an opportunity for staff to reflect on how attendance connects with students’ wider experiences, including their relationships, sense of belonging and confidence in school.
The Academy’s approach recognises that positive relationships and a supportive environment are central to helping young people engage with their education. By working closely with students and families, staff continue to strengthen the culture of care, encouragement and opportunity that supports students throughout their time at the academy.
Following this achievement, the Academy will now progress towards the Silver Award stage of the Inclusive Attendance Standard, continuing to build on its work to support students and families.
School Principal, Nikki Jones, said: “Students thrive when they feel known, understood and supported. Creating those positive relationships is at the heart of what we do because young people are more likely to engage, take responsibility and believe in themselves when they know they have people around them who care.
“Attendance is an important part of helping students make the most of their time at Thorns. Every day provides opportunities to learn, build friendships and develop the confidence they need for the future. By working together with families, we can ensure our students feel connected to our community and supported to achieve their goals.”
By continuing to strengthen its approach to inclusive attendance, Thorns Collegiate Academy is ensuring students have the support, relationships and opportunities they need to develop academically, personally and socially.