Validator report

07 November 2025

PRA-Shirebrook Academy -NG20 8QF-07/Nov/2025

Areas for further development
-To share best practices across the school to support all children with independent de-escalation strategies.
-To continue to explore and extend the wealth of external visits and extra-curricular activities and monitor the impact of these on the emotional wellbeing of students.
-To continue to analyse behaviour points to review trends for any future interventions.
Award term ref
Confirm the recommendation
1
Overall comments
Shirebrook Academy has demonstrated measurable progress since the previous validation. Provision supported by both quantitative data and authentic pupil voice and parent testimonials. Behaviour averages have risen across terms and resilience is taught directly through curriculum and character systems. Videos of pupils discussing book awards and competitive reading initiatives showed how literacy opportunities are building confidence, aspiration and academic growth. Students articulated how these experiences motivate them to read more widely and challenge themselves. Impact is visible in behaviour data, structured curriculum delivery and in the confident voices of stakeholders.
School ref
Validator benchmark comments
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The academy demonstrates clear cultural embedding through character values, behaviour systems and leadership pathways. Behaviour data evidence shows weekly averages increasing from 914 (HT1) to 1214 (HT3), evidencing improved engagement and conduct. Student and parent voice confirm increased confidence and perseverance, demonstrating that resilience is now visible in outcomes as well as intent.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Character values are explicitly rewarded and tracked through behaviour and house systems, reinforcing perseverance, independence and responsibility. The Behaviour Curriculum Resilience lesson ensures resilience is taught directly. Student reflections show pupils can articulate how they manage setbacks and step outside their comfort zones. Videos of pupils discussing book awards and competitive reading initiatives have highlighted how literacy opportunities are building confidence, aspiration and academic growth. Students articulated how these experiences motivate them to read more widely and challenge themselves in extra-curricular scenarios.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The structured Digital Citizenship Scheme of Work provides progressive teaching of online safety, risk management and responsible communication. The curriculum now equips pupils with practical strategies to manage digital challenges safely and independently, embedding preventative education rather than reactive response. This is evidenced by case studies and student testimonials.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Student voice testimonials evidence increased confidence, communication skills and perseverance, particularly through Youth Council and leadership roles. Parent feedback submitted confirms improved determination and resilience over the academic year. Behaviour data indicates improved engagement and reduced low-level disruption. Pupils describe managing nerves, stepping into unfamiliar environments and reflecting on improvement, demonstrating applied emotional resilience.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The “Dealing with Financial Dilemmas” lesson plan and community-based budgeting activities show practical financial literacy in action. SEND pupils demonstrated budgeting, planning and independent shopping skills, applying maths and decision-making in real contexts. External visitor feedback from Personal Development Day reported high engagement and satisfaction, with sessions building financial capacity for future independence.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Community visits, practical enterprise-style activities and leadership opportunities have enabled pupils to operate beyond their comfort zones. Student reflections describe initial nervousness followed by confidence and enjoyment, showing resilience development through exposure to managed risk. A video of pupils who participated in a round-table discussion with a local MP evidenced civic engagement and social resilience. Students shared how the experience broadened their understanding of local issues, gave them confidence to express viewpoints and raised aspirations for their futures.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Character values and positive reinforcement systems visibly reward effort and perseverance. Weekly house point totals remain consistently high, reflecting recognition of positive behaviours linked to resilience. Pupils describe learning from mistakes and approaching new tasks with greater confidence. Growth mindset principles are reinforced through behaviour tracking and explicit teaching/curriculum content. Behaviour averages and points analyses demonstrate reinforcement of effort and perseverance across year groups and departments.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Youth Council participation and collaborative projects strengthen communication, teamwork and peer support. Students report increased ability to speak to others without anxiety and to work effectively within teams. Positive staff relationships, as noted in external visitor feedback, reinforce a safe and supportive environment. Statements from students accessing nurture provision and targeted interventions including social and emotional support, demonstrates improved emotional regulation, increased confidence in lessons and stronger readiness to learn.
Validator recommendation
I recommend that the school is accredited for this award
Validation confirm date
07/Nov/2025
Product attribute ref
Gold