Validator report

26 February 2026

PRA-Woodhey High School-BL0 9QZ-26/Feb/2026

Areas for further development
-Review and strengthen the RSE framework to ensure challenging content and complex concepts are clearly sequenced, effectively taught and proactively communicated with parents and carers, supporting shared understanding and building resilience in managing sensitive topics.
-Sustain and refine high-impact wellbeing programmes, including rigorous monitoring and evaluation of the My Happy Mind trial, using behaviour, attendance and student voice data to measure long-term impact and inform future development.
Award term ref
Confirm the recommendation
1
Overall comments
Feedback from pupils has been instrumental in shaping development, particularly in identifying the need to explicitly teach resilience strategies. Staff training in the science of resilience has significantly strengthened teacher expertise, resulting in improved pupil confidence, independence and capacity to manage challenge. By analysing behaviour and attendance data, the school is positioning itself to evaluate long-term impact rigorously. The school’s approach to resilience and personal growth is further validated by its Ofsted judgement of Outstanding for Personal Development, recognising the depth and impact of its provision.
School ref
Validator benchmark comments
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Resilience is firmly rooted within Woodhey High School’s culture of respect and excellence. The Woodhey Pledge, enrichment programme and structured personal development curriculum ensure pupils experience challenge across careers, leadership, culture and community. The Behaviour for Learning policy reinforces high expectations alongside restorative approaches. Impact is seen in broadened leadership roles, increased participation in extracurricular and cultural experiences and improved confidence and adaptability. Parent workshops and Parents in Partnership events have strengthened home–school alignment.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Resilient language is consistently modelled through assemblies, PSHE, student leadership structures and ambassador roles. Staff training, motivational speakers and leadership development have strengthened a shared vocabulary of perseverance, reflection and ambition. Impact includes stronger student voice, increased engagement in leadership roles and improved confidence across cohorts. Feedback from pupils previously indicated they lacked strategies to manage setbacks. Teaching the science behind resilience has improved staff knowledge and confidence, which in turn has strengthened pupils’ independence and self-belief.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Digital resilience is well embedded through 1:1 iPads, safeguarding systems, online safety curriculum content and Digital Ambassadors. Clear reporting systems and peer-led initiatives reinforce safe practice. Impact includes improved pupil confidence in managing online risk, greater awareness of digital footprints and increased reporting of concerns. Assemblies and PSHE ensure consistent messaging, while peer ambassadors strengthen pupil-to-pupil support.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Hello Yellow initiatives and a comprehensive pastoral structure including MHST and counsellors. The Reflection Room and restorative approaches offer structured regulation support.

Impact is evidenced through improved access to support, reduced escalation, stronger peer networks and greater pupil confidence in managing emotions. Staff training in recognising early signs of need has strengthened early intervention. The trial of My Happy Mind will further embed evidence-informed practice, with behaviour and attendance data analysed to measure impact over time.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Financial resilience is delivered through PSHE, careers education and real-life enterprise opportunities. Pupils learn budgeting, fraud prevention and informed decision-making, supported by employer engagement and practical experiences such as charity events. Impact includes progressive skill development and pupils confidently articulating financial knowledge during student voice opportunities. Planned enterprise drop-down days will deepen applied learning and confidence in managing money responsibly.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The Woodhey Pledge and target-setting framework ensure structured challenge for every pupil. Residentials, DofE, leadership roles and community projects extend learning beyond the classroom. Impact data shows increased participation in enrichment activities and improved pupil resilience, independence and teamwork. Pupils report greater willingness to embrace new experiences. Tracking systems now allow more precise monitoring and targeted support.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
Growth mindset is reinforced through recognition systems, restorative conversations and consistent “not yet” language. Parent engagement has strengthened shared understanding of effort and progress. PSHE and themed days promote empathy and outward-facing attitudes. Impact includes increased recognition awards, reflective behaviour conversations and improved pupil confidence. Embedding resilience science into staff development has strengthened teacher understanding, resulting in more consistent modelling and stronger pupil outcomes.
Benchmarks ref
Comments on impact identified during validation
The Respect curriculum and PSHE/RSE provision explicitly teach empathy, respectful language and self-worth. Restorative practice and anti-discrimination strategies are embedded in policy. Impact is evident in reduced repeat sanctions, fewer incidents of derogatory language, and survey data showing that pupils feel safer and more respected. Curriculum projects demonstrate improved awareness of equality and empathy. Pupil leadership opportunities and feedback further reinforce responsibility and positive relationships.
Validator recommendation
I recommend that the school is accredited for this award
Validation confirm date
26/Feb/2026
Product attribute ref
Gold