Junior school celebratesuniversity accreditation

Isambard Brunel Junior School in Wymering Road, Portsmouth, has been accredited as a Thinking School by the University of Exeter.

This puts them in a group of around 100 other schools that have received this accreditation.

The school joined The Thinking Schools Academy Trust (TSAT) back in November 2014 and the strong partnership between school and Trust has had a major positive impact on teaching and learning, as confirmed in a new report by the University of Exeter’s Cognitive Education Development Unit.

The report, issued as part of the accreditation process, praised the school’s transformation and found that its leadership has been ‘doing something radical and different” that enables pupils to “become the masters of their own destiny’, helping to boost their self-esteem.

Sara Paine, deputy headteacher at Isambard Brunel Junior School, said: ‘Becoming an accredited Thinking School is just the start of our journey – it means our children are equipped with the tools and habits needed to be powerful, independent, lifelong learners.

‘This coveted award has motivated everyone to develop even further our exciting and innovative approach to education, which is transforming the life chances of children here every day.’

Stuart Gardner, Chief Executive of The Thinking Schools Academy Trust, added: ‘Achieving accreditation as a Thinking School is a huge milestone for Isambard Brunel Junior School, and it is testament to the outstanding efforts of all staff and pupils, who work incredibly hard to offer an open and critical learning environment.

‘We are so proud of the school’s transformation since joining our Trust, and we look forward to continuing to work together on further improvements in future.’

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