The Wells Academy has achieved national recognition for its work in improving student behaviour and conduct. The academy has been designated as an Exemplary Leadership Programme host school, a prestigious accolade given to schools that have demonstrated outstanding leadership in a particular area. In this case, Wells has been recognised for its transformative work in creating a positive culture of behaviour and high expectations.

As an ELP host school, headteachers and senior leaders from schools across the country will have the opportunity to visit The Wells Academy and learn first-hand about the strategies leaders have implemented to build a strong and supportive school culture that is focused on learning.

Principal George Coles expressed his pride in the achievement, ‘I’m extremely proud that The Wells Academy has been chosen as an ELP host school. We place a significant emphasis on our culture of high expectations as we know students thrive in an environment that is calm, safe and happy. We’ve worked incredibly hard to build this culture and it’s fantastic to see our work recognised on a national scale.’

Natalie Aveyard, Vice Principal for Behaviour, credits the academy’s improvements to consistent routines and clear expectations, ‘For us, it’s about doing the simple things really well. Every morning, Mr Coles and I stand at the gates and personally greet every single student walking into the academy. We do this to support them and set them up for success for the day ahead. Visitors to the academy often comment on how immaculate our students look in their uniform and how charming they are. That’s because our students and staff understand the importance of the standards we set and buy into it. Together we’ve built a culture of pride by sweating the small stuff!’

In addition to positive behaviour, the academy has placed a significant emphasis on inclusion. Vice Principal Sarah Bailey-Wiles, who oversees this area, emphasised the importance of providing an environment where every student can succeed, ‘We are really proud of the inclusive culture we have built at The Wells Academy. Our inclusion team is fantastic and our students with additional needs are able to thrive in our supportive environment. It’s a testament to our whole school approach that every student feels valued and able to achieve.’

Leaders at Wells have driven initiatives to move the academy forward, ensuring a strong focus not only on academic success but also on the development of students’ character. One key initiative has been the academy’s personal development programme, designed to engage the ‘whole child’ and equip students with the knowledge and character they need to succeed in the future.

Mr Coles, who is also a drama teacher, has taken a personal interest in ensuring students feel a sense of belonging at the academy. Earlier this year, the academy staged their first ever production, ‘Annie’ which was a huge success. Mr Coles said, ‘For me, it’s really important that students feel they belong. Often, that sense of belonging comes through participation in activities like school productions or sports teams. I love being involved in our productions because it gives me the chance to work closely with students I don’t normally teach. It’s great to be part of building a wider sense of community within the academy.’

Since The Wells Academy has worked diligently to develop a positive and inclusive culture, it is now in a stronger position than ever to elevate the quality of its curriculum and teaching. Mr Coles said, ‘With our strong culture as the backbone, we’re confident that our students will continue to thrive and achieve exceptional results.’