Inspiring Rochdale schools shortlisted for prestigious awards

Councillor Kieran Heakin, cabinet member for children's services

Kentmere primary and Cardinal Langley Sixth Form are both up for top awards as finalists in the Educate Awards.

The awards are in their seventh year and are the largest education awards in the north west.

Over 21 different categories, the awards recognise the hard work of schools, their innovative ideas and the outstanding educational opportunities they provide for students.

Kentmere Primary is nominated in the Most Inspirational Primary School category, in recognition of their unique and inspiring journey which has seen them move from special measures to outstanding in just over 4 years.

Ofsted encapsulated the spirit of Kentmere perfectly when it notes that the schools’ ‘culture of excellence’ and their achievements acknowledge the endeavours of an extraordinary team of staff and governors, who have worked tirelessly and in complete unity towards a shared goal.

Headteacher Sarah Isberg was delighted to find out they’d been nominated.

She said: “The staff, children, parents and community are proud to belong to a school where high expectations have driven up standards and the pupils receive the best possible education. This nomination is recognition of that.”

Cardinal Langley Sixth Form is nominated in the Most Inspirational 16-18 Education Provider category for their success in outcomes and progression.

Last year’s results saw them in the top 25% of school and colleges nationally for A-levels, AS levels and BTEC. They attained 100% pass rate at A-Level with 52% achieving A* to B. 79% of students achieved Distinction* in vocational subjects and 77% went on to gain a place at university, with over a quarter gaining a place at a Russell Group University.

The remaining 23% attained an apprenticeship or went straight into employment.

Headteacher Andrew Bridson was very proud to see the school nominated, saying: “We have a fantastic group of staff and students that make our sixth form such an inspirational place to work and study. The results that students achieve complete with the best and we are delighted that this has been recognised by being shortlisted for the award.”

Councillor Kieran Heakin, cabinet member for children’s services, said: “Well done to Kentmere and Cardinal Langley, this is another huge success story for our local schools. I see daily the hard work and innovation across the borough and I wish them all the best for the finals.”

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Friday 16 November 2018 at Liverpool Cathedral.