Northampton school celebrates receiving award for hard work and determination during coronavirus pandemic

Staff at a Northampton school are celebrating after receiving the Rose of Northamptonshire award for their hard work and determination throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Northampton Academy has been providing both normal lessons and wellbeing training virtually during the lockdowns to keep its pupils positive.

The award was jointly launched by the Lord-Lieutenant, the High Sheriff and Northamptonshire County Council to recognise those who have gone above and beyond over the past 10 months.

Principal Chris Clyne said: "All of us at the academy are delighted to have received this special recognition from our local community.

"It is thanks to the hard work and determination of our incredible staff, as well as the ongoing support we’ve received from parents and carers, that we have been able to deliver such a comprehensive remote education package to our students.

“Given the challenges of recent months, I am very proud of the ways we’ve been able to adapt as a school and ensure our students continue to make progress and enjoy their learning.

"Whilst I am very much looking forward to welcoming our students back into the classroom once it is safe to do so, I know that we will come out of this lockdown having developed even stronger relationships between home and school.”

Throughout the pandemic, the school has ensured its students can continue to make strong progress in their education through a comprehensive programme of online learning, including live lessons, in which students have been able to engage with their teachers.

The Wellingborough Road academy has also worked tirelessly to support families who have faced struggles in recent months.

In addition to providing a daily timetable of lessons, the school has also been delivering its successful Character Education programme virtually, helping to support students’ wellbeing.

The programme gives students the chance to take part in online enrichment activities, a remote leadership programme and a live read-a-long each day.

Lord-Lieutenant of Northamptonshire James Saunders Watson said: "There are very many people who during the pandemic have consistently put the needs of others ahead of their own, keeping communities connected and supporting the most vulnerable members of society.

"The Rose of Northamptonshire award has been launched so that the people of Northamptonshire can recognise and thank them."