Primary school is deemed Centre of...

Primary school is deemed Centre of...

1 May

Primary school is deemed Centre of Excellence

A Teesside primary school has scooped two prestigious national awards for its commitment to inclusion.

Rosebrook Primary School in Stockton-on-Tees is celebrating after being awarded Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) as well as being granted a Centre of Excellence.

In her report, IQM Assessor Joanne Smith, said: “We can be whatever we dream,” is the school’s vision for children to achieve without limitation. The leaders and staff team work to remove barriers to ensure pupils have every opportunity to be happy and succeed in school learning and life.

“The children know that staff believe in them and care for them and the leaders’ vision is echoed through the children’s voice. Pupils speak warmly about the adults in school and enthusiastically shared their happy experiences and memories from the many opportunities and the interesting curriculum that the school provides.

“High expectations are the starting point for the work of all involved in the life of Rosebrook.  The school’s purpose is to serve their community which is evident from their website welcome, their online presence, communications with parents, carers and community members and strong governor involvement.”

The report goes on to praise leadership at the school.

It says: “The leaders are uncomplicated in their vision, they see children wanting to attend their local primary school and are very clear that their job is to welcome every child and their family to their happy, hardworking school.

“A number of staff gave examples of the compassion shown by the Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher.”

The report continues: “One parent shared the kindness of a staff member who worked with their young child to settle into school life, the parent knew that the staff member had given up their own lunchtime to make sure their child was settled and happy and could not have been more grateful.

“Families cannot speak more highly of the support, kindness and positivity shown by all school staff. All parents and carers could not be more complimentary about the never-ending kindness and compassion from staff.”

Staff are also applauded in the report.

The report adds: “The staff talked positively about the impact of training and in particular the whole school approach to understanding adverse childhood experiences. Staff said that everyone has a strong understanding of children’s lived experiences and are able to ensure support is given at the earliest opportunity.”

In the report, Rosebrook’s Inclusion Team was recognised as a beacon of positivity and hope, supporting families with compassion and care, and helping children to feel safe and thrive.

Headteacher Leanne Todd expressed immense pride in the recognition.

She added: “We are incredibly honoured to receive both the Inclusive Quality Mark award and Centre of Excellence status. These awards are a reflection of the belief we hold in every child’s potential and the dedication of our entire school community to nurturing that potential through care, consistency, and high expectations.”

Rosebrook is one of ten primary schools across Teesside, County Durham and Hartlepool under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra Academy Trust, said: “These are significant achievements, and I would like to congratulate everyone involved at Rosebrook.

“The awards demonstrate Rosebrook’s exceptional commitment to being an inclusive school that engages well with the school community and puts the well-being of pupils at the heart of everything they do.”

Reception places for September 2025 are still available at Rosebrook. For further information, contact the school on 01642 677985

Click on the link below to read the full IQM report

Rosebrook Primary School Report – Mar 2025