Harnessing the Power of Respect, Equity and Dignity

At Greensward, the student is placed at the front and centre of all that we do. From the moment a nervous Year 7 walks through the gates for the very first time, to the day they leave as a confident Year 13 equipped with the skills needed to take on the world, they are nurtured, developed, challenged and, above all else, understood. 

Greensward Academy embraces an educational approach that promotes a culture of individuality. By encouraging the appreciation and acceptance of various backgrounds, the academy creates a nurturing environment that effectively combats negative behaviours like bullying and harassment, ensuring students feel secure—both physically and emotionally reducing distractions and conflicts, allowing students to focus on their education. This commitment to inclusivity and common values enhances the school culture, establishing it as a model for other schools striving for similar objectives. Our school culture is encapsulated by our aim to turn the school 'RED',  representing our dedication to our three core values: Respect, Equity, and Dignity. Respect is ingrained. Equity is entrenched. Dignity is imbued.

We have established a setting that showcases the crucial benefits of a supportive environment, values diversity, and diligently promotes the ideals necessary for fostering a united and compassionate community through our RED ethos.  We celebrate individual differences, commonalities, value and nurture uniqueness  whilst upholding a strict zero-tolerance stance against bullying, harassment, and violence.

Students at Greensward Academy know that they aren't alone; they have a dedicated, committed and passionate team fighting their corner, having their back and guiding their journey through school. Appreciative of the power of collaboration, the team dynamic is strong; from the Head of Year to the team of Sixth Form Peer Mentors, this is a group of people defined by their desire to help. Our pastoral team promotes strong, trusting relationships between students and staff, allowing students to feel heard and supported. This approach helps cultivate a safe, nurturing environment where students can develop self-esteem, build resilience, and thrive both academically and personally. By prioritising these values, we have created an inclusive and respectful atmosphere, empowering students to reach their full potential. Recognised by both OFSTED and external quality reviews as offering a standard of care that is difficult to surpass, the Greensward Academy Pastoral Team is the rock upon which a successful school is built. 

Entering Greensward Academy reveals a commitment to embracing and celebrating differences. This ethos is more than just a slogan; it is fundamentally embedded in the school's culture. Through our dedication and resolve, we provide a distinctive educational experience, where we believe that being different is not just good but vital! As our school population becomes increasingly diverse, it is essential that we continuously evolve to ensure our education reflects the changing demographics and experiences of today's society. Championing diversity in education goes beyond simply ensuring students see themselves represented in the curriculum. It involves creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, fostering empathy, and preparing students to engage with the complexities of the modern world.

Our school is committed to nurturing an inclusive community that embraces diversity, ensuring every student feels valued and respected. By honouring each individual's identity and supporting those with varying abilities and vulnerabilities, we cultivate a friendly environment where equity and dignity are paramount. Students not only gain academic knowledge but also learn the importance of courtesy, empathy, and inclusivity, preparing them to thrive both personally and socially. Greensward is guided by the notion that, to "unlock the learner", they must first "know the child". By recognising the diverse needs of students and adapting teaching methods accordingly, staff create an inclusive classroom environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed. Providing emotional support, alongside academic guidance, helps address students' individual challenges and promotes their overall well-being. A holistic approach to education ensures that every student is supported in their unique journey. This inclusive environment fosters a positive learning experience, encourages a sense of belonging, and helps all students reach their full potential.

Feedback from students consistently indicates a profound sense of belonging and the freedom to express themselves. They value their school experience as it provides a platform for genuine self-expression, free from discrimination or bias. Students actively contribute to the school's culture by taking on leadership roles such as head students, mental health advocates, prefects, members of the school council, subject ambassadors, peer mentors, and other student organisations.

This collaborative environment fosters a supportive community where students demonstrate care and respect for one another, as well as for both their peers and adults.  Students are encouraged to present their unique identities and support one another. Tutor groups lead morning assemblies, which create a sense of unity and respect among peers. Peer Mentors help students who need personal guidance and our Mental Health Prefects, through their well-being club, offer a safe, supportive space. The Rainbow Club is an open environment for LGBTQAI+ students and their allies, the list goes on.

The supportive atmosphere within our institution is reflected in our impressive attendance rate of 94.6%. Students exhibit exceptional self-discipline and mutual respect, both inside and outside the classroom. They successfully regulate their behaviour during unstructured periods, as evidenced by the minimal occurrence of behavioural issues. The suspension rate stands at just 2.3% for the 2023/24 academic year, significantly lower than the national average of 14.7%. Additionally, our GCSE and A-level results exceed national benchmarks, and from start to finish, feedback from students is predominantly positive concerning their academic experience.

It is a child who is happy and a child who is safe that will come to school and learn and with attendance and academic outcomes above national averages, the impact of high-quality care is there for all to see. Sometimes, though, it is the things that cannot be measured that say the most; the focus on diversity, tolerance, understanding and acceptance was perfectly encapsulated in the words of a Year 7 student to an OFSTED inspector: "This is a school where it is safe and normal to be different". Now, who would argue with that?