Darlington schools praised by Education Secretary

Gurney Pease Academy and Springfield Academy, which are both part of the Education Village Academy Trust, Darlington, have won high praise from Bridget Phillipson for what she describes as ‘a significant achievement’.

In a letter to both schools, she said: “Congratulations to you and your team on the excellent outcomes the disadvantaged pupils at your school achieved at the end of the 2024/25 academic year.

Pupils at Springfield Academy (Image: Supplied)

“Your schools’ performance places them among the very best nationally, and this is a significant achievement.

“This success reflects the dedication of your staff and the hard work of your pupils.

“It shows what can be achieved when ambition and commitment come together.

“Thank you for everything you do to give children the best possible opportunities to succeed.”

Mrs Phillipson said the schools demonstrated what was possible and she hoped they would continue to share their experience and best practice with others.

“Even the strongest schools can go further,” she said.

“We encourage you to lead the way as a system leader, sharing effective practice, championing networks, supporting collaboration, and helping raise standards across the sector.”

Acting principal of Gurney Pease, Joanne Davison, said: “We never put pressure on the children in terms of SATs but encourage them all to do their very best, to develop a sense of self-pride and self-worth, so they can work to the best of their ability.”

Springfield Academy principal Paula Austin, said: “We work to give pupils the skills for a future life, to build their resilience to cope with pressures, to give them the confidence and self-belief to enable them to fulfil their potential and aspirations.”

Both academies operate a similar ethos which pervades all aspects of school life.

At Springfield, it is called SHINE – Successful, Happy, Informed, Nurtured, Embracing Community – which is adapted for all children from ages three to 11.

At Gurney Pease, whose pupils range from two to 11, it is called PRIDE – Perseverance, Respect, Independence, Drive, and Engagement.

Mrs Davison said: “All the children receive high-quality teaching from the minute they walk through our door.

“We treat every child as an individual and know each one very well.

“We can then take action if there is any chance of any under-achievement.

“They all work incredibly hard and this means they are all ‘successful’, in their own way, regardless of their backgrounds and starting points.

“We are delighted that the work of children and staff has been recognised by the Education Secretary.”