Students at The Springfields Academy are celebrating today after receiving their GCSEs and other qualifications, with the specialist school marking its seventh consecutive year in which every student has secured a Post-16 placement.
The achievement means the academy has again recorded 0 per cent NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), ensuring every pupil has a positive destination when they leave school.
Springfields, part of Reach South Academy Trust, is a specialist school supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Students follow individual pathways based around their strengths, needs and ambitions, meaning results day looks slightly different for each young person.
While some students have secured GCSEs in subjects including English, Maths and Science, others have achieved Functional Skills, Entry Level certificates and vocational qualifications.
Among the individual success stories is Harry, who has gained an impressive 20 qualifications, including six GCSEs with grades reaching Grade 7.
His achievement is particularly significant given the difficulties he experienced earlier in his education. His parents said: “After being excluded from primary school and having six months out of school, seeing what he has achieved in his secondary education at Springfields is amazing.”
For the academy, results day is about more than examination grades. Students have also spent their time developing independence, confidence and practical skills, including through Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programmes and other opportunities designed to prepare them for life beyond school.
Leavers will now move on to a variety of destinations, including local colleges, specialist training, apprenticeships and employment.
The results come during a particularly successful year for Springfields. Ofsted recently recognised the academy as one of the country’s leading specialist schools, rating it Exceptional for Inclusion, Leadership and Personal Development, with the remaining categories rated Strong.
The school also recently achieved Beacon Status from the National Autistic Society, a recognition held by only eight providers across the country.
Headteacher Nicola Whitcombe said the day was an opportunity to recognise the progress made by every student.
“Today is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate all of our students and the progress they have made during their time at Springfields,” she said.
“Every achievement represents hard work, determination and the support of a dedicated team around each young person.
“Our students follow their own individual pathways, and we are incredibly proud of the commitment they have shown in working towards their goals. Whether they are celebrating GCSEs, Functional Skills, Entry Level qualifications or other achievements, today is about recognising their successes and looking ahead to the exciting opportunities ahead.”
For the young people collecting their results, the celebrations represent more than a set of grades. They are another step towards greater independence and the next stage of their individual journeys.
And with every Springfields student securing a Post-16 destination for the seventh year running, there is plenty for the whole school community to celebrate.
