Bourne Academy had double reason to celebrate at the 2023 Lincolnshire Free Press and Spalding Guardian Education Awards
Staff and students at Bourne Academy had double reason to celebrate at our Education Awards – picking up two hotly-contested trophies.
The school, part of the South Lincolnshire Academies Trust, won the Secondary School of the Year title on Thursday night, pipping sister school Spalding Academy and reigning champions Spalding High School to the crown.
The non-selective mixed secondary school earned praise in the Spalding Guardian and Lincolnshire Free Press-sponsored award for how its students are flourishing in a positive environment, which is underpinned by exceptional pastoral care.
“It’s an honour and a privilege. This is down to the sheer dedication of the staff and fantastic pupils,” said head of school Matt Sammy.
“It’s incredible to see the progress of young people now and through their careers.”
South Lincolnshire Academies Trust CEO Lucy Conley added: “To win this award and to have Spalding Academy also nominated shows how the four academies work exceptionally well in partnership.”
Not only that, but Bourne Academy’s Gemma Sanderson also won the Inspirational Secondary School Teacher of the Year title, sponsored by Iliffe Media.
The maths teacher was hailed for knowing how to get the best out of her students – and for devoting her time to additional lunchtime, after school and in-holiday classes to aid youngsters with their exams.
She also runs the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and has seen uptake double.
“I’m pleasantly surprised, but it’s extremely important to help give students every opportunity possible,” said Gemma, who says she gets most enjoyment from running Duke of Edinburgh Award schemes, which she will co-ordinate for pupils from all four of the South Lincolnshire Academies Trust centres from next year.
“It’s a lot of fun and teaches so many important life skills.”
Runners up were Penny Watt (Spalding Academy) and Ruth Baldwin (Thomas Middlecott Academy).
You can catch up on all of the winners with our round-up here.
Is there a school, teacher or pupil who you think deserves praise? Post your comment below or email victoria.fear@iliffepublishing.co.uk
