We were awarded the ACE Quality Mark by the Association for Character Education following a rigorous assessment, during which inspectors praised the depth and consistency of our commitment to character education. The accreditation is given only to schools where virtues, personal development and values‑led leadership are embedded throughout daily life – something the assessment team found clearly evident across our Academy.

In their final report, assessors highlighted the impressive “virtue literacy” demonstrated by our pupils, noting how confidently they discussed what it means to develop good character and how it will help them to flourish in the future.

A recent example of how we support pupils in developing good character in practice is our Enrichment Week, which focused particularly on the character trait Tenacity. Pupils across the school engaged in a wide range of activities encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and learn new skills, including building a sensory garden, taking part in a highly interactive residential trip and joining our Crochet Club.

More broadly, participation in extra‑curricular activities and leadership roles was described as “a normalised way of being” at Hartshill Academy, contributing to a culture where pupils routinely seek out opportunities to grow, lead and contribute.

Standout examples of this include the appointment of a Hartshill pupil as Nuneaton’s first Young High Sheriff of Warwickshire, as well as a group of pupils who have undertaken tireless fundraising efforts over several years to fund an upcoming expedition to Borneo. During the expedition, pupils will be actively supporting long‑term conservation projects.

Our innovative Character Ladder was also singled out as a standout feature of our provision, praised for helping pupils understand different character ‘levels’ and what they can do to strengthen their character over time.

Special recognition was given to our Vice Principal, Christian Mba, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping and driving our Character Education programme.

Vasav, a Year 8 pupil, said:

“One of the best things about our school is the support we get from our teachers and how they all want us to be the very best version of ourselves.”

Principal Lorraine Taylor said:

“This is a significant achievement and a wonderful reflection of our collective commitment to empowering our pupils and encouraging them to contribute positively to the people and places around them. The work our staff do every day in ensuring character is caught, taught and sought, has been critical in supporting our pupils to try new things, learn new skills and develop confidence in their own abilities.

Becoming an ACE School of Character is not only a celebration of what our school has achieved so far, but it is a powerful foundation for the future. We look forward to continuing to nurture the best in every young person, helping them grow into thoughtful, resilient and ambitious individuals.”