College transforms itself from ‘broken’ to inspired
IT WAS once described as “arguably the most broken school in Britain”, but now Carlton Bolling College has been named as one of the country’s most inspirational teaching establishments, sealing its impressive transformation.
Five years ago, the Bradford school was linked to the Trojan Horse scandal, which centred on a number of Birmingham schools accused of pursuing an extremist Islamist agenda, and after being rated ‘inadequate’ by Ofsted it was placed in special measures.
However, under a new senior leadership team the school has been turned around and at the Pearson National Teaching Awards it was presented with a Gold Award in the Secondary School of the Year category in recognition of its success.
Despite being in one of the most deprived communities in Bradford, the school is now rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted and it has won praise for the work it does to prepare students for life outside the classroom.
Adrian Kneeshaw, the chief executive of the school, said: “I feel happy for everyone who has been involved in Carlton Bolling – it’s about bringing the best people in, and allowing them to prosper.
“It was fantastic to tell the staff, the students, the community – everyone who has been on this journey – about the award as it is a confirmation of what you can achieve if you think big, work hard and never give in.”
At the same awards ceremony, Wyke Sixth Form College in Hull was named Further Education College of the Year, with its PE and dance department receiving a special mention for the work it does in supporting students who want to pursue a career in those subjects.
Deputy principal Julie Peaks said: “Winning this award is indescribable. The team, led by Toni Knight, are some of the most passionate, hardworking and dedicated people I’ve ever had the joy of working with.
“It’s a testament to them that they’ve received national recognition, but to us they were always winners. The students at Wyke are privileged to have them as teachers, both inside and outside the classroom.”
The chief executive of Carlton Bolling college is delighted with the news.