A special needs school has been awarded a Silver UNICEF Rights Respecting School Award (RRSA).

It recognises Fountaindale School’s commitment to supporting pupils’ understanding of rights and responsibilities, both for themselves and for those around them.

Fountaindale, part of Nexus Multi Academy Trust, had to demonstrate knowledge and application of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in the classroom.

This has helped learners use their shared understanding to work together and advocate for improved wellbeing, school improvement, global justice, and sustainable living.

Fountaindale’s strong focus on building positive and mutually respectful relationships was praised.

A report pointed to the strong friendships forged between learners, with staff saying for many children, school wasn’t just about learning, it was the heart of their social life.

Headteacher Chris Evans said: “We saw RRSA as an important way of framing the school’s improvement journey so have adopted it in a holistic manner, with the children’s voices right at the centre.

“We’re proud of this approach and are already seeing the benefits, with our team developing strong relationships with our learners as well as trust with their families.

“We are proud to have achieved this award and are already working towards the Gold accreditation in the near future.”

Nexus chief executive Warren Carratt added: “It is so important for the voices and needs of the children at Fountaindale to remain at the heart of every aspect of what we do.

“I know this will continue as we strive to provide the very best for the children in our care.”