Staindrop Academy is the first school in County Durham to achieve the gold award for its work with young carers.
The secondary school previously achieved the Young Carers’ Charter two years ago, and on renewing its application this year was elevated to the gold standard.
Headteacher Sarah Mitchinson said: “We’re so proud to achieve this standard. Getting the gold award shows how much work our school counsellor Vicki Barratt has put into making sure this is recognised and supported, and ensuring our young carers are valued in school and know they have somewhere to come.”
The award recognises the work that the academy is doing to help students who have family caring responsibilities outside of the classroom.
“They meet regularly, and we give them a place to talk,” Mrs Mitchinson said. “We know they are doing a lot of work and providing a lot of support at home, so we want to be able to give them a chance to relax.
“We try to put rewards in place for them, like taking them to enjoy the Christmas market in Bishop Auckland. It’s important to let them be children, as well.”
It’s all part of the academy’s determination to meet children’s broader needs, as well as encouraging academic success.
Another part of that strategy is the wellbeing garden. First developed last summer, it recently got a new look thanks to garden furniture funded by Durham County Council.
“Our wellbeing garden is another important part of this,” added Mrs Mitchinson. “We are a really inclusive school and we try to support all of our children regardless of their needs.
“I think today’s schools have a greater awareness of the needs of all our children. We’re committed to that need to support holistically and not just academically.”
