A secondary academy based in Middlesbrough has welcomed the Mayor for a tour of the academy and to speak with some of the students.

Outwood Academy Acklam, based on Hall Drive in Acklam, was visited by Mayor Andy Preston in December to discuss the progress at the academy, as well as to spread some festive cheer.

As part of the visit, the Mayor met with students and staff discussing the challenges they have faced throughout the year due to ongoing pandemic, including how the academy has maintained a 92% attendance rate which is significantly higher than the regional and national average

The academy’s reaction to the pandemic was also discussed, which covered the work the academy has put in to ensure it continues to offer all students who have to self-isolate high-class learning resources so they can continue their education.

Mark Gray, Principal at Outwood Academy Acklam, said:

“We were delighted to welcome the Mayor to the academy. It was quite obvious that the students really appreciated being able to speak with him and discuss what has been an incredibly challenging year for everyone, especially those involved in the education sector.

“Despite all the challenges though, I am immensely proud of how our students and staff have continued to work tirelessly together to ensure that learning has continued throughout the year.”

During the visit, the Mayor was joined by Santa who was visiting the academy to surprise some students with prizes for their work and achievements. When collecting their prizes, the winners were congratulated by the Mayor and Santa before posing for their celebratory picture.

Andy Preston, Mayor of Middlesbrough, said: “Outwood Acklam does great things for Middlesbrough and I am really grateful to all the staff for creating such a fantastic learning environment. 

“What’s impressed me most of all is the school’s determination to keep kids at school as much as possible.  When Outwood Acklam’s students cannot be in school they’re given lessons, guidance and motivation online – thank you to Outwood staff and the staff at all schools for your amazing efforts this year.”

The academy, which is rated Good by Ofsted, is part of the Outwood Grange Academies Trust which recently opened a new Free School in the area, Outwood Academy Riverside.

During his visit, the Mayor learnt more about the Outwood’s Students First vision and how the academy is driving forward with that as its focus. 

Mark added:

“We are grateful to the Mayor for taking the time to visit our academy and to speak with our staff and students. 

“At Outwood, we want our students to not only achieve academically but also to be valuable members of the community. Giving them the opportunity to speak with key members of the community, like the Mayor, is an opportunity for them to learn more about the area in which they live.”