Armthorpe Academy

Armthorpe Academy came together on Tuesday 11th November to honour those who have served and sacrificed for our country.

Each year, at 11am on the 11th November, the academy observes a two-minute silence as a way of remembering the brave men and women who fought and died for our freedom across a range of conflicts throughout British history.

This year, staff and students across the school took part in classroom-based Remembrance Day activities designed to help pupils reflect on the importance of remembrance and understand its significance in today’s world. The academy community paused together for the two-minute silence, showing unity and respect.

As part of the commemorations, student cadets were invited to attend school in their cadet uniforms, proudly representing their commitment to service and honouring those who came before them.

Mrs Amy Moulton, Director of Pastoral Care and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead at Armthorpe Academy, said: “Remembrance Day is a time for our whole school community to come together to reflect and show respect for those who gave their lives for our freedom. It’s always a powerful and emotional moment to see our students engaging so thoughtfully and with such maturity.”

Armthorpe Academy continues to ensure that remembrance remains a meaningful and educational experience for every student, helping them to understand the importance of courage, sacrifice, and peace.

 

Last week, Armthorpe Academy was recognised as the second most improved school nationally for reducing its Persistent Absence (PA) rate, according to the latest Department for Education attendance analysis. This achievement highlights the dedication of staff, students, families, and the wider community in ensuring every day at school counts.

 

The data, published last week, combines Autumn and Spring term attendance figures for the previous academic year and identifies schools making the greatest progress in improving attendance and reducing persistent absence.

 

This outstanding progress at Armthorpe Academy is the result of a collaborative effort from staff, students, families, and partners, all committed to creating a positive school experience and ensuring every child can succeed.

 

“This is an incredible achievement for everyone connected to Armthorpe,” said David Bisley, Principal at Armthorpe Academy.

“Reducing persistent absence takes commitment, creativity, and care from every part of the school community. I’m incredibly proud of our students for their determination, our staff for their relentless efforts to engage and support, and our families for working alongside us. This recognition reflects the strength of our shared values and our focus on ensuring every child has the best possible opportunity to succeed.”

 

Nationally, the Department for Education reported an overall 0.3% improvement in attendance and a 1.6% reduction in persistent absence, with Armthorpe Academy standing out as one of the most improved schools in the country.

 

The achievement has also been highlighted by The Excellence Hub, which celebrates schools showing the most significant progress. Their approach focuses on “naming and faming” schools rather than the traditional “name and shame,” recognising the determination and teamwork behind every improvement story.

 

“Improving attendance isn’t easy - it’s one of the hardest challenges in education,” said a spokesperson from The Excellence Hub. “Schools featured here, including Armthorpe Academy, have made significant gains through dedication and persistence. This is about celebrating success and sharing best practice across the system.”

 

A huge thank you goes to everyone who played a part in this success at Armthorpe - staff, students, families, - whose commitment to attendance and engagement continues to drive positive change.

Students at Armthorpe Academy are now enjoying a safe, calm, and welcoming new outdoor space designed to support both their learning and wellbeing. Thanks to an incredible collaboration with Amazon, a once-overgrown and underused quad area has been t

Armthorpe Academy celebrated the joy of reading on World Book Day!

Armthorpe Academy has installed new machines which see students using refillable bottles

Gabriel Todd and Jake Lacey, Year 10 students at Armthorpe Academy, part of Consilium Academies, have walked the Yorkshire Three Peaks in one go.