Shireland Collegiate Academy in Smethwick has been awarded the Excellence in Pupils Development Award (EPDA) for a further three years, following its original period from 2023-2026.
The reaccreditation recognises the Academy’s continued commitment to supporting students’ personal development, wellbeing and future aspirations. It also celebrates the sustained impact of its approach to inclusion, enrichment and community engagement.
The EDPA provides schools with a structured framework to evaluate and strengthen their pastoral curriculum. This includes recognising how the school has worked to support developing students’ confidence, resilience, responsibility and character while preparing them for the future.
The award report praised the Academy’s approach to personal development, highlighting that it remained ‘central to the school’s strategic priorities’ and embedded across all aspects of Academy life.
The report also recognised the progress made since the school first achieved the award in 2023. This included strengthened governance insight, expanded leadership responsibility, enhanced curriculum provision, increased family engagement, improved monitoring systems and further development of partnership work.
Assessors highlighted the Academy’s inclusive culture, strong student leadership, extensive enrichment opportunities and the impact of its work with families, employers, universities and community partners. The report also recognised the school’s inclusive attendance strategy and Behaviour Management Service, noting the impact of early intervention, pastoral support and therapeutic approaches to support learners.
During the assessment, students spoke positively about their experiences at the Academy, describing a strong sense of belonging and feeling listened to by staff. The report notes that students demonstrated confidence, pride in their school and a clear understanding of how personal development opportunities supported their academic and future success.
Thomas Daly, Principal at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “Achieving this award a second time running is a proud moment for our whole school community. It reflects the dedication of our staff, the ambition of our students and the strength of the partnerships that support our work.
“Personal development is central to our approach, and we are committed to ensuring every person that walks through our doors feels valued, supported and equipped with the confidence, skills and experiences needed to succeed. This recognition reflects the collective effort to create an inclusive environment where every young person can flourish. I would like to thank all our staff for their dedication and professionalism, our students for the pride they show in their school, our families for their continued support, and our governors and partners for their challenge, encouragement and commitment.”
The reaccreditation confirms Shireland Collegiate Academy’s ongoing commitment to providing learners with opportunities that develop their character, confidence and aspirations. The Academy said that it will continue to build on the strengths identified through the assessment, ensuring personal development remains at the heart of its work.