Northwest Evening Mail | July 2007
 
Sacred Heart Catholic Primary in Barrow is the first school in Cumbria to gain the NACE Challenge Award for excellence in provision for able, gifted and talented pupils.

The Lumley Street school is just the 38th primary in the UK to achieve The National Association for Able Children in Education title.

The award is given for high quality work by the whole school, teachers and governors, in challenging all pupils, including those with high abilities, to achieve their best.

An assessor visited the primary this summer to observe lessons and interview pupils, teachers, parents and governors and was impressed by the "huge range of rich learning opportunities available within lessons, in school and after school."

The national education organisation's assessment report says: "Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School has a real commitment to the integration of appropriate provision for more able pupils into all aspects of the life of the school.

"There are a variety of innovative ways of teaching.

"Parents say that, 'the school welcomes and encompasses new initiatives to vary learning for all its pupils.'

"The school is highly inclusive and celebrates the achievements of all.

"For more able pupils this means that they feel their talents and abilities are noticed and catered for."

Ruth Buxton, from Barrow Excellence Cluster Partnership, introduced the award to the school and encouraged them to work towards it.

Proud headteacher Sandra White said: "Naturally we are absolutely delighted.

"It's not just about challenging gifted and talented children, it's about challenging children across the school, whatever their ability.

"The school is moving forward so quickly and I just think it recognises all the hard work and commitment of the staff."