Rosebrook Primary named National Centre of Excellence for Inclusion
Rosebrook Primary, a Teesside primary school is celebrating a double triumph after scooping two prestigious national awards for its unwavering commitment to inclusion.
Based in Stockton-on-Tees and part of the Ad Astra Academy Trust, has been awarded the Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) and recognised as a Centre of Excellence — an honour reserved for schools that demonstrate outstanding inclusive practice.
Congratulations to everyone involved!
A vision of possibility and belief
At the heart of Rosebrook’s success is a simple but powerful vision: “We can be whatever we dream.” IQM Assessor Joanne Smith praised the school for living this message through action, not just words.
She wrote: “The leaders and staff team work to remove barriers to ensure pupils have every opportunity to be happy and succeed in school learning and life.
“The children know that staff believe in them and care for them and the leaders’ vision is echoed through the children’s voice. Pupils speak warmly about the adults in school and enthusiastically shared their happy experiences and memories from the many opportunities and the interesting curriculum that the school provides.”
Putting community at the core
The report also highlighted the school’s deep-rooted commitment to its local community. From strong communications with families to the active involvement of governors, Rosebrook’s purpose is clear.
“High expectations are the starting point for the work of all involved in the life of Rosebrook. The school’s purpose is to serve their community which is evident from their website welcome, their online presence, communications with parents, carers and community members and strong governor involvement.”
Leadership at the school was especially praised for being approachable, compassionate, and community-focused: “The leaders are uncomplicated in their vision, they see children wanting to attend their local primary school and are very clear that their job is to welcome every child and their family to their happy, hardworking school.”
Heartfelt testimonials from families and staff
The impact of Rosebrook’s inclusive ethos was clearly felt by parents and carers, who shared touching stories with the assessor: “One parent shared the kindness of a staff member who worked with their young child to settle into school life, the parent knew that the staff member had given up their own lunchtime to make sure their child was settled and happy and could not have been more grateful.”
This continued: “Families cannot speak more highly of the support, kindness and positivity shown by all school staff. All parents and carers could not be more complimentary about the never-ending kindness and compassion from staff.”
Staff also spoke positively about the school’s training and culture of care, particularly the whole-school focus on understanding adverse childhood experiences.
A proud moment for the school and trust
The report recognised Rosebrook’s Inclusion Team as a beacon of hope and resilience, offering tailored support to families and helping pupils thrive.
Head Teacher Leanne Todd shared her pride in the team and the wider school community: “We are incredibly honoured to receive both the Inclusive Quality Mark award and Centre of Excellence status.
“These awards are a reflection of the belief we hold in every child’s potential and the dedication of our entire school community to nurturing that potential through care, consistency, and high expectations.”
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, also shared his praise: “Rosebrook’s achievement is a powerful example of what’s possible when a school community is united in its commitment to inclusion. This recognition reflects not only excellent leadership and support but a culture that genuinely puts pupils first — a benchmark for others across the North East.”
Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra Academy Trust, also commended the achievement: “These are significant achievements, and I would like to congratulate everyone involved at Rosebrook.
“The awards demonstrate Rosebrook’s exceptional commitment to being an inclusive school that engages well with the school community and puts the well-being of pupils at the heart of everything they do.”
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