A Telford primary school is celebrating after achieving a nationally-recognised award for its commitment to emotional health and wellbeing.
Meadows Primary School and Nursery, in Ketley, has been awarded the Sandwell Wellbeing Charter Mark following an 18-month process recognising the school’s approach to supporting children, staff and families.
The school is part of the Four Hills Education Trust, and leaders say the award reflects the Trust’s wider commitment to supporting the social, emotional and mental health in all of its school family.
The Charter Mark is designed to help schools promote emotional wellbeing through a positive, inclusive and supportive environment.
Assessors praised the school’s overall culture, highlighting how wellbeing remains “at the centre of all policies”, alongside a focus on using language which promotes emotional health and positive relationships.
Joseph Piatczanyn, headteacher of Meadows Primary and director of vision and strategy for Four Hills Education Trust, said the recognition was good news for pupils, parents and staff alike.
“At Meadows, we truly believe in ethos before outcomes, and in doing so the personal development and wellbeing of all in our school has developed remarkably,” he said.
“Indeed, our own team surveys tell us that wellbeing and workload have improved year on year for the past three years, demonstrating Meadows as the place to be – whether as a member of our team, or a child in our school.
“The Charter Mark award highlights a wealth of positive practice across the school community for us all to be proud of.”
Pupils who took part in the assessment spoke positively about the school environment, praising facilities including the sensory den, Aspire Room and outdoor spaces.
One pupil told assessors: “It’s a very nice team feeling,” while another said: “We celebrate diversity well and in a respectful way.”
Children also highlighted the value of PSHE lessons, ‘Marvellous Me’ week and classroom regulation stations, as well as the support they receive from staff across the school.
Parents praised the school’s communication and welcoming atmosphere, particularly at community events such as sports day and Meadows Fest.
All staff surveyed agreed the school supports their wellbeing and promotes a positive workplace culture, with many highlighting open communication and work-life balance as key strengths.
Four Hills Education Trust includes primary schools across Shropshire and was established last year with a vision to provide meaningful opportunities for every child to discover their strengths, explore their interests, and thrive both academically and personally.
The founding schools are Millbrook Primary in Leegomery, Meadows Primary in Ketley, William Reynolds Primary in Woodside and Albrighton Primary School, with Woodlands Primary also set to join pending the completion of the legal process.
For more information, visit www.fourhillseducationtrust.org.uk
