Queen Ethelburga’s has been shortlisted in two categories for the prestigious Independent Schools of the Year Awards 2018.
The awards celebrate the success stories of schools and their students across the independent education sector in the UK.
Chapter House, the school’s junior provision, was shortlisted for the Independent Prep School of the Year Award, recognising that the school ‘offers an outstandingly rich experience for its students’.
Karen Kilkenny, Head of Chapter House, said: “We are delighted to have been shortlisted for this award. The staff, students and parents of Chapter House are dedicated in their desire to ensure Chapter House is the most supportive learning environment it can be for every student. We help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive and be fully prepared for the challenges and opportunities in the next stage of their education.
“We are focused on encouraging every student to achieve their full potential, whatever their talents and abilities, and we pride ourselves on our students becoming happy, confident and resilient members of the Collegiate and local community.”
The school was also shortlisted for the Independent School of the Year for Healthy Eating Award, given for “an innovative healthy eating programme which has had tangible impact in the school”.
Amy Martin, Chair of the Collegiate Board, commented: “In the time since the catering operation was brought ‘in house’ at Queen Ethelburga’s I have been so impressed with the collective focus upon the importance of healthy nutritious meals, exercise and education whilst working alongside the school in providing a safe and inclusive environment for our students. We strive to continually improve opportunities for students and the catering operation, rather than being seen as ancillary to that goal, has played a central role in informing both students and staff members of the importance of a healthy balanced diet, in order to maximise student potential and improve their general wellbeing.”
To further enhance their service, the catering department developed a tailored and structured approach to the catering provision in 2014 that would map out a five year programme with a focus on a whole school ethos towards healthy eating and well-being, becoming members of LACA and the Food for Life Awards programme and working with PhD nutritionists from Leeds Beckett University.