STAFF and students at Bromsgrove’s Chadsgrove Educational Trust Specialist College are celebrating after winning a prestigious award.
The college took the Innovation in Student Voice title at the 2023 natspec awards.
Chadsgrove was praised for its self-advocacy, active citizenship and community inclusion for independence in adulthood.
A successful online ceremony was held to announce the winners and the students and staff are due to be presented with their trophies at the national conference due to be held on June 13.
The awards recognise and celebrate innovative practice in the specialist further education sector.
They shine a light on schemes which have clearly resulted in improved outcomes for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities.
Nigel Evans, chair of judging panel, said: “We received a huge range of applications.
“It was great to see the expertise that we know is out there in the sector.
“We did have some really difficult decisions to make, there was a huge diversity of projects this year which covered all aspects of provision.”
Clare Howard, Natspec’s Chief Executive, added: “The level of innovation and commitment to delivering the very best for learners that has been demonstrated by our award winners makes me truly proud to be a part of the specialist college sector.
“During such straightened times, after the specialist post-16 sector has already faced years of underfunding, it is inspiring that our member colleges are not just making do but are brimming with new ideas and practices.
“We decided to revamp the Natspec Awards this year to highlight and encourage innovative practice.
“Staff taking that extra step and having that moment of inspiration can have a life-changing effect on the most vulnerable learners.”
