Pupils and staff at Eastbury Community School's Deaf Additional Resource Provision (ARP) in Barking are ecstatic after winning the 'Alternative Provision School of the Year' and 'Overall School of the Year' at the 2021 TES Schools Awards.

The TES Schools Awards celebrate the most outstanding individuals and institutions that the education sector has to offer.

"An inspiring example of personalised provision unlocking the potential of every student in an authentic, inclusive model.”

Eastbury's Deaf ARP provides pupils with comprehensive support, from providing education into deaf culture and history to supporting language, cognitive and academic development. Staff work closely with young people and their families to help them achieve the best they can, both now and in the future.

TES Awards judges called Eastbury "an inspiring example of personalised provision unlocking the potential of every student in an authentic, inclusive model.”

They continued: "Pupils thrive with pride, and the educators influence systemic developments with curriculum and pedagogy internationally."

Executive Headteacher, David Dickson, said: "Myself and the governors are absolutely delighted that our Deaf ARP has received long-overdue national recognition for their innovative and ground-breaking work. 

"They are worthy winners for these two prestigious awards.

"The ARP staff are an amazing group of talented, dedicated and caring professionals who work tirelessly in the best interests of deaf children."

The school received praise for using social media platforms to connect with students, parents and the wider local and global deaf community in a new and modern way. 

Staff achievements were also noted, including lead teacher Helen Devereux's election to the British Association for Teachers of the Deaf executive committee and Alex McMullan-Bell contributing to global research into deaf education with his first peer-reviewed paper.

Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, said: "I am thrilled that the staff at Eastbury Community School's Deaf ARP have had their hard work and dedication honoured with these two prestigious awards.

"In what has been a challenging year for all schools, to win two national awards is an outstanding achievement and incredibly well deserved."

You can follow Eastbury Community School's Deaf ARP on Instagram and Twitter.