To attain the Challenge Award, schools must complete a detailed self-evaluation using the NACE Challenge Framework, submit a portfolio of supporting evidence, and undertake assessment by a NACE associate.

The assessment process includes examination of school data and key documents; lesson observations; and interviews with school leaders, learners, parents, and governors.

NACE CEO Rob Lightfoot said: “Childwall Academy has worked successfully to attain the NACE Challenge Award. The school has shown it is committed to developing an environment in which all learners are both challenged and supported to be the best they can be.”

Christabel Shepherd, NACE Director of Challenge and Curriculum Development, said: “We were very impressed by the school’s ambition to provide challenge for all learners through the rigorous development and consistent application of evidence-based practice within an ambitious curriculum, delivered by expert and creative staff. As a result, students regularly experience opportunities to think deeply, make connections between concepts and become more independent in their learning.”

Ms. Vincent, Headteacher said: “Attaining the Challenge Award is very important to us. Our school motto of ‘Learning without limits’ means something to our school community.We are delighted that the assessor can see that students and staff at Childwall Sports and Science Academy are ambitious and continue to develop learning opportunities that are of the highest standard.”

A student told: “‘Our teachers make us think harder. They encourage us to critique and build on each other’s ideas, and instead of giving us an answer they encourage us to think more to come up with our own responses.”