Meadstead Primary Academy has overcome strong competition to be crowned ‘School of the Year’ in the annual ‘Proud of Barnsley’ competition. The prestigious award followed glowing nominations by several parents for helping children with special educational needs, behavioural issues, autism and other personal issues.

Among the strong and persuasive nominations included one from a foster carer, who confirmed that the work staff have given to enable four of her foster children to thrive is ‘extraordinary.’ She said: “In 2016 we fostered four children and struggled to get a school to take the family unit, but Meadstead Primary Academy did not hesitate.

“We cannot say how thankful we are to each and every person who has helped our children and continue to do so on a daily basis even though we know this is everyday practice at Meadstead.

“Staff do not see what they do as anything but ordinary while we see it as being extraordinary. I feel it is only right that the school receive some recognition for the outstanding provision they provide for each and every child regardless of their backgrounds or difficulties.”

Another nomination from a parent also praised the school for how it has improved her daughter’s confidence. She said: “Meadstead and its staff have empowered my daughter to be confident, always pushing self progress and constantly rewarding and nurturing all children in different ways.

“I am one very proud parent to call Meadstead my daughter’s school and I know a lot of the reason behind that is the hard work and the attitudes of all the staff across every level from the ladies in the office and reception, to Mrs Smith taking charge of the ship.” She added, “I hope you reward, I feel, the hardest working school in Barnsley.”