Livability’s Victoria Education Centre – a school for young disabled people – has won ‘Art and Drama teacher or team of the year’ at the TES Schools Awards.
The TES Schools Awards is the largest annual school awards ceremony in the UK. The aim is to recognise excellence and reward the professionalism and flair of those making an outstanding contribution to primary and secondary schools in the maintained and independent sectors.
Based in Poole, Victoria Education Centre offers specialised, high quality education, therapy and care for young people with physical and learning disabilities aged between 3 and 19.
Simon Brown, Head teacher at Victoria Education Centre, said:
“Being shortlisted in three categories was extraordinary and this award is a fantastic tribute to all at VEC. The judges recognised our ongoing commitment to overcoming the barriers that the young people face. They were particularly impressed with the breadth of innovative approaches, experiences and opportunities and the high levels of engagement, participation, enjoyment and progress.”
The awards consist of 17 categories, which recognise the work and achievements of whole schools as well as individuals. Television presenter and comedian Dara Ó Briain hosted the awards and praised work and dedication of all the winners and nominees.
[x_blockquote cite=”Belinda Ellicott, Dance Teacher and Music Leader at Victoria Education Centre” type=”left”]”As a department we are absolutely thrilled to have received the TES Award, but we could not do his without the support of all the other teams within the school or, more importantly, without the amazing creativity of our students. Huge thanks to everyone for their support and recognising the importance of the arts as part of a wide and inclusive curriculum.”[/x_blockquote]
On Victoria Education Centre’s win, the TES Awards judging panel commented:
“Arts and drama are an important part of education, not least for pupils with special educational needs. The arts and drama department of the Victoria Education Centre is committed to overcoming the barriers that young people with physical disabilities and complex health needs face when it comes to fully participating in these subjects. However, the judges felt that the school’s inventive approaches would be equally successful with all pupils, regardless of their needs.”
“The high status of arts subjects at VEC is evident in the fact that two-thirds of pupils in key stages 2 to 5 are working towards an Arts Award. In 2015, the passion and commitment of the department was recognised when the school became an Arts Award Good Practice Centre.”
Find out more about our innovative school and our further education college for young disabled people.
Livability, 6 Mitre Passage, London SE10 0ER.
Registered charity no. 1116530•Copyright © 2023 Livability. All rights reserved.
