October 9, 2026 03:47pm
Maritime Academy is proudly celebrating a major milestone after becoming the first school in Thinking Schools Academy Trust, and the first school nationally this academic year, to achieve the Inclusive Attendance Bronze Standard.
The Bronze Award recognises schools that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to a comprehensive and sustainable whole-school approach to attendance. It celebrates schools that have embedded inclusive attendance practices through reflection, implementation and evidence-informed decision making.
This achievement follows months of dedication from staff, pupils and families, all working together to create a culture where attendance is valued, barriers are identified early and every child feels supported to succeed.
Throughout the assessment process, inspectors highlighted the academy's “Every Minute Matters” ethos, praising the strong sense of shared responsibility for attendance across the school community. The academy was recognised for combining clear systems and processes with a compassionate approach that prioritises wellbeing, belonging and positive relationships.
Mrs Hall, Senior Vice Principal for Inclusion at Maritime Academy, said:
"This is a proud moment for us as we have created a culture where everyone is responsible for school attendance to encourage positive relationships and create a sense of belonging.
"Attendance at Maritime Academy is a shared priority and we identify barriers to absence early and support families to work in partnership with us, and we recognise that every minute matters."
The award reflects Maritime Academy's belief that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive through regular access to high-quality learning, supportive relationships and enriching experiences.
Through its continued focus on inclusive attendance, Maritime Academy is ensuring pupils can access the full range of learning experiences, opportunities and support that help them achieve their personal best.
Mrs Pullen, Regional Safeguarding Lead (South East) at Thinking Schools Academy Trust, added:
"The Inclusive Attendance approach has supported the school in developing and embedding a whole-school approach to attendance. School attendance is not simply an administrative matter; it is a vital part of safeguarding.
"Attendance data helps identify where support is needed, enabling schools to respond effectively and improve outcomes for all children."
While achieving the Bronze Standard is a significant accomplishment, it also marks the beginning of the next stage of the academy's journey.
Staff are already looking ahead to working towards the Silver Standard and continuing to strengthen the support available to pupils and families.
