Widnes school first to achieve WSNAL award

St Gerard’s Catholic Primary and Nursery School in Widnes has become the first school internationally to achieve the prestigious Whole School Nurturing Approach For Learning (WSNAL) award following an assessment by Nurture International. 

CEOs Yvonne Maughan and Alison Grimshaw have worked extensively with the primary school over the past 12 months to ensure that the staff accessed high quality CPD and that the social and emotional needs of all pupils are being met. 

Following the assessment, which was the accumulation of work led by Mrs Kent (SENCO) and the senior leadership team, the primary school was judged to be the first school in the world to be accredited with the WSNAL Award. 

The CEOs stated that Nurture International are very proud to have been given the opportunity to present the very first WSNAL award to St Gerard’s after their visit. 

Alison Grimshaw said: “When coming in to complete the assessment, it is clear (as soon as you enter the school) that the drive from teachers and other staff is evident.  

“They ensure that the children are safe, happy and have a wonderful learning environment. 

“The six principles of nurture are clearly embedded across the school and it’s been lovely to see the progress in pupils and staff.  

“The principles will continue to support and develop the school as a whole school approach for learning.” 

Yvonne Maughan has supported the school delivering bespoke training sessions and spending time in the classrooms and the schools designated Nurture Provision, The Nest. 

She said: “It has been an absolute pleasure working with St Gerard’s Catholic Primary and Nursery School. Every child I have spoken to, spoke enthusiastically about how much they enjoy learning.  

“Their enthusiasm for learning shone! Mrs Kent has done an excellent job of leading the school through this process.  

“Her understanding and expertise has been an integral part of the success. We look forward to a successful partnership, supporting the school and the community in the near future.” 

Mr Landrum, the school’s headteacher expressed his gratitude to the company for their support and dedication during the process. 

He has already made plans to use the school as a hub and centre of excellence as more local and national school begin their journeys to achieve The Whole School Nurturing Approach for Learning Award.  

Mr Landrum said: “I am immensely proud to serve the community of St Gerard’s and this award illustrates the determination and dedication of all the staff to ensure that the development of the whole child is acknowledged and developed throughout the school.”