Houlton School achieves ‘World Class Schools’ status

Pupils and staff at Houlton School are celebrating following the news that they have been awarded the World Class Schools Quality Mark (WCSQM) - joining an exclusive network of 120 of the best non-selective state schools across the UK for the quality of educational experience on offer.

In order to gain the coveted accreditation, the school took part in an entirely pupil-lead assessment process, where pupils were tasked with completing a series of challenges to showcase what makes their school World Class. 

Pupils used the World Class AP to demonstrate a plethora of leadership skills and attributes as well as taking on project management lead roles in last year’s Assessment Centre Day. All of the work leading to the successful accreditation was completed by pupils in Key Stage 3, something normally supported largely by Key Stage 4 and 5 pupils. This is a significant achievement for the school and has made pupils and staff very proud.

Michael McCulley, Principal at Houlton School, said: “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our wonderful pupils and staff, I’m delighted to confirm that Houlton School has achieved the World Class Schools status. 

“Having opened our doors for the first time in September 2021, this feels like an even more significant achievement for our Houlton family, as in many cases our pupils were significantly younger than other young people that were taking part in the process. 

“The level of talent and maturity shown by our pupils throughout each challenge, however, made me incredibly proud.”  

The World Class Schools Quality Mark (WCSQM) is awarded by an education charity of the same name, whose unique assessment framework assesses the pupils not the school, for their demonstration of ‘world-class’ skills and competencies. Pupils participating in the programme are encouraged to recognise and achieve their potential through unique real-life work experiences, access to a lifelong peer support network and cultural opportunities that take them beyond their local community.

James Higham, CEO of the Transforming Lives Educational Trust (TLET), of which Houlton School is part, added: “My congratulations go to everyone at Houlton School for this tremendous achievement. 

“Alongside providing an opportunity for pupils to develop World Class characteristics, this accreditation highlights the exceptional learning environment that Houlton School has to offer for every member of its community.”