Erdington Academy ambassador status recognises teaching expertise

Erdington Academy ambassador status: Erdington Academy has been invited to share its expertise with schools nationwide, after being awarded Ambassador School Status, by the Schools, Students and Teachers Network (SSAT).

The accolade recognises the academy’s exceptional commitment to high-quality teaching, evidence-informed practice, and continuous improvement.

It follows the school’s completion of a two-year SSAT programme focused on embedding formative assessment as a core part of everyday learning. The approach is proven to strengthen student progress and has a measurable impact on GCSE outcomes.

Principal Simon Mallett said the achievement is testament to the dedication and professionalism of staff across the Academy, which is part of the ambitious Fairfax Multi-Academy Trust.

“This recognition reflects what I see every day – colleagues who care deeply about our students and about each other. Watching everyone pull in the same direction has been incredibly inspiring. That collective commitment is what makes Erdington Academy so special. It embodies our values of ambition and excellence, ensuring our students benefit from the highest quality teaching and learning.”

He added that becoming an Embedding Formative Assessment (EFA) Ambassador School marks an exciting new chapter.

“It gives us a platform to deepen our impact – both within our own community and across the wider education network. It means continuing to open our doors, share our practice, and learn from others.”

Simon Jones, CEO of Fairfax Multi-Academy Trust, said the achievement will have a lasting impact on students.

“This fantastic accomplishment will make a meaningful difference to students for years to come. Being part of a network of schools with the same drive and determination will sharpen our own approaches through collaboration, reflection, and professional growth.

“It opens up opportunities to contribute to national conversations about effective teaching and learning, giving our talented staff the chance to share their expertise with others.

“Most importantly, it reinforces our commitment to enrich lives and transform futures by ensuring every student benefits from high-quality, personalised learning.”

SSAT EFA Mentor, Ian Healey added: “Erdington Academy’s journey on the EFA Programme has been exceptional. Over the two years of the Programme and under the excellent leadership of Assistant Principal, Simone Mabbett and her talented team of TLC Leads, it has gone from strength to strength.

“My visits to the school and conversations with students, teachers and leaders all support the fact that this has helped to improve and enhance the already excellent teaching and learning which is in place at the school.

“My recommendation for Ambassador School Status was unreserved and I look forward keenly to seeing how Erdington Academy can support other schools in our network.”

For more on Erdington Academy, click here.

To visit the Erdington Academy website, click here.

Gary Phelps
Gary is an award-winning journalist who has edited nine newspapers and helped launch numerous online news brands. He created UK School News to provide platforms for local schools to share positive news stories, helping them engage with their local communities and celebrate their successes. He has appeared on TV and radio on numerous occasions, presented evidence to Government ministers, lobbied on behalf of the media industry and trained dozens of young journalists. Gary was an Associate Lecturer in Journalism at the University of Derby, and has also advised Wolverhampton College's award-winning Journalism course accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists.

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