Pupils at a Teesside primary school have undertaken an art project to help with their mental health and well-being.

Youngsters at Crooksbarn Primary School in Norton teamed up with local artist Chris Layfield during the day-long event.

It took place on ‘Blue Monday’ – the third Monday in January – which is thought to be the most challenging day of the year and is used annually to raise mental health awareness.

Jane Whittaker, a class teacher and Art & Design Lead at Crooksbarn Primary School, said: “We place great emphasis in school on promoting well-being and helping our children to develop a positive self-image.

“Every year we acknowledge’ Blue Monday’ and this year we invited local artist, Chris Layfield to work with a group of children. They created a self-portrait that celebrates their individuality and diverse achievements, using art as a means to communicate emotions that are sometimes difficult to put into words.”

Chris Layfield runs Middlesbrough-based Open Door Art who predominantly work with schools, hospitals and local communities.

Chris said: “Events like this enable children to express their feelings through the process of art and support their mental well-being and we place a big emphasis on fun.”

Crooksbarn is one of ten primary schools across Teesside, County Durham and Hartlepool under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Helen Durnion, School Improvement Lead for Ad Astra, commented: “Throughout the Trust, we work hard to ensure that mental health is a top priority for our children and staff.

“The initiative enabled children to explore through art how they want to be perceived by others, and the quality of their work was outstanding.”

The other Ad Astra Academy Trust primary schools are Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees, Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough, Barnard Grove, Brougham, West Park and West View in Hartlepool, and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in Durham.

A Hartlepool primary school has landed a major national award for its commitment to the arts and culture.

West View Primary School is celebrating after receiving the prestigious Artsmark Gold Award which is accredited by Arts Council England.

In their feedback, Artsmark assessors said: “West View Primary School has made significant strides in embedding arts and culture as part of its core identity, creating a richer, more equitable curriculum for all pupils.

“You have a bespoke curriculum for Art and Music and have set up an Arts team which is building a shared understanding of what quality in the arts curriculum means for your school.”

They go on to praise the school for creating partnerships to enhance arts provision including street dance, drama projects and specialist music tuition.

Assessors continued: “Partnerships with arts organisations have combined with inclusive clubs like Glee and recorder to create a range of opportunities that are truly accessible, supported by the school’s commitment that no child pays for clubs and that trips are heavily subsidised.

“Congratulations on achieving Artsmark Gold. We look forward to hearing about the impact of your work as you move forward.”

Rachael Johnson, a class teacher and Art and Design Lead at West View Primary School, said: “We’ve been working towards the Artsmark Gold Award for the last couple of years and we are absolutely delighted to receive it

“The award demonstrates that the arts and culture is embedded throughout the school and is testament to the wide range of opportunities which we offer to our children.”

West View Primary School is one of ten primary schools across Hartlepool, Teesside and County Durham under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra, commented: “Art is an important part of the school curriculum, and this award shows that West View is excelling in many areas.

“I’d like to congratulate everyone at the school for their hard work in achieving this significant national award.”

The other Ad Astra Academy Trust schools are Barnard Grove, Brougham and West Park in Hartlepool, Crooksbarn and Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees, Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in County Durham.

Click on the link below to listen to Racheal Johnson’s reaction to gaining the Artsmark Gold Award.

Artsmark Video – Rachael Johnson

A Stockton-on-Tees primary school is celebrating after being chosen to represent the North-East at a major nature event held at the Royal Society in London.

Rosebrook Primary School was approached by National Education Nature Park to represent the North-East at the national event.

The event focussed on practical science (Hands on, Minds on) and was attended by educators, policy makers and charity leads as well as schools showcasing their work.

Rosebrook has received widespread acclaim in recent years for developing its forest school initiative.

The school has also been awarded ‘Outstanding Beacon School’ status from The Tree Council for its ‘Rooted in Nature’ project.

The National Education Nature Park programme empowers children and young people to make a positive difference to both their own and nature’s future.

Lois Huntington, who leads on nature initiatives at Rosebrook Primary School, said: “It was a huge honour to represent the North-East at such a significant national nature event.

“Three of our Year 6 (10/11-year-olds) pupils attended with two staff members, and it was a brilliant experience for everyone.

“Each school had an exhibition stand which displayed a poster which they had created to portray examples of practical science which has been undertaken in school.

“Rosebrook pupils demonstrated how they had categorised and mapped the habitat types found on our school grounds and showed how they had used this information to introduce new habitat types.”

Rosebrook is one of ten primary schools across Teesside, County Durham and Hartlepool under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra, commented: “There were only twelve schools in the country – just two of which were primary – invited to take part in this event.

“It is a brilliant achievement and testament to the significant strides in recent years to promote nature and develop habitats at Rosebrook.”

The other Ad Astra Academy Trust schools are Crooksbarn in Stockton-on-Tees, Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough, Barnard Grove, Brougham, West Park and West View in Hartlepool and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in County Durham.

 

A Teesside primary school held a special assembly recently to acknowledge the fantastic work undertaken by support staff.

Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees, which is one of ten primary schools under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust, also made presentations to staff as part of ‘Stars in our Schools’ – an annual UK-wide celebration, co-ordinated by UNISON – to recognise the invaluable contribution by the likes of teaching assistants, catering and admin staff, cleaners, lunchtime supervisors and site staff.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra Academy Trust, said: “Every year we choose different primary schools to mark UNISON’s ‘Stars in our Schools’ initiative and this year we selected Rosebrook and West View in Hartlepool.

“Support staff make an invaluable contribution in all of our schools and events like this help to reinforce just how much they are appreciated.”

Speaking at Rosebrook’s special assembly, Headteacher Leanne Todd, said: “We have a wide range of support staff, and their contribution is crucial to the smooth running of the school and everything we achieve.

“We have people who support teachers, others who make sure the building is clean and safe, and we have people who serve our school dinners and work in the office.

“Each and every one of you is so special, just like all of our children. Today is about celebrating what you do and how much it is valued by everyone.”

All support staff received a goodie back, whilst three staff members – Jane McGarvey, Karen Booth and Sharon McDonald – received a gift voucher from UNISON for going the extra mile.

UNISON Northern regional head of local government Conor McArdle said: “UNISON is proud to be working with Ad Astra Academy Trust for UNISON’s annual Stars in our Schools celebration.

“The contribution school support staff make is essential to the success of every young person’s education.

“From cooks and cleaners to family support advisers, teaching assistants, administrative teams and school business professionals, their roles are incredibly varied.

“Together, they keep schools running smoothly and create the supportive environment that enables learning to thrive. Without them, schools simply couldn’t function.”

The other primary schools within Ad Astra are Crooksbarn in Stockton-on-Tees, Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough, Barnard Grove, Brougham and West Park in Hartlepool and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in County Durham.

Ad Astra Academy Trust was formed in 2015 and over the last ten years has grown across the Tees Valley, providing education for over 3,500 pupils and over 500 employees.

Children at a Hartlepool primary school have joined forces with the town’s latest dancing and exercise craze to help strengthen links with the local community.

Pupils at West Park Primary School recently took time out to team up with the Silent Steppers at the town’s Ward Jackson Park.

It was one of a series of events held throughout the week by the Coniscliffe Road school to promote anti-bullying and inclusion.

Silent Steppers is the brainchild of Lyndsay Codner who runs the exercise and dance initiative as part of Wellness, Lifestyle and Learning Academy.

Speaking to pupils, Lyndsay introduced her co-workers – Matthew, Demi and Alfie – who all have disabilities.

She said: “It was brilliant to work alongside West Park pupils for three days at Ward Jackson Park.

“Everyone in society should be treated equally and respect one another. Just because someone looks different or has a disability is no reason why they should be bullied.

“Silent Steppers has been a huge success since its launch last year. It creates an opportunity for people to get away from the daily pressures and express themselves in their own little bubble through music and chat via headphones.”

Headteacher Louise Sheffield said: “We held a number of events throughout the week to highlight that West Park will not tolerate bullying in any form and that we are a fully inclusive school.

“Children loved participating in the Silent Steppers events and found it a very fulfilling and rewarding experience.

“Building links and supporting our local community is a high priority for us at West Park and we are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with Lyndsay and her fantastic Silent Steppers team.

“As a school, we look forward to working on other projects in the future to further strengthen our community links.”

West Park is one of ten primary schools across Hartlepool, Teesside and County Durham under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

West Park Primary School still has vacancies for its Teach to Train scheme in 2026 if anyone is interested in becoming a teacher. For further details, email Traintoteach@adastraacademytrust.com

For further information about Silent Steppers can be found on Facebook.

 

Children at a Stockton-on-Tees primary school have teamed up with a former England women’s international footballer to help raise vital school funds.

Jess Clarke, who won over 50 caps for the Lionesses and scored 11 goals, was guest of honour recently at Rosebrook Primary School.

Jess, who was a member of the 2011 Women’s World Cup team was representing Activekids UK – a national body that was set up to inspire the next generation to be more active and to help promote a healthier lifestyle, both physically and mentally.

The former Liverpool, Notts County, Sheffield United and Durham star joined in with pupils on a sponsored fitness circuit event which raised over £2,000.

Jess also spoke to youngsters during assembly where she talked about the importance of healthy eating, keeping fit and mental wellbeing, along with telling the story of her footballing journey.

Leanne Todd, Headteacher of Rosebrook Primary School, said: “The event was a huge success and provided an opportunity for our children to meet a real-life Lioness.

“Jess Clarke worked with all of the children in school and has hopefully inspired the next generation of young footballers and possibly another Lioness. The children were so excited to meet her and had a fabulous day!

“We would like to thank all of our families that helped raise a phenomenal amount of money. The money raised was split with Activekids UK and £1080 will go towards the further development of our outdoor area and playground.”

Children also had the chance to win signed football memorabilia as part of the event.

Rosebrook is home to over 400 pupils between the age of two and 11 and is one of ten schools under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra, commented: “It’s fantastic to have such a high-profile former Lioness visiting one of our schools.

“Jess Clarke has achieved at the highest level in women’s football, and I am sure her story will help inspire our young children at Rosebrook to aim high and succeed in life.”

The other primary schools within Ad Astra are Crooksbarn in Stockton-on-Tees, Barnard Grove, Brougham, West Park and West View in Hartlepool, Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in Durham.

 

 

A Middlesbrough primary school has been awarded Centre of Excellence status for its commitment to inclusion.

Sunnyside Academy in Coulby Newham recently received the prestigious Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) award following a recent inspection visit.

In her report, Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) Assessor Annette Sowden, said: “The moment you step through the front doors of Sunnyside, you are met with a genuine sense of warmth and calm.

“Inclusion is not just a policy here – it is at the very heart of everything the school does. The senior leadership team is deeply committed to identifying and meeting the needs of every pupil and their families. Their passion shines through in the supportive, close-knit team they have built, all working together to ensure that every child truly matters.

“Led by a dedicated Headteacher – strongly supported by key leaders and a governing body that provides both challenge and encouragement – the school thrives on positive leadership and a shared sense of purpose. Staff are united in their mission to improve children’s life chances, creating an inclusive and nurturing environment where every child feels valued.”

Sunnyside Academy – which is home to just under 300 pupils – is a mainstream school with provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), particularly those with visual and hearing impairments.

The report goes on: “Sunnyside is a school that goes above and beyond, believing that every child has the right to a rich and fulfilling education. The team works hard to build strong relationships with parents and the wider community, serving as an anchor for children with visual and hearing impairments and as a beacon of true inclusion for local schools.

“Inclusion is not just a statement here – it is lived and breathed throughout the school. It is reflected in policies, classroom practice, and the learning environment itself.

“Sunnyside truly listens to its children. Pupils have a voice in shaping their school, often suggesting and selecting the ways in which their views are heard.”

The report continues: “Staff well-being is a top priority for the leadership team, who are committed to introducing meaningful initiatives that not only support staff but also positively impact pupil achievement.

“This is a school that not only demonstrates expertise in inclusive education but also embodies the values and strengths that make it truly exceptional.”

Headteacher Julie Sutton expressed delight at the IQM report.

She added: “I am very proud of the whole school community. Excellence is only achieved because of the true commitment to true inclusion and acceptance.”

Sunnyside is one of ten primary schools across Teesside, County Durham and Hartlepool under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra Academy Trust, said: “This is a truly outstanding report which reflects the wholly inclusive approach to teaching and learning at Sunnyside Academy.

“I would like to thank everyone associated with the school on this fantastic achievement.”

Please click below to read the report in full.

Sunnyside Academy IQM Report

A Hartlepool primary school has been granted a prestigious national award for its efforts to protect the environment.

West View Primary School has been awarded a Green Flag Award with distinction –  the highest possible honour – by Keep Britain Tidy.

It is the fourth year in a row that West View has scooped the Eco-School award and the third successive year with distinction.

Laura Wears, a nursery teacher at the school and Eco Lead, said: “We have a group of children ranging from Reception Class to Year 6 who lead our eco work across the school.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be awarded Eco-School status with distinction once again which reflects the wide range of initiatives involving all of our children, parents and the wider community.”

Projects include: –

In their feedback report, Keep Britain Tidy, said: “We were delighted to hear about your terrific fundraising efforts as part of your global citizenship scheme.

“Your fantastic pupils have undertaken a sponsored bug hunt and sold bird seed in decorated recycled bottles at your Summer Fair – a super all-round effort.

“It was also terrific to learn that your pupils mounted a superb utilities saving campaign by switching off lights and taps and installing a water butt.

“To top it all, there’s been a really wonderful anti-littering campaign with regular school and community litter-picks and a brilliant regular beach clean.”

West View Primary School, on Davison Drive, is one of ten primary schools under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra Academy Trust, said: “The Green Flag Award with distinction is not granted lightly, and I would like to congratulate everyone at West View Primary School on this significant achievement.”

The other nine primary schools within Ad Astra Academy Trust are Barnard Grove, Brougham and West Park in Hartlepool, Crooksbarn and Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees, Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough and Kelloe and Deaf Hill in County Durham.

Please click on the links below to view a short video from West View Primary School’s Laura Wears and Eco Club Members.

Please click here to read our annual trust newsletter!

Children as young as two-years-old at a Hartlepool primary school have demonstrated their flair for art as part of a whole-school exhibition.

Pupils in all year groups at West View Primary School from pre-nursery (age 2) to Year 6 (age 11) showcased their work on the theme of nature.

Each class focused on a specific aspect of nature and studied an individual artist to help inspire their work.

Year 3 pupils studied the artist Georgina O’Keefe and created artwork based on various forms of flowers.

Michelle Crawford, a Year 3 teacher at West View and the school’s Arts Award Advisor, said: “The art exhibition was a fantastic success, with an incredible range of artwork from every year group.

“During the project, children used a variety of materials, including paint, watercolours, pastels and oil pastels.

“The excitement at the exhibition was contagious as children proudly shared their creations with their families, making it a joyful celebration of creativity across the whole school.

“Parents/carers were invited to view and purchase their child’s framed artwork with some of the proceeds being used to support the school. We had a brilliant turnout, and everyone was amazed with the standard of work on display.”

West View Primary School is one of ten primary schools across Hartlepool, Teesside and County Durham under the umbrella of Ad Astra Academy Trust.

Andy Brown OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Ad Astra, commented: “Art is an important part of the curriculum and enables children to be creative in lots of different ways.

“I am very proud of the artwork produced by pupils at West View. All year groups have excelled and the quality of work on display was outstanding.”

The other Ad Astra Academy Trust schools are Barnard Grove, Brougham and West Park in Hartlepool, Crooksbarn and Rosebrook in Stockton-on-Tees, Ayresome and Sunnyside in Middlesbrough and Deaf Hill and Kelloe in County Durham.