Red Oak Primary Lowestoft up for 'School of the Year' honour

Red Oak Primary has been shortlisted as one just five finalists from across the country in the 'School of the Year' category at the National Schools Awards.

The school on Southwell Road, Kirkley in south Lowestoft - part of the Active Learning Trust - is awaiting the announcement of the overall winner in a ceremony at the House of Lords in December.

Bookworms! Children from Red Oak Primary enjoying reading (Image: Red Oak Primary School) The category celebrates a school that has delivered huge improvements for pupil outcomes.

Red Oak Primary School pupils with books (Image: Red Oak Primary School)

Among Red Oak’s achievements recently has been 90pc of pupils reaching or exceeding the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics at the end of Key Stage 2 - putting the school in the top 2pc of primaries in the country.

It has also maintained an attendance rate of 98pc for the last four years.

Heather Madsen, headteacher, said: "We are so pleased to have been nominated and shortlisted for such a prestigious award.

"This in itself is a significant achievement we can celebrate as a whole school community.

"All children deserve our very best and we are completely dedicated to inspiring all our pupils and supporting them to achieve their full potential while developing our strong partnerships with the local community.

Heather Madsen, headteacher, and Johnny Lee, PE and Sports Co-ordinator, pictured in 2019 at the school's trophy cabinet (Image: Mick Howes)

"Thank you to all our staff, pupils, parents and the wider school community for the care and support you continue to show our school - it makes all the difference."

Lynsey Holzer, CEO at the Active Learning Trust, said: "We are all very proud that Red Oak Primary School has been shortlisted for such a prestigious award."