Gold Standard for Children’s Rights at Banchory Academy

Banchory Academy has achieved Gold status in UNICEF UK’s Rights Respecting Schools programme – the highest level of recognition within the programme.

Building on the school’s previous Bronze and Silver awards, this achievement recognises the commitment of the whole school community to ensuring children’s rights are understood, respected and brought to life every day.

The Rights Respecting Schools Award recognises schools that place children’s rights at the heart of their culture, relationships and decision-making, empowering young people to understand their rights, have their voices heard and play an active role in shaping school life.

Rector Judith Wight said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition. It is a fantastic achievement for our whole school community and reflects the enthusiasm, commitment and hard work of our pupils, staff, parents and partners.

"Our aim is to create an inclusive, caring and respectful environment where every young person feels valued, heard and supported to achieve their full potential.

"Our values of consideration, opportunity, responsibility and excellence are at the heart of this, and it is wonderful to see that commitment recognised at Gold level.

"I am immensely proud of our young people, whose leadership and willingness to make a positive difference have been central to our Rights Respecting journey."

Children’s rights are woven throughout life at Banchory Academy. 

Universal Support time gives pupils regular opportunities to explore themes linked to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, with young people increasingly taking the lead in sharing issues that matter to them.

Pupil leadership groups, house assemblies, Rightsfest and community activities are examples of meaningful opportunities for pupils to influence school life and develop their confidence as leaders.

The school was particularly recognised for pupils’ confidence in discussing children’s rights and their relevance to their own lives, the opportunities and trusted mechanisms available to raise concerns, the strong focus on health and wellbeing, and the caring and inclusive ethos in which young people feel supported and involved.

This achievement makes Banchory Academy the only secondary school in the north east currently holding this level of award.