Bedford Academy has proudly achieved the prestigious Wellbeing Award for Schools (WAS), a national accolade that recognises outstanding work in promoting emotional wellbeing and positive mental health within school communities.

Awarded by Optimus Education in partnership with the National Children’s Bureau (NCB), the Wellbeing Award celebrates educational institutions that embed a culture of mental health support across every level of school life. The rigorous assessment process evaluates schools on their ability to create a whole-school approach to wellbeing, with a focus on sustainable improvement.

Bedford Academy’s success follows a comprehensive evaluation that highlighted its holistic support for students, staff, and families, aligning with the school’s ongoing mission to move from 'Good to Great'.

This achievement also reflects the outstanding commitment of Deputy Headteacher Laura Fordham, and Student Wellbeing Manager Susanne Herbert, whose meticulous work in gathering evidence and coordinating the award submission played a vital role in the school’s successful accreditation.

Chris Deller, Headteacher added, “we are exceptionally proud that our commitment to wellbeing for all of our stakeholders has been formally recognised through such a rigorous process. We were delighted to read some of the overwhelmingly positive comments about the support on offer for our students, staff and families as we continue our ‘Good to Great’ school improvement journey.”

The Wellbeing Award for Schools supports institutions in building mentally healthy environments, and Bedford Academy’s recognition places it among a growing number of forward-thinking schools prioritising both academic and emotional success.

L-R: Chris Deller (Headteacher), Laura Fordham (Deputy Headteacher) and Susanne Herbert (Student Wellbeing Manager) with the Wellbeing Award for Schools.