November 10, 2026 03:07pm
Kings Ash Academy, part of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust is celebrating after being awarded the prestigious Thinking School Accreditation by the University of Exeter. The achievement sees the primary school join a growing number of schools across the Trust to have gained recognised Thinking School status.
The accreditation recognises the school's commitment to embedding thinking, metacognition and lifelong learning throughout every aspect of school life, helping pupils develop the skills and confidence to become independent, reflective learners.
The achievement follows a rigorous assessment process, during which the school was praised for its highly inclusive culture, strong leadership, innovative curriculum and commitment to ensuring every child can thrive. Assessors described Kings Ash Academy as a "truly first-class Thinking School", where thinking "flourishes" and the needs and wellbeing of every child are at the heart of decision-making.
Kings Ash Academy has developed a whole-school approach to teaching children how to think critically, creatively and independently. The accreditation report recognised how this approach has become firmly embedded in the academy's culture, helping pupils become more confident learners who can plan, monitor and evaluate their own learning.
The report also highlighted the school's vision of nurturing pupils who are "Knowing, Aspiring and Achieving", alongside its core values of Respect, Collaboration, Creativity and Independence. Assessors found these values are evident throughout the school, helping to create an environment where every child is encouraged and supported to reach their potential.
Laura Coppell who led the school’s application to achieve the Thinking Schools Accreditation, said:
"This accreditation celebrates the collective effort of our entire school community. Together, we have worked to create an environment where thinking is encouraged, shared and valued every day. It’s wonderful to see that work recognised, and we’re excited to build on this achievement, continuing to give our pupils the skills, confidence and opportunities to become curious, independent and lifelong learners.”
Rob Fitzsimmons, Headteacher at Kings Ash Academy, said:
"We're absolutely delighted to have achieved the Thinking School accreditation. It's something that everyone at Kings Ash has worked incredibly hard towards, so it's lovely to see that commitment recognised.
"What makes me most proud is seeing how our children are developing into confident, curious learners who aren't afraid to ask questions, try new things and think for themselves. That's what we want for every child who walks through our doors; not just to do well at school, but to develop skills that will stay with them throughout their lives."
The report also recognised the important role played by the school's leadership team and staff in creating a collaborative environment focused on innovation, professional development and educational excellence.
The accreditation report concluded that Kings Ash Academy demonstrates an "exceptional whole-school approach to the teaching of thinking", commending its ambition, inclusivity and commitment to ensuring all children can achieve their full potential.
Looking ahead, the school will continue to build on its Thinking School journey, exploring opportunities to work towards Advanced Thinking School Accreditation in the future.