Congratulations to our first ever School of the Year, Abbey Primary!

We are delighted to announce Abbey Primary as our Schoolreaders School of the Year 2026.

Abbey Primary was nominated for embodying everything that a nurturing, inclusive and inspirational school community should be. From the moment volunteers arrive, they are made to feel part of the school family, with a genuine warmth that is felt by staff, pupils, parents and volunteers alike.

The school's ethos of "Ready, Respectful and Safe" is not simply displayed on the walls but lived and embraced throughout the school community. This positive, caring and supportive environment helps children feel secure, valued and ready to learn.

The nomination highlighted the school's inclusive approach, particularly in supporting children with SEND. Every child is treated as an individual and supported in a way that helps them flourish both academically and emotionally.

Abbey Primary's commitment to reading and oracy also stood out. Reading is seen as a cornerstone of the education the school provides, with staff working tirelessly to help children develop both confidence and enjoyment in reading. Volunteers are fully integrated into school life and supported to make a meaningful contribution, with regular communication and monthly review meetings helping to ensure they feel informed, valued and connected.

Reflecting on their experience, the volunteer who nominated Abbey Primary said:

"Volunteering at Abbey Primary has become the highlight of my week."

Their nomination also shared the story of one Year 2 pupil who began the school year lacking confidence when reading aloud. Through regular one-to-one reading sessions and the school's calm and supportive environment, the child became increasingly enthusiastic about reading, began reading at home with their grandparents and made significant progress in both confidence and fluency.

As the nomination concludes, Abbey Primary is not only educating children academically; it is nurturing confident, respectful and compassionate young people within a truly caring community.

Congratulations to everyone at Abbey Primary on being named Schoolreaders School of the Year 2026 and thank you for your commitment to helping children develop a lifelong love of reading.