Newton Abbot primary school recognised in national teaching awards

A primary school in Newton Abbot has been recognised on the national stage after receiving a Certificate of Achievement in the 2026 Pearson National Teaching Awards.

All Saints Marsh CofE Academy (ASM), part of the Learning Academy Partnership, was honoured in the Making a Difference – Primary School of the Year category, highlighting its commitment to delivering high-quality education and strong community values.

The school, located close to the town centre, has fewer than 100 pupils and prides itself on a close-knit, village-style environment where children and families are well known to staff. Inspectors from Ofsted recently rated the academy ‘Good’ in all areas, praising its calm atmosphere, high expectations and positive relationships.

At the heart of the school’s approach is an ambitious curriculum designed to build from pupils’ local experiences to a broader national and global understanding. Initiatives such as History Hunters, run in partnership with Newton Abbot Museum, have seen children create displays exploring the town’s railway heritage.

Academically, the school has also performed strongly, with 85% of pupils meeting the expected standard in reading, writing and maths in recent assessments, compared to a local authority average of 57%.

Alongside academic achievement, the school places a strong emphasis on personal development, teaching children from Reception age to understand emotions, build relationships and take part in community life.

The award will be formally celebrated on National Thank a Teacher Day later this year. The Pearson National Teaching Awards, founded in 1998 by David Puttnam, recognise excellence across the education sector.

Mr Liam O’Sullivan, headteacher at All Saints Marsh CofE Academy, said:

“I am incredibly proud of our whole school team at All Saints Marsh. Every member of staff works tirelessly to ensure that our pupils are supported, challenged, and inspired every day.

“This recognition is a testament to their dedication and to the strong, caring community we have built here. Seeing our children flourish, both academically and personally, is the greatest reward, and I am delighted that their hard work and enthusiasm are being celebrated on a national stage."

Tracey Cleverly, CEO of Learning Academy Partnership, added:

"All Saints Marsh CofE Academy exemplifies the values at the heart of the Learning Academy Partnership. This recognition reflects the school’s unwavering commitment to inclusion, high expectations, and the development of every child. We are proud of the leadership, staff, and pupils whose hard work and creativity have made such a positive impact in their community, and it is inspiring to see their achievements celebrated nationally."

The Learning Academy Partnership is a trust of 18 schools serving communities across Cornwall, Devon and Torbay, with a focus on delivering what it describes as “Flourishing Futures” through a values-led approach to education.