At Benfield School, we believe that every pupil can succeed when ambition is matched with resilience. That’s why we’ve launched the Ambition through Resilience Awards: a weekly reward programme that recognises pupils who show up, try hard, and push themselves to be the best they can be.
What is it?
The awards are simple but powerful. Each week, two pupils from each form are selected for showing a positive attitude to learning or good attendance. These aren’t just the highest achievers or top performers. These are the pupils who turn up, keep going, and try their best, especially when it’s not easy.
Nominations are decided on Thursdays. Certificates are collected on Fridays and presented during form time. Staff use Class Charts and classroom displays to track and celebrate progress. This builds momentum, encourages praise, and creates a buzz in the classroom.
Why does it matter?
The scheme supports our wider mission: to raise ambition and encourage pupils to take pride in their education. By linking attendance and attitude to rewards, we show pupils that turning up and trying their best are noticed and valued. It helps us strengthen the partnership between school and home and encourages more meaningful conversations between pupils and their form tutors.
It also plays a key role in improving engagement and supporting pastoral care. Over time, we hope to see improved attendance across the board and pupils taking greater responsibility for their learning.
Linking to NEAT Strategic Priorities
Ambition through Resilience reflects NEAT Academy Trust’s wider goals around personal development, raising aspirations, and creating a culture of recognition and belonging. It supports our careers and wider PD offer by building the habits pupils need for the world beyond school.
By encouraging pupils to see each week as a fresh chance to improve, we help them develop the skills and mindset they need for the next stage of their journey—whether that’s further education, training, or work.
Looking Ahead
Staff and pupil drop-ins are planned to keep the scheme growing and improving. We’re also continuing to make links between recognition in school and the wider NEAT Experience so our pupils can see how every small step they take now builds towards their future.
At Benfield, ambition isn’t about being the best. It’s about being your best. And resilience is how we get there.