Mansfield-based R.E.A.L. Education made 2022 a year to be proud after winning a national award in December and also celebrating two further ‘Good’ Ofsted reports.

R.E.A.L, offers alternative provision across the East Midlands for children and young people between the ages of seven and 19.

Established in 2008, the past 14 years has seen R.E.A.L. grow into four independent special schools, as well as offering vocational provisions and personalised educational programmes.

On 1st December R.E.A.L. Independent Schools was named winners of Education Today’s, Independent School Of The Year award in recognition of its empowering work across the four schools.

Nikki Purcell, head of schools, said: “Winning this award is a testament to the hard work of our learners, parents and staff. Together we have built something incredible, which has a massive impact on the lives of our learners and their families.

“It’s wonderful this has been recognised on a national level. It gives our whole community something to be really proud of.”

The four R.E.A.L. independent schools are based in Mansfield, Blidworth, Hinkley, and Ilkeston. They have all received ‘Good’ Ofsted inspections over the last 18 months.

The reports highlight how leaders have developed a curriculum that focuses on preparing pupils for adulthood, building confidence and independence, and academic success.

They said directors, governors, and leaders are driven by a clear moral purpose. They’re focused on the needs of each pupil and are aspirational for everyone’s future.

Nikki added: “On the latest Ofsted visit, the inspectors recognised the outstanding progress that most of our learners make with regards to their behaviour and attitudes, which was a really emotional moment for our team.

R.E.A.L. Education said it has a clear vision that it believes every child has a future.