Alvaston Moor Academy has recorded a drastic 89% drop in suspensions this academic year, thanks to initiatives put in place under new leadership.
Last academic year, Alvaston Moor recorded 2,907.5 school days lost to suspensions by April 2, 2024. This academic year, it has already drastically cut that figure down to just 321.5 days by April 2, 2025.
A key driver of this transformation has been the school’s commitment to clear structures, inclusive investment, and community engagement. Under the leadership of Principal Gemma Tyers, Alvaston Moor Academy has expanded its senior leadership team from four to eight members, allowing the school to more effectively embed and monitor its systems and provide responsive support at every level.
She said: “We’ve embedded robust systems and processes with clear expectations. It’s about being kind, consistent, and having a shared belief that every child matters.”
The school now operates a clear behaviour system that gives students a fair opportunity to reset and recalibrate before being removed from lessons. The goal is to preserve the disruption-free learning environments each pupil is entitled to. Expectations are reinforced every half term, giving consistency and structure that is embraced by both students and staff.
Significant investment has also been made in supporting students with high needs. A £1.5 million inclusion hub now offers personalised, small-group instruction, and an internal alternative provision tailored to support the most vulnerable learners.
Alongside this, the school has implemented a culture of recognition for staff through new initiatives designed to contribute to improved staff morale and school climate. Weeks with no staff absences are now not uncommon.
Parental and community engagement has been central to this transformation. Alvaston Moor Academy is actively working to build trust through transparent communication and initiatives such as school tours, increased school events and much more. This renewed confidence from families is reflected in the rising Year 7 admissions, from 160 this year to a projected 205 next academic year.
“We’re continuing to build trust through transparent communication and engaging enrichment initiatives like the launch of house systems and a comprehensive personal development programme.” Gemma added, “the goal for us as a school is clear: to be the best school in the country, providing all students with choice and opportunity.”
Located in Derby, Alvaston Moor Academy serves one of the UK’s most disadvantaged student populations, with 63% of students in the bottom fifth percentile of deprivation and 50% learning English as an additional language.
However, the impact of the culture shift is visible and Sian Hampton, CEO of Archway Learning Trust, praised the transformation:
“What’s happening at Alvaston Moor Academy is nothing short of inspirational. It’s a powerful example of what is possible when belief, systems, and support come together with relentless energy. The school is on the path to becoming not just good, but great.”