DELAMERE Academy has become part of an elite group of schools to be recognised for its work to support the mental health and emotional wellbeing of staff and pupils.

The primary school is one of less than 20 schools in the UK to have been given a Wellbeing Award for Schools.

The scheme commends schools who develop a culture which makes the welfare of pupils and staff a priority, so they can flourish in a positive learning environment.

Inspectors studied accounts from management, teachers, children and parents and found the 'highest standards' in all areas of the school.

Now Delamere is sharing its expertise in these areas with fellow members of North West Academies Trust (NWAT), which include St Martin's in Chester, Oak View in Winsford, and Ellesmere Primary in Shropshire.

Head of School Julie Clayton said: "The award has a focus on changing the long term culture of a school and embedding an ethos where mental health is regarded as the responsibility of all.

"We were very pleased to receive glowing feedback about the school, the pupils and staff, and are proud to be one of less than 20 schools to have the award."

Delamere was recently named one of the top 10 non-fee paying primary schools in the country by Tatler magazine, for consistently featuring in the top one per cent in the Government’s school performance tables.

The school leaders pride themselves on providing a rich and varied programme of education, with experiences away from the classroom a key part of their approach to health, wellbeing and fitness.

The WAS report said: "The wellbeing of all was a key priority even before the school embarked upon the award. The highest standards of the school are reflected in all areas.

"A culture of mutual respect has resulted in a team whose morale is high and a staff who are very proud of their school. The staff have helped pupils build their self-confidence and self-belief in order that they can achieve.

"The pupils had an excellent understanding of their own wellbeing and the importance of exercise and other factors which positively affect them."