Worcester primary school named among best UK employers

Oasis Academy Warndon secured the 71st spot in the list compiled by the National Centre for Diversity.

A spokesperson for the school said: “This recognition highlights nearly a decade of hard work and commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the workplace.”

The work began almost nine years ago when the academy signed up for the process.

This has involved completing surveys, analysing results, and implementing continuous professional development based on staff feedback.

The aim was to create a “supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued” and heard, the school said.

The school’s principal, Suzanne Owen, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to see our academy placed at number 71 in the Top 100 Inclusive UK Employers Index 2024.

“This achievement is a direct reflection of the ongoing work and commitment we’ve invested in making our academy a welcoming and inclusive place for not only staff, but our pupils and families.”

Oasis Academy Warndon has maintained its ranking since the last survey in January 2023.

Since then, the school has been reviewing policies, accessibility plans, and teaching practices.

This has included reviewing its teaching and learning strategies to ensure they promote inclusion and diversity, and ensuring staff development opportunities align with its values of fairness and equality.

Oasis Academy Warndon said it has prioritised employee retention, recruitment, and overall wellbeing.

Lucy Thomas, a teacher at the school, said: “This achievement is a result of the passion and dedication of all our staff.

“We are proud to have created a working environment where inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do, from our teaching to our staff development.

“The work we’ve done over the last nine years continues to shape the culture at the academy, and we’re thrilled to see this recognised on a national level.”

Solat Chaudhry, chief executive at the National Centre for Diversity, added: “I send my warmest congratulations to Oasis Academy Warndon on successfully reaching number 71 in the Top 100 Most Inclusive UK Employers Index 2024.

“The inspiring organisations that make the Top 100 demonstrate excellent levels of employee retention and recruitment and clearly show how they value and respect the people that work for them.

“What better than to be recognised by peers and those travelling in the same direction towards the common goal of fairness in the workplace. It is hugely motivational.”