Lostwithiel Primary School and Penrice Academy are the only two schools in Cornwall to be chosen as lead schools in the Department for Education’s Attendance and Behaviour Hubs programme, placing them at the forefront of efforts to help children thrive in education.

The programme brings together schools with proven success in supporting attendance, behaviour and positive school culture. As lead schools, Lostwithiel Primary and Penrice Academy will work with other schools to share effective approaches, provide guidance to school leaders and support improvements that help children attend school regularly and feel ready to learn.

Good attendance and positive behaviour are strongly linked to better learning outcomes, improved wellbeing and long-term life chances. By being selected as hub schools, both Cornish schools will play a key role in helping to strengthen these foundations — not just for their own pupils, but for children across the county and the South West.

Elaine Badger, Headteacher of Lostwithiel Primary School said:
“We are incredibly proud to be selected as a lead school and to represent Cornwall in this national programme. At Lostwithiel, we know that when children feel safe, supported and excited about learning, attendance and behaviour improve naturally. This opportunity allows us to share what works for our pupils while learning alongside other schools, all with the aim of giving children the best possible start.”

The selection recognises the strong leadership, inclusive culture and commitment to pupils demonstrated by both schools. Being named as hub schools highlights Cornwall’s growing reputation for educational excellence and collaboration.

Tanya Coleman, Headteacher of Penrice Academy said:
“Being chosen as one of the country’s attendance and behaviour hub schools is a real recognition of the hard work of our staff and students. We are passionate about creating a calm, respectful environment where young people can focus on learning and succeed. Working with other schools through this programme will help us strengthen that work and support even more children to reach their potential.”

As the only schools in Cornwall selected for the programme, Lostwithiel Primary School and Penrice Academy will act as local centres of expertise, helping schools work together to ensure more children are in school, engaged in learning and supported to achieve their best.