Northfield Academy praised as project supports major improvements after damning report

A trial teaching model aimed at making Northfield Academy pupils feel more comfortable at school could be extended due to its overwhelming success.

The S1 ‘Crew’ project was launched as part of a major curriculum overhaul following a scathing inspection report and falling attainment levels.

Under the model, pupils take part in Mindful Mondays, Tranquil Tuesdays, Wise Wednesdays, Thoughtful Thursdays, and Flexible Fridays. They also team up with local groups to carry out community clean-ups and check-ins.

READ MORE: Cove battery storage facility approved despite fears raised by neighbouring quarry

READ MORE: New home to be built on site of long lost Aberdeenshire railway station

Those starting S1 took part in a residential outdoor experience to help bond with their peers. Members of Aberdeen City Council’s education committee were recently given an update of progress at Northfield.

Head teacher Craig McDermott was praised for the transformational work that has seen multiple improvements across the school. Crew in particular was highlighted as a triumph.

The scheme has been so popular with pupils, it could be continued into S2 to ensure young people can stay in touch with their teachers. Feedback so far has revealed that the model has helped to increase attendance and reduce exclusions.

One pupil described Crew as a “safe space where you can express yourself and no-one can judge you”. Another added: “I think S1 would have been bad without Crew because I don’t think I would have had the skills I now have.”

Mr McDermott told the chamber that evaluation work is underway to understand the impact Crew has had on young people and their families. He said that so far, indications show the scheme has been “really positive” with pupils saying it has made a huge difference to their wellbeing.

Mr McDermott told the committee that work is underway to shape the school curriculum for the next year and he hopes the model can continue into S2. “I would suggest that the young people and their families would also tell us that would be the way to go,” he explained.

Councillor Kate Blake welcomed the potential extension of Crew. “It’s really nice to see all the community groups in the area put out social media posts where the young people are engaging with them,” she said.

Ward councillor Ciaran McRae revealed he had joined community walkabouts hosted through Crew and noted that pupils had gained a “sense of pride” through the scheme. He also said that that community groups were “quick to defend the school and promote the good work that is being done”.