A SCHOOL in Shrewton helping dyslexic pupils has been recognised with an award for its innovative methods improving pupils’ wellbeing.

Appleford School, a renowned dyslexia school, received the Independent Schools Association (ISA) Award 2018 for Outstanding Sport during a ceremony in Coventry.

Head of PE Rob Fielder said: “We are delighted to receive this fantastic award which pays tribute to the hard work from the PE team, the support of the school leadership team and the pupils at Appleford. At Appleford, dyslexia is absolutely no barrier to achievement.”

Last year, the school restructured its infrastructures to ease access to physical education. Changes included daily 40 minute planned personal fitness programmes for every child, which aimed to get them to a certain level of fitness.

Carolyn Shipstone, the headteacher’s personal assistant, said: “For a number of years, it has been accepted that children have become less active and the impact on their health and prospects has become ever more obvious.

“It was our aim not only to increase measurable levels of fitness and wellbeing in all pupils but to also develop an enhanced range of sporting activities leading to increased participation and involvement in competitive sport.”

With a rise of 16 per cent in GCSE attainment, it has demonstrated that these changes have positively increased pupils’ engagement and performances.