Primary school celebrates being crowned North East's best for 2025

The Gosforth school, which is part of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust, was awarded the accolade on the basis of its academic results and performance in comparison to other schools across the country.

“This really recognises the achievement of the school,” said Headteacher Louise Nealings, who took on the role in 2015. “I’d strongly stress that it’s a team effort and the result of the continued drive that we have to ensure that everything we do is what’s best for the children.

“As a school, we’re very reflective and we review everything we do regularly to ensure that what we offer continues to be the best. It’s about being open to ideas, learning from others, and always having the children at the heart of everything.”

St Charles’ has 240 pupils from Nursery through to Year 6, and it is the children who will decide how the ‘Primary School of the Year’ celebrates its new status.

“The children’s voices are always heard and taken into account, and it’s their hard work that has helped to achieve this,” continued Mrs Nealings. “They’re always part of the decision-making process. We usually give them options and let them have a vote – often celebrations involve a visit from the ice cream van!

“We’re a family-oriented school. When you walk in, it’s very welcoming, supportive and friendly, with high energy and a joyous atmosphere. There’s always a buzz about being here.”

Widely recognised at the most authoritative survey of its kind, Sunday Times Parent Power evaluates and ranks more than 1,600 schools throughout the UK, identifying the highest achieving.

The national database lists schools by name, local authority, location, and postcode – allowing parents to compare a school’s performance with others in the same area, as well as nationally – and is also issued as a print supplement within The Sunday Times.

“It’s really exciting to have won,” added Mrs Nealings. “Academic achievement is so important, but it’s not everything, as it’s about inclusive education too, and having a very broad and balanced curriculum that focuses on the whole child.

“St Charles’ is a strong, steady school, and this really makes everything we do worthwhile.”