A New Chapter for The Mallard Academy: Celebrating a School Transformed

The Mallard Academy has celebrated the opening of its transformed facilities, marking a significant milestone in its improvement journey since joining Exceed Learning Partnership.

The grand opening brought together colleagues, partners and community representatives to recognise the impact of a major building project that has created enhanced learning environments and new opportunities for pupils and staff.

Among those attending were Mayor of Doncaster Ros Jones, Sally Jameson MP, Chief Executive of Doncaster Council Damian Allen, members of Exceed Learning Partnership’s Board of Directors and Executive Leadership team, representatives from The Mallard Academy’s Interim Executive Improvement Board (IEIB), and partners CPP, MAC and Heatworks, who have contributed to the building project.

A highlight of the event was Sally Jameson MP officially opening the academy’s new library area, providing pupils with an inspiring space to develop their reading skills and nurture a lifelong love of books.

The transformation represents an important step forward for The Mallard Academy, complementing the wider improvements achieved since joining Exceed. With further Department for Education capital investment supporting the academy’s continued development, the focus remains on creating an environment where every pupil can thrive.

Beryce Nixon OBE, Chief Executive Officer of Exceed Learning Partnership, said:

“ The Mallard Academy’s transformation demonstrates what can be achieved when people share a clear ambition for children and young people. The investment in the building is significant, but it is the dedication of the team and the progress being made for pupils that truly matter. This is about creating the conditions in which every child can flourish.”

Alongside improvements to its facilities, the academy has made significant progress in key areas of school improvement. Attendance has risen from 91% to 93.5%, persistent absenteeism has reduced from 35.7% to 16.8%, and suspension days have fallen from 41 to 6.5. Meanwhile, after-school clubs have increased from two to 12 each week, providing pupils with greater opportunities beyond the classroom.

These achievements reflect the dedication of colleagues, leaders, governors, families and pupils in building a positive culture where children feel safe, supported and inspired to succeed.

Delivering a major building project while the academy remained operational has required exceptional teamwork and resilience, with staff continuing to prioritise pupils’ education and wellbeing throughout the works.

John Blount, who was Chair of Exceed Learning Partnership’s Board of Directors when The Mallard Academy joined the Trust, said:

“Seeing how far The Mallard Academy has come is incredibly rewarding. Joining Exceed marked the beginning of an important journey, and this transformation represents a significant milestone. I am delighted to see the investment, commitment and hard work coming together to create a brighter future for the academy and its community.”

Congratulations go to David Richardson, Claire Ledger, Davina Sumner and the entire Mallard team for their leadership, commitment and resilience throughout the project. Thanks also go to CPP, MAC, Heatworks and all colleagues and partners involved in delivering the transformation.

The opening marks more than the completion of a building project. It celebrates the progress of an academy, the collective effort behind its improvement and the opportunities being created for its pupils.

As The Mallard Academy continues its journey with Exceed Learning Partnership, its transformed facilities provide a strong foundation for further improvement and an exciting future for the whole school community.