Cranbrook Education Campus Announced as DfE Behaviour and Attendance Hub

Cranbrook Education Campus (CEC) has been selected as a ‘Lead School’ for the Department for Education’s national ‘Attendance and Behaviour Hubs’ programme, recognising the school’s strong, inclusive approach to building positive culture, improving attendance and supporting children and families to thrive.

CEC is among a small group of schools nationally chosen to take on this role, working with schools across the South West and beyond to share effective practice, provide targeted support and help strengthen school cultures rooted in belonging, high expectations and care. Cranbrook Education Campus, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, is the third school in the trust to receive this hub status from the DfE. 

The designation reflects CEC’s sustained work to create a safe, calm and welcoming environment for pupils of all ages, underpinned by clear routines, strong relationships and a commitment to inclusion. Recent Ofsted inspection findings highlighted that pupils are happy and safe, with a positive atmosphere where learning is rarely disrupted.

As a ‘Behaviour and Attendance Hub’, Cranbrook Education Campus will work alongside other schools to:

• Provide targeted, one to one support to school leaders to strengthen behaviour culture and attendance systems
• Host open days, professional learning events and opportunities for schools to share best practice
• Support schools to develop safe, supportive environments where pupils feel a strong sense of belonging
• Use data thoughtfully to identify challenges early and secure sustainable improvement

The Department for Education has said that, over time, the programme will provide intensive support to hundreds of schools most in need, while thousands more will be able to access hub expertise as the programme expands.

Strong attendance and positive school culture are widely recognised as key foundations for children’s learning, wellbeing and future opportunities. CEC’s approach balances high expectations with compassion, ensuring that support is put in place early and that families are worked with closely and collaboratively.

Stephen Farmer, Head of Campus at Cranbrook Education Campus said:

“At CEC, we believe that every child deserves to feel safe, valued and supported to succeed. This designation recognises the work of our staff, pupils and families in creating a culture where belonging and ambition go hand in hand. We are proud to work alongside other schools, sharing what has worked for us while learning from their contexts and experiences too.”

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“The selection of Cranbrook Education Campus by the Department for Education reflects Cranbrook’s thoughtful, inclusive approach to behaviour and attendance, rooted in strong relationships, clarity and care. We are pleased that this work will now support schools across the region, helping more children to feel connected to school and ready to learn.”