Norfolk schools win ‘positive masculinity’ award

A partnership between two Norfolk schools has seen them win a prestigious national award for their work in promoting ‘positive masculinity’ and healthy relationships among young people.

Following the rise in negative male online influencers, Acle Academy and St William’s Primary worked together to develop an initiative in which the secondary school students mentor the younger boys of the primary school football team, as well as encouraging the adoption of positive role models, and introducing a school-wide competition to broaden the discussion.

The success of their scheme was acknowledged at the 2025 Tender Awards, where the charity’s patron, actress Olivia Colman, was on hand to present the award.

Launched in 2003, Tender uses drama and arts to educate children and young people about healthy relationships, and to promote respectful attitudes and behaviours within communities. The charity’s annual awards evening honours commitment in those areas.

“Representatives from Acle Academy and St William’s Primary School travelled to London to receive a national award from the charity Tender, recognising their powerful joint work in promoting positive masculinity and healthy relationships among young people,” said Helen Watts, Executive Principal at Acle Academy, which is part of the Wensum Trust.

“The national recognition stems from a broader programme of work the schools have been championing locally,” she explained. “This includes the Tender Re-Set Programme, exploring identity, respect, and consent through creative and educational experiences; a striking, collaborative mural project, symbolising unity and inclusion, co-designed by students; creative writing workshops led by acclaimed author Ahsley Hickson-Lovence, encouraging self-expression and critical thinking; and positive role model assemblies delivered separately to boys and girls, focusing on emotional intelligence, strength through kindness, and challenging harmful stereotypes.”

Other key elements of the joint campaign included a partnership with Norwich City Football Club to promote leadership and positive masculinity through football; an Inspiring Role Model Competition; parent and caregiver workshops on online safety, the ‘manosphere’, and decoding emojis; and the mentorship programme between the two schools.

“This impactful programme reflects a deep commitment to empowering students with the knowledge and confidence to form respectful, healthy relationships – both in real life and online,” continued Mrs Watts.

“Both schools look forward to building on this momentum and continuing their transformative work to support the next generation in navigating life with empathy, strength, and integrity.”

Mrs Watts attended the prize giving with Acle Academy Assistant Principal, Michelle Jacotine, and Examinations Officer Alistair Lottering, along with Year 9 students Freya Havis and Micky Lottering, and staff from St William’s.

“It was an amazing opportunity to go to the Tender Awards Ceremony in London,” said Micky. “I really enjoyed meeting all the celebrities, especially Olivia Colman.”

“I loved meeting the celebrities and other people who are supporting young people to make changes,” agreed Freya. “I think the Tender Re-Set Programme has really helped to promote healthy boundaries in relationships, and to encourage people to talk about their mental health.”

“We’re so proud of our school community for embedding the positive values of the Tender project,” added Mrs Watts. “Our young ambassadors have not only been empowered to champion healthy behaviours built on equality and respect, but also to challenge misogyny and harmful attitudes.

“With the significant rise in exposure to harmful online content, it is imperative that our young people are equipped with the skills needed to make critical evaluations of what they see and read, and challenge dangerous narratives.”