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Pennywell Fellowship

The Pennywell Fellowship is a new place-based partnership that brings schools, employers, charities and civic organisations together to expand opportunities for children and families in Pennywell. Academy 360 is a founding member in this collaborative effort to improve life chances through enrichment, employment and engagement.

What is the Pennywell Fellowship?

The Fellowship creates a simple, long-term structure for schools and partners to work as one. Instead of one-off projects, it builds a joined-up network that can last, giving pupils access to richer experiences, stronger relationships and clearer pathways into further education and work.

It serves six local schools, including Academy 360, uniting them with partners such as Sunderland City Council, University of Sunderland, Nissan, Barclays and local charities and cultural organisations.
The model launched in September 2025 and is designed to be replicable in other communities.

To learn more, visit the official Pennywell Fellowship website here.

Why does it matter for Academy 360?

Our pupils deserve consistent access to opportunities that build confidence, raise aspirations and connect learning to the real world. The Fellowship provides:

One front door to a city-wide coalition of employers and organisations who can support our pupils.
A shared delivery plan with fellow schools so that support is coordinated and sustained, not dependent on single programmes.
A focus on three priorities chosen by local Headteachers: Enrichment, Employment and Engagement.

The Three Priorities

Enrichment: Experiences that broaden horizon

Opening up sport, culture, technology, art and the outdoors for all ages, with practical steps like enhanced enrichment offers and barrier-removing schemes.

Employment: From classroom to career

Linking pupils with Sunderland’s growth sectors (advanced manufacturing, tech, health). Expect career roadshows, workplace encounters and a sustained, Gatsby-aligned programme developed with employers.

Engagement: Families and community at the heart

Strengthening attendance and relationships through Family Champions, dedicated councils and coordinated support so no child slips through the cracks.

How to Get Involved

The Pennywell Fellowship brings schools, businesses, charities and local organisations together to improve outcomes for children and young people in Pennywell and beyond.

There are three ways to get involved:

Partners: Strategic supporters who invest in the Fellowship’s vision and help shape its direction.

Civic Partners: Public institutions such as local authorities, health services and Universities working collaboratively.

Community Partners: Local businesses, charities and grassroots groups offering services and opportunities.

Organisations can: