RRSA Gold Award

The Rights Respecting Schools Award is based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and supports schools to place children's rights at the heart of their ethos and daily practice. Gold is the third and final stage of the Award and recognises that children's rights are fully embedded across a school's policy, practice and ethos, shaping relationships, learning and decision‑making for both pupils and staff.

Linlithgow Academy achieved the Silver Award in June 2023 and has worked consistently since then to further strengthen its rights‑respecting approach across all areas of school life.

Following a successful accreditation visit in March 2026, assessors highlighted the school's strong culture of respect, inclusion and participation, alongside the positive impact this has had on pupil wellbeing, engagement and relationships across the school community.

Members of the pupil group who helped lead and develop the Rights Respecting Schools work said:

"We've had real opportunities to share our views and make changes that matter. Learning about our rights has helped us feel more confident, respected and included, and it's made our school a better place for everyone. We're proud that our work has helped Linlithgow Academy achieve Gold."

Drew Hunter, Teacher Lead for Rights Respecting Schools, added:

"This award represents years of sustained work and shared commitment across the school. Our young people have been central to shaping decisions, promoting fairness and challenging injustice, while staff have embedded children's rights into everyday practice. Achieving Gold shows what is possible when a school truly listens to its learners."

Headteacher Grant Abbot said:

"We are incredibly proud to have achieved the UNICEF UK Gold Rights Respecting Schools Award. This recognition reflects the commitment of our pupils, staff and wider school community to ensuring that children's rights are understood, respected and actively promoted every day. Being a rights respecting school has strengthened relationships, encouraged pupil voice, and helped create a safe, inclusive environment where all young people can thrive."

The Rights Respecting Schools Award programme works with nearly 5,000 schools across the UK and is proven to have a positive impact on wellbeing, behaviour, relationships and inclusion by placing children's rights at the centre of education.

Achieving Gold is a significant milestone for Linlithgow Academy, and we are proud of everyone, especially our pupils who has contributed to making our school a respectful, inclusive and empowering place to learn.