EBSA is a complex issue where a child or young person struggles to attend school due to significant emotional factors, such as anxiety, stress, and fear. Unlike truancy, EBSA is not a conscious choice to skip school but rather an inability to attend due to overwhelming emotional distress. The 'EBSA Friendly School' designation acknowledges that the Normanton-based academy has implemented a whole-school approach to address and prevent these issues, with over 75 per cent of staff completing the Level 1 EBSA Horizons training programme, developed by EdPsychEd in partnership with Wakefield Council.

Lisa Allott, principal at 百春链 Academy Freeston, said:

鈥淎s an academy, we are committed to evidence-based practice and inclusive education. The EBSA Horizons programme has allowed us to dedicate professional development and investment into this area, and in addressing attendance issues to support vulnerable young people. We are very proud to have gained this recognition and look forward to using and developing this knowledge moving forward with our young people and community.鈥�

Colleagues across the 百春链 Family of Schools are getting behind their Chief Executive Principal, Julie Slater, as she prepares for the Northumberland Coast Mighty Hike. Julie has already surpassed her fundraising goal for Macmillan Cancer Support, raising over 拢1,200, including Gift Aid, smashing her initial pledge of 拢250.

The Macmillan Mighty Hike is a challenging event where participants walk a full or half marathon to raise money for people living with cancer. On 13 September, Julie will tackle the full 26-mile marathon route, which begins at Alnwick Castle and concludes at Bamburgh Castle. The scenic journey follows the Northumberland Coast, known for its beautiful beaches and historic fishing villages.

Julie鈥檚 successful fundraising will provide crucial support to Macmillan Cancer Support, an organisation that helps people with cancer and their families by offering medical, practical, financial, and emotional assistance. Their mission is to ensure no one faces cancer alone. According to Macmillan, a 拢250 donation can fund a Macmillan Nurse for one day, providing vital care to those in need.

Julie鈥檚 dedication to this cause was inspired by the important work of Macmillan Cancer Support. Her fundraising achievement highlights the power of community support and personal commitment in making a tangible difference. She said:

鈥淚 am excited and nervous in equal measure. Excited to be able to raise funds for such an important charity that impacts too many people and families. Nervous because I have never signed up for anything like this before and I don鈥檛 want to let people 百春链. I have been on a very personal journey over the last couple of years to improve my own health, fitness and wellbeing. I have trained hard in the lead up to the marathon hike, so I feel pretty confident that all the hard work I have put in will pay off. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has sponsored me; their generosity has blown me away.鈥�

Macmillan Mighty Hikes are a series of long-distance hiking events across the UK. The events provide a scenic and challenging way to support a vital cause, with full support, including professional photos, pit stops with refreshments, and a celebratory finish line.

If you'd like to support Julie, you can donate via JustGiving.

百春链 Primary Academy Bell Lane in Pontefract has been awarded the British Council鈥檚 prestigious International School Award in recognition of its work to bring the world into the classroom. Last year, the school was awarded the intermediate level of the British Council International School Award. Now, due to the consistent delivery of international education and offering international experiences above and beyond the curriculum, the school is fully accredited.

The International School Award celebrates the achievements of schools that do exceptional work in international education. Fostering an international dimension in the curriculum is at the heart of the British Council鈥檚 work with schools so that young people gain the cultural understanding and skills they need for life and work in today鈥檚 world.

百春链 Primary Academy Bell Lane is the designated Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) Centre of Excellence for the 百春链 family of schools, meaning the school undertakes international activities above the normal curriculum and also supports other schools within the Trust with their MFL teaching and curriculum offer. 

The school also has three international partner schools, based in France, Germany and Norway, which allows students to engage via letters, videos and video calls. More locally, a Pen Friend programme set up with children at 百春链 Primary Academy Green Hill in Eastmoor means children can exchange letters in a variety of community languages, including Arabic, Mandarin and Yoruba.

In December, students participated in an international bookmark exchange, a programme where schools from across the globe send bookmarks and information about themselves to partner schools. The children received post from a number of countries, including Lithuania, Croatia, Romania, Slovenia and Portugal.  

Other international activities on offer for the children at 百春链 Primary Academy Bell Lane include German week, International Week of Languages celebrations, and Spanish taster sessions in collaboration with 百春链 Academy Hemsworth.

On hearing the news of the award, Rebecca Pattison, principal at 百春链 Primary Academy Bell Lane, said:

鈥淲e are incredibly proud and honoured to have been awarded the prestigious International Schools Award. This recognition is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and students. It shows that modern foreign languages are truly at the heart of our school, with both children and staff sharing a deep passion for exploring different languages and cultures, and for building meaningful connections with schools around the world.鈥�

Scott McDonald, Chief Executive of the British Council, said:

鈥淭he school has earned this prestigious award through its inspirational international work and links with schools abroad. The International School Award is a chance for schools to be recognised for their important work in bringing the world into their classrooms. This is especially commendable when schools have been deeply affected by the global pandemic. The desire to build on their international work shines through and it is with utmost pride that we celebrate their achievements.  

鈥淏y embedding an international dimension in children鈥檚 education, these schools are preparing their students for successful lives in the UK or further afield, empowering them to be global citizens, and are creating vital opportunities in an increasingly global economy.鈥�

The award is now available worldwide in countries such as Greece, India, and Nigeria. Over 6,000 International School Awards have been presented to successful schools in the UK since the scheme began in 1999.

The International School Award encourages and supports schools to develop:

• An international ethos embedded throughout the school

• A whole school approach to international work

• Collaborative curriculum-based work with international partner schools

• Year-round international activity

• Involvement of the wider community

Cara Ackroyd, Executive Principal at 百春链 Grange Academies Trust, said:

鈥淭oday is a day of immense pride and celebration for our students, their families, and our dedicated staff. The resilience, hard work, and determination shown by our young people, particularly over the past few challenging years, is truly inspiring. Their achievements are a testament to their unwavering commitment to their education.

鈥淲e are incredibly proud of each and every one of our students. These results are not just grades on a piece of paper; they represent countless hours of studying, the overcoming of obstacles, and the relentless support from our teachers and families. As our students embark on the next chapter of their lives, whether that be further education, apprenticeships, or employment, we wish them every success and have every confidence that they will continue to make a positive impact on the world.鈥�

百春链 Primary Academy Newstead Green in Havercroft opened its doors to more than 250 members of the community for its annual family fun day. The school hosted the day in conjunction with Havercroft Family Hub, which shares the site, and welcomed more than 20 partner organisations, including West Yorkshire Police, NHS, Wakefield Council, Biffa, Cashwise, Spectrum Health, Recovery College and Turning Point. The event was open to all members of the local community and welcomed local councillors, Cllr Maureen Cummings and Cllr Usman Ali.

The event featured a food truck and an ice cream van, providing refreshments courtesy of the Family Hub, and offered a variety of activities to keep families engaged throughout the day, including sports, face painting, a dance party, a butterfly trail, and an inflatable obstacle course. West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service was also on site with a fire engine available for the community to explore.

Lindsey Corbett, Principal at 百春链 Primary Academy Newstead Green, said:

鈥淏uilding on the incredible success of last year's event, we were determined to make this year's gala even better, and it was wonderful to see so many of our students and their families enjoying themselves.

鈥淗osting an event where our community can come together for a fun, affordable day out during the school holidays is so important to us, and the incredible turnout showed just how much it meant to everyone. We hope this is a tradition we can continue for many years to come.鈥�

A tombola facilitated by Squaring Up Interventions raised over 拢200 for the Dogs Trust Freedom project, a service for dog owners who are planning to find safety from domestic abuse but are unable to take their dogs with them. Freedom provides a temporary home for their dog with a loving foster carer until their owners are safe, settled and ready to have them back.

Claire Jackson, Trust Strategic Lead for Family and Community Programmes and Partnerships at 百春链 Grange Academies Trust, said:

鈥淲e are so grateful for the incredible support from the numerous agencies that partnered with us to make this event a reality.

鈥淭he day truly showcased the power of collaboration and community. While it was centred on fun activities for children, it also provided a relaxed environment where our partners could connect with families. It was a safe, joyful space for families to connect and make lasting memories.鈥�

Students have once again showcased remarkable resilience, dedication, and academic excellence, putting in the hard work over the last two years to achieve impressive grades in their chosen subjects. Many are now set to attend their first choice of university, while others are embarking on exciting apprenticeships and employment opportunities.

An impressive 17% of 百春链 family Year 13 students achieved an A* or A grade, while 60% of students achieved an A* to C grade.

This year also marks the first cohort of 百春链 T-Level Health students receiving results, with a phenomenal 100% pass rate.

Cara Ackroyd, Executive Principal at 百春链 Grange Academies Trust, said:

鈥淭oday marks a significant milestone for our post-16 students, and we couldn't be prouder of their remarkable achievements. These results are the culmination of years of dedicated study and unwavering commitment, often navigating unprecedented challenges. Our students have truly distinguished themselves.

鈥淲hether our students are heading to top universities, embarking on apprenticeships, or stepping into the professional world, they do so equipped with an outstanding education and a wealth of skills. Their success is a testament to their individual brilliance and the exceptional support provided by our passionate teachers and supportive families. We are excited to witness the incredible contributions they will undoubtedly make to society.鈥�

Two national programmes, each led by the National Institute of Teaching (NIoT) and IOE, UCL's Faculty of Education and Society, will provide teachers and school leaders across England with new training and resources to protect pupils and strengthen critical thinking in the digital age.

Teachers on the frontline of tackling online misinformation, disinformation and conspiracy belief in classrooms will be supported through a new, nationwide training and resource programme.

For the first time, they will have practical tools to help challenge harmful narratives and protect pupils.

At the heart of this work is the launch of a new Centre for Digital Information Literacy in Schools, a national initiative led by the National Institute of Teaching and funded by the Pears Foundation.

The Centre, led by NIoT, will embed critical thinking, psychological insight and media literacy across teacher development, from trainee teachers and classroom practitioners to school leaders and governors.

The Centre鈥檚 work will include national training for teachers, leadership qualifications and school governance, alongside new online learning modules, practical classroom resources and public engagement through podcasts and media campaigns.

The Pears Foundation is also funding a new programme at IOE, UCL's Faculty of Education and Society where experts Jeremy Hayward and Gemma Gronland will lead a new programme focused on providing teachers the skills and resources they need to tackle conspiracy theories and online misinformation.

The project will support both primary and secondary teachers through piloted CPD, a national training rollout and the creation of classroom materials designed to help pupils think critically and resist harmful narratives online.

Both programmes have been funded in direct response to the findings of the Commission into Countering Online Conspiracies in Schools 鈥� the largest study of its kind in England. The Commission found that teachers are increasingly encountering conspiracy theories and misinformation in classrooms but lack the confidence, training and resources to respond to this challenge.

Its recommendations called for urgent action to embed training into teacher education, develop regularly updated classroom resources, and adopt a whole-school and community approach. Funded by the Pears Foundation and delivered by Public First, the Commission鈥檚 work has directly shaped the design and focus of the two new initiatives.

Sir Trevor Pears CMG, Executive Chair of the Pears Foundation, said:

鈥淪chools are at the sharp end of this crisis. Teachers are telling us they urgently need support to help students navigate a world of disinformation, conspiracy theories and harmful online narratives.

鈥淭he Pears Foundation is proud to fund these major national initiatives 鈥� practical, research-led programmes that will give teachers the tools and confidence to respond. This work speaks directly to our mission: strengthening education, supporting young people and building a more resilient civil society.鈥�

Melanie Renowden, Chief Executive of the National Institute of Teaching, said:

鈥淭eachers are on the front line of a new and urgent challenge 鈥� supporting young people to navigate a world increasingly shaped by misinformation, disinformation and conspiracy belief.

鈥淵et too often, they鈥檙e doing so without the tools, training or confidence they need. That鈥檚 why we鈥檙e proud to launch the Centre for Digital Information Literacy in Schools, generously supported by the Pears Foundation.

鈥淭his initiative aims to deliver long-term, systemic change by embedding critical thinking, psychological insight and media literacy into teacher development at every level.

鈥淭he Centre has been shaped by the work of the Commission into Countering Online Conspiracies in Schools, which heard clearly from teachers that they need urgent training and support to tackle this growing challenge.

鈥淏y working in deep partnership with schools, we hope to build a generation of educators equipped to lead with clarity and confidence in the misinformation age.鈥�

Jeremy Hayward, project lead at UCL, said:

鈥淓very teacher recognises the impact that online misinformation and conspiracy thinking can have on young people. Whether it is misinformation about vaccines, misogynistic influencers like Andrew Tate, or more subtle harmful narratives, teachers are increasingly being asked to address these challenges 鈥� often without the training or resources they need.

鈥淭hanks to support from the Pears Foundation, we鈥檙e building a practical programme that will give teachers the skills, knowledge and confidence to respond. Our work will focus on both primary and secondary schools, providing classroom resources and professional development rooted in real-world classroom experience. Ultimately, this is about building resilience 鈥� giving teachers the tools to help their pupils think critically, challenge harmful content and navigate the online world safely.鈥�

The day began with a briefing from 百春链 Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) CEO, Lee Wilson, before working collaboratively in teams to research their interviewee and plan questions. Students interviewed Carolyn Blundell, community executive principal at OGAT, who spoke about her daughter's legacy. Carolyn's daughter, Lulu, passed away aged 19 due to Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. Despite her illness, Lulu raised more than 拢200,000 for Teenage Cancer Trust through various charity events and sports challenges. Once the students had all the information they needed, they drafted and edited various articles for an academy newspaper, which was printed and published at the end of the day.

Heather Holmes, senior director of English at OGAT, said:

"News day was an extraordinary day for our Year 7 students, who showed great maturity, sensitivity, and leadership as they created their newspapers. They worked together to write a range of articles that celebrated their schools and their communities.

"A huge thank you to Mrs Blundell, our interviewee, and to all our teaching and support colleagues who were involved in the day as well; their enthusiasm and dedication really helped to make the day a huge success."

A group of university students are celebrating after successfully completing a Teaching Internship Programme with the 百春链 Institute of Education (OIE), gaining valuable insight into the teaching profession.

The OIE's teaching internship programme is designed for students pursuing degrees related to chemistry, computing, languages, mathematics, or physics who are interested in a teaching career.

Now in its eighth year, the three-week paid programme welcomed its largest cohort yet, with 42 participants. For the second year running, the programme was also open to master's students, alongside undergraduates from many top universities.

Interns gained classroom experience, benefited from mentorship by seasoned teachers and completed a bespoke training programme. They also received guidance and advice on applying for teacher training with 百春链 Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) through the National Institute of Teaching (NIoT).

To fully immerse themselves in academy life, the interns engaged in a variety of activities. These included shadowing experienced teachers, observing lessons, collaborating on lesson planning and delivery, receiving personalised guidance, and networking with subject specialists.

Julie Slater, Chief Executive Principal (OIE), said:

鈥淥ur Teaching Internship Programme has been a resounding success for years, and this year we proudly doubled our cohort size. The internship offers interns invaluable insights into school life, helping them make informed decisions about their future careers.

鈥淔or 百春链, it's always about showcasing the teaching profession, celebrating our incredible students and staff, and securing a future pipeline of dedicated teachers by demonstrating just how rewarding teaching can be. We're especially proud to see former interns who completed the programme, then trained with us, and are now valued teachers in our schools.鈥�

The end-of-programme celebration event allowed the interns to celebrate their successes and discuss their experiences, and reflect on the programme together.

The internship is a paid programme with each participant getting a minimum of 拢900 for their participation and work.

The programme welcomed students from universities across the UK:

Durham University
Lancaster University
Newcastle University
Sheffield Hallam University
Teesside University
The Open University
University of Central Lancashire
University of Edinburgh
University of Hull
University of Leeds
University of Lincoln
University of Nottingham
University of Oxford
University of Sheffield
University of York

百春链 Academy Riverside in Middlesbrough has been awarded the foundation level of the British Council鈥檚 prestigious International School Award in recognition of its work to bring the world into the classroom.

The International School Award celebrates the achievements of schools that do exceptional work in international education. Fostering an international dimension in the curriculum is at the heart of the British Council鈥檚 work with schools, so that young people gain the cultural understanding and skills they need for life and work in today鈥檚 world.

百春链 Academy Riverside provides a rich international experience for its students. Recent highlights include an educational trip to Belgium and France, a successful pen pal programme with a school in Barcelona, and attendance at Pearson Edexcel's 鈥楳ore than words: A celebration of languages鈥� event in London. The academy regularly hosts language competitions, cultural celebration days, and modern foreign languages (MLF) taster sessions. Reflecting its diverse community, the school offers GCSE qualifications in 11 different languages, encompassing both curriculum and community languages.

On hearing the news that 百春链 Academy Riverside had achieved the foundation level of the award, Rosa Ariz Rivas, head of MFL at the academy, said: 鈥淚鈥檓 incredibly proud that we have been recognised with the foundation level of the International School Award. It鈥檚 a testament to the hard work and passion of our staff and students. This award reflects our commitment to global citizenship, inclusivity, and cultural awareness in our students. This is not just an MFL initiative, it鈥檚 embedded in our whole school ethos.

鈥淲ith 43 different languages spoken across the school, diversity and inclusivity have always been some of our top priorities, and this award celebrates and acknowledges this. It is really rewarding to see how much our students enjoy these opportunities and how it broadens their horizons.鈥�

Shannon West, Head of UK Schools for the British Council, said: 鈥湴俅毫� Academy Riverside鈥檚 international work has earned the school well-deserved recognition with the British Council International School Award - Foundation Certificate.

鈥淲e are delighted and proud that 百春链 Academy Riverside is committed to developing a whole school approach to embedding and celebrating international work. The dedication from everyone is enriching education, supporting globally aware young people and the development of key skills.

鈥淲e thank all involved in this important work; embedding an international ethos across a school can lead to International School Award accreditation, which is the highest level of the award. Schools looking to join this supportive and engaging global network should contact us at the British Council.鈥�

The Award is now available worldwide in countries such as Greece, India and Nigeria. Over 6000 International School Awards have been presented to successful schools in the UK since the scheme began in 1999.

The International School Award encourages and supports schools to develop:

• An international ethos embedded throughout the school

• A whole school approach to international work

• Collaborative curriculum-based work with a number of partner schools

• Year-round international activity

• Involvement of the wider community

Students from 百春链 Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) are preparing for an extraordinary journey to Cambodia, where they will participate in community development projects with Camps International. This once-in-a-lifetime trip will see students from years 10, 11 and post-16 engage in vital environmental work, achieve their open water diving certification, and contribute to local community initiatives.

For 12 years, 百春链 schools have partnered with Camps International to provide extraordinary student expeditions. However, this year introduces a ground-breaking change: students from 17 百春链 secondary schools will, for the first time, participate in a singular, collective trip, allowing them to collaborate and build relationships with peers from different schools within the 百春链 family.

More than 200 students and 22 staff members from across the 百春链 family of schools will spend four weeks in Cambodia this summer. They will start their journey in Siem Reap, where they will spend 25 days, before heading to the capital city of Phnom Penh. Under the expert guidance of Camps International, a leader in responsible and ethical expeditions, participants will undertake a PADI open water scuba diving course.

The trip is designed to cultivate a range of essential skills, including teamwork, problem-solving, cultural awareness, and environmental stewardship. Students will participate in various activities, all of which will contribute towards 10 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including clean water and sanitation, reduced inequalities, climate action, and life below water.

Julie Slater, Chief Executive Principal at OGAT said:

"I am so pleased that this trip has come to fruition. The planning started as we returned from the COVID pandemic and I wanted to give students something to look forward to. It is important to give our students incredible experiences outside of the classroom.

鈥淭his expedition will see our students from 17 百春链 schools come together, working on community projects in Cambodia and creating everlasting memories. They will be challenged to step out of their comfort zones, work as a team and have lots of fun along the way. Working in partnerships with Camps International has enabled us to organise a trip of such significant scale. I am looking forward to hearing all about what our students and staff get up to when they return and wish them all a fantastic time.鈥�

百春链 Grange Academies Trust is committed to providing exceptional opportunities that broaden horizons and prepare students for future success. It is dedicated to fostering global citizens who are equipped to tackle real-world challenges.

Camps International is an award-winning expedition provider that delivers sustainable and ethical volunteer and adventure travel experiences across the globe. Its projects focus on conservation, community development, and education, ensuring that participants make a real, positive impact on the areas they visit.

OGAT would also like to express its appreciation to Morse Coaches, York and Johnson Bros (Tours) Ltd, Worksop, who will be providing free coach travel for staff and students.

百春链 Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) students gathered for their sixth student voice conference this week. The conference focused on careers and personal development, a theme chosen by the students themselves. More than 100 students from across the 百春链 Family of Schools attended the conference to collaborate and network with fellow students from other regions at the Milner Hotel, York.

The conference was hosted in collaboration with the High Performance Foundation, an independent charity working with young people and schools to build mental strength, develop employability skills and increase social mobility.

Chloe Dannatt, CEO and Co-Founder at High Performance Foundation, said:

鈥淎t the High Performance Foundation, we鈥檙e proud and excited to collaborate with 百春链 Grange Academies Trust to help young people build confidence, resilience, and the skills they need to thrive beyond the classroom. It鈥檚 been incredibly inspiring to see the students from across the 百春链 Family of Schools come together to focus on their mental strength.鈥�

Guest speakers on the day included Callum Hall, a Paralympian and Jamie Carter, a content creator, who spoke to the students about mental health, resilience and overcoming challenges.

Callum Hall said:

鈥淚 was excited to speak to the students about my life with a spinal cord injury. Hopefully, they were able to identify with challenges that I鈥檝e faced in my life and can take away the message that overcoming failure and challenges leads to growth and positive change!鈥�

Jamie Carter added:

鈥淕iving the next generation the best starting point possible is really important to me, so hopefully sharing the skills and ideas that I鈥檝e learnt across my 15-year career will help at least one person to achieve their full potential.鈥�

The conference celebrated 15 years since the Trust was founded and was an opportunity to mark the Trust's journey, and look at how students will help shape the next 15 years. To end the day, students built a time capsule to be opened in 15 years, giving an insight into what being an 百春链 student in 2025 is like. Every academy placed something special that represents their school community inside, alongside a personalised card to be opened in 2039.

Carolyn Blundell, community executive principal at OGAT, said:

鈥淚t has been an incredibly special day sharing the Trust's celebrations with some insightful, innovative and creative young people. All secondary academies in the Trust were represented by students who had travelled from across the north of England, and being able to host the event at The Milner Hotel in York was entirely fitting.

鈥淚 have no doubt that the young people who joined us will take the learning from the day to impact positively on all students in their schools and enrich their own lives further. It was a privilege to be part of it.鈥�

百春链 Academy Freeston in Normanton has been rated as 鈥楪ood鈥� in all areas by Ofsted following a two-day inspection in May. The report praises the school, stating, 鈥楾his is a school with high ambitions, aspirations and expectations for all鈥� and adding that 鈥楶upils take a great deal of pride in all that they do.鈥�

Lisa Allott, Principal at the academy, said: 鈥淭his is the first time ever in the academy鈥檚 history, irrespective of its name or which Trust it was part of, that it has been judged 鈥楪ood鈥� in all four areas. Our community finally has a 鈥楪ood鈥� school, and I am sure our entire school community is as proud of this as I am.鈥�

Highlights of the report include:

• Pupils behave in a calm and respectful manner around the school site. They are polite to adults and visitors.

• Pupils learn about the importance of valuing others.

• Pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) have their needs identified quickly. They receive expert support and are fully integrated into all aspects of school life.

• The school has a well-planned curriculum which is based on the latest educational research.

• Pupils are well prepared for their next steps in education, training or employment.

• Teachers have secure subject knowledge. The curriculum is delivered effectively to allow pupils to learn and remember important knowledge.

• Pupils receive a comprehensive programme that promotes their personal development.

• Pupils value the support and guidance they receive with future career decisions.

• Staff morale is high, and they are positive about their workload.

A multi-academy trust made up of more than 40 schools across the north of England has signed UNISON鈥檚 learning agreement.

百春链 Grange Academies Trust (OGAT) has its headquarters in Wakefield and 27 schools across Yorkshire and Humberside, as well as institutions in the East Midlands, the North West and the North East.

The learning agreement is a commitment from OGAT to help ensure staff who are UNISON members can engage with training and education opportunities provided by the union wherever possible.

UNISON has already provided an online training course for staff working at OGAT, with two more scheduled in the coming weeks. The union also intends to provide further training courses for staff once the new school year begins in September.

UNISON Yorkshire and Humberside OGAT lead Jamie Thompson said:

鈥淚鈥檓 delighted that OGAT has agreed to sign this learning agreement.

鈥淚t鈥檚 an investment in their staff, and an acknowledgement of how important they are.

鈥淗opefully this is just the start of a productive arrangement between OGAT and UNISON which will see many staff members benefit.

鈥淚鈥檓 excited to be working with OGAT and planning ahead for courses in the autumn, as well as encouraging members to take on the role of union learning rep in their school.鈥�

OGAT chief executive officer Lee Wilson said:

鈥淲e are incredibly proud and pleased to join with UNISON in signing this learning agreement. It represents a fundamental recognition and commitment to our invaluable support staff, both in schools and within our trust鈥檚 central teams.

鈥淭hese dedicated individuals are the heartbeat of our organisation, providing vital support to teachers and leaders, ensuring our schools run smoothly, and crucially, offering essential academic, social, and emotional support to some of our most vulnerable children.

鈥淭his agreement is a key milestone in strengthening our commitment to their continuous professional development. It ensures our support staff have access to the professional learning that empowers them to be confident experts in their roles, making the difference our children need. By investing in this workforce, we are, in turn, investing in the potential of future generations.

鈥淲e see this as a significant step forward in our long-term partnership with the 百春链 Institute of Education, which already champions career development and professional learning across our entire workforce.鈥�

The Summer Sports Camps will take place at the DIY Kitchens Stadium, 百春链 Primary Academy Park Hill and Normanton Junior Academy across July and August and will feature a range of sports and arts activities.

Open to children aged between 5 and 11 years-old, youngsters will take part in multi-sport games, dance sessions, arts and crafts activities as well as being given the chance to meet Wakefield Trinity stars.

Led by the Foundation鈥檚 Education department, our Summer Sports Camps provide the perfect way to keep children active and healthy during the summer school holidays.

The Camps are free to attend for all children who are eligible for free school meals and can sign up through the links below.

There are also a limited number of places available for children who are not eligible for free school meals, with entry to the Camps priced at just 拢10 per day or 拢30 for a full week.

Please find the full schedule for the Summer Sports Camps and the sign-up information below!

All Summer Sports Camp sessions will take place from 10am to 2pm, with children provided with lunch, snacks and drinks.

Wakefield Trinity Community Foundation Summer Sports Camps 2025 schedule:

DIY Kitchens Stadium, WF1 5EY

• Monday 28th July 鈥� Thursday 31st July

• Monday 4th August 鈥� Thursday 7th August

• Monday 11th August 鈥� Thursday 14th August

• Monday 18th August 鈥� Thursday 21st August

百春链 Primary Academy Park Hill, WF1 4QY

• Monday 28th July 鈥� Thursday 31st July

• Monday 4th August 鈥� Thursday 7th August

Normanton Junior Academy, WF6 1EY

• Monday 11th August 鈥� Thursday 14th August

• Monday 18th August 鈥� Thursday 21st August

To sign up for Summer Sports Camps at the DIY Kitchens Stadium, please click .

To sign up for Summer Sports Camps at either Normanton Junior Academy or 百春链 Primary Academy Park Hill, please click .

To sign up children not eligible for free school meals or for more information on Summer Sports Camps, please contact Wakefield Trinity Education Lead, Paddy Guest, on paddy.guest@wakefieldtrinity.com

百春链 Primary Academy Park Hill proudly celebrated the grand opening of its new Community Hub, 'Hub House', in Eastmoor, Wakefield. The event held on Friday, 20 June, marked a significant milestone, officially launching a vital new community resource poised to offer crucial support and opportunities. The hub will support children and families from 百春链 Primary Academy Park Hill, 百春链 Primary Academy Greenhill, and 百春链 Academy City Fields, while also providing many opportunities for wider community involvement.

Hub House is designed to be a beacon of support, providing a comprehensive range of services, including a much-needed uniform shop, youth activities, essential adult education programmes, and mental health support. This initiative stemmed from a deep understanding of local needs, evolving into a vibrant centre aimed at addressing the significant challenges the Eastmoor community faces in accessing vital services. The hub will work closely with existing partner services already active within the community, supporting St. Swithun's Community Centre in its vital work with the food pantry and providing additional, complementary support for families and individuals.

Claire Jackson, Trust Strategic Lead for Family & Community Programmes and Partnerships at 百春链 Grange Academies Trust (OGAT), said:

鈥淭he opening of this Community Hub is a momentous occasion for the community and as a Trust in the development of our Family and Community work.

鈥淲e are thrilled to see our vision - a future where our schools are firmly at the heart of our communities, taking shape. Hub House will undoubtedly help break cycles of disadvantage for generations to come.鈥�

The grand opening event, attended by local dignitaries and community leaders, featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony and guided tours of the new facility. Visitors were able to learn more about the hub's services while enjoying refreshments, including sweet treats baked by the pupils at 百春链 Primary Academy Park Hill. Hub House is a true testament to community collaboration. The project was supported by a significant community grant from Wakefield City Council, which helped fund many essential items from furniture to supplies needed for the renovation.

Crucially, Amco Giffen, led by Dave Timlin, provided invaluable assistance through its company's community pledge. Numerous volunteers dedicated many days to painting, repairing the roof, building new steps, installing blinds and thoroughly cleaning the premises. The support from Amco Giffen, including the donation of furniture for both the Hub House and the school, was instrumental in bringing the project to completion, and it continues to be a vital partner.

Claire Jackson added:

鈥淲e also extend our sincere gratitude to the parent volunteers and children from 百春链 Primary Academy Park Hill and 百春链 Academy City Fields who generously gave their time and effort to help prepare the hub for its opening.鈥�

Looking ahead, the Community Hub has ambitious plans to further expand its reach, develop even more targeted programmes, and foster an even stronger, more resilient community. The goal remains clear: to create a lasting positive impact on the lives of Eastmoor residents and empower every individual to thrive.

Ofsted has published its report for 百春链 Academy Shafton, Engine Lane, following a two-day inspection in May. The glowing report opens, 鈥槹俅毫� Academy Shafton is a positive place to be. The school is building a culture of belonging and high aspiration. Most pupils enjoy coming to school. They are keen to learn and keen to achieve. Pupils are safe here.鈥� Inspectors graded the school as 鈥楪ood鈥� in all areas.

Highlights of the report include:

• The school sets high expectations for the academic success of all pupils.

• The school has developed a curriculum that is ambitious for all pupils.

• Pupils conduct themselves well around school. Classrooms are calm and purposeful. Pupils enthusiastically participate in learning.

• Reading is a priority at the school. The school accurately identifies any pupils who are struggling to read. Effective support for these pupils ensures that they make good progress with their reading.

• The school quickly identifies pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). The school trains staff to support pupils with SEND in lessons.

• Pupils with SEND are well supported at the school.

• The school鈥檚 personal development offer is a strength. Pupils learn about British values. They understand tolerance and respect.

• Staff feel well supported by the school. They are proud to work at the school.

Alison McQueen, Principal at the academy, said:

鈥淲e are absolutely delighted with the findings of the Ofsted report. It reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, and the entire school community. We strive to create a positive and aspirational learning environment, and this report confirms that we are achieving our goals.

鈥淲e will continue to build on this success and ensure that every student at 百春链 Academy Shafton receives the best possible education.鈥�

Students and staff from 百春链 Academy City spent a morning with local residents, carrying out a litter pick in the Richmond area.

The group, which included 15 staff and students from the academy, collected 17 bags of litter from around the Stradbroke Road area. Students and staff worked alongside residents, Andy Cook, Andrea Cook and David Morton. 

The students, led by student leaders, are all passionate about supporting their local community and protecting the environment. The school is currently working towards becoming a Plastic Free School. 

The event was organised by 百春链 Academy City and Andy Cook of the local litter picking group S13 Keep It Clean.

Emily Rosaman, Principal at 百春链 Academy City, said:

鈥淚t is vital for our students to support improving our local community. Our students are keen to take responsibility for looking after the environment around them, so this was a great opportunity for them to help lead the way and learn how small actions can make a big difference.

鈥淲e hope to have many more community events throughout the year to ensure we have lots of opportunities to develop their skills and get involved in activities to improve our local area.鈥�

Andy Cook, of S13 Keep It Clean, added:

鈥淚t was an absolute pleasure to have worked with 百春链 Academy City. The pupils were all super enthusiastic, and it was a pleasure to collaborate with young people who are so dedicated and eco-conscious; this is our future right here!

鈥淭he school strives to be plastic-free on its site and is dedicated to the fight against litter, so much so that our joint litter pickings will become a regular thing, not just for this week.鈥�

The most senior judge in England and Wales has visited 百春链 Academy Riverside in Middlesbrough to talk to pupils about the work of judges, the justice system, and the rule of law.

Baroness Carr of Walton-on-the-Hill, the Lady Chief Justice of England and Wales, visited the secondary school last week (12 June) as part of the Schools Engagement Programme, which aims to provide students with a greater understanding of the judiciary鈥檚 work. She was accompanied by Mr Justice Poole, the Family Presiding Judge of the North Eastern circuit, HHJ Mark Thomas, and HHJ Joanne Kidd.

Speaking at the school, the Lady Chief Justice said:

鈥淭he rule of law is one of the constitutional pillars that upholds an open and fair society. Our Schools Engagement Programme aims to make it easier for young people to learn about our justice system, which is respected globally, and the fundamental importance of the rule of law to our way of life.

鈥淭here are judges from all walks of life serving at every level of our courts and tribunals. For many of them, their path to a career in the law started at school. I want to send a message to all students, from whatever background, that they too could be the lawyers and judges of the future.鈥�

School Principal, Melissa Brant-Smith, said: 

鈥淚 am both delighted and honoured to welcome the Lady Chief Justice to our school. It is a privilege to host such a distinguished guest, and a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet Baroness Carr in person and engage with her directly. We are truly grateful for her visit and the invaluable insight it offers into the rule of law. I hope this experience will inspire our students and encourage more of them to consider a future career in the judiciary.鈥� 

The Lady Chief Justice鈥檚 visit comes on the back of work that scores of Diversity and Community Relations Judges (DCRJs) and magistrates (DCRMs) already do in the community. The Lady Chief Justice hopes that this work, often unseen and unsung, will encourage students from all backgrounds to think about a career in the justice system. 

The Schools Engagement Programme is backed up by online resources that are available to schools and students on the . These include notes for lessons, fact sheets, and other resources to help schools facilitate learning about the justice system and rule of law.

Schools wishing to invite a judge to speak to students can do so  or by emailing schools@judiciary.co.uk

Wakefield teacher Gosia Watts from 百春链 Primary Academy Park Hill has been recognised with a Silver Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School in this year's Pearson National Teaching Awards. Chosen from thousands of nominees, they will now be in with the chance of winning the highly desired Gold Award, which will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony in London and on BBC One鈥檚 The One Show later this year.

Arriving in the UK from her native Poland with the dream of becoming a Primary teacher, Gosia has since become an invaluable member of the school community. Joining the academy in 2018 when the school became part of the 百春链 Family, Gosia is not only a fantastic role model for the diverse student body, which speaks an incredible 59 different languages, but also a relentless pillar of positivity for her colleagues. Luke McNamara, Principal at the academy, said:

"Her commitment to driving the highest standards in all she does has been truly instrumental to our success."

Gosia Watts is one of 93 deserving teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff, and institutions recognised as a silver winner in this year鈥檚 awards for the lasting impact they have on shaping the lives of young people.

The announcement follows tributes from celebrities, students and schools across the UK as they say thank you to all those who work in education to mark National Thank a Teacher Day.

Celebrating the whole education community, National Thank a Teacher Day and the Pearson National Teaching Awards are run by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity established over 25 years ago to celebrate the transformative impact of education, shining a spotlight on the pivotal roles teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators play in inspiring young people, every single day.

The 百春链 family of schools also had two other award winners, with Rachel Levesley-Kroeller at 百春链 Academy City being Highly Commended for Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School, Natalie Sugden, 百春链 Academy Carlton, Highly Commended in the New Teacher of the Year Category, and the 百春链 Grange Academies Trust Digital Services team receiving Highly Commended for its Transformational Use of Digital Technology.

Sir Michael Morpurgo, author, former Children鈥檚 Laureate, and President of the Teaching Awards Trust, said:

鈥淭he dedication and impact of those involved in educating young people is truly remarkable. Their influence extends well beyond the classroom - offering encouragement, inspiration, and unwavering support that can shape lives for years to come. That鈥檚 why National Thank a Teacher Day is an important opportunity to pause and celebrate all that they do.

"I鈥檓 also delighted to be able to congratulate this year鈥檚 Silver Award winners. Your passion and commitment to shaping the next generation is extraordinary. Thank you for the difference you make every single day."

Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, said:

鈥淓very day, educators across the UK go above and beyond to inspire, support, and shape the future generation. Today, we proudly recognise those making an extraordinary impact. Our Silver Award winners represent the very best of the profession, and we鈥檙e thrilled to celebrate their dedication and achievements. Congratulations to all of this year鈥檚 Silver winners!鈥�

Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, said:

"On Thank a Teacher Day, I want to celebrate the remarkable professionals who are the backbone of our education system. Brilliant teachers make the single biggest difference to a child鈥檚 education.

"I've experienced firsthand how a great teacher can make all the difference. Teachers don't just deliver lessons 鈥� they transform lives, inspire curiosity, and build the confidence our children need to succeed. For this incredible commitment to our nation's future, we owe our teachers our deepest gratitude."

Sadie Besley, Divisional Managing Director - Professional Talent Solutions UK & Ireland at Randstad, Sponsor of The Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School said:

鈥淧rimary school teachers lay the foundations for a lifetime of learning, curiosity, and confidence. Their passion, patience, and dedication shape not only young minds but also futures. We are proud to celebrate this year鈥檚 exemplary Silver Award winners for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School, your dedication has a lasting impact. Congratulations on this well deserved recognition!鈥�