Sponsored blog by Red Kite Learning Trust
Following a recent inspection, Ofsted has published its report for Whitkirk Primary School in East Leeds, confirming a rating of ‘Good’ overall with ‘Outstanding’ areas, describing it as “a welcoming school. Leaders and staff hold what is best for pupils at the centre of everything they do. Pupils, parents and carers overwhelmingly agree that ‘The Whitkirk Way’ is both friendly and inclusive. Staff create a happy environment where pupils feel safe and want to learn.”
Significant improvements are evident since its last Ofsted inspection in 2017, when the school received a ‘Requires Improvement’ rating. Whilst the safety of the children in its care was never in question and the Early Years Provision was found to be ‘Good’, other areas were found to need attention. Since then, the school has undergone a major transformation, with the Early Years Provision and Behaviour and Attitudes found to be ‘Outstanding’, and all other areas, the Quality of Education, Personal Development and Leadership and Management found to be ‘Good’.
Ofsted recognises that building strong relationships is at the heart of everything Whitkirk Primary School does. An ethos evident in a number of the school’s initiatives, such as the children’s Christmas performance at the local community centre for Crossgate’s Good Neighbours (a group for over 60s), the Eco-warriors Committee, who are currently creating a community allotment, the School Council representing the voice of the pupils, and lots of fun activities throughout the year, including celebrating the Coronation by singing ‘I just Can’t Wait to be King’ at the top of their voices in the playground!
Among other factors, Ofsted commended the school for prioritising the teaching of reading, mentioning its well-stocked library, kept in order by pupils who volunteer as Reading Ambassadors, and the weekly ‘Secret Reader’ initiative where family members are invited to read to pupils, a time that is cherished by both pupils and their families.
Ofsted also praised staff for building “an inclusive culture where pupils are respectful of the rights of others” and “the curriculum is inclusive for all pupils.”
You can read the full Ofsted Report here.
In 2018, Whitkirk Primary School became part of Red Kite Learning Trust, a multi-academy trust of 13 schools in Harrogate and Leeds, a move that provided much needed support, collaboration and investment at a critical time for the school. A new Reception outdoor area, a central quad play area and refurbishment of the toilets are just some examples of the improvements made to the school. Staff at Whitkirk Primary school say the advice and guidance provided by Red Kite Learning Trust has proven instrumental in turning the fortunes of the school around.
Director of Primary Education for Red Kite Learning Trust, Amanda Thornton-Jones, comments, “Our Trust’s mission is ‘Nurturing ambition, delivering excellence and enriching children’s lives.’ The report describes just that. It is a result of a team approach, talent, hard work and dedication on the part of staff and pupils. At Trust level we provided effective support and resources, allowing the Headteacher and staff to focus solely on the wellbeing and education of our young people. Whitkirk Primary is a wonderful place, and everyone associated with the school, including parents, carers and children, should be really proud of what they have achieved.”
In 2022, a new Headteacher was appointed. Miss Gemma Quarmby, who began her career in 2015 at Whitkirk Primary, has been credited by parents in the Ofsted report as ‘bringing the school back to life’, along with her strong leadership team.
Miss Quarmby says, “Whitkirk Primary School is blessed with a fantastic community and one which I am immensely proud to lead. The commitment of our staff, the enthusiasm of our pupils, and the continued support from our families and the Red Kite Learning Trust has been phenomenal. This has been fundamental to our success. Whitkirk is a happy and inclusive place to learn. It is truly an exciting time for the school as we continue in our pursuit ‘to be the best that we can be”.
