Stories From Across our Trust

At Red Kite Learning Trust, championing learning means inspiring curiosity, celebrating achievement, and supporting every learner to reach their full potential. This page shares stories from across our schools that showcase creativity, resilience, and innovation in teaching and learning, highlighting how our values come to life in classrooms every day.

Learning Beyond Walls: Embracing the Outdoors to Inspire Pupils

Across our Trust, we recognise the vital role that outdoor learning plays in supporting children’s wellbeing, curiosity, and all-round development. By bringing lessons beyond the classroom walls, our schools foster a deep connection with nature, encourage teamwork, resilience, and creativity, and create memorable, hands-on experiences that inspire lifelong learning. Here’s a snapshot of how some of our schools are embracing the outdoors to enrich education and nurture happy, confident learners.

Saltergate Schools Celebrate Launch of Forest School

Saltergate Schools has launched an inspiring new Forest School programme in partnership with Born of the Forest, providing Key Stage One pupils with weekly outdoor learning experiences that bring the curriculum to life through hands‑on exploration. Activities include campfire cooking (such as dandelion and banana pancakes), tyre swings, slacklines, hammocks, safe tool use, den‑building, mud‑kitchen play, and creating insect habitats, all designed to build independence, resilience, creativity, and confidence, while fostering a deep appreciation for nature. Like many schools across our Trust, Saltergate is embracing the power of Forest School to support pupil wellbeing and inspire a love of learning beyond the classroom.

Pupils Explore and Excel During Fieldwork Fortnight

The final two weeks of June saw Oatlands Junior School buzzing with excitement as pupils took part in Fieldwork Fortnight, a celebration of geography and outdoor learning. All year groups enjoyed a range of hands-on activities, including an on-site orienteering challenge that saw Oatlands Junior School place 4th nationally in the Outdoor Classroom’s Big League. Year 3 explored local land use and historical change, while Year 4 studied physical geography at Crimple Beck. The fortnight was a huge success, with pupils embracing the opportunity to learn through adventure and exploration. Orienteering certificates were awarded in Celebration Assembly to mark their achievements.

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Outdoor Classroom Days a Huge Hit at Rossett Acre Primary

Rossett Acre Primary School introduced Outdoor Classroom Days this year, giving all pupils the chance to enjoy learning in the fresh air. Separate days were held for EYFS & KS1 and for KS2, supporting children’s health, wellbeing and development, and enhancing the school’s well-established Forest School provision. Activities ranged from EYFS potion-making to Year 6 macrophotography, with highlights including Year 4’s digestive system workshop with Dr Hinkins and Year 5’s African animal art made from natural materials. Children also enjoyed exploring the school’s new orienteering course. Staff and pupils alike loved the experience, with many children calling it “the best day ever!”

Temple Learning Academy awarded National Nature Grant

Temple Learning Academy’s Primary Phase has received a £500 National Nature Grant to boost outdoor learning, thanks to support from the People’s Postcode Lottery and Learning through Landscapes. The funding will provide outdoor equipment and resources to enhance the school’s green spaces and encourage nature-based learning. The school’s eco-council, Team Green, is excited to build on their work to improve the grounds and create more opportunities for outdoor exploration and discovery.

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Bespoke Orienteering Resource at Rossett Acre Primary School

Rossett Acre Primary School has enhanced its outdoor learning provision with the introduction of a new orienteering and cross-curricular resource from Enrich Education. The bespoke infrastructure now in place across the school grounds supports active, outdoor learning for all pupils from EYFS to Year 6. The investment is helping to develop key skills such as teamwork, communication, resilience and map reading through regular, physically active lessons across a range of subjects. Teaching Assistants are also using the resource to support learning in phonics and maths, and the new activities have been met with huge enthusiasm from pupils and staff alike.

Sustainable Learning in Action for Coppice Valley Year 3

Coppice Valley Primary School’s Year 3 pupils recently enjoyed a creative and sustainable day of learning, thanks to a partnership with local business The Little Gym and a visit to RHS Harlow Carr.

Rather than using coach transport, the class began their day with a fun and active session at The Little Gym, where activities supported both the PE and science curriculum. From there, pupils walked to Harlow Carr to explore the gardens and take part in outdoor learning linked to their geography and science topics.

The day ended with a walk back to school through the local woods—making the whole experience active, environmentally friendly, and deeply connected to the local area. The trip reflects Coppice Valley’s commitment to cost-effective, community-based learning that extends the curriculum beyond the classroom while championing sustainability.

WOW Animal Experience Delights Meadowfield Nursery Pupils

At Meadowfield Primary School, creating WOW moments is key to making learning meaningful and memorable, and their Nursery children recently enjoyed one they won’t forget! As part of their current topic, the children had the exciting opportunity to meet and interact with real-life farm animals. From holding fluffy chicks to gently stroking lambs, the experience was filled with wonder. The children learnt how to handle the animals with care and compassion, explored how to meet their basic needs, and even investigated the different types of lamb wool and its many uses, from clothing to crafts. The visit brought the classroom to life, sparking curiosity, laughter and a deep sense of empathy. With beaming smiles and wide eyes, it was a magical, hands-on learning experience that will stay with them for a long time.

‘Crawshaw Loves Reading’ Campaign Sparks Excitement - with a Celebrity Surprise

Crawshaw Academy’s Crawshaw Loves Reading campaign is making waves on social media, showcasing the school’s passion for reading and inspiring students to engage with books in new and creative ways.

Running on the school’s dedicated Facebook page, the campaign features regular posts that highlight student and staff book recommendations, reading challenges, themed days, and snapshots of reading in action across the school. It’s all part of Crawshaw’s drive to build a strong, visible culture of reading for pleasure.

The campaign received an exciting boost recently with a surprise video message from Matt Willis of Busted, who shared his own love of reading and encouraged students to keep discovering new books. With more celebrity messages in the pipeline, the initiative is set to grow even further.

Crawshaw Loves Reading is a brilliant example of how creativity, community and a little bit of star power can come together to promote a lifelong love of reading.

Status Quo Drummer Jeff Rich Rocks Templenewsam Halton

Templenewsam Halton Primary School was treated to an unforgettable musical experience when Jeff Rich, former drummer of legendary rock band Status Quo, visited to deliver a drumming performance and workshop. Children were captivated by Jeff’s incredible skills, passion, and storytelling as he took them on a journey through the history of drumming, from ancient times to modern-day bands. Pupils took part in interactive demonstrations, culminating in a high-energy grand finale with the whole school playing alongside Jeff using drums, tambourines and shakers. It was a truly inspiring day that may just have sparked the next generation of drummers!

Record Year for Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Harrogate Grammar School

Harrogate Grammar School is celebrating a record-breaking year for its Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme, with 172 students participating across the Bronze and Gold levels.

A total of 146 Year 10 students completed their Bronze Award expeditions, split into three cohorts, with two weekends of walking and camping in the Yorkshire Dales. Meanwhile, 26 Year 12 students undertook their Gold Award practice expedition in the Yorkshire Moors, before completing their final four-day route from Buckden to Kirkby Stephen, complete with a wild camp in the Howgill Fells.

As part of the wider Award requirements, students collectively contributed an impressive 1,443 hours of volunteering in the local community, representing a social value of over £9,000.

The school continues to champion the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award as a powerful way to build resilience, independence and teamwork, supporting students to grow in confidence and live out the school values of adventure and excellence.

Crawshaw Students Shine at Leeds Lieder Festival

Under the guidance of Assistant Headteacher Kirsty Clarke, a group of talented Crawshaw Academy students took to the stage at Pudsey Civic Hall as part of the prestigious Leeds Lieder Festival of Music.

Over the past month, the students have been involved in the Living Lieder project, an inspiring initiative designed to help young people explore Art Song, build vocal and musical skills, and grow in confidence as performers. Through a series of expert-led workshops, they developed their musicianship, storytelling, and stage presence, all of which culminated in a moving final performance.

The students gave an unforgettable concert, demonstrating not only their technical progress but also their emotional and creative expression. We are incredibly proud of their commitment and courage, and thankful to Kirsty Clarke and the project leaders for giving them this fantastic opportunity.

Rossett School and Harrogate Town AFC to Launch Joint Football Academy

Rossett School has teamed up with Harrogate Town AFC to launch a new Football Academy. Students selected for the academy will train under professional coaches, compete in league matches, and study a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, equivalent to three A‑Levels. This programme supports both sporting and educational development and creates a clear pathway for local talent from youth squads into professional football.

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Colton Primary Pupils Get Active for Sports Week

In the lead-up to Sports Day, Colton Primary School held an action-packed Sports Week, giving pupils the chance to take part in a variety of fun and engaging sporting activities.

One of the highlights of the week was a dedicated golf day, where children across the school were coached by enthusiastic Year 6 pupils. The older students showed great leadership and teamwork as they guided their peers through golf challenges and skills sessions.

Sports Week was a fantastic opportunity for all children to stay active, try something new, and build confidence ahead of Sports Day.

When Secondary Teachers Go Back to Primary School

This year, four teachers from Harrogate Grammar School returned to the classroom, but this time, at Western Primary School. As part of a joint initiative, they delivered a six-week reading and numeracy programme to a core group of Year 5 pupils.

Designed to boost confidence and prepare students for the demands of Year 6, the sessions were fun, focused, and highly engaging. Both students and teachers gained a great deal from the experience, strengthening links between primary and secondary and supporting smoother learning transitions.

Horizons at Meadowfield: A Nurturing Provision Helping Every Child Thrive

Meadowfield Primary School is proud to share the continued success of Horizons, its resource provision supporting children with complex needs, including those with or on the pathway to an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

Horizons offers a calm, nurturing environment where pupils feel safe, supported, and ready to learn in ways that suit their individual needs. Through practical, hands-on experiences, from sensory play and creative activities to exploring the outdoors, children develop confidence, independence, and a genuine enthusiasm for learning.

More than just a space, Horizons is a valued part of the Meadowfield community, where every child is empowered to thrive and their unique strengths are celebrated.

Oatlands Junior School Triumphs at Panathlon Event

Oatlands Junior School proudly took part in the Panathlon, a fun and competitive sporting event involving seven schools. The team demonstrated outstanding teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship across a range of activities including curling, boccia, bowling, and basketball. With exemplary behaviour and strong leadership from captain Teddy, the children supported and encouraged each other throughout the day. Their efforts earned them the highest overall score, gold medals, and the team trophy. A fantastic day, showcasing true Oatlands spirit!

Colton Primary Pupils Get Down to Business for Enterprise Week

Last half term, Colton Primary School held its annual Enterprise Week, giving pupils a hands-on introduction to the world of business. Across all year groups, children explored key entrepreneurial skills, from generating ideas and researching markets to calculating costs and creating products to sell at a school business fair.

This year, the school’s sustainability team challenged pupils to consider the environmental impact of their business ideas. To support this, visitors from SCRAP in Farsley and a local parent who is a professional sculptor shared their creative and eco-conscious approaches to making and selling.

Some pupils even stepped up to deliver their own presentations, showcasing impressive confidence and communication skills. The week concluded with a hugely successful business fair, where pupils collectively made just under £400 in profit, an inspiring result from a week of innovation, teamwork and real-world learning.

Whitkirk Pupils Go on ‘Artful Adventures’ at Temple Newsam House

Whitkirk Primary School recently partnered with Temple Newsam House to deliver Artful Adventures, a creative arts project designed for all Key Stage 2 pupils. Each class spent time exploring the historic house and taking part in hands-on art workshops inspired by its rich heritage. From printing Tudor wallpaper patterns to sketching architectural features, the project brought the school’s art curriculum to life just a short walk from school. To celebrate the children’s creativity, families were invited to a special event at Temple Newsam, followed by an Exhibition Weekend where pupils' work was proudly displayed inside the house, showcasing the powerful connection between learning, creativity, and community.

Expanding Physics Education Through Ogden Trust Partnership

Richard Sykes, Trust Subject Lead for Science and teacher at Harrogate Grammar School, leads the partnership between our Alliance and The Ogden Trust, a charity dedicated to increasing the number of students studying Physics at A level and beyond. With 50 schools involved, this is the second-largest partnership in the Trust’s history. Over the next five years, the Ogden Trust will provide vital financial support and CPD opportunities, strengthening Physics teaching and learning across the Alliance.

Temple Learning Academy Awarded Prestigious Primary Science Quality Mark

Temple Learning Academy has been awarded the prestigious Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM), recognising the school’s outstanding commitment to science leadership, curriculum development, and high-quality teaching and learning. The school joins 136 others across the UK and internationally in receiving the award this month. The PSQM, led by the University of Hertfordshire, is a yearlong professional development programme that supports schools to embed excellent science provision and raise the profile of science within the curriculum. The award reflects Temple Learning Academy’s vision to empower all pupils through science, building confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills to help them understand and shape the world around them.

Austhorpe Primary School are proud to have been awarded the Primary Science Quality Mark (PSQM) for a second time, celebrating a commitment to developing excellence in science leadership, curriculum design and teaching and learning.

Red Kite Teacher Training Celebrates 180 New Teachers

Last week, Red Kite Teacher Training marked a major milestone as nearly 180 trainee teachers were recommended for Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), officially launching their careers in education. The celebration, held at Harrogate Grammar School, brought together trainees, mentors and school leaders to reflect on a year of hard work, growth and achievement. It was a joyful and emotional occasion, marking the transition of the 2025 cohort into Early Career Teachers (ECTs). The event also featured inspiring words from school leaders, including Neil Renton (Harrogate Grammar School) and Hannah McNamara (Coppice Valley Primary School), as well as reflections from trainees who praised the support of their Early Career Leads and the University of Leeds.

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As these new teachers step into classrooms across the region and beyond, they take with them the skills, values and confidence built through Red Kite Teacher Training's school-centred approach, ready to inspire the next generation.

Crawshaw Academy GCSE Music Students Inspired by Trip to See Hamilton

GCSE Music students in Years 9 and 10 at Crawshaw Academy were recently treated to an unforgettable experience with a trip to see Hamilton at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford. The critically acclaimed musical brought history to life through powerful music, dynamic performances, and high-energy staging.

Students were fully immersed in the show, using the opportunity to analyse the music, lyrics, and theatrical elements as part of their studies. The trip offered valuable insight into how different aspects of musical theatre work together, sparking inspiration and deepening their understanding of the subject.

The school extends a huge thank you to the Alhambra Theatre for the warm welcome, and to the dedicated staff who made the visit possible.

Hip-Hop Comes to Colton Primary with Visit from Mr Tang

Colton Primary School recently welcomed the talented Mr Tang from HelloHipHop, who delivered an exciting and engaging workshop to Year 6 pupils. As part of the session, children learned about the key principles of hip-hop culture, including rhythm, creativity, and expression, and even had the chance to try their hand at breakdancing.

The workshop was a hit with pupils, who embraced the energy and movement of the session while developing new skills and confidence. Mr Tang will return in the autumn term to lead the 'OneMic' project, working across ourTrust's primary schools to continue inspiring young people through music, dance and creative arts.

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Helping Students Become Independent Learners at Harrogate Grammar School

This year, 28 colleagues at Harrogate Grammar School , including five early career teachers, joined a Learning Team focused on helping students become more independent and confident in how they learn.

They explored simple, evidence-based teaching strategies, inspired by the Red Kite “Metacognition for High Quality Teaching” conference. Each teacher chose a strategy that linked to their own teaching goals and tested it out over a term, following a structured research approach developed by University College London (UCL).

The team then shared what they learned, including which strategies had the biggest impact and how useful this enquiry model was for professional development.

This work has had two key outcomes:

The most effective teaching strategies will now be part of next year’s School Improvement Plan.
The enquiry approach was so valuable that the school has decided to use it instead of the traditional teacher performance review system next year.

This project is a great example of how our cooleagues are continually learning and working together to improve outcomes for students.