Stories From Across our Trust

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.

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.

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. Read more

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.

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!

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. Read more

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! Read more

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.

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.