CEO Blog

• Lest We Forget

  Mon 09 Nov 2026

  As we gather across our Trust family of schools this week, our school halls, classrooms, and playgrounds hold a shared moment of pause. November brings with it a quiet opportunity for reflection, a time when our entire Trust community stands united in remembrance. Lest We Forget is not simply a phrase we repeat once a year; it is a foundational promise. It is our commitment to ensure that the sacrifices of previous generations are never dimmed by the passage of time.

   

  When we speak of those who gave their todays for our tomorrows, we honour the courageous individuals who stepped forward into hardship, conflict, and uncertainty so that we might enjoy peace. Yet, true remembrance must also extend beyond those who served on the frontlines. We hold in our hearts the families and relatives left behind, who carried the quiet weight of grief and showed immense fortitude. We also think about the communities that pulled together to rebuild lives and hopes from the ashes of war. Our thoughts are with the generations who preserved the values of togetherness and endurance during times of profound trial. Their resilience forms the very bedrocks of the strong community spirit we strive to cultivate across our Trust family of schools every single day.

   

  As educators, we bear a deep responsibility to pass the torch of memory to our young people. History is not just a collection of dates in a textbook; it is the living story of how our present was shaped. It is vital that our learners understand that the freedoms we enjoy in this country today such as the right to speak freely, to learn, to choose our paths, and to live in safety, were not earned lightly. They were secured through extraordinary courage and sacrifice. When young people understand their history, they develop perspective, and an appreciation for the security and opportunities available to them today. They also develop gratitude, and a recognition of the debt owed to those who came before. Young people also develop a shared sense of purpose, and a commitment to protecting unity and peace for the generations that follow.

   

  At the heart of remembrance is respect. Respect for human life, respect for diverse experiences, and respect for the shared values that bind us together. In a world that can often feel fast-paced and fragmented, our Trust family of schools stands as a pillar of unity. When our learners, colleagues, and families pause together for two minutes of silence, we demonstrate the power of a united community. We show our young people that no matter what our individual backgrounds are, we are bound by shared empathy and mutual respect, and we have far more in common than that which divides us. As we wear our poppies and reflect this Remembrance season, let us reaffirm our promise to live with gratitude, to treat one another with kindness, and to build a community worthy of the sacrifices made for us all. "When You Go Home, Tell Them Of Us And Say, For Your Tomorrow, We Gave Our Today."

   

  Together in remembrance.

  

• Belonging In Batley

  Mon 02 Nov 2026

  Belonging, connection, and hope are not just passive values in education, they are the bedrock upon which every successful school is built. In a world undergoing rapid transformation, we often talk about academic benchmarks, curriculum design, and innovative technologies. While these elements are crucial, they are incomplete without the foundation that makes learning possible in the first place: deep, meaningful human relationships.

   

  Schools are far more than locations for academic instruction. They are the social glue holding our communities together. They serve as safe havens where children achieve, thrive, and succeed. Within these walls, young people do not simply absorb facts; they grow and develop into compassionate adults equipped to make a positive contribution to society. Before a child can stretch their mind to master complex concepts, they must first feel secure. When a learner knows they belong, their cognitive energy shifts from self-protection to curiosity. Belonging means every child recognises that they are seen, valued, and safe. It means knowing that their presence matters to the community, and that their individual identity adds richness to the collective whole. When we cultivate authentic belonging, achievement naturally follows.

   

  A healthy school culture does not require conformity; it nurtures agency. We must teach children that their voices matter; that their experiences, ideas, and perspectives have the power to shape the environment around them.

   

  Equally vital is teaching learners how to use that voice. In an increasingly polarised landscape, one of the greatest gifts we can offer young people is the ability to disagree respectfully. Learning to navigate conflict, listen with empathy, and construct thoughtful dialogue without diminishing others prepares learners to lead thoughtfully in an interconnected world. Schools are safe, relationship-rich environments, which means they are also extraordinary spaces for innovation. When learners feel secure, they take intellectual risks. Ideas are generated, boundaries are tested, and creative solutions emerge. Ultimately, education presents every young person with a defining choice: Do they accept the world as it is, or do they work for the world as it should be?

   

  Choosing hope is an intentional act. By building strong relationships, honouring learner voices, and grounding our Trust family of schools in empathy, care and compassion, we empower the next generation to choose hope and we give them the tools to build that better world. If not us, then who? If not now, then when?

  

• Celebrating Healey School: A Glowing Ofsted Report for Our Batley Family

  Mon 19 Oct 2026

  I am thrilled to share some fantastic news with our Trust family and wider community. Following an Ofsted inspection in September 2026, Healey Junior, Infant and Nursery School in Batley has received an overwhelmingly positive inspection report. From safeguarding and curriculum quality to leadership, behaviour and personal development, inspectors were positive about all areas of Healey School and saw the school as being at the heart of the Healey community. Reading this report filled me with immense pride. It is a true reflection of the vibrant, supportive and high-achieving environment that defines Healey School. At the core of any great school is a commitment to academic growth, and the inspector's findings show just how strong those foundations are at Healey: “Pupils develop secure foundations in reading, writing and mathematics. The school's focus on these subjects, including early reading, helps pupils gain the essential knowledge and skills they need for future learning.”

   

  Beyond the classroom, the report highlighted the rich array of experiences provided to all our young people. From serving as eco council members, prefects, and attendance ambassadors to participating in educational visits and hands-on learning experiences that build confidence, resilience, and ambition for the future. Inspector's observations were very clear on the sense of joy and community that fills the school every day. The report noted that behaviour is a strength of the school, praising our polite, respectful learners who arrive ready to learn, backed by consistent expectations and strong relationships with staff. Most importantly, the voice of our learners shone through brightly: “Pupils are proud to belong to this welcoming and inclusive school community. Pupils enjoy learning and generally achieve well. They approach lessons positively and are keen to contribute their ideas.”

   

  Healey plays a vital role in the heart of Batley, fostering connections across generations and teaching children the importance of kindness, respect, and self-belief which prepares them thoroughly for the next stages of their education and lives. Achievements like this do not happen by chance. They are the direct result of the inspiring leadership of Headteacher, Luisa Lang, whose clear vision and dedication, alongside her exceptional team, and the school's very strong Governing Board have built a school where every single learner can thrive.

   

  To our extraordinary staff: thank you for your relentless hard work, energy, and passion. To our wonderful learners: your enthusiasm and effort shine through every day. And to our parents and carers: thank you for your unwavering partnership and support, you make Healey the special place it is. We encourage our whole community to take a look at the inspector's full findings. You can read the official Ofsted report in full on the Ofsted Website.

   

  Congratulations once again to everyone at Healey Junior, Infant and Nursery School!

  

• Belonging, Togetherness and Believing in our Young People

  Mon 12 Oct 2026

  On Saturday we held our Trust Annual Governance Conference 2026, and my overriding feeling is one of immense gratitude and optimism. Members, Trustees and Governors joined the Trust Central Team for the day, united by a shared dedication to the children, young people and families of Batley. We are highly privileged to have a team of over 85 volunteers in these key leadership roles across our Trust family of schools. 

   

  The theme for this year’s conference was Belonging and Togetherness. These are values that sit at the very heart of everything we do in Batley. We know that when young people feel a true sense of belonging, they thrive, succeed, and grow into confident adults who make a positive difference in the world.

   

  Our Governors are a vital part of our wider leadership team. Every single Governor is a volunteer who gives up their time so generously to support, guide and champion our schools. That gift of time and expertise is invaluable, and on behalf of our entire Trust family of schools, I want to say a heartfelt thank you.

   

  The tone for the entire day was set in the most extraordinary way by our fabulous learners from Field Lane School. Opening the conference, they spoke to a room full of people about what education means to them as young people. To stand up in front of a large audience and speak with such clarity, eloquence, and heart takes immense confidence. They were truly inspirational and served as a powerful reminder of exactly why we do what we do.

   

  It was equally wonderful to welcome their parents, whose pride shone through as they watched their children captivate the room. Moments like those capture the true spirit of our community - families, schools and Governors all working together to support our young people.

   

  During the conference, our Chair of the Trust Board set out our key governance pledges for the year ahead. Throughout the day, governance volunteers at all levels, from School Governing Boards, to Trustees to our Members, all had the opportunity to connect, collaborate, analyse key documentation, and shape our strategic vision for the year. The energy and passion in the room proved just how much we can achieve when we align our efforts for the benefit of all our learners.

   

  There is so much potential waiting to be unlocked in Batley, and with such a committed staff and governance team, the possibilities are endless.

   

  Thank you once again to everyone who attended and contributed to making the conference such a resounding success, and to our outstanding governance team for their excellent planning and organisation on the day. Here’s to an exciting, ambitious, and impactful year ahead!

  

• National Charity visits Batley

  Mon 05 Oct 2026

  Field Lane School was delighted to welcome the Jo Cox Foundation to their school to meet staff and learners who are supporting this brilliant charity this year. At the Jo Cox Foundation (JCF), their mission is driven by a simple yet transformative truth: we have far more in common than that which divides us. Nowhere is that spirit more alive today than at Field Lane School here in Batley - a town that holds an irreplaceable place in our hearts as the constituency Jo Cox so proudly represented.

   

  Recently, the JCF Chair of Trustees, Baroness Jan Royall, together with other Trustees, Olivia the CEO and other members of the JCF Executive Team all visited Field Lane. The JCF team said that from the moment they walked through the school doors, the warmth, energy and sense of community were palpable. Field Lane’s Year 6 learners have chosen the Jo Cox Foundation as their designated charity to fundraise for this year. To see the next generation actively choosing to step up, tackle loneliness, and champion connection within their local community is both humbling and deeply inspiring.

   

  During the JCF team’s visit to the school, they had the joy of hearing from the learners themselves, leading an interactive lesson with the learners, followed by a whole-school assembly. JCF leaders spoke about Jo’s legacy, the importance of bringing people together, and how small everyday acts of kindness can bridge divides. The learners were remarkably engaged, asking thoughtful questions and sharing their own ideas on how to build stronger, more compassionate communities.

   

  Field Lane School isn't just remembering Jo’s work; it is are actively living it out. The dedication of the staff and the enthusiasm of the learners serve as a powerful reminder that Jo's message continues to flourish right here at home in Batley.

   

  The JCF were effusive in praise for the wonderful learners at Field Lane School for welcoming them so warmly. JCF was honoured to stand alongside Field Lane this year as they embark on their fundraising journey, and we all cannot wait to see the incredible impact the learners' hard work will bring!

  

• Batley Brilliance: Celebrating National Recognition in the Edurio Survey Awards

  Mon 28 Sep 2026

  I am absolutely thrilled to share some extraordinary news with our Trust community: three of our wonderful schools; Hyrstmount Junior School, Batley Girls’ High School and Upper Batley High School have been recognised as Top 10 Schools in the country in the prestigious Edurio Survey Awards.

   

  This national recognition is based directly on the feedback from our parent surveys, making it uniquely special. It places our schools among the very best in the entire country for parent engagement, satisfaction, and trust. It is vitally important to us that parents know their feedback does have an impact and this award is testament to that. In light of this amazing achievement, our Trust and school leaders have been invited to London this December for the official awards ceremony to celebrate alongside other outstanding education leaders.

   

  At the heart of our Trust family of schools is a firm belief: schools and families are infinitely better, and are Stronger Together, when we communicate effectively, listen deeply, and work hand-in-hand to meet the needs of every child. These awards are a powerful reflection of that collaborative spirit in action. When schools and parents/carers build genuine, supportive partnerships, our young people thrive, grow, and achieve incredible things.

   

  I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the staff, leaders, learners, and parents and carers at Hyrstmount Junior School, Batley Girls’ High School and Upper Batley High School. Your dedication, open dialogue, and shared commitment to excellence embody true #BatleyBrilliance. Thank you to all our parents and carers across the Trust for your continued feedback, trust and partnership. Together, we are building a bright, ambitious future for every child in our care.

  

• Batley is the place to be!

  Mon 21 Sep 2026

  We recently had the privilege of attending the very first Batley Brilliance event of the term at Manorfield Infant and Nursery School, and to say it set a high bar would be an understatement. From the moment we walked through the doors, the vibrant, tangible energy across the entire school was undeniable. Every single element of the event had been carefully considered and expertly crafted—a true reflection of 'The Manorfield Way' in action.

   

  The unveiling of new class names, logos, and songs captured everything education should be all about. Whether they were Tigers, Jaguars, Wolves, or Eagles, hearing the children sing their class songs with complete pride just three weeks into term was deeply powerful. They already know they belong.

  Even our newest learners—the Lions and Bears in Reception—were settled, focused, and thoroughly engaged on just day 12 of their school journey. That is a massive testament to the dedication of the Reception team. Our new Cubs in Nursery already feel like they belong here. 

   

  Under the strong leadership of Headteacher Kate and her brilliant team, children at Manorfield are being empowered to be brave, resilient, and ready to lead. The message across the school is simple yet profound: “Be ready, be respectful, be your best!”

   

  We wrapped up the visit in the school library, where vision has officially met reality. The craftsmanship in that space is breathtaking - huge thanks to Liam the Gardener for his exceptional work building a bespoke learning environment that will inspire generations of readers. A highlight of the event was watching one of their fantastic learners cut the red ribbon to officially open the space. The look on their face when they saw the new library was simply priceless. Their one word said it all: “wow.” Well done Team Manorfield, Batley is the place to be!

  

• Shaping Children's Futures Together

  Mon 14 Sep 2026

  As I reflect on the start of the new school year, one resounding theme continues to inspire me: the Power of Me. It is easy to look at large organisations, trusts, and communities and assume that real transformation happens only through grand, collective gestures. The truth is that every meaningful shift begins with the choices, habits, and actions of a single individual. Whether it is a learner deciding to try once more on a difficult problem, a parent or carer setting a routine that ensures a smooth morning, or a teacher or other adult in school finding a new way to connect with a child, individual actions are the fundamental catalysts for change.

   

  A great education is the single most powerful tool we can offer our young people. It serves as the gateway to a better, brighter future, unlocking doors to opportunities that might otherwise remain closed. However, schools cannot achieve this in isolation. We are always stronger together, and our success relies entirely on working in close, authentic partnership with our parents and carers.

   

  To our parents and carers: thank you. Your dedication to ensuring your children arrive at school on time, fully equipped, and ready to learn creates the groundwork for everything we accomplish in the classroom. That daily commitment does not go unnoticed.

   

  To our incredible learners: thank you for the positive attitudes, energy, and enthusiastic start you have brought to this new school year. Your curiosity and drive remind us daily why we work in education. 

   

  A special mention must go to the phenomenal Healey School Choir, who officially opened our Trust Annual Conference 2026. Performing their inspiring rendition of "The Power of Me," they set an unforgettable tone for the entire day, and the year ahead. 

   

  Addressing an audience of over 700 staff members, the choir was nothing short of exceptional. There was no better way to motivate our team of adults than hearing the vibrant, confident voices of the very young people we serve. The choir reminded every single one of us in the room of the profound impact one voice, and one person, can have.

   

  As we move forward into this year, let us all remember that change starts with each of us. Thank you for your continued support, partnership and dedication to our children’s futures.

  

• Welcome back!

  Mon 07 Sep 2026

  As we excitedly open our school doors to welcome you to the start of a new school year, there is a tangible sense of energy and opportunity across every classroom. September always brings a fresh start, and this year is a dedicated chance for every single learner to shine and be their absolute best.

   

  Seeing our learners return looking so smart in their correct uniforms, equipped with everything they need to learn, and arriving on time or early every day fills us with immense pride. That punctuality and high level of preparation show a genuine readiness to learn and a determination to try hard every day. To our children: thank you for bringing your enthusiasm, energy and brilliant smiles. To our parents and carers: thank you for the incredible effort, early mornings, and dedication it takes to get everyone ready and through the gates on time. To our staff: thank you for your hard work in ensuring we deliver an exceptional education, both academically and our pastoral care.

   

  The famous African proverb states, "It takes a village to raise a child." This truth lies at the heart of our Trust's philosophy. Schools are at their most successful when they build deep, collaborative relationships with families. We are infinitely stronger together, and when home and school work in harmony with shared values, our children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

   

  We are fully committed to doing our absolute best for our children, and we look forward to walking alongside parents and carers throughout the year ahead.

   

  Welcome back! Here’s to all that we can achieve together this year.

  

• Belonging in Batley: Schools as the Social Glue of our Communities

  Mon 20 Jul 2026

  Here in Batley, that sense of belonging isn’t just a buzzword; it is our foundation. Belonging in your community is key - it is a truth we live by every day. Schools are far more than just places of learning. They are the heartbeat of our towns, the anchoring institutions that serve as the vital social glue holding our communities together. Community makes us, and unity in community is everything.

   

  For that reason we had to do one last blog for this school year as we attended a brilliant community event on Saturday and have another one coming up this week. This summer, we have seen incredible examples of what can be achieved when people pull together. The England football team gave the entire nation a masterclass in teamwork, resilience, and determination. They showed us that progress is built on collective effort, grit and unwavering support for one another. Beyond the sport itself, what was truly magical was how football united communities and the country over recent weeks. It reminded us of the sheer joy of standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our neighbours, cheering for a shared goal. That is the exact same spirit we strive to cultivate across our family of schools every single term. There are many lessons in unity from the pitch to the playground.

   

  True community spirit is kept alive by the quiet heroes who give their time to lift others up. This week, I also want to shine a bright spotlight on one of our incredible school governors, Mr Geoff Alvy who has dedicated over 30 years of volunteer service to our schools in Batley. More than three decades of guiding, supporting and championing our young people is an astonishing achievement. Proving that their passion for Batley knows no bounds, this same governor was on stage on Saturday evening, singing his heart out with the Batley Community Choir. It was a beautiful evening of song, and a perfect demonstration of how we can bring people together through the power of music. It was also a deeply moving tribute to our Jo Cox, who was our MP with two beautiful songs performed in her memory. Batley works tirelessly to build a lasting legacy for Jo, continuing the great work she started when she represented us. It was incredibly special to see Jo’s fantastic parents, Jean and Gordon Leadbeater, attend the concert. Their presence made a wonderful evening feel even more connected and profound.

   

  The momentum of unity doesn't stop there. This Wednesday, the inspiring Jo Cox Way cycle ride sets off from Spen Valley Stadium. A pack of passionate cyclists will begin their epic journey, cycling all the way from West Yorkshire to London, where they will arrive on Sunday. They will be met by welcoming crowds, but the magic happens at every mile in between. This event, year after year, brings communities together up and down the country as people line the streets to cheer the cyclists on, remembering the message; "We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us." Jo Cox, MP.

   

  Every cyclist pedalling south this week carries that message. As an educational community, we carry it in our classrooms, our playgrounds, and our hearts. Let’s keep building those connections, celebrating our staff, our volunteers, our brilliant young people and proving every day that community truly makes us.

   

  Have a wonderful summer! We look forward to welcoming you back in September for another high-achieving, brilliant year in Batley. We belong in Batley, it is where great things happen.