The school was paid a visit by a very special guest this week, former world number one squash player and Commonwealth Games Gold medal winner James Willstrop. James gave a whole school assembly where, amongst many interesting topics, he spoke to the children about the world class squash facilities right here in our town at the Pontefract Squash Club. A group of very lucky children were then given the opportunity to work with James on some of their racket and ball skills.
Visit by Commonwealth Games Gold medal winner James Willstrop
Recent news.
28
July
2026
2026
Celebrating our strongest SATs results to date across Pontefract Academies Trust
We are incredibly proud to be celebrating our strongest SATs results to date, with pupils across our primary schools achieving outcomes that place our Trust significantly above national averages. Across Pontefract Academies Trust, 90% of pupils achieved the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics – 27 percentage points above the national average of 63%. These results represent a significant milestone for our Trust and reflect the dedication, ambition and hard work of our pupils, staff and families. Our success reflects the strength of our Trust family and the impact of working together with a shared ambition: to provide the… Read more
26
February
2026
2026
National Recognition for Our Commitment to Staff Development
We are proud to announce that we have been shortlisted for the 2026 MAT Excellence award for Staff Development (1-12 schools). “Staff development at Pontefract Academies Trust has been transformed into a culture where learning, wellbeing and growth are woven into their every day. Through initiatives including their Everyday Development model, three development days, succession planning, and professional learning hub, they have created personalised development, strengthened retention, built leadership pipelines, and achieved high engagement and satisfaction.” The MAT Excellence Awards celebrate excellence and impact across multi-academy trusts, and the Staff Development award highlights trusts that provide exceptional opportunities for colleagues to… Read more