As we begin the summer term, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been an exceptionally positive and purposeful spring term at Menston Primary and to look ahead to the opportunities and events the summer term will bring.
The spring term showcased the very best of our school community, with pupils demonstrating curiosity, compassion, creativity and resilience across every year group.
One real highlight was Science Week, which was a tremendous success. The Science Fair, supported by parents, carers, community members and staff, offered children engaging, hands‑on experiences in areas such as astronomy, climate change, life cycles and human biology. It was wonderful to see our pupils so fully immersed in scientific thinking and proudly sharing their learning with families during the Science Celebration at the end of the week.
We were also incredibly proud of the way our children demonstrated our school values through social action. The World Down Syndrome Day and Red Nose Day fundraising fair, organised by our School Council and supported by pupils in Years 5 and 6, was a fantastic example of pupil leadership in action. Thanks to the generosity of our families, the event raised an impressive £1,398.55 for the Bingley Down Syndrome Training & Support Centre – an achievement that reflects both empathy and enterprise in equal measure.
Outdoor learning and community links featured strongly last term, particularly during the Year 2 community tree‑planting project in Porritt’s Field. Working alongside the Menston Area Nature Trust, pupils learned about environmental responsibility while making a lasting contribution to their local area. This hands‑on experience brought sustainability and science learning vividly to life.
Our sporting achievements were another source of pride. Despite a challenging cross‑country season affected by the weather, our pupils showed determination and perseverance, with several outstanding individual results at West Yorkshire level. Children’s commitment, teamwork and resilience exemplified the positive attitudes we encourage in sport and learning alike.
We were also delighted that Menston Primary achieved myHappymind Gold Accreditation, a significant milestone that recognises our whole‑school commitment to mental health and wellbeing. It has been inspiring to see pupils speak so confidently about their feelings, resilience and wellbeing strategies. This continues to underpin the positive culture across school.
The summer term always brings a wonderful sense of momentum and this year is no exception. As the weather improves, we look forward to a busy calendar filled with enrichment, achievement and celebration.
Year 4 pupils have recently enjoyed their residential to Newby Wiske Hall, which was a valuable opportunity for them to grow in their independence, teamwork and personal growth. Children will continue to benefit from educational trips that enhance learning beyond the classroom. Year 5 will enjoy a visit to Cartwright Hall to explore the art of the Early Islamic Civilization. Year 2 will have lots of hands-on science experiences at Eureka! and Reception will learn about how animals grow and change during their visit to Hesketh Farm.
Following their hard work during SATs, our Year 6 pupils will take part in a residential visit to Lake Windermere and an outdoor learning day at Harewood House. These experiences offer a well‑deserved opportunity to relax, build resilience, and strengthen friendships through outdoor challenge and teamwork. Most importantly, they provide a meaningful chance to celebrate the many successes of our Year 6 pupils throughout their time at primary school, as they reflect on their journey so far and prepare with confidence and excitement for the transition to a range of secondary schools.
Continuing our commitment to exceptional personal development and Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural (SMSC) education, we are excited to share that we have signed up for the Red Kite RED Award. This external validation will help us showcase and celebrate the rich, wide‑ranging curriculum and experiences our children receive every day. We look forward to working through the award process and highlighting the many ways our pupils continue to grow as responsible, thoughtful and engaged citizens.
As always, thank you for your ongoing support. These achievements are shared by our entire community. I feel very fortunate to lead such a vibrant and engaged school and I look forward to celebrating many more successes with you over the term. If you have anything that you need to ask me about or let me know about, please email the school office, come to see me or give me a call and I will get back to you.
Mrs Marie Wilson
