News:
Flu Vaccinations
The school immunisation team will be attending our site on the 19th December. Please use the following codes to provide online consent for your child.
Experience Wakefield Summer Planner 2024
Have a look at what is happening in the area over the summer months.
We've had a fantastic afternoon for our Easter Fair, we would like to thank all of the parents/visitors who came along and joined in the fun!
Come and join us for a fun-filled Easter Fair
Ivison Trust
Protecting children, supporting families.
Reindeer Run 2023
8B have had lots of fun completing the Reindeer Run this morning to raise money for the Prince of Wales hospice.
The grand total that class 8B have raised for the Prince of Wales hospice is £289.72!!
A message from the new Headteacher
Dear Parent/Carer,
I am delighted and honoured to be appointed as the Head Teacher of High Well School, and I am keen to get to know parents/carers, as well as the students and staff. From my experience, I know that a successful and happy school depends on all of us working together. This is a priority for me to ensure that you and your children know that the staff team and I are fully committed to each child in our care. My educational philosophy is simple. I believe every child should be given the opportunity to be the best that they can be. To do this, we must help and support all students to understand themselves, develop skills and obtain qualifications where possible to give them choices when they leave us. Linking with the belief that every child can achieve at their own level; it is about giving them those key experiences and opportunities to thrive. Using a child centred approach to ensure that whatever we do is the right thing for each child to meet their individual needs. I believe this is vital in helping students to be confident, happy, well-rounded citizens.
For us to support these success’, it is vitally important that students attend school every day and engage in our educational offer. We can make huge differences to all the students in our care if they are attending school every day. This is where we need your continued support and to ensure your child knows we are all working together for them and their future. I am keen to find out your views of the school and how we could support you and your child further. We will be organising a Parent/carers meeting for you to come in and meet with me and ask any questions you may have before I begin my appointment in January 2024. This information will be shared shortly; I hope you are all able to attend. I would like this to be the start of the many opportunities for you to come into school for positive discussions, celebrations, and opportunities for learning.
I look forward to working with you as we begin our journey together.
Yours faithfully,
Mrs Heather Fleming
Head Teacher
See More
Headteacher Appointment
Dear Parents and Carers,
The Governors are pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs Heather Fleming as the new Headteacher of High Well School.
After a rigorous selection process involving staff, pupils, governors and representatives of the Local Authority, Mrs Fleming was the clear choice of all members of the Selection Panel.
Mrs Fleming is currently in post as a Deputy Headteacher at a special school in Rotherham. She will take up the post at High Well on January 1st 2024.
After the half-term holiday, Mrs Fleming intends visiting the school on occasions in preparation for a smooth transition into her new role at High Well. With her appointment, the governors feel very optimistic about a strong, stable and successful future for the school, with Mrs Fleming leading our team of hard-working staff who are committed to the aim of preparing our pupils for positive futures.
Mrs Fleming is looking forward to meeting with parents, carers and students to share with you her vision for the future. She will write to you in due course to introduce herself.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support.
Yours faithfully,
Margaret Turner
Chair of Governors
High Well School RAAC Statement
Headteacher Recruitment
The Governing Board are seeking to recruit an outstanding leader as Headteacher for High Well School. Please visit our vacancies page for more details about the Headteacher post and how to apply.
End of Term information 21st July 2023
We would like to wish everyone a happy and restful summer. School will be closed to pupils for staff training on Monday 4th September and will re-open on the 5th September to KS2, Year 7 and Year 11 pupils. On Wednesday 6th September, school will be open to all pupils.
Letter to Year 11 Parents/Carers
Dear Parent/Carer,
I write to you at an important time for our Year 11 cohort. Examinations are gradually coming to a close and our young people are busy preparing for the future.
GCSE Results Day will take place on Thursday 24th August 2023. School will be open between 10:00am and 12:00pm on the day for pupils to collect their results in person.
Connexions, an advice and guidance service for young people in Wakefield, are offering a GCSE Results Day Service to support pupils who do not get the results that they expected. Their advisors will be available between 9am and 5pm and can be contacted as follows:
Telephone: 01924 371579
Facebook: ConnexionsWakefield
Twitter: @CnxsWakefield
Instagram: @ConnexionsWakefield
Even if your child’s results are in line with expectation, you may still be contacted by the Connexions team over the summer as a part of the ongoing support package that they provide to assist your child in their transition to Post-16 education.
Upcoming key dates that you need to know are as follows:
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GCSE exams end on Friday 16th June - the first two days of the following week (w/c Monday 19th June) will be spent supporting some 11A and 11B pupils through Functional Skills examinations. During this week, pupils will only be required to attend school when instructed to do so. Your child’s staff team will contact you directly with the details of their individualised timetable.
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On the afternoon of Tuesday 20th June, we will hold a leavers assembly followed by a buffet which will give pupils a chance to say their goodbyes.
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11A will be attending a reward trip on Thursday 22nd June (11B have already had theirs earlier this month).
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Year 11 pupils will leave us officially on Thursday 22nd June - with those invited attending a trip to Flamingo Land on Friday 23rd June.
May I take this opportunity to thank you for the support that you have provided during your child’s time at High Well School.
Yours faithfully,
Tara McKinnon
Assistant Headteacher
Letter to Parents/Carers 26th May 2023
Dear Parent/Carer,
As you are aware, Miss Quinn is leaving at the end of the academic year to become Executive Principal at the East SILC in Leeds. I am writing to inform you of the interim arrangements whilst we recruit to the post of Headteacher for High Well. These arrangements will ensure a smooth transition and that High Well continues to provide high-quality education for your child.
Below are the interim leadership arrangements from the 1st September 2023:
- Acting Headteacher - Mr. Adrian Coates
- Acting Deputy Headteacher - Mrs Tara McKinnon
- Acting Assistant Headteacher - Mrs Natalie Jackson
We will update you on the timeline for recruitment when we have more details, however our aim is that the Headteacher post is filled for January 2024. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support.
Yours faithfully,
Margaret Turner
Chair of Governors
Staff Update
Dear Parent/Carer,
It is with mixed feelings that I write today to share the news that I will be leaving High Well School to take up the position of Executive Principal at the East Specialist Inclusive Centre in Leeds. My final day as Headteacher at High Well will be the 31st August 2023.
The support I have received from pupils, families and staff over the past twelve years has been amazing and it has been a complete privilege to serve you as Headteacher. High Well has been on a journey since I first started in September 2011 and I am so proud of the achievements made, including two 'good' Ofsted judgements.
I would ask that you speak to your child about this news and reassure them that they continue to be at the centre of everything we do and everyone at the school remains completely focused and committed to delivering high-quality education moving forward. Governors will oversee the recruitment of a new Headteacher and any interim arrangements that will be put in place following the 31st August. I have every confidence that the senior leadership team and staff will continue to lead the school with ambition and dedication to the school's ethos of Preparing for Positive Futures.
I look forward to having the opportunity to say goodbye in person at our pupil progress day in July and will write to you later in the summer term with details for leadership arrangements for September.
Yours faithfully,
Miss L Quinn
Headteacher
Strike Action 27th April and 2nd May 2023
Dear parents/carers,
You may be aware from media coverage that the National Education Union (NEU) have declared further strike action, which will take place on 27th April 2023 and 2nd May 2023. The strike is happening because of a national dispute between the unions and the government over teacher and support staff pay, and not because of any issues at our school.
I’m getting in touch to give you as much notice as possible about our arrangements for 27th April and 2nd March 2023. Although all pupils at High Well are classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the Department for Education as they have an EHC Plan, it is not possible or safe for High Well School to remain fully open, due to the number of staff who will be participating in strike action. The following classes will be open:
Thursday 27th April 2023
- KS2 @ Cherry Tree
- 7B
- 10A
- 11A
- 11B
Tuesday 2nd May 2023
- 7A
- Year 8
- Year 9
- 10B
- 11A
- 11B
If you are classed as a ‘Critical Worker’ please advise the school whether you require a place for your child on the these days, providing either a letter from your employer or suitable ID which identifies your employment.
For all other pupils, work packs will be delivered as well as online learning set where appropriate.
For pupils who are entitled to free school meals, lunch packs will be delivered in the morning of the days they are not at school.
I’m sorry that you will have to make alternative arrangements for your child at short notice, and/or that they will experience disruption to their education. I understand that this situation may be frustrating, and ask that all members of our school community continue to treat each other with respect. High Well School remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our pupils and delivering high-quality teaching.
We are working closely with our staff union representatives to keep up to date with the situation, and I will inform you as soon as possible if arrangements change further. We are planning to rotate the classes in school for the remaining strike days, to ensure that all pupils have access to onsite education over the course of the planned strike action.
If you have any questions, please contact the school office.
Yours faithfully,
Miss L Quinn
Headteacher
Strike Action 15th and 16th March 2023
Dear parents/carers,
You may be aware from media coverage that the National Education Union (NEU) have declared strike action, which will take place on 1st February 2023, 28th February 2023, 15th & 16th March 2023. The strike is happening because of a national dispute between the unions and the government over teacher and support staff pay, and not because of any issues at our school.
I’m getting in touch to give you as much notice as possible about our arrangements for 15th and 16th March 2023. Although all pupils at High Well are classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the Department for Education as they have an EHC Plan, it is not possible or safe for High Well School to remain fully open, due to the number of staff who will be participating in strike action. The following classes will be open:
Wednesday
- KS2 @ Cherry Tree
- Year 8
- Year 9
- 10A
- 10B
- 11A
- 11B
Thursday
- KS2 @ Cherry Tree
- 7A
- 7B
- Year 8
- 10A
- 11A
- 11B
If you are classed as a ‘Critical Worker’ please advise the school whether you require a place for your child on the these days, providing either a letter from your employer or suitable ID which identifies your employment.
For all other pupils, work packs will be delivered as well as online learning set where appropriate.
For pupils who are entitled to free school meals, lunch packs will be delivered in the morning of the days they are not at school.
I’m sorry that you will have to make alternative arrangements for your child at short notice, and/or that they will experience disruption to their education. I understand that this situation may be frustrating, and ask that all members of our school community continue to treat each other with respect. High Well School remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our pupils and delivering high-quality teaching.
We are working closely with our staff union representatives to keep up to date with the situation, and I will inform you as soon as possible if arrangements change further. We are planning to rotate the classes in school for the remaining strike days, to ensure that all pupils have access to onsite education over the course of the planned strike action.
If you have any questions, please contact the school office.
Yours faithfully,
Miss L Quinn
Headteacher
Snow Closure Friday 10th March 2023
School is closed today due to heavy snow in some areas and unsafe travelling conditions. Taxis have been cancelled, however if your child's taxi arrives, please do not send them to school.
Kind regards,
Louise Quinn
Headteacher
Appeal on behalf of one of our families
One of our families with two pupils at High Well have suffered a house fire on Thursday 2nd March and have lost everything. If you are in a position to make a donation, however small please click below to head to the Go Fund Me Page.
Thank you for your support.
Louise Quinn
Headteacher
Strike Action 28th February 2023
Dear parents/carers,
You may be aware from media coverage that the National Education Union (NEU) have declared strike action, which will take place on 1st February 2023, 28th February 2023, 15th & 16th March 2023. The strike is happening because of a national dispute between the unions and the government over teacher and support staff pay, and not because of any issues at our school.
I’m getting in touch to give you as much notice as possible about our arrangements for Tuesday 28th February 2023. Although all pupils at High Well are classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the Department for Education as they have an EHC Plan, it is not possible or safe for High Well School to remain fully open, due to the number of staff who will be participating in strike action. The following classes will be open:
- KS2 @ Cherry Tree
- 11A
- 11B
- 10A
- Year 8
If you are classed as a ‘Critical Worker’ please advise the school whether you require a place for your child on the 28th February, providing either a letter from your employer or suitable ID which identifies your employment.
For all other pupils, work packs will be delivered on Tuesday 28th February as well as online learning set where appropriate.
For pupils who are entitled to free school meals, lunch packs will be delivered on the morning of the 28th February.
I’m sorry that you will have to make alternative arrangements for your child at short notice, and/or that they will experience disruption to their education. I understand that this situation may be frustrating, and ask that all members of our school community continue to treat each other with respect. High Well School remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our pupils and delivering high-quality teaching.
We are working closely with our staff union representatives to keep up to date with the situation, and I will inform you as soon as possible if arrangements change further. We are planning to rotate the classes in school for the remaining strike days, to ensure that all pupils have access to onsite education over the course of the planned strike action.
If you have any questions, please contact the school office.
Yours faithfully,
Miss L Quinn
Headteacher
Vacancies
We are currently recruiting to several roles across school - Please see our vacancies for further information about how to apply!
For an informal chat, please call school and speak to Michael Davis (HR Manager) or email HRManager@highwell.org.uk
Strike Action 2023
Dear parents/carers,
You may be aware from media coverage that the National Education Union (NEU) have declared strike action, which will take place on 1st February 2023, 28th February 2023, 15th & 16th March 2023. The strike is happening because of a national dispute between the unions and the government over teacher and support staff pay, and not because of any issues at our school.
I’m getting in touch to give you as much notice as possible about our arrangements for Wednesday 1st February 2023. Although all pupils at High Well are classified as ‘vulnerable’ by the Department for Education as they have an EHC Plan, it is not possible or safe for High Well School to remain fully open, due to the number of staff who will be participating in strike action. The following classes will be open:
- KS2 @ Cherry Tree
- 11B
If you are classed as a ‘Critical Worker’ please advise the school whether you require a place for your child on the 1st February, providing either a letter from your employer or suitable ID which identifies your employment.
For all other pupils, work packs will be delivered on Wednesday 1st February as well as online learning set where appropriate.
For pupils who are entitled to free school meals, lunch packs will be delivered on the morning of the 1st February.
There will be no after school clubs on this date.
I’m sorry that you will have to make alternative arrangements for your child at short notice, and/or that they will experience disruption to their education. I understand that this situation may be frustrating, and ask that all members of our school community continue to treat each other with respect. High Well School remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our pupils and delivering high-quality teaching.
We are working closely with our staff union representatives to keep up to date with the situation, and I will inform you as soon as possible if arrangements change further. We are planning to rotate the classes in school for the remaining strike days, to ensure that all pupils have access to onsite education over the course of the planned strike action.
If you have any questions, please contact the school office.
Yours faithfully,
Miss L Quinn
Headteacher
Christmas Letter to Parents/Carers
16th December 2022
Dear Parent/Carer,
As always, we thank you for your continued support of High Well School, we have had a very positive and busy Autumn Term and your support is highly valued. Below are some of the events which have taken place:
- Ofsted Inspection – we remain a ‘Good’ school!
- Macmillan Coffee Morning – raising £140.56
- Post 16 providers event for Years 10 & 11
- Award of £5400 from West Yorkshire Mayor’s Safer Community Fund – meaning our parent/carer support groups are funded for this academic year
- Careers Fair – a first for High Well and will now be an annual event with pupils from KS2 up to Year 11 participating
- Cinema trips for all year groups funded by Into Film
- Bikeability KS2 – all pupils passed, with some achieving level 2!
- Pupil Progress Day – one of our favourite days of the term with amazing attendance of parents/carers and pupils
Our school continues to grow in size with 95 pupils on roll and a staff team of sixty. There are plans in place for building work to take place, beginning later this year, so we can continue to grow, particularly at KS2 and offer more support to other schools through outreach work. As soon as the plans have been finalised we will let you know, however it will not affect the day-to-day operation of the school.
We’ve attached some further advice on Strep A infections and water safety, and have discussed water safety with all pupils in assembly and also in class.
School returns on Tuesday 3rd January 2023.
In the meantime, we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and safe New Year from all the staff team at High Well.
Yours faithfully,
Louise Quinn
Headteacher
Strep A Guidance
Dear Parents and Carers
Re: Scarlet fever/ Group A strep
You will know from the news that there has been an increase in cases of scarlet fever, above the levels expected for this time of year. Scarlet fever is a common childhood illness caused by group A streptococcus (GAS). It is not usually serious but should be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of rare complications (such as pneumonia) and to stop spread to other people.
At this time of year there are also lots of viruses circulating that cause sore throats, colds and coughs. These usually get better without needing any special medical treatment or medicines. However, children can occasionally develop a bacterial infection on top of a virus and that can make them become more unwell.
The ‘Healthier Together’ website has lots of information about children’s health, including scarlet fever and Group A strep. It is produced by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and local health professionals.
Group A Strep and Scarlet Fever :: West Yorkshire Healthier Together (wyhealthiertogether.nhs.uk)
Signs and symptoms of scarlet fever
- Early symptoms are flu-like and include headache, fever, severe sore throat and sometimes feeling or being sick.
- A rash appears 12 to 48 hours later, usually first on the chest and stomach, then to other parts of the body. The rash is red and feels like sandpaper. The rash may be harder to spot on darker skin, but will still have the ‘sandpaper’ feel.
- Bright red ‘strawberry tongue’ (see pictures on Healthier Together website)
- Patients often have flushed red cheeks
If you think you, or your child, might have scarlet fever:
- contact your GP or NHS 111 as soon as possible
- make sure that you or your child complete the course of antibiotics even if you feel better quickly. This is so that you do not spread the infection to others.
- Stay at home and do not go to nursery, school or work for at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics. This is so that you do not spread the infection to others.
You can also avoid spreading the infection by washing your hands frequently and not sharing plates, cutlery, clothes, bedding or towels
Cough or sneeze into a tissue and dispose of it immediately.
Invasive Group A Strep (iGAS)
The same bacteria which cause scarlet fever (Group A streptococcus) can also cause a range of other types of infection such as skin infections (impetigo) and severe sore throat.
In very rare cases, Group A streptococcus can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive group A strep (iGAS). It is rare for children with scarlet fever to develop iGAS infection.
Although it is still very uncommon, there has been an increase in iGAS cases this year, particularly in children under 10 years old.
As a parent, you should trust your own judgement and seek medical advice if your child is very unwell, if they have got worse since they were seen by a doctor, or if you are worried.
The Healthier Together website has good advice about when to seek urgent help:
Group A Strep and Scarlet Fever :: West Yorkshire Healthier Together (wyhealthiertogether.nhs.uk)
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
- there are pauses when your child breathes
- your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
- your child is floppy or will not wake up or stay awake
Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:
- your child is getting worse or you are worried about them
- your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
- your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
- your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38C, or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39C or higher
- your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
- your child is very tired and drowsy or irritable (unable to settle them with books, TV, food, picking up)
Yours sincerely,
Louise Quinn
Water Safety Guidance
Monday 14th November 2022
Odd Socks Day!
Kicking off Anti-Bullying Week with Odd Socks today at High Well. Keep updated with our Twitter @hwswakefield.
Wednesday 2nd November 2022
Careers Fair
Thank you to everyone who came to our careers fair.
We are really pleased to announce that High Well School have been awarded £5,400 from the West Yorkshire Mayor's Safer Communities Fund for our Parent and Carer Forum! Sandra Shaw, Safeguarding Officer, and Vicky Weeks, Business Manager, attended the event on behalf of High Well School where a cheque was presented by Tracy Babin, West Yorkshire Mayor.
Wednesday 5th October
Fantastic day exploring future career options with Wakefield College. Workshop in school followed by careers fair at Pontefract Racecourse.
September 2022
School reopens for Years 5,6, 7 & 11 on Tuesday 6th September and all pupils on Wednesday 7th September 2022. Below is the end of term letter with information about uniform and summer activities available through Wakefield's Happy Healthy Holiday Programme.
Summer Letter
19th July 2022
Dear Parent/Carers,
We will be conducting a phased return to school in September. The school will be closed to pupils for an INSET day on Monday 5th September. Years 5, 6,7 and 11 will return on Tuesday 6th September and then the whole school will be in on Wednesday 7th September.
Please can I remind parents that all pupils should be in school uniform consisting of the following:
- High Well School polo shirt
- High Well School sweatshirt
- Plain black/nay trousers/jogging bottoms (strictly no logos)
We have plenty of stock of polo shirts and sweatshirts, please contact Sandra Shaw to buy these, she will be working for the first two weeks of the holidays can be contacted directly on:
Admin staff will be available to answer any queries over the telephone on 25th July or if you have any non-urgent queries please email admin@highwell.org.uk.
Over the summer break Wakefield’s Happy Healthy Holidays is available to book and aims to keep children and young people active during the School Holidays by providing free enriching activities and healthy food for children in Reception class to year 11 who receive benefits-related free school meals. Please use this link to book your child onto as many activities as you would like:
https://wakefieldcouncil.coordinate.cloud/
May I take this opportunity to wish all our pupils and parents a safe and happy summer, and also thank parents for all your support over the last academic year.
If you have any concerns over the summer and need support from social care direct please contact them directly on 0345 8503 503.
Yours faithfully,
Miss L Quinn
Headteacher
End of term arrangements
School closes at 12.30pm on Friday 22nd July. Pupils will be provided with a grab bag lunch and transported home from this time by school staff. If you are able to collect your child, please let us know.
IMPORTANT NOTICE - Sunday 17th July 2022
Extreme Hot Weather
As you are aware there are weather warnings for Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th July 2022. The temperature is forecast to reach 39 degrees Celsius on Tuesday 19th in Pontefract. We are unable to make changes to the school day, as most pupils come to school in taxis. School will remain open, however we will support any parents/carers who choose to keep their children at home, by registering the absence as authorised.
If you are sending your child to school we will be making adjustments, including keeping PE lessons indoors and also ensuring that pupils can be inside during morning break and lunchtime. Drinks are always available at High Well during the day, and we will remind pupils to drink regularly. If your child does not wish to stay indoors during breaks, please provide them with sunscreen and if required they may bring a hat for break times.
You may also be aware that a young person died earlier in the week, due to getting into difficulty in a canal in Wakefield. Please remind your children about the risks of swimming/bathing in rivers, canals, lakes and quarries.
Pupil Progress Day - Friday 1st July
We are pleased to announce that our summer term Pupil Progress Day will take place on the 1st July. We are very much looking forward to seeing parents/carers and pupils to share all their fantastic work and progress for the year. Sandra will be in touch with all parents/carers shortly to make arrangements.
IMPORTANT NOTICE - 15th June 2022
Dear Parent / Carer
Consultation – proposed enlargement of existing premises and permanent age range change
As you know, our Key Stage 2 (Year 6 class) is currently operating from a different setting (at Cherry Tree Academy). The local authority is proposing to do building work at High Well School so that we will have enough space for our Year 6 class on our school site.
The local authority has to consult with member of the public in doing this as it will mean a permanent change in age range.
Please find below the consultation letter from the local authority.
If you have any concerns or questions, please contact the school.
Your sincerely
Ms Louise Quinn
Headteacher
Local Authority Consultation Letter
To whom it may concern,
PROPOSED ENLARGEMENT OF EXISTING PREMISES AND PERMANENT AGE RANGE CHANGE AT HIGH WELL SCHOOL.
The Proposal:
Wakefield Council, in conjunction with the High Well School Governing Board, is proposing to enlarge the existing premises and to lower the age range of the school from 11-year-old to 8-year-old on a permanent basis from September 2023.
The proposal to permanently lower the age range at High Well School is in response to the Wakefield SEND Provision Plan and Wakefield SEND Provision Strategy in the Specialist Provision Priorities Action Plan which identifies the permanent transfer of the temporary 8 place SEMH satellite site at Cherry Tree to High Well School.
In order to provide the additional provision for Key Stage 2 pupils, one classroom plus additional resource space will be constructed on the existing school building which will increase the overall capacity of the school from 85 pupils to 95 pupils. In addition, works will be completed to the on-site car park to improve the circulation of vehicles in and out of the school site.
This will support Wakefield Council to fulfil its statutory duty under The Education Act 1996 Section 14 (1) which places a duty on Local Authorities to plan for and secure sufficient school places for their area and under The SEND Code of Practice 2015 which places a duty on Local Authorities to provide high quality provision to meet the needs of children and young people with SEND.
The Process:
The consultation is the first stage of the process and seeks to explain how the proposal to enlarge the existing premises and to permanently lower the age range at High Well School will progress, answer any questions stakeholders may have about the proposal, and gather stakeholder comments and views on the proposal.
Submitting Comments on the Proposal:
Wakefield Council, in conjunction with High Well School, would like your views on the proposal. The consultation period will run from 9am on Wednesday 15 June 2022 until 5pm on Wednesday 13 July 2022 which will be your opportunity to submit any comments you may have via the online questionnaire which can be found here: https://forms.office.com/r/scbfwAy0nC
The feedback that is received will be considered by Wakefield Council in conjunction with High Well School. It is important that we receive as much feedback as possible.
If you require a paper copy of the questionnaire or any further information please contact the Schools Organisation Team on: 0345 8 506 506 or schoolplaceplanning@wakefield.gov.uk
To keep up to date with the next stages of the process, please refer to the Wakefield Council website: Proposed school changes - Wakefield Council
Yours sincerely,
Tara Fawdington
Team Manager, Early Years and Schools Organisation
IMPORTANT NOTICE - 13th June 2022
Due to a water leak in the area, the school has very low water pressure and no water in some parts of the school. Yorkshire Water have confirmed that it will be 4-6 hours before the issue is resolved. Therefore, we are unable to open due to Health and Safety reasons. We will be contacting parents/carers directly regarding remote learning for today.
1st April 2022
Covid-19
All previous guidance has been withdrawn by the Government and the following is now in place:
If a child or young person has a positive COVID-19 test result they should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for 3 days after the day they took the test, if they can. After 3 days, if they feel well and do not have a high temperature, the risk of passing the infection on to others is much lower. This is because children and young people tend to be infectious to other people for less time than adults.
Children and young people who usually go to school, college or childcare and who live with someone who has a positive COVID-19 test result should continue to attend as normal.
24th March 2022
We are doing our bit for the Great British Spring Clean through litter picks in the local community. Please see our Twitter account for further updates.
23rd March 2022
Please see the updated guidance from Gov.UK about Covid-19 and positive cases from 24th February 2022:
Children and young people with COVID-19 should not attend their education setting while they are infectious. They should take an LFD test from 5 days after their symptoms started (or the day their test was taken if they did not have symptoms) followed by another one the next day. If both these tests results are negative, they should return to their educational setting if they normally attend one, as long as they feel well enough to do so and do not have a temperature. You should report your LFD result after each test.
High Well School will require confirmation of two consecutive negative lateral flow tests for pupils or staff to return to school before 10 days. This confirmation needed is an email or text message from the government confirming the test results, including name etc.
Click below for the link to record a test result:
Testing in Special Schools:
Staff and pupils in specialist SEND settings, are currently advised to continue regular twice weekly testing. (DfE 24/02/2022).
We will continue to make twice weekly testing available to pupils and staff and encourage those who do not wish to be tested at school, to do so at home.
17th February 2022
Wakefield Council are currently undertaking a survey around its key services to gain the views of young people, adults and older adults who live in the district. Please click on the button below to find out how to complete the survey.
14th January 2022
Please see below the changes to self-isolation for anyone who has tested positive. The local public health advice remains in place for 5 days self-isolation for pupils who are in a household with someone who has tested positive.
Changes to the self-isolation period for those who test positive for COVID-19:
From Monday 17 January, people who are self-isolating with COVID-19 will have the option to reduce their isolation period after 5 full days if they test negative with a lateral flow device (LFD) test on both day 5 and day 6 and they do not have a temperature. For example, if they test negative on the morning of day 5 and the morning of day 6, they can return to their education or childcare setting immediately on day 6.
The first test must be taken no earlier than day 5 of the self-isolation period, and the second must be taken the following day. All test results should be reported to NHS Test and Trace.
If the result of either of their tests is positive, they should continue to self-isolate until they get negative results from two LFD tests on consecutive days or until they have completed 10 full days of self-isolation, whichever is earliest.
Anyone who is unable to take LFD tests or anyone who continues to have a temperature will need to complete the full 10 day period of self-isolation.
4th January 2022
Please see the local public health advice below if a relative/household member has tested positive:
If a relative or household member has tested positive for COVID-19 (on LFD or PCR),
pupils should stay at home for 5 days. They should take daily lateral flow tests as per Government advice.
If they develop symptoms, they should get a PCR test straight away and continue to stay at home.
If they have no symptoms after 5 days and daily lateral flow tests (if taken) are negative, they can return to school.
3rd January 2022
School reopens for the majority of classes on Tuesday 4th January 2022, except Years 6 & 8 due to Covid-19 related absence.
See the information below from the DfE as of 2nd January 2022:
Testing for students after the holiday period
The DfE has asked that secondary school students undertake one on-site test, on return in January. This will help boost testing participation and reduce transmission after a period of social mixing during the holidays. Students should then be strongly encouraged to continue testing twice weekly at home and to report all results to NHS track and trace and to their setting. We strongly encourage all parents/carers to test their child before returning to school on Tuesday 4th January, to reduce the risk of transmission. On entry to school on Tuesday 4th January 2022 pupils will be offered a lateral flow test. Any parents/carers who do not wish their child to be tested on site need to test at home instead before attending school.
Updated guidance on the use of face coverings in education settings
From Sunday 2 January, it is recommended that face coverings are worn in classrooms where pupils in year 7 and above are educated. The advice is short term only, to support pupils and teachers as they return to school this term and builds on the existing proportionate guidance that recommends face coverings for all adults in communal areas of all settings. We are updating our guidance to reflect this. The advice on face coverings in classrooms will be in place until Wednesday 26 January, when Plan B regulations are currently scheduled to expire, at which point it will be reviewed.
Daily testing for close contacts of COVID-19
People who are fully vaccinated, or children and young people aged between 5 and 18 years and 6 months, identified as a close contact of someone with COVID-19, should take an LFD test every day for seven days and continue to attend their setting as normal, unless they have a positive test result or develop symptoms at any time.
Information on the changes to the self-isolation period for individuals who test positive for COVID-19
Since Wednesday 22 December, the 10-day self-isolation period for people who record a positive PCR test result for COVID-19 has been reduced to 7 days in most circumstances, unless you cannot test for any reason.
Individuals may now take LFD tests on day 6 and day 7 of their self-isolation period. Those who receive two negative test results are no longer required to complete 10 full days of self-isolation. The first test must be taken no earlier than day 6 of the self-isolation period and tests must be taken 24 hours apart. This also applies to children under 5, with LFD testing at parental or guardian discretion. If both these test results are negative, and you do not have a high temperature, you may end your self-isolation after the second negative test result and return to your education setting from day 8.
17th December 2021
Dear Parents/Carers,
As always, we thank you for your continued support of High Well School, we have had a very positive Autumn Term and your support is highly valued.
We are committed to ensuring that our staff, pupils and their families are as safe as possible but at the same time will strive to still provide the very best experiences for all of our pupils in the coming term and aim to maintain a sense of normality for pupils in an ever-changing climate.
School returns on Tuesday 4th January 2022. Please see below the advice from Public Health England.
“From 14 December 2021, adults and pupils who are fully vaccinated and all children and young people aged between 5 and 18 years and 6 months identified by NHS Test and Trace as a close contact of someone with COVID-19 are strongly advised to take a PCR test and then a LFD test every day for 7 days, unless they have a positive test result in which case they should isolate for 10 days.”
To keep our school community as safe as possible, we would ask that pupils are tested at least twice weekly during the holidays and the day before returning to school. We will also be testing staff and pupils on the morning of the first day back in school.
In the meantime, we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and safe New Year from all the staff team at High Well.
29th November 2021
Dear Parents/Carers,
Please be advised that the Covid-19 guidance for schools has been strengthened nationally and is now in line with our local guidance for Wakefield which was issued from 1st November 2021. See the points below:
- All pupils, staff and visitors must wear a mask from Year 7 onwards, unless exempt in communal areas of schools, including corridors and on transport to and from school.
- Anyone who has been in contact with a positive case of new variant 'Omicron' must isolate for 10 days
Current advice on 'Delta' variant remains in place for self-isolation:
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If a child or adult is fully vaccinated or has tested positive for Covid-19 in the last 90 days, then they can attend school if they are in contact with a positive case.
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For children or adults who are not vaccinated and are in contact with a household member who has tested positive (on a LFD or PCR), they must self-isolate for between 3-5 days, taking a PCR test on day 3 and only returning to school if they test negative.
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Anyone with symptoms should isolate and take a test.
We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting a Pupil Progress Day on Friday 26th November. This will provide parents with an opportunity to accompany their child into school and discuss their child's progress with teachers. There will also be the opportunity to meet other staff within school and ask any questions. As always, refreshments will be provided. Our Parent Support Officer, Sandra Shaw, will be in touch shortly to arrange an appointment. Please contact Sandra or Mr Coates (Assistant Headteacher) if you have any queries.
22nd October 2021
Dear Parents/carers,
Please click below to open the letter from Wakefield's Director of Public Health on recommendations for schools following an increase in cases locally of Covid-19. From 1st November 2021 we will be putting in place the following measures:
- Pupils and staff will be required to wear masks in communal areas, corridors and when moving around the school.
- If someone in the household has tested positive for COVID-19 (on LFD or PCR), the pupil must stay at home. If they develop symptoms, they should get a PCR test straight away. If they don’t have symptoms, they should get a PCR test 3-5 days after their household member started with symptoms (or took their test if they had no symptoms). If this test is negative, the child can return to school but must stay at home and arrange another test if they go on to develop symptoms.
Please ensure your child comes to school on Monday 1st November 2021 with a mask, unless they are exempt.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish pupils and their families a happy, safe and healthy half-term break. School reopens on Monday 1st November 2021.
We are looking forward to welcoming our new and existing pupils next week. In line with government guidance, lateral flow testing will be available for pupils in Years 7-11 on the date they return and twice weekly for at least the month of September. All pupils will be expected to be in full uniform and parents/carers should note that hooded tops/hoodies are not allowed. One school jumper per pupil will be provided free of charge. Additional jumpers can be purchased directly from the school.
Wednesday 8th September 2021 | Years 7, 10 & 11 only |
Thursday 9th September 2021 | Years 7-11 |
Thursday 9th September 2021 | Year 6 group 1 @ Cherry Tree |
Friday 9th September 2021 | Year 6 group 2 @ Cherry Tree |
23rd July 2021
We would like to wish all pupils, parents/carers and staff a happy and healthy summer and look forward to seeing you all in September. Key information for the start of the next academic year can be found in the letter below. Pupils entering Year 6 in September should have been contacted directly with a start date (either 9th or 10th September) and all the relevant information. Please contact the school if you require any further information.
29th June 2021
If your child is self-isolating please see the Remote Learning area of the website for timetable details.
27th June 2021
We now have 4 confirmed cases of Covid-19, three pupils and one staff member. Pupils and staff identified as 'close contacts' have been made aware and are self-isolating. If you have been contacted by school and your child has been identified as a 'close contact' please read the information below from the Public Health Team in Wakefield:
Pupils identified as 'close contacts'
At the time the initial positive results were confirmed, we asked close contacts to isolate. As the parent/carer of one of the children asked to isolate, can I thank you for your cooperation with that.
We want to do all we can to reduce the spread of the virus in the community and the wider district. This is why we are writing to all parents of students who have been asked to isolate as close contacts, asking them to seek a PCR test at their nearest local testing site.
Details of how to access testing are provided at the end of this letter. When booking you can either state that you are a contact of someone with COVID-19, or that the local authority has asked you to get tested.
I understand you may be concerned about this, but please be reassured we are writing as a precaution to reduce the spread of the virus. Whilst the risk of serious illness from Covid-19 is unlikely in children and younger adult age groups, it can still be a very unpleasant virus.
If your child tests positive on PCR then the whole household will need to self-isolate for ten days.
Please do remember the importance of hands, face, space, and where possible meet people outside your household outside or in well-ventilated places. All adults over 18 are now able to book their COVID-19 vaccination, so please do book your appointment without delay.
Getting a COVID-19 test
PCR tests for Wakefield residents
Test sites are at the former Westgate Station Car Park (WF1 1XP) and Castleford Swimming Pool (WF10 5DX). These sites are open from 8am – 8pm and from Thursday 24th June no appointment is required (although you can book online if you prefer).
This week mobile testing units are available at:
- The King’s School, Pontefract, 26th and 27th June – no appointment required for this test site
- South Elmsall Market 9am-3pm, 23rd June, 24th June and 27th June
- Wakefield Sports and Social Club 9am-3pm 24th and 25th June
- Hemsworth Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church 9am – 3pm 23rd June and Friday 25th June
- Trinity RLFC 24th and 25th June
- Carleton Community Centre, 24th and 25th June
For most mobile units apart from the King’s School, you do need to make an appointment. You can do this by calling 119 or visiting https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test
If you live in a different local authority then please visit the web link above or look on your local authority’s website for advice.
Please remember, if you have symptoms, you and everyone you live with must immediately self-isolate. Do not leave home until you get your test results, except to post a test kit or for a PCR test appointment.
A reminder of guidance for meeting other people:
- Up to 6 people or two households can mix indoors.
- Up to 6 people or two households can stay overnight in somebody's home.
- Up to 30 people can mix outdoors.
- Hugging friends and family is allowed, but please consider the vulnerability of people you hug and the people they are in contact with
26th June 2021
We have three confirmed cases of Covid-19, two pupils and one staff member. Pupils and staff identified as 'close contacts' have been contacted directly and are self-isolating. Please see the advice below:
Positive Covid-19 Cases 26th June 2021
26/06/2021
Dear Parents/Carers,
We have been advised by Public Health England that there has been three confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the school.
We know that you may find this concerning but are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England. This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child. Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness.
The pupils and staff who have been in direct contact with the confirmed cases have been contacted and will be staying at home for 10 days.
The school remains open and your child should continue to attend if they remain well. We offer lateral flow testing for all pupils twice per week and can also provide pupils with lateral flow tests to take home as well.
What to do if your child develops symptoms of COVID 19
If your child develops symptoms of COVID-19, they must not come to school and should remain at home for at least 10 days from the date when their symptoms appeared. Anyone with symptoms will be eligible for testing and this can be arranged via https://www.nhs.uk/ask-for-a-coronavirus-test ,by calling 119, or attending a drop-in testing centre.
All other household members who remain well, must stay at home and not leave the house for 10 days. This includes anyone in your ‘Support Bubble’.
Further information is available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-stay-at-home-guidance/stay-at-home-guidance-for-households-with-possible-coronavirus-covid-19-infection
The 10-day period starts from the day when the first person in the house became ill.
Household members should not go to work, school or public areas and exercise should be taken within the home.
If you require help with buying groceries, other shopping or picking up medication, or walking a dog, you should ask friends or family. Alternatively, you can order your shopping online and medication by phone or online.
Household members staying at home for 10 days will greatly reduce the overall amount of infection the household could pass on to others in the community
If you are able, move any vulnerable individuals (such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions) out of your home, to stay with friends or family for the duration of the home isolation period.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) are recent onset of:
- a new continuous cough
- a high temperature
- a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell (anosmia)
For most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness.
If your child or anyone in the household does develop symptoms, you can seek advice from NHS 111 at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/check-if-you-have-coronavirus-symptoms/ or by phoning 111.
How to stop COVID-19 spreading
There are things you can do to help reduce the risk of you and anyone you live with getting ill with COVID-19
Do
- wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
- use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
- wash your hands as soon as you get home
- cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
- put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
Further Information
Further information is available at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
Yours faithfully,
Louise Quinn
Headteacher
18th June 2021
Due to the expansion of the school we are recruiting for a Class Teacher, HLTA and two TA posts for next academic year. Please click below to go to our vacancies page:
Changes to guidance on mask wearing 17th May 2021
From 17th May 2021 the DfE has removed the requirement for pupils to wear masks in classrooms. Pupils will still need to wear masks when travelling around school and in communal areas. All other Covid-19 measures will continue. Masks will continue to be required on home to school transport unless your child is exempt. Children who want to continue to wear a mask in classrooms are welcome to do so. Please ensure your child continues to bring a mask to school.
Easter Holidays
School is closed from Monday 29th March 2021 and reopens on Monday 12th April 2021. Wishing you a happy and safe Easter!
Lateral Flow Testing
The Government is asking that all secondary aged pupils are tested twice per week. We have been offering pupil testing since December 2020 and will continue to offer this twice per week in school. The Government is also offering families the opportunities to test their secondary aged child(ren) and themselves twice weekly at home. If you would prefer to test your child at home and would like support with accessing the tests please contact us via phone or admin@highwell.org.uk.
National Careers Week 1st - 7th March 2021
It is National Careers Week this week and pupils across the school are undertaking a range of learning and activities related to exploring future careers. Please click the button below to see a parents guide to National Careers Week:
Pupil Expectations March 2021
Parent/Carer SurveyParent/Carer Survey
Please click on the button below to complete our parent/carer survey on your experiences of our education provision during the current lockdown:
INSET Day Monday 22nd February 2021. School will re-open to pupils on Tuesday 23rd February 2021.
Adverse Weather Closure Tuesday 2nd February 2021
Due to heavy snow overnight and continuing snowfall High Well School site will be closed today. Remote learning will be available for pupils today and pupils will be emailed by their class teams with times of lessons and online resources which can also be used. The remote learning section of the website will be updated with a timetable for each class by 9am today (2nd February 2021). Please click the button below for Remote Learning or visit the section in Parents & Carers for further information.
Letter to Parents/Carers from Wakefield Council 11th January 2021
Please click the button below to view a letter from Wakefield Council on school places during the current lockdown:
Accessing Remote Learning
We now have a dedicated remote learning section on our website. Please go to Parents/Carers and you will find a section on remote learning on the right hand side.
Updated Risk Assessment 05/01/2021
Please click the button below to read our updated risk assessment.
Free Mobile Data for Remote Learning
We have access to a number of schemes that provide free extra mobile data to assist with home learning. These schemes are available to anyone without a fixed broadband connection. Further information on one of the schemes is available at https://get-help-with-tech.education.gov.uk/about-increasing-mobile-data. If you are interested, please contact the school.
Urgent message for Parents/Carers regarding Tuesday 5th January 2021
In response to the Prime Minister's statement this evening we will need to delay re-opening High Well School until Wednesday 6th January 2021. We will be in contact with every family on Tuesday 5th to discuss the plans for the next 6 weeks which will include a mixture of both onsite and remote learning. We appreciate your patience and support with this fast changing situation, however the safety of pupils, staff and families is of utmost importance.
Community Support
A reminder to all parents that, within your community, the Children First Hubs are there for families who need extra support and can help with a range of problems. Please see numbers below:
Hemsworth 01977 722305
City Limits (WF1) 01924 303272
Airedale 01977 724350
Normanton 01924 307878
Reminder to parents/carers:
If your child presents with one or more of the following symptoms please keep your child at home and book a test. If you require any support with testing please contact us directly.
- A high temperature (feels hot to touch on chest or back)
- A loss or change in what you can normally taste and smell
- A new continuous cough - this means coughing a lot more for more than one hour or 3 or more coughing fits in a day
Click below to read the latest information on how to access a test in Wakefield
Remote Learning:
For support or questions with home learning packs or online learning please email:
Staying safe online:
The link below offers top tips on how to keep safe online. We also have further information available in the Parents/Carers section of the website under Safeguarding:
Follow us on Twitter: @hwswakefield
The Department for Education coronavirus helpline is now available to answer questions about COVID-19 relating to education and children & social care. Staff, parents and young people can contact this helpline as follows:
Phone: 0800 046 8687
Email: DfE.coronavirushelpline@education.gov.uk
Opening hours: 8am to 6pm (Monday to Friday)
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