We have a further update on our exciting plans for Bothal Primary School – and our Ashington Learning Partnership sister school Central Primary – to join WISE Academies.

WISE is a successful and well-regarded North-East Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) which has 16 primary schools in Northumberland, Newcastle, Sunderland, South Tyneside and County Durham.

Joining a MAT brings a range of benefits – including access to specialist expertise, wider professional development for staff, financial resilience and improved opportunities for pupils. Many schools that have joined established academy trusts have seen enhanced outcomes and enriched school experiences, both in and beyond the classroom.

In autumn 2023, our Ofsted inspection confirmed what we already knew – Bothal is an exceptional school. We were graded Outstanding in all five categories, with inspectors praising our high expectations, strong values, and the way in which pupils are supported to “be the best you can be” in every aspect of school life.

As Executive Headteacher, I am passionate about sustaining this success and creating the right conditions for the school to continue to grow and thrive. We believe the next natural step in our development is to join a strong MAT that shares our values and has the capacity to support our continued improvement.

Following careful consideration, we are proposing to join a high-performing MAT with strong roots in the North East whose ethos closely aligns with ours. We believe WISE Academies offers the right blend of support and opportunity to help Bothal continue to excel for years to come.

We are holding a consultation event next Thursday September 25^th at 5.30pm at Bothal Upper Site where parents and stakeholders can find out more, ask questions and share feedback.

You are also welcome to get in touch by emailing consultations@wiseacademies.co.uk or writing to MAT consultation, Bothal Primary School, High Market, Ashington, Northumberland NE63 8NT – we want to hear your views as part of this important process.

Please download an information booklet by clicking HERE.

Thank you for your continued support. I look forward to hearing your thoughts as we consider this exciting next step in our school’s journey.

Miss Louise Hall
Executive Headteacher