Hope Hamilton Church of England Primary School is celebrating the findings of a recent inspection, which praised the school for its deeply embedded Christian vision and its transformative impact on pupils, staff and families.

Rooted in the words of John 15:12 – “Love one another as I have loved you” – the school’s ethos shapes every aspect of its life together. Inspectors noted that this vision is not simply stated but lived out daily, creating a community where every individual is valued, supported and encouraged to flourish.

Key Strengths Identified in the Report

A clear Christian vision that transforms lives
Inspectors highlighted the school’s strong and authentic Christian foundation, which guides decision‑making, inspires development and ensures that pupils and adults alike are enabled to flourish.

A nurturing environment where everyone is known and valued
Strong, positive relationships sit at the heart of school life. The report recognised how this culture enhances the well‑being of pupils, adults and families, creating a warm and supportive community.

A curriculum shaped by love and designed to empower learners
The ‘Love One Another’ curriculum was praised for giving pupils meaningful opportunities to deepen their understanding of the world. This approach ensures learning is purposeful, inclusive and rooted in the school’s vision.

Inspiring collective worship
Collective worship was identified as a powerful time in the school day, uniting pupils and staff in prayer, reflection and celebration, and offering rich opportunities for spiritual growth.

High-quality Religious Education
The RE curriculum was commended for being well‑balanced, coherent and enriched by the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds within the school community. Pupils are encouraged to explore a range of worldviews with curiosity and respect.

The inspection team praised the school’s consistent commitment to ensuring that every individual is seen, valued and supported. Hope Hamilton CE Primary School continues to live out its mission with dedication, compassion and a deep sense of purpose.

Learn Academies Trust was proud to receive the official Microsoft Showcase School Award last week, an accolade awarded to schools and Trusts that demonstrate a strong, forward‑thinking approach to using technology to enhance teaching, learning and day‑to‑day school operations.

This recognition reflects several years of ongoing Trust‑wide work to explore how digital tools and approaches can meaningfully support classroom practice and improve outcomes for pupils. Across Learn Academies Trust, leaders, teachers, support staff and digital champions have all played a part by trialling new ideas, sharing expertise and supporting colleagues to use technology with purpose and confidence.

Becoming part of the Microsoft Showcase School community also connects Learn Academies Trust with an international network of innovative schools who are exploring similar questions about the role of technology and AI in shaping the future of education. This global partnership provides valuable opportunities for collaboration, professional development and shared learning.

The Trust would like to extend its thanks to everyone involved in this work. This achievement represents a collective effort and highlights the dedication of staff across all schools who continually seek ways to strengthen learning experiences and make a positive difference for children.

Learn Academies Trust looks forward to building on this recognition and continuing to develop thoughtful, impactful digital practice across the Trust.

Rooted in the powerful words of Jeremiah 29:11 — “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you… plans to give you hope and a future.” — our vision is far more than a statement on a wall. It shapes who we are, how we lead, how we learn and how we care for one another.

And the inspection confirmed just that.

A School Where Everyone Flourishes

From the moment you walk through our doors, there is a sense of warmth and welcome. Inspectors recognised that our Christian vision is a “living reality” — driving decision-making and inspiring both pupils and adults.

Our children understand what it means to prosper. They speak confidently about our core values of respect, kindness and success, and they are proud to live them out daily. Friday’s much-loved ‘Always Club’ is a highlight of the week — a special celebration for those who consistently demonstrate these values. It’s a wonderful reminder that character matters just as much as achievement.

Working in close partnership with Learn Academies Trust, and supported by our church and wider community, we continue to place wellbeing alongside academic excellence. Because flourishing means nurturing the whole child.

Learning That Comes to Life

Our curriculum begins with Blaby — our community, our history, our context. Inspectors praised how learning is intentionally designed around the needs of our pupils, removing barriers and creating opportunity.

Trips and experiences enrich learning in unforgettable ways. Whether exploring history at Battle of Bosworth Field, discovering stories at the King Richard III Visitor Centre, or enjoying theatre visits, our pupils see their learning come alive beyond the classroom walls.

Inclusion is not an add-on here — it is who we are. Through personalised support, targeted interventions and the nurturing environment of The Nest, children with SEND are supported to thrive. Every child is known. Every child is valued.

Moments That Matter: Worship and Reflection

Collective worship was recognised as a joyful and meaningful time that brings our community together. In the stillness of reflection, in shared prayer, and in celebration worship each week, our children are given space to consider who and what truly matters.

One parent recently described receiving a values postcard as “a really big deal” — and it is! These moments reinforce the deep connection between our vision and everyday actions.

We are also blessed by strong links with our church community, whose clergy and youth leaders regularly enrich our worship and spiritual life.

A Culture of Care and Belonging

Children at Blaby Stokes describe their school as kind and respectful — and inspectors saw this too. Relationships are strong. Support for wellbeing is embedded. Spaces like The Lodge provide sanctuary for those who need a quiet moment at lunchtime.

When disagreements happen, they become opportunities for reflection and forgiveness. When challenges arise, children are supported to overcome them. When success is achieved, it is celebrated together.

Quite simply, this is a place where children feel safe to be themselves.

Growing as Responsible Citizens

Our pupils are not just learners — they are leaders. From worship teams to wellbeing ambassadors and rights-respecting roles, children know their voices matter.

They write to and visit the local care home, sing to residents and support charitable causes through fundraising. Inspectors recognised our strong culture of responsibility and moral awareness, while also encouraging us to help pupils grow even more confident in challenging injustice and speaking up for fairness.

This is a journey we are excited to continue.

Religious Education: A Strength We’re Proud Of

Religious Education shines at Blaby Stokes. Pupils talk knowledgeably about Christianity and other worldviews, including learning about the Five Pillars of Islam and their significance.

With strong training and support, staff deliver engaging lessons that build knowledge progressively. RE is valued — and it shows in the pride children take in their work.

Looking Ahead with Hope

While we celebrate, we also look forward. As a reflective school community, we are committed to:

• Strengthening how we evaluate the impact of our Christian vision.

• Embedding a shared understanding of spirituality across all areas of learning.

• Deepening pupils’ understanding of justice so they can become courageous advocates for change.

Hope and a Future

This inspection affirmed what we see every day: a school community flourishing together. A place where children are nurtured academically, spiritually and emotionally. A place where adults are supported. A place where hope is real.

At Blaby Stokes Church of England Primary School, we truly believe every child has a future filled with promise.

And together, we will continue to help them prosper.

The service, titled Wings of Peace, commemorated the sacrifice of six Polish airmen from RAF Faldingworth who lost their lives when their Lancaster bomber caught fire during a training flight on 4 February 1946. In a final act of selflessness, the pilot steered the aircraft away from the town centre, bringing it down in an empty field behind what is now the school — an action believed to have saved many lives on the ground.

The memorial brought together pupils, staff, families and members of the wider community, alongside distinguished guests and Polish families who travelled from Poland to pay their respects. Attendees included the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire, the Mayor of Wigston, senior faith leaders, military representatives, and members of the local community, reflecting the lasting international connection created by the airmen’s bravery.

A particularly poignant moment during the service was the presentation of personal items from the Polish family of one of the pilots, gifted to the school as a lasting tribute. These included a plaque, a book, a photograph, and a notebook that was onboard the aircraft at the time of the crash. The items will be preserved by the school to support remembrance and learning for future generations.

The service included reflections, prayers, and a special song performed by the entire school, enabling pupils to engage meaningfully with remembrance through music. The school also worked with the local Historical Society to display historical materials, eyewitness accounts and memorabilia linked to the event.

The significance of the occasion was recognised by key media outlets, with coverage featured on ITV News, BBC News and in the Leicester Mercury, helping to share the powerful story of courage, sacrifice and peace with a wider audience.

All Saints CE Primary School extends its sincere thanks to all guests, families, community members and partners who contributed to making Wings of Peace a respectful and memorable commemoration.

The school welcomed Dr Darren Iselin (CEO) and Dr Daniel Pampuch (Deputy CEO) of Christian Schools Australia, an organisation that supports and represents more than 200 Christian schools across Australia. Their visit formed part of a wider factfinding programme as they consider future strategic developments for their network of schools. 

During their time in the UK, Dr Iselin and Dr Pampuch visited a number of school Trusts to gain insight into different leadership models, governance structures, and approaches to school improvement. Their stop at Queniborough CE Primary School offered the opportunity to explore how our Trust operates, with a particular focus on the distinctive character and practice of our Church of England schools. 

The visit included time with senior leaders, classroom observations, and discussions about curriculum design, community engagement, and the role of Christian ethos in shaping school culture. The guests expressed their appreciation for the warm welcome and the openness with which staff shared their work. They were particularly delighted to be entertained by a musical performance from the EYFS class! 

Headteacher Lindsay Charlton commented that the visit was “a wonderful opportunity to showcase the strengths of our school and to learn from colleagues working in a very different educational landscape.” Trust leaders also noted that the exchange highlighted the value of international collaboration and the shared commitment to nurturing flourishing, inclusive, and faith inspired learning communities. 

The school looks forward to maintaining this connection and exploring further opportunities for partnership in the future. 

Learn Academies Trust is celebrating the successful launch of its very first Local Action Team Day, bringing together staff, volunteers, and local businesses for a day of hands‑on improvement and community spirit.

The weather offered perfect conditions as 20 volunteers from both the school and the central team rolled up their sleeves to transform key areas of the school site. Their efforts were boosted by generous donations from local supporters Wickes and M2K Services, whose contributions provided essential materials and equipment for the day’s projects.

The impact was immediate and striking. From refreshed outdoor spaces to revitalised work areas, the before‑and‑after photos capture just how much was achieved in a single day through teamwork, goodwill, and a shared commitment to improving the school environment for pupils.

The success of this inaugural event has already sparked excitement for what comes next. Plans are underway for future Local Action Team Days, with the Trust encouraging more members of the community to get involved.

All Saints CE Primary expressed its gratitude to everyone who contributed, noting that the day showcased the very best of collaboration and community pride.

Keep an eye out for details of the next event - coming soon.

Hope Hamilton CE Primary School is celebrating today, following a formal commendation from Bridget Phillipson the Secretary of State for Education, recognising the school’s outstanding success in supporting pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The letter, addressed directly to the school’s leadership team, applauds the remarkable progress made by pupils during the most recent academic year. National performance data places Hope Hamilton CE Primary School among the highest achieving schools in England for improving outcomes and ensuring that every child - regardless of background - has the opportunity to flourish. The recognition reflects the dedication of the entire school community.

Headteacher Fiona Brooks expressed gratitude for the acknowledgement, noting that the achievement “speaks to the heart of who we are as a school-deeply committed to nurturing potential, celebrating individuality, and ensuring that every child feels seen, supported, and capable of success.  We believe our school is a place where every child feels special and loved by God for who they are and that every child leaves us feeling they have something special to offer the world.”

Hope Hamilton CE Primary School has long prioritised inclusive practice, high expectations, and a curriculum designed to broaden horizons, a place in which children are supported to grow and develop in God’s love, whilst taking responsibility for and ownership of their learning. This national recognition reinforces the impact of that vision and highlights the school’s role as a beacon of excellence within the community.

The school will continue to build on this momentum, strengthening its mission to provide an education rooted in compassion, ambition, and opportunity for all.

We join communities across the country in remembering the millions of lives lost and the families forever changed.

This year’s theme, Bridging Generations, reminds us that the duty to remember is carried forward by each new generation.

We honour the past, stand against prejudice, and commit to building a more compassionate future.

Life at Learn Academies Trust

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas.

Life-AT Learn-AT

Wishing you a wonderful summer.

For some this may be a 10k walk, for others an 80mile bike ride!

Please dig deep and donate to our Charity of the Year Cancer Research UK to celebrate all of these personal achievements!

https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/.../learn-at...

Sarah Sadler has worked in education for 25 years and is currently a National Leader of Education with previous leadership experience across multiple school roles. She is passionate about supporting schools by developing a curriculum that aligns with their school context and pupils, whilst addressing the workload and wellbeing of staff wherever possible, underpinning the core values of Learn-AT. 

Martin Fitzwilliam joins us from E-ACT where he is currently Director of Primary Education. With nearly 28 years in education, he has served as a teacher, headteacher and national leader of education, with a particular passion for leadership development, sustainable school improvement and securing equity of opportunity for disadvantaged pupils and their families. 

We are very excited to have them on board and look forward to the energy, ideas, and experience they will bring to our team. 

Speaking of the outcome, Executive Heads, Alan Eathorne and Heather White, explained: “St. Andrew’s is a fantastic school that is in the top 1% in the country for achievement in reading, writing and mathematics.

"Our pupils are happy, caring and considerate, full of smiles and laughter. Our staff work incredibly hard to ensure every child thrives, and they go above and beyond meaning our children can compete in sporting events, experience creative weeks and enjoy trips and residentials on a regular basis. We are delighted that the Ofsted inspector recognised all of these achievements.”

Life-AT Learn-AT

Wishing everyone a wonderful Easter.

BBC Leicester picked up the story and interviewed all those involved to find out more. You can read the full story online here or listen to their radio interview here!

https://sway.cloud.microsoft/1Az6oknFg6MqU5rJ?ref=Link

We’re so proud of this recognition and grateful to our community for making it possible.

Read more and see the full report at https://www.standrewsnorthkilworth.co.uk/news-and-events/latest-news/school-praised-by-siams-inspector

After writing to hint to tell him that they were studying him as part of their work on 'The lives of significant individuals’, they were delighted to receive a reply from him saying how complimented he was!

Life-AT Learn-AT

Wishing everyone a wonderful summer.

She discussed how she started in the role with funding from a partnership with the Diocese of Leicester and how this links to the Church of England vision for education. By demonstrating the work she has been doing and the impact this is having, she inspired others to see what could be achieved together.​

https://www.justgiving.com/page/learnatrunandrideforrainbows

We very much look forward to having her on board at the head of the Learn-AT team.

The superb facilities, which the hard-working PTFA helped to fund, also include a wonderful sensory space, which has been dedicated to school governor Mr Patrick Rendall MBE and also honours Mrs Frances Rendall who gave so much support to the school during her 16 years as a governor.

Headteacher Mrs Roddy said; 

Our new hall is such a special space; being able to come together as a whole school community is something that we haven’t been able to do in school before. We can’t wait to use it for lunchtimes, P.E. and after-school clubs.

A huge thank you to the team at R1Construction who joined us for the opening ceremony, along with pupils, staff, parents, governors and local villagers. The school community is now looking forward to enjoying the new hall and the benefits it brings for many years to come.

Learn Academies Trust (Learn-AT) is delighted to announce the confirmation of a new and exciting partnership with the National Institute of Teaching. Learn-AT has successfully applied to become an Associate College with the National Institute working across the East Midlands. 

Through Learn-AT Professional, the Trust has a substantial track record of providing high-quality, research-informed professional learning programmes as part of both regional and national partnerships. The National Institute’s vision of a school system that nurtures the talents of teachers and leaders at all stages of their careers so that they can provide children with a world-class education is closely aligned with Learn-AT's mission and values. The Institute’s commitment to being evidence-led and to evaluating its contribution to teacher development resonates with the Trust’s approach to professional development and school improvement. 

The NIoT formally opened in September 2022 and is run by the School-Led Development Trust (SLDT), founded by the Harris Federation, Outwood Grange Academies Trust, Oasis Community Learning and Star Academies. Critical to the design and delivery of NIoT programmes are the regional ‘Associate Colleges’ and Learn-AT is proud to be designated an Associate College and Delivery Partner for the National Institute of Teaching. The Trust will be joining a network of fifteen other school trusts which span the country as well as a consortium of specialist partners. 

Steve Roddy, Director of Education for Learn-AT said, “We are delighted to assume our role as Associate College for the NIoT, delivering programmes across the region to support ongoing teacher development. We are keen to ensure that our programmes capture, exemplify and share the lived experience of teachers and leaders.  

A significant strength of this partnership with the NIoT will be providing participants with opportunities to build and share knowledge in ways that are respectful of their time, and above all, develops them as confident, expert teachers and leaders to serve the pupils in their schools.”  

Regional Principal Tristan Kirkpatrick of the NIoT said: “We are alive to the challenges that schools are facing right now, and we’re keen to be able to help through our targeted, flexible programmes that are informed by research and developed in schools. Our programmes offer a high degree of authentic, realistic exemplification from real schools, empowering change in the classroom the very next day.  

As well as playing a key role in the delivery of our programmes, Learn-AT will also contribute to their design, drawing on local expertise and knowledge. This ensures that programmes reflect their local contexts and the needs of the communities they serve. This partnership approach will enable us to extend our reach across the country, delivering targeted professional development where the need is greatest.” 

The National Institute of Teaching provides each of the areas of the golden thread, Initial Teacher Training, the Early Career Framework and the full suite of National Professional Qualifications. In addition to this the National Institute has announced the DfE-funded development programme for CEOs of Multi Academy Trusts. 

For further information about the National Institute of Teaching sign up to our mailing list here. 

We look forward to working with the NIoT as part of the network of Associate Colleges to ensure effective and evidence-informed teacher development sits at the heart of education in the East Midlands region.