Headteacher's Welcome

 

Welcome to Blackgates Primary Academy where children are at the heart of all we do.

 

Blackgates is a good school, but more importantly this school is a happy one where pupils learn they are surrounded by caring, friendly staff who want the very best for all our children.

At Blackgates we believe all children learn best when feeling happy and safe.  It is always our aim to ensure all children enjoy learning.   We promote kindness and caring above all else.  If children are in a happy, safe environment with access to high quality teaching, presented in an enjoyable way they will achieve their full potential.

The safety of our pupils is paramount. We have worked hard to ensure the site is secure and have very strict safeguarding procedures in place. The health and safety of our wonderful pupils is a priority to all.

We are an inclusive school, believing everyone deserves a high quality education in a local school, regardless of disability. Blackgates has a much higher than average number of pupils who have a disability, and we know they make very good progress here whilst being happy and cared for.

I believe our pupils are the best. They are happy, empathetic, imaginative, active learners. Behaviour within the school setting is good with visitors and professionals regularly commenting on this. Any behaviour which is not good is quickly addressed and parents informed. We always offer parents support and believe our children thrive when families and school help each other and work together. Our behaviour policy rewards good behaviour, particularly children who are consistently good we have a system which pupils acknowledge is fair.

Our staff care. They have received high levels of professional development which has led to pupils receiving high quality teaching.

I believe offering pupils a wide range of exciting events is important. At Blackgates we offer a range of educational visits, including residentials to Robinwood centres. Our whole curriculum is based around experiential learning which means pupils have regular visits out and visitors into school which enhance all aspects of the curriculum. 

Eight years ago the Ofsted judgement was Inadequate and we have improved significantly during that time. The last Ofsted judgement in April 2025 was judged to be good in all areas. We arre very proud of the report which we feel has captured the experiences our children have here. I particularly am proud of the way the HMI lead inspector described our Early Years setting as a place of 'Joy and Discovery.' It has also given us clear guidance around the improvements we will be making in the teaching of writing whilst celebrating the wonderful experiences our children have during their time here.

Here at Blackgates you will see high quality teaching and confident, happy pupils. This is because we care. We are determined our pupils will receive the very best of everything because they deserve it. 

Come and see what we have to offer. By coming in you will know if we are the right school for your child. You can either call on 0113 8878155 or email at info@blackgates.leodis.org.uk 

 

Mrs Julie Coulson

Headteacher