In June, 77 staff members from across our four academies have taken part in our Trust-wide Step Challenge, bringing colleagues together to support physical and mental wellbeing in a fun, active way. A huge congratulations to Leanne Parker from Leeds East Academy, who topped the leaderboard with an incredible 756,962 steps - an outstanding achievement! 🏆Leeds West Academy came out on top overall, with the highest number of staff taking part and the most total steps recorded. The challenge was run through the Wisdom app by Health Assured, one of the wellbeing tools available through our staff benefits offer. It’s been fantastic to see colleagues across the Trust embracing movement, supporting each other, and having a bit of healthy competition along the way.
We’re thrilled to celebrate a special milestone at our Leeds East Academy , who have launched their first-ever professionally bound yearbook for the Class of 2025. This beautifully designed keepsake captures five incredible years of school life – filled with memories, friendships, and achievements, offering students and their families a lasting reminder of their time at the academy. From the very first day in Year 7 to the final moments of Year 11, the yearbook is a powerful celebration of growth, community, and everything that makes the Leeds East experience so special. We’re proud to see this thoughtful project brought to life and know it will be treasured by students and families for years to come. Congratulations to Leeds East Academy and to every one of our Year 11 leavers, your journey and legacy are now part of the academy’s history.
Another year of achievement and progress at Alder Tree Primary! We’re delighted to share that our Alder Tree Primary, has once again achieved results above the national average in reading, writing, and maths. This consistent success is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and resilience of both pupils and staff at Alder Tree. It marks another year of improvement and achievement within their school community. Congratulations to all the pupils on this fantastic accomplishment. As they move on to the next stage of their education, we wish them every success for the future.
As the academic year came to a close, our Leeds City Academy marked a major milestone – the official opening of their new expansion and a celebration of long-serving staff members who have made a lasting impact on the school community. The event welcomed key project partners – Morgan Sindall, AtkinsRéalis, Watson Batty Architects, Leeds City Council, and local councillors – to recognise their invaluable role in delivering this transformative project. The expansion includes: - 11 new teaching spaces - Science studios and laboratories - A dedicated music room and practice areas - Breakout spaces and extended dining facilities - Upgraded infrastructure including a new substation and external works We’re proud to share that the project received a national award for Best Collaboration via the Pagabo Framework, recognising the collective effort and shared vision that brought this project to life. A particularly meaningful part of the evening was the recognition of staff retiring after between 21 and 32 years of dedicated service. In a lasting tribute, rooms in the new building have been named in their honour – a reflection of their legacy and deep commitment to education. This expansion opens up even more opportunities for our students to thrive. Thank you to all who made it possible.
Across the White Rose Academies Trust, we’re fortunate to work with some of the best teachers in the galaxy - and today, on #ThankATeacherDay , we want to say thank you. Each of our academies is sharing a small gesture of appreciation to recognise the dedication, care and professionalism shown by our staff every day. Thank you to all our teachers - your work truly changes lives.
