Whitkirk Selected as Reception Lead School in National RISE Programme

Whitkirk Primary School has been selected as one of a small number of schools nationally to take on a key role in supporting improvements in Early Years and Reception practice through the Department for Education’s RISE programme.

Following a competitive national process, the school was chosen in recognition of the strength of its Early Years provision and the expertise of its Reception team. This appointment places Whitkirk among a select group of schools helping to shape and share best practice in Reception education, ensuring more children begin school confident, settled and ready to learn.

The RISE Reception Networks programme connects high-performing schools to share effective practice across regions. As a Reception Networks Lead School, Whitkirk will support other schools by developing and sharing high-quality Reception resources, hosting half-termly virtual network meetings, welcoming schools to see strong practice in action, and working with partners to strengthen early years provision more widely.

Gemma Quarmby, Headteacher,said:

“We are incredibly proud to have been recognised as a Reception Lead School. This reflects the quality of our Early Years provision and the expertise and dedication of our EYFS team. We are excited to share our practice more widely and to work alongside other schools to strengthen early education for children beyond our own community.”

Laura Emery, Assistant Headteacher at Whitkirk and Trust EYFS Lead, said:

“This recognition also reflects the strength of collaboration across Red Kite Learning Trust. Our Early Years leaders work closely together to share expertise and continually refine provision so that every child receives the strongest possible start. We are proud to contribute to this wider work and to support improved outcomes for children both within our Trust and beyond.”

Ian Tucker, CEO of Red Kite Learning Trust, added:

“This is a significant achievement and a reflection of the expertise and professionalism of the team at Whitkirk. High-quality Reception provision plays a vital role in giving children the very best start to their education, and we are proud that Whitkirk will now help to influence and support practice across the region.”

Whitkirk now joins a small group of schools nationally helping to strengthen Reception education and support positive early learning experiences for children across the region.