Presenting our Annual Report for Stakeholders 2023-24

We are thrilled to announce that the Waterton Academy Trust Annual Report for Stakeholders 2023-2024 has now been published. This comprehensive report was presented at the AGM on 11th December, highlighting the remarkable achievements, milestones, and collective efforts that have made this past year such an incredible success for all in Waterton. The report was exceptionally well received, with attendees praising its comprehensive overview of the Trust’s achievements and the inspiring stories of progress and collaboration it showcased.

The CEO, Dave Dickinson OBE, reflected on the positive reception of the report at the AGM, stating: “The insights, collaboration, and shared commitment displayed during the annual general meeting were truly inspiring and a testament to the strength of our community. Thank you to all who joined the meeting, and shared in our collective success”.

Highlights of Our Year

Here are just some of the key achievements that bring our shared vision to life: 

Celebrating 10 Years of Waterton
This year marked a decade of growth and progress. We expanded our specialist provision, opened Newstead Academy, and launched more pre-schools. Planning also began for the innovative Water10 Initiative, a program designed to provide ten enriching pupil experiences, reinforcing our commitment to holistic education.  This year, pupils across the Trust showcased their voices and talents through enriching experiences like the Children’s Parliament, which fostered leadership and advocacy, Waterton’s Got Talent, celebrating creativity and performing arts, and the MATlympics, promoting teamwork, healthy lifestyles, and school pride through sports.

Outstanding Pupil Outcomes
A record-breaking 74% of pupils achieved a Good Level of Development in EYFS, up 5% from 2023 and above the national average for the third year in a row. 88% of pupils passed the Phonics Screening Check – also significantly exceeding national averages. Key Stage 1 outcomes rose again from 2023, and were above the national for the third consecutive year. Additionally, Key Stage 2 outcomes rose by an incredible 5% and were in line with the National average, equipping even more pupils for the next stage of their education.  

Ofsted Successes
Our inspections this year showcased the exceptional work happening across the trust.  
– Crofton Infant School was praised for the excellent education it provides, and is on track to achieve an “Outstanding” rating at their next inspection. 
– Churchfield Primary, Normanton Common, and Newstead were celebrated for “Outstanding” features in Behaviour, Attitudes, and/or Personal Development.  
– Cherry Tree Academy made significant strides, achieving “Good” in all areas except Quality of Education, where further progress is well underway.  This trend has continued this term with a further two strong inspections.

Workforce investment
Our Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship achieved an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating, with over 90% of participants excelling— well above national averages. There were over 80 professional learning network events, the launch of the Waterton Wellbeing Charter, and the introduction of new leadership roles to enhance our educational impact.  

Operational Excellence
Our estates, HR, IT, Governance and finance teams have played a vital role in driving innovation and supporting schools. From building SEN outdoor pods and sensory gardens to upgrading our learning environments and IT infrastructure, their work ensures our schools remain inspiring places to work and learn.  With reserves exceeding targets, we’ve been able to make strategic investments in resources and infrastructure, further enhancing the pupil experience.  

Our vision of ensuring that success is a shared experience is evident in everything we do. Whether in classrooms, on school grounds, or within our central teams, each member of our team has played a vital role in helping pupils thrive, staff grow, and our trust flourish. Thank you for your dedication and for being such an integral part of this collective journey.