Schools trust promises ‘minimal disruption’ for pupils during controvertial takeover

Mackie Hill Primary School is set to be academised despite parents wanting it to stay under the stewardship of nearby Kettlethorpe High School, which is run by the council.

The Inspire Partnership Multi Academy Trust, which already runs seven schools across the Wakefield district as well as one in Barnsley, has now been put forward by the government as Mackie Hill’s new sponsor.

The Inspire Partnership issued a statement on Tuesday in a bid to reassure those connected to the school.

It read: “We are excited by this opportunity to bring Mackie Hill in to our trust and are working closely with the Department for Education and Wakefield Council to ensure the school is fully supported during the process of becoming an academy.

“We will also ensure that there is minimal disruption for all pupils and staff affected.

“We are a strong local primary trust who understand the community and local challenges and have the capacity to raise standards and provide the school with the necessary sustainable support.”

Inspire runs Gawthorpe Community Academy, as well as primary schools in Castleford, Featherstone and South Elmsall.