Investment in children and staff paying off

Positive change and a sense of looking to the future were in the air when Kirton Academy held its annual Open Evening.

Scores of Year 6 children and their parents admired the improvements made to the school and heard senior leaders express their hopes and aspirations.

The past six months has seen a change of name, Principal and uniform after Lincolnshire Gateway Academies Trust took responsibility for the school.

Kirton Academy is undergoing a £3-million makeover. Visitors experienced a new reception, music room, library, IT suite, revamped hall, and a refurbished sports hall, including a new ceiling.

New science laboratories, changing rooms and a canteen overhaul are among improvements to be completed over the next 12 months.

Those who knew the old school commented on the changes.

Hayley Crowston had brought son Lincoln (10).

"I looked around for my daughter two years ago and there's been a massive improvement," she said.

"It looks and feels a lot better. I'll be happy if he comes here."

Gail Maltman, mum of 10-year-old Logan, said: "I've just walked through reception and up to the sports hall and it all looks so fresh. It's just so much brighter.

"We live in Kirton and the new uniform looks good too."

Stacey Pochert has had three children attend the school and had brought son Thomas (10).

"It is very different to how it has been," she said. "There's been a lot of talk around the town about the positive changes that have been made. I know they are really trying hard."

Current Year 11s and friends Isabel Fenton and Poppy Anderton had noticed a big difference. They study GCSE music and were enjoying the new facilities, including practice rooms.

"It's a lot better than it was," said Poppy.

Isabel commented: "There is a big difference and it is a definite upgrade."

Executive Principal Philip Dickinson told parents LGAT had a positive track record of turning around schools, with its seven other academies now rated 'good' by Ofsted.

"We want Kirton Academy to be the next and we are really confident that will happen," said Mr Dickinson.

The investment was making a huge impact.

"I know students wear the new uniform with pride and they are so pleased to see the school have a fresh start."

Principal Emma Ricketts told the busy hall she was "so proud" to have led the school since April.

"We are creating a coherent learning environment by investing in the school," she said.

"The school's vision is that we are proud of who we are. We are active community members who all share a passion for educational excellence."

The school had high expectations and its values celebrated success, with a focus on positivity and praise.

Those unable to make the Open Evening but wanting to look around before the 31st October deadline for choosing a secondary should contact the school on 01652 648276 or email enquiries@kirtonacademy.co.uk

Students Isabel Fenton and Poppy Anderton with 10-year-old Autumn Bell, visiting from Kirton Primary Academy.

Deputy SENCo and English teacher Sarnia Palin with current students Harmony Sleight (left) and Scye-Amber Barrow show visitors the new library.

Stacey Pochert, who has had three children at the school, with 10-year-old Thomas in the new IT suite.

Logan Maltman tries out new equipment in the sports hall, watched by Harry Briggs (Year 8).

Proud of their new sports kit, students (left to right) Jack Lyner (Year 9), Ashley King (Year 8) and Charlie Robinson (Year 10), with a Year 6 visitor.

Preston Everatt, holding a bass but learning to play the acoustic guitar, in the fantastic new music room.

Science technician Jacqui Openshaw with Loki Williams (Year 6), Ophelia Williams (Year 2) and Year 9's Abbie Armstrong.

A busy hall hears from Mr Dickinson and Mrs Ricketts.