Newsletters

Dear INMAT Community,

It is incredible to think that we are nearing the end of this school year and that, once again, our Year 6 children are taking their tests. While we often think of these as "Year 6 tests," the DfE refers to them as Key Stage tests – which is, in many ways, far more accurate. The children are being assessed on the knowledge they have been acquiring since Year 3; even so, they began building those foundations from the very moment they entered our schools.

A huge "well done" goes to the children for their hard work, and to all the adults – from parents and support staff to external visitors and the teachers – who have supported them in readiness for this week. We look forward to celebrating the children’s achievements!

Beyond the classroom tests, we have numerous children taking part in the Big Sing at the Derngate this term. The joy of collective singing is a wonder to experience, and there is nothing quite like it for stirring the emotions. The creative arts are a vital part of our education system; I hope that throughout the year you have seen the wonderful artwork or design technology projects your children have created. There is a profound sense of achievement to be found in these subjects, and something truly special about seeing a child’s face light up through the process of creating.

Having something to look forward to can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking, but there is a real delight in anticipation. Whatever you and your family are looking forward to next, I hope it is a wonderful experience.

Simon Blight

INMAT School Imporvement Lead

Free School Meals & Extra Support for Your Child! 

Did you know that simply registering for Free School Meals (FSM) could unlock extra funding for your child’s education and give them access to real benefits right away?

What is Pupil Premium?

Pupil Premium is extra government funding given to schools for pupils who are eligible for Free School Meals, children in care, adopted children, and children with parents in the armed forces.

This funding is used to help every child thrive — closing gaps, boosting progress, and giving pupils the best possible chance to succeed, no matter their starting point.

At our school, we use it to make sure all children can reach their full potential, feel confident, and access the opportunities they deserve.

No hassle. No judgement. And no one is told who has registered.

Why it REALLY matters

Even if your child doesn’t want school meals, registering still makes a huge difference. Every eligible registration brings extra funding into school that directly supports learning, resources, and opportunities for your child.

It’s one of the simplest ways you can help boost your child’s education behind the scenes.

Who can apply?

You may be eligible if you receive (or have received):

• Income Support
• Universal Credit (depending on income)
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
• Child Tax Credit / Working Tax Credit (within thresholds)
• Pension Credit (Guarantee element)
• Support under the Immigration and Asylum Act

You may also qualify if your child:

• Is or has been in care
• Has been adopted from care
• Is under a special guardianship or child arrangements order

How to apply

It’s quick, easy, and completely confidential:

• West Northamptonshire Council – Free School Meals & Pupil Premium
• North Northamptonshire Council – Free School Meals & Pupil Premium

If you’re unsure, the school office will happily help you check or apply.

One small form = big impact

Registering takes minutes, but the difference it makes lasts for years. It helps us secure funding that goes straight back into supporting your child’s learning, wellbeing, and opportunities.

Highlighting the inspiring learning happening every day in each of our schools - from creative teaching to memorable classroom moments.

Kinglsey Primary School's Early Years outdoor provision transformed

...into a truly remarkable learning environment with the introduction of the new “Kingsley Village” – an imaginative space designed to inspire curiosity, creativity and adventure.

Carefully created to extend learning beyond the classroom, the vibrant outdoor area offers children endless opportunities to explore, collaborate and develop through purposeful play. From role play and storytelling to problem-solving and physical development, every element of the village has been designed to spark imagination and encourage independent learning.

Pupils enjoy daily access to the space in all weathers, helping to build confidence, resilience and a love of discovery from the very earliest stages of their education. The impressive environment reflects the school’s commitment to creating rich, engaging experiences where children feel excited to learn, explore and thrive every day.

A Day of Discovery at Thinktank for Standens Barn Primary

Year 1 enjoyed a fantastic educational visit to the Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where learning came to life through a range of interactive and inspiring exhibits. Pupils explored key areas including “Our World”, discovering fascinating ideas about space, Earth and the environment, alongside the ever-popular MiniBrum and the hands-on Science Garden, all designed to spark curiosity and encourage active, playful learning.

In MiniBrum, children immersed themselves in real-world role play, building communication and problem-solving skills, while the Science Garden gave them the chance to investigate forces, movement and engineering through practical outdoor challenges. The whole experience provided a rich extension of classroom learning and was full of excitement, curiosity and discovery.

Families can see more highlights and photographs from the visit on the school’s Facebook page — a great way to get a real sense of the amazing experiences children enjoy, and a reminder of why visits like this are so valuable at all ages for bringing learning vividly to life.

The Abbey Primary Embrace Adventure on Residential Experience

Year 4 arrived safely at their residential full of excitement, and it didn’t take long for learning to move well beyond the classroom! From the moment they got started, pupils were building vital skills through bushcraft activities, working together to construct shelters and showing real teamwork, problem-solving and resilience in action.

The adventure continued with a camouflage session, where children had to think carefully, adapt quickly and apply their understanding in a completely different environment. Experiences like these show learning at its most powerful — practical, memorable and full of purpose. By bedtime, everyone was settled into their tents after a hugely successful first day, having pushed themselves, supported each other, and learned in a way that feels genuinely unforgettable.

A Brilliant Sports Day Full of Energy, Teamwork and Big Smiles!

Falconers Hill Infant School had a truly fantastic Sports Day, with sunshine, excitement and a real buzz of celebration from start to finish. The children took part in a brilliant range of events including throwing, running races, sack races, long jump, and of course the ever-popular egg and spoon race!

Beyond the fun and friendly competition, the day was packed with powerful learning in action. Children showed incredible determination, resilience and teamwork, cheering each other on and giving every activity their very best effort. It was a wonderful example of how sport helps our youngest learners build confidence, perseverance and sportsmanship — all while having an unforgettable time together as a school community.

Pinocchio Comes to Life at Ashby Fields!

Ashby Fields Primary School children were treated to a magical morning as a visiting theatre company brought the classic story of Pinocchio to life right in front of them. From the very first scene, pupils were captivated by the performance, enjoying the storytelling, humour and lively characters throughout.

Alongside the fun and laughter, the experience gave children a powerful opportunity to engage with live theatre — building imagination, listening skills and a deeper appreciation of storytelling in a way that simply can’t be replicated in the classroom. Experiences like these are what make learning at Ashby Fields feel so special, memorable and full of wonder.

St James Pupils Power Up for the Planet

Something quietly extraordinary unfolded at St James Infant and Pre‑School on 22 April. While the world marked Earth Day, KS1 pupils were busy exploring a powerful idea: how can small choices today shape the planet we inherit tomorrow?

What began as simple questions — about plastic, food waste, green energy, and caring for the places we love — quickly grew into big thinking. The children discovered that even the tiniest actions can ripple outward, changing far more than they imagined.

Their reflections burst into colour as they created bold, eye‑catching posters designed to make everyone pause and reconsider how we treat our world. What shone through wasn’t just creativity. It was a spark — a growing awareness that even our youngest learners already feel the weight and wonder of protecting something far bigger than themselves.

Little Harrowden Pupils Show Heart at Pacesetter Games

Little Harrowden’s Year 1 and 2 athletes brought energy, determination, and a brilliant team spirit to the Pacesetter Games Athletics competition this term. Competing against schools from across the county, the children tackled each event with enthusiasm and resilience, demonstrating the kind of attitude that makes school sport so valuable. While they didn’t secure top placings this time, their commitment and positivity stood out from the moment they arrived.

What truly defined the day was the way the pupils supported one another — cheering teammates on, celebrating every effort, and showing maturity beyond their years. Their behaviour truly reflected the school’s motto "Kindness is Key." A proud moment for Little Harrowden, and a reminder that success isn’t only measured in medals, but in mindset.

A Calm Start to SATs at Kettering Park Junior Academy

At Kettering Park Junior Academy, Year 6 pupils have been starting their SATs mornings with our SATs Breakfast Club — a simple routine that makes a real difference. Sharing breakfast together gives the children time to settle, chat, and ease any nerves before the day begins. It’s a gentle way to help them feel ready, supported, and focused, and staff have really noticed how much calmer and more confident pupils seem when they’ve had that steady start.

This approach is something we’re proud to see across all INMAT schools. Each school runs its own version of a breakfast club during SATs week, making sure every child begins the day feeling cared for and prepared. It’s a small gesture, but one that helps pupils feel grounded and reminds them that SATs are just one part of their journey — and they’re not facing it alone.

Rothwell Schools Grow Their Eco Mission

Rothwell Schools marked Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday with a day full of creativity and curiosity. Children created portrait artwork of Sir David, dressed as animals and explorers, made masks and spent time learning about his impact on conservation and why his voice matters so much today. It was a lovely way to help pupils notice nature, value wildlife and understand how one person’s passion can inspire change — the perfect backdrop for the work our Eco Champions have been leading this year.

Our Eco Champions, chosen by their classmates, have been working hard to make our school cleaner and greener as part of the Eco‑Schools programme. They’ve created posters to encourage simple everyday actions like saving water, switching off lights and recycling properly, and they’ve spent lunchtimes litter‑picking and building bug hotels to support biodiversity. To honour Sir David’s birthday, they even created a nature trail to help everyone slow down and notice the world around them. If you’d like to join in at home, perhaps try spotting wildlife on a walk, creating your own bug hotel or simply switching off lights altogether – small steps that make a real difference.

Wollaston Primary School Get Creative With Clay

Year 2 have been busy this week exploring different clay techniques as part of their art learning. The children experimented with shaping, joining and adding texture before creating their own 3D clay models. They approached each step with real focus and enthusiasm, and it was lovely to see how proud they were of their finished pieces.

Next, the class will be moving on to making small clay pots, building on the skills they’ve already learned. Hands‑on activities like this help pupils develop fine motor skills, creativity and confidence — and they always enjoy seeing their ideas come to life. If you’d like to try something similar at home, you could explore simple air‑dry clay projects together to keep the creativity flowing.

Growing Together at Kettering Park Infant Academy

Our EYFS families at Kettering Park Infant Academy enjoyed a lovely morning together during our recent parent workshop, where children and adults planted sunflower seeds side by side. The room was full of smiles, chatter and teamwork as little hands scooped soil, tucked in seeds and talked about what plants need to grow. It was a simple activity, but one that created a real sense of togetherness — and we can’t wait to watch those sunflowers sprout over the next few weeks.

Workshops like this help children see learning as something shared, not just done in school. They also give families a chance to slow down and enjoy a moment of calm, curiosity and connection. Did you know seeds from supermarket fruit or veg like peppers, strawberries or tomatoes will grow on a windowsill at home? It’s a small activity that sparks big conversations about nature, care and patience.

What to Do if You’re Worried About a Child

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to speak up.

What Counts as a Safeguarding Concern?

A safeguarding concern is anything that makes you feel a child may not be safe or well cared for. This can include:

• Physical abuse — unexplained injuries, bruises, marks
• Emotional abuse — extreme behaviours, low self‑esteem, withdrawal
• Neglect — poor hygiene, hunger, inappropriate clothing, persistent tiredness
• Sexual abuse — worrying language, knowledge beyond age, sudden behaviour changes
• Domestic abuse — anxiety, fearfulness, aggression, clinginess
• Online risks — unsafe contact, inappropriate content, secretive device use
• Any behaviour or situation that suggests a child may be at risk of harm

Concerns might come from something a child says, changes in behaviour, or worries about how they are being cared for.

Signs to Look Out For

• Sudden changes in mood or behaviour
• A child becoming unusually withdrawn or unusually aggressive
• Frequent injuries or vague explanations
• A child talking about things that worry you
• Poor attendance or sudden changes in routine
• A child appearing consistently hungry, tired or unkempt
• Something that simply doesn’t feel right

Trust your instincts — they are often correct.

How to Report a Concern

If you are worried about a pupil or a member of staff:

• Contact the school’s Safeguarding Team (details on each school’s website under Key Information → Safeguarding).
• If your concern is about a senior leader, contact our Designated Safeguarding Lead: safeguarding@inmat.org.uk or 01604 434600.

If the Concern Is Urgent

• Police: 101 (or 999 in an emergency)
• Northamptonshire MASH: 0300 126 7000

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999 straight away.

Safeguarding works best when we work together. By noticing, speaking up and supporting children both at home and in school, we help them grow into confident, resilient young people.

If you’re ever unsure — talk to someone. We are always here to help: safeguarding@inmat.org.uk

 

These shout-outs recognise the dedication, creativity, and care that make our schools such special places.

Celebrating Outstanding Practice Across INMAT Schools

INMAT is incredibly proud to celebrate several of its schools being featured in PiXL Insights this term, recognising exceptional project work that puts children firmly at the centre of practice. This national spotlight highlights the strength, creativity and commitment of colleagues across our trust — and the powerful impact of sharing effective approaches beyond individual settings.

A huge congratulations goes to the teams whose work has been showcased:

• Ashby Fields Primary School — Rachel Edkins and Emma Ramm Introducing an Enhanced Mainstream Classroom to support the reduction of fixed‑term exclusions Creating inclusive environments where every child can thrive

• Kettering Park Infant Academy — Liam Cox and Charlotte Pooley Strategies to support pupils with SEND in the mainstream classroom Empowering all pupils to achieve and reach their full potential

• Wollaston Primary School & The Abbey Primary School — Alison Pullin, Gemma Carley and Simon Blight What works? Supporting speech, language and communication in EYFS Building strong foundations for communication and lifelong learning

It is especially exciting to see this work featured in the “Adapting these ideas” section, meaning the expertise within INMAT is now influencing practice across the wider sector. This recognition reflects the trust’s shared belief that children come first — and these projects are a shining example of that commitment in action.

A heartfelt thank you and well done to all staff, pupils and schools involved. Your dedication continues to make a meaningful difference every single day.

Little Harrowden Primary to Open New Nursery This September

Little Harrowden Primary School is preparing for an exciting new chapter as it opens its very own nursery this September. The team have been working with real passion and care to create a welcoming, nurturing space where the youngest learners can explore, play and grow. There’s a wonderful buzz around school as plans take shape, and it’s clear how much thought has gone into making the nursery a warm and inspiring start to children’s learning journeys.

The nursery will be led by Little Harrowden’s amazing early‑years team — a group known for their kindness, creativity and deep understanding of how young children learn best. Their enthusiasm shines through in everything they do, and families can look forward to a setting filled with curiosity, outdoor learning and joyful early experiences. It’s a fantastic addition to the opportunities offered across INMAT schools, and a real celebration of the commitment Little Harrowden has to its community.

If you're looking for a September nursery place, live between Kettering and Wellingborough, and want a home-from-home, qualified teacher-led nursery in an idyllic rural setting, this is the one for you. Enquire now - 01933 677202 / lhps-admin@lhps.inmat.org.uk