Dear Colleagues, 

As we approach the conclusion of the public examination and assessment season, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to each and every member of the WeST team. Your commitment, care, and professionalism have once again ensured that our young people were well prepared and well supported during this critical time. Whether through direct teaching, administrative support, pastoral care, or simply creating a calm and focused environment, you have helped create the conditions our young people need to thrive—and for that, I am deeply grateful.

This week marks an important milestone for many of our pupils. Our Year 11 students have now completed their GCSEs and preparing to move on to the next phase of their educational journey—whether that’s sixth form, college, apprenticeships, or other post-16 pathways. We wish them every success as they take these exciting next steps. Similarly, our Year 13 students are closing this chapter of their school lives and heading off into the world of work, further training, or Higher Education. It has been a privilege to see them grow into thoughtful, capable young adults, and we know they will carry the values and confidence nurtured in WeST schools into whatever lies ahead.

At the other end of the journey, our Year 6 pupils are beginning their transition programmes in preparation for secondary school. These carefully crafted activities and visits are designed to help our young learners make a smooth and confident start in September. Thank you to all the staff who are investing time and care into these transitions—it makes a real difference to how these pupils perceive and experience the move to Key Stage 3.

On Wednesday, we marked National Thank a Teacher Day, a valuable opportunity to reflect on the immense impact teachers and school staff have on the lives of children and young people. Our classrooms are places of discovery, challenge, encouragement, and joy—thanks to your relentless dedication. Thank you to all our teachers and support staff for the inspiration, guidance, and energy you bring every day.

Also on Wednesday, we held the second Mentor Conference as part of our Early Career Framework. This important event brought together mentors from across our Trust to strengthen their understanding of the ECF and enhance the quality of support they offer to our early career teachers. It was heartening to see the professionalism, generosity, and collaborative spirit on display throughout the day. My sincere thanks to all involved.

Later in the week, I had the privilege of closing our Third Annual WeST Sixth Form Summer Conference at Plymouth University. The event was a super showcase of intellectual curiosity and aspiration. With seminars led by university lecturers, guest speakers, and our own staff, the conference challenged students to engage critically with ideas beyond the curriculum. A big thank you to everyone who made this opportunity possible.

We ended the week with our Level 3 Refresher in Child Protection—a timely and essential reminder of our collective safeguarding responsibilities. The session reinforced our shared commitment to keeping children safe and well.

As we enter the final stretch of the academic year, I remain immensely proud of our shared achievements and the strength of our community.

Thank you for all that you do.

Best wishes, 

Rob Haring

CEO