Dear Colleagues,
Welcome to this week’s edition of the Weekly Whistle!
Over the past few days, I’ve had the privilege of visiting several of our schools, and each visit has reinforced just how powerful the connectivity within our Trust truly is. When those relationships are strong, when colleagues feel part of something larger than their individual school, it reminds us of the shared purpose that drives everything we do: every child in a great school.
This sense of unity is one of WeST’s greatest strengths. Collaboration across our schools is not simply a feature of our Trust; it is the engine that powers sustained improvement. It is through this collective endeavour—day in, day out—that we achieve academic excellence. And it is that excellence which opens doors of opportunity for our children’s futures. Thank you to everyone whose dedication continues to strengthen this shared mission.
Highlights from this week
HR Matters Session
Tuesday’s HR Matters session provided a valuable space for colleagues to explore key updates, reflect on current challenges, and share best practice across the Trust. These conversations—grounded in professionalism, openness, and problem-solving—are vital to strengthening our organisational culture. My thanks to all who participated so constructively.
KS2 Year 6 Training
Our KS2 Year 6 training session, expertly led by Rebecca Cosgrave and the team from Devon, was a brilliant example of the power of shared expertise. The session equipped colleagues with practical strategies to support high-quality teaching and learning in this crucial year—and reinforced that success at KS2 is never the product of chance. It is the outcome of sustained effort, deep subject knowledge, and consistent collaboration. Thank you to everyone who made the session so impactful.
Launch of NPQSENDCo Autumn 2025 Cohort
On Thursday, we were delighted to launch the Autumn 2025 NPQSENDCo cohort. Colleagues from across the South West came together to deepen expertise in SEND leadership—a cornerstone of inclusive, high-quality education. The thoughtful discussions, exploration of current legislation, and sharing of practice reflect our commitment to ensuring that every child, whatever their needs, is supported to flourish. This cohort’s journey will undoubtedly contribute to stronger, more inclusive classrooms across the region.
Secondary Headteachers’ Meeting
We also had the pleasure of welcoming the Headteacher of Plympton Academy, the Deputy CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust, and a Headteacher from Thinking Schools Academy Trust to our Secondary Headteachers’ meeting. Their insights added significant value to our discussions. Cross-trust collaboration enriches our thinking and strengthens our collective resolve to deliver academic excellence. These partnerships model the power of working together to achieve shared goals.
As we move into December next week, we enter one of the busiest—and most joyful—periods of the school year. Christmas performances, carol services, winter fairs, and community events are now in full swing. These occasions shine a spotlight on the creativity, hard work, and confidence of our pupils, made possible by your dedication and guidance.
Thank you for all that you do each day, and for the sustained endeavour you bring to your roles. It is your effort and professionalism that help shape futures, broaden horizons, and keep our mission alive.
Wishing you all a restful weekend.
Best wishes,
Rob Haring
CEO
WeST Football Staff Club – Expressions of Interest
Ashburton Primary school is seeking to appoint a Year 6 Teacher. 
Westcountry Schools Trust is seeking a dynamic Chief Operations Officer to lead and transform operational services across its family of 31 schools in Devon, Plymouth, and Cornwall. The COO will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering the Trust’s operations strategy, ensuring high-quality, efficient, and cohesive support for all schools. Working closely with the CEO and executive team, the COO will drive continuous improvement, foster collaboration, and champion WeST’s core values of collaboration, aspiration, integrity, and compassion. This is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact on the education and wellbeing of thousands of children by strengthening the operational foundations that enable great teaching and learning across the Trust. For more information, please click 