The North and South West Durham Learning Federation brings together three unique schools: Evergreen Primary School, The Oaks Secondary School, and Croft Community School. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to delivering exceptional education while retaining the individual identities of each school.
Formation of the Federation
The journey began in 2015 when Evergreen Primary School and The Oaks Secondary School federated, with the Headteacher of The Oaks initially supporting Evergreen Primary School. Following this successful partnership, Croft Community School approached the Federation in 2018, seeking to join. After extensive consultation with staff and parents from all three schools, the North and South West Durham Learning Federation was established.
Key Features of the Federation
- Individual Schools: Each school retains its unique name, identity, and ethos.
- Unified Leadership: One governing body and Executive Headteacher, Mr Tweddle, oversee all three schools.
- Daily Management: Each school has its own Head of School managing day-to-day operations: Ms. Benson at Evergreen, Mrs. Tweddle at The Oaks, and Mr. Davis at Croft.
- Continuity for Families: Admission arrangements, school uniforms, and staff employment remain unchanged.
Benefits of a Hard Federation
For Pupils
- Seamless Transitions: Enhanced collaboration ensures smooth transitions between primary and secondary.
- Shared Learning Opportunities: Cross-school projects, moderation, and joint activities which enrich and broaden pupil experience.
- Staff Expertise: Pupils benefit from the collective knowledge, ideas, and practices of staff across all three schools.
For Staff
- Career Development: New leadership structures create opportunities for promotion.
- Professional Growth: Staff access shared training and development across schools, developing their expertise and knowledge.
- Cross-School Roles: Staff can work across schools, gaining valuable experience in different educational phases.
For Parents
- Reduced Anxiety: Familiarity with staff, including the Executive Headteacher, eases transitions from Evergreen to The Oaks.
- Coordinated Support: Information sharing and consistent strategies provide a seamless transition for pupils.
For Governors
- Enhanced Leadership: Overseeing three schools offers greater challenge and a broader scope for impactful.
- Stronger Collaboration: Unified governance strengthens decision-making and ensures the best outcomes for all pupils.
Additional Advantages
- Resource Efficiency: Cost-effective budgeting and procurement ensure financial sustainability and value.
- Community Impact: The Federation enhances the profile of special needs education within the wider community.
- Expanded Opportunities: By working together, the three schools create experiences that exceed what a single institution could offer.
The Federation represents a structured, collaborative approach to, ensuring that pupils, staff, parents, and the community benefit from this unified partnership. Together, we are stronger, providing every child with opportunities that inspire success.
