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Testimonials

There’s something special about Airedale Junior Academy. It’s the sense of belonging, the warmth of the people, and the shared belief that every pupil can achieve their very best. Our academy is filled with pride, ambition, and care, a community where every day, staff and pupils work together to create something truly special: a place where everyone feels supported, inspired, and proud to belong. 

Staff Testimonials

C McLoughlin (SENDCo)

I am the SEND Lead and a class teacher, working with families and staff to make sure children with additional needs are well supported in school. As the SEND Lead, my aim is to make sure every child feels happy, understood, and supported at school. I work closely with families, staff, and outside professionals to put the right support in place so children can enjoy learning and feel confident in themselves.

I’m always happy to listen to parents and carers, answer questions, and work together to help each child overcome any difficulties. Supporting children with SEND is something I care deeply about, and I am proud to be part of their journey and progress.

“Education isn’t just about what children learn today — it’s about giving them the confidence to face tomorrow.”

L Smith (Senior Administrator)

I am incredibly proud to work at Airedale Junior Academy as the Senior Administrator. Every day, I have the privilege of serving the wonderful children and families of our community, and that is what makes my role so meaningful.

What I love most is being part of a team that is dedicated to supporting the education and wellbeing of every child who walks through our doors. Helping to create an enriching, nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged is at the heart of everything we do.

Seeing our pupils grow into happy, confident learners—ready for their next steps in life—is the greatest reward. Knowing that my work contributes, even in a small way, to their journey through school fills me with pride and purpose.

Airedale Junior Academy isn’t just a workplace. It’s a community. It’s a family. And I feel honoured to play a part in shaping the experiences that help our children thrive.

S Robinson (HLTA)

Working at Airedale Junior Academy, is genuinely one of the most rewarding jobs I could have. The support I have received throughout my time here at Airedale has enabled me to grow from a TA to a HLTA, providing me with valuable opportunities for professional development. Our pupils continually strive to be the best they can be, and it is a privilege to support and celebrate their achievements every day. I am extremely proud to be part of such a caring, supportive and dedicated academy community and to be a member of the Airedale Junior Academy family. 

S Myhill

From a very young age—around six years old—I knew that teaching was the career I wanted to pursue. I fondly recall “playing schools” at home, where I would always take on the role of teacher, and my younger sister inevitably found herself cast as the pupil! That early ambition has remained with me throughout my career, and I am incredibly proud to now serve as Assistant Headteacher at Airedale Junior Academy and Airedale Infant Academy, a role I have held for the past 10 years.

I strive to be vivacious, approachable, and adaptable in my role, ensuring that every child, family, and member of staff feels supported and valued. Central to everything I do are our trust’s core values—Care, Aspire, Succeed—which I am passionate about instilling in all aspects of school life. Whether supporting pupils to reach their potential, encouraging ambition, or fostering a nurturing environment, these values underpin my daily work and interactions with all stakeholders.

Each morning, you will usually find me on the playground, greeting children and parents as they arrive. I feel these daily interactions are incredibly important, as they help build positive relationships and set a welcoming, supportive tone for the day ahead.

It is a privilege to be part of the community at Airedale Junior and lnfant Academies, and I remain just as enthusiastic about education today as I was when I first imagined myself at the front of a classroom all those years ago.

Pupil Testimonials

C Till

Being Head Boy has been really fun and special for me. I try my best to be a positive role model for other students and set a good example.  I have also had the privilege of showing governors and visitors around our school, proudly representing our community. This role has helped me grow in confidence and develop important skills that I will carry forward in the future.

 

 

 

H Kilbride

Being Head Girl has been really exciting for me. Sometimes I find learning a bit hard, but the adults in school always encourage me to keep trying my best, which really helps me to care, aspire and succeed. I love going to the arts and crafts club after school because it’s fun and I can be creative. Being part of the school council enables us to make meaningful and positive changes to our school life.

 

 

 

 

 

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How to reach us

Airedale Junior Academy,
Fryston Road,
Castleford,
WF10 3EP
01977 556946
Proud member of Trust Logo Castleford Trust