Leigh Primary School

Hilden Oaks Preparatory School and Nursery has developed a partnership with Leigh Primary School in Tonbridge, Kent. Both headteachers provide reciprocal support serving on their governing bodies which is of mutual benefit. Staff attend shared training events and Hilden Oaks staff have visited Leigh to share expertise, most recently in PE and Modern Languages. Pupils from Leigh were recently invited to share in Hilden Oaks' centenary celebrations at the pop-up circus event.

Aims

The aim is to develop a mutually beneficial partnership, where both schools can share expertise through teacher training, curriculum development and governance. Hilden Oaks recognises the Charity Commission's guidance on public benefit, particualrly with regard to working with state schools. 

Background

Connections already in existence between the schools were identified and it was acknowledged that both schools are of a similar size and have a similar ethos. The headteacher at Leigh joined Hilden Oaks as a trustee in June 2018, and since then further opportunities for collaboration have been identified. Hilden Oaks, headteacher has also now joined the governing body of Leigh.

Resources

To date, the partnership has primarily been around the sharing of expertise - through teaching staff attending shared training events and by both headteachers serving on the respective governing bodies. Further opportunities for collaboration in sporting events are being explored which may also include the use of shared facilities.

Impact

No quantitative assessment of the benefits have yet been carried out.

Pupil Involvement

Both schools are co-educational primary schools, covering pupils aged 4-11 (Hilden Oaks also has an on-site nursery). 

Frequency

Ongoing for the foreseeable future.