This week I want to highlight something that makes me incredibly proud to lead Upper Batley High School as Headteacher: our ‘amazing’ people.

Every day, our staff work tirelessly to support our learners, families and the wider community. Their commitment goes far beyond academic success; it is rooted in care, compassion and a genuine desire to make a difference. What is particularly inspiring is that this commitment does not stop at the school gates.

During February half-term, Mr Ismail Akram, PE teacher, travelled to The Gambia as part of a family-run charity initiative, Little Hands Building Futures. Thanks to the generosity of our learners, parents/carers and staff, over £1,400 was raised in a short space of time.

Across seven days, more than 750 food parcels were distributed to families in rural communities near the Senegal border, including widows and people with disabilities. The team also supported two orphanages with food for Ramadan, delivered school supplies to a local school, and provided over 300 meals for hospital patients.

Importantly, a donation from our school helped fund a food parcel for a family, providing enough support for at least a month. This is a direct reflection of our community’s generosity.

We are proud to develop not only successful learners, but compassionate young people. Mr Akram’s work is a powerful example of our values in action. Thank you to everyone who contributed, your kindness has made a real difference.

Mr Aman Singh Kang