Read all about the latest news and activities happening, and reasons to celebrate our school in the below Headteacher's blog.

• Wellbeing at Upper Batley High School

  Tue 05 May 2026

  At Upper Batley High School, supporting our learners’ mental health and wellbeing is part of everyday life. We know that when young people feel safe, understood and supported, they are far more able to succeed, and this belief underpins everything we do.

   

  Our dedicated staff work hard to ensure every learner feels valued and listened to. We recognise that each individual is different, so we provide the care, guidance and encouragement needed to help them thrive both academically and personally. Our facilities play an important role in this, allowing us to offer a broad, engaging curriculum that supports emotional as well as academic development.

   

  Opportunities such as our Forest School, Barnyard, horticulture area, Zen Den and on-site gym are embedded into school life. These experiences help learners to build resilience, develop confidence and find a sense of calm, while also encouraging teamwork, responsibility and perseverance.

   

  We also understand that school life can sometimes feel challenging, particularly during exams and assessments. That is why we regularly support learners in developing practical strategies to manage stress and look after their mental health, while ensuring they always know where to turn for help.

   

  This is strengthened by our strong support network. Our designated Safeguarding Leads, Pastoral team, SEND provision, school Counsellor and ELSA (Emotional Literacy Support Assistant) work closely together to provide consistent, trusted support so that every learner feels secure and able to engage positively with their learning.

   

  At Upper Batley, wellbeing is woven through our curriculum and daily interactions. Whether learners are developing descriptive writing in English, solving problems in Maths, learning outdoors, or caring for animals, they are continually developing the resilience, confidence and empathy needed for life beyond school.

   

  We are proud that our work in this area is recognised as best practice, including our Gold status from the Carnegie Centre of Excellence for Mental Health in Schools. Most importantly, we remain committed to ensuring that every learner feels supported, valued and ready to succeed each day.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

   

  

• Sense of Community and Belonging

  Mon 27 Apr 2026

  At Upper Batley High School, we are continually impressed by the determination shown by our Year 11 learners as they prepare for their GCSE examinations. Alongside a wide range of revision sessions before and after school, learners are also benefiting from an initiative led by their peers.

   

  Our Year 11 Learner Leadership group has taken a proactive role in establishing and running a dedicated revision room during break and lunch times. This learner-led space provides a calm, purposeful environment where learners can focus, collaborate, and support one another.

   

  This initiative highlights the group’s strong sense of responsibility. They have shown real initiative in identifying the need for additional revision support, alongside effective leadership in guiding their peers. Their organisational skills have ensured the room runs smoothly each day, creating a consistent and supportive atmosphere for all who attend.

   

  Importantly, this work reflects the strong sense of belonging our learners feel within the school community. Their willingness to give back, support others, and take ownership of such an initiative speaks volumes about their connection to the school and to one another. It is this shared sense of pride and belonging that has driven them to create something so positive and impactful.

  What stands out most is the sense of community they have built where learners encourage each other, share ideas, and grow in confidence together.

   

  I am incredibly proud of the example these learners are setting. They truly reflect the values of our school.

   

  Please find next week’s newsletter for your approval.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

  

• A Culture of Respect, High Expectations and Achievement

  Mon 20 Apr 2026

  At Upper Batley, everything we do is rooted in a clear and unwavering culture: work hard, achieve highly, and be recognised for success. From the very first day of term, we set the highest expectations for all our learners. We believe that every child can succeed, and we are committed to providing the structure, support and encouragement needed to make that a reality. Central to this is our culture of respect. We explicitly teach and promote:

   

  • Respect for Self
  • Respect for the Environment
  • Respect for the Community

   

  These values are not just words; they underpin every aspect of school life. They shape how we learn, how we behave, and how we treat one another. We expect our learners to demonstrate respect at all times, and in doing so, they contribute to a calm, purposeful and ambitious environment where everyone can thrive.

   

  We are incredibly proud of our dedicated staff team, who work tirelessly to uphold these standards and model these values each day. Their commitment ensures that our school remains a place where hard work is the norm, achievement is celebrated, and every individual feels valued.

   

  As we move further into the term, your support remains vital. By reinforcing these expectations at home- encouraging resilience, positive habits and a strong commitment to learning you help us to maintain the high standards that enable every child to succeed.

  Thank you, as always, for your continued support and partnership.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

  

• High Attendance Makes a Huge Difference

  Mon 13 Apr 2026

  Welcome back everyone. I hope you have had a lovely Easter break.
  
  High attendance at school is one of the most important factors in a young person’s success. It is not simply about being present or following rules; it is about ensuring learners have consistent access to high-quality teaching, structured routines, and the supportive relationships that enable them to thrive both academically and personally.

   

  When learners attend school every day, they build knowledge step by step. Lessons are carefully sequenced, particularly at GCSE level, so that new learning builds directly on what has come before. If a learner misses even a single day, they risk missing key concepts that underpin future lessons. Over time, these gaps in knowledge can grow, making it harder to keep up, reducing confidence, and increasing the likelihood of disengagement. Quite simply, learning is cumulative, and absence interrupts that process.

   

  The impact of attendance on GCSE outcomes is significant and well established. Learners with strong attendance are far more likely to achieve higher grades, as they benefit from continuous teaching, guided practice, and timely feedback. In contrast, those with lower attendance often struggle to reach their full potential because they have missed essential parts of the curriculum. These differences in attainment do not just affect exam results; they shape future pathways into sixth form, apprenticeships, university, and employment.

   

  Attendance also has a long-term impact beyond school. Strong GCSE results open doors to further education and skilled career opportunities, which in turn are linked to higher lifetime earnings. Conversely, persistent absence can limit these opportunities, leading to fewer qualifications and reduced earning potential over time. In this way, every day in school is an investment in a young person’s future.

   

  We are proud to celebrate learners who demonstrate commitment to their education. This term, those who achieve 98% attendance or above, alongside excellent behaviour, will be invited to attend our end-of-term celebration events. These rewards recognise sustained effort, positive choices, and a strong dedication to learning, and we hope as many learners as possible will earn the opportunity to take part.

   

  Excellent attendance is a shared responsibility between home and school. By working together to prioritise being in school every day, we can ensure that every learner has the best possible chance to succeed both in their GCSEs and in the opportunities that follow.
  
  Aman Singh Kang

  

• A ‘can do’ Mindset

  Fri 27 Mar 2026

  At UBHS, we value hard work and resilience as the foundations of success. In school and in life, challenges are inevitable. Sometimes we navigate them with ease; other times they test us deeply. What matters is that we keep moving forward because through perseverance, we grow and ultimately succeed.

   

  I am delighted to share a powerful example of this in action from one of our own, Mr Wayne Linney. Over nine months, he committed to training six days a week in preparation for the CrossFit Open 2026. Along the way, he overcame mental barriers, particularly around age and fitness, by adopting a determined, “can-do” attitude.

   

  Mr Linney credits his work with learners at UBHS as a key influence in strengthening this mindset. Every day, our learners show resilience as they face their own challenges, reminding us all of the importance of perseverance and belief.

   

  His journey demonstrates that resilience is not just about facing difficulty, but learning from it and continuing forward with purpose.

   

  We are incredibly proud of Mr Linney’s achievement. He truly embodies the values we promote at UBHS. Well done, Mr Linney - you are an inspiration to us all.

   

  Monday 13 April - I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that the first day back after Easter is a 9.30am start for ALL learners. Have a lovely Easter break.

   

  Mr Aman Singh Kang

  

• Mastering Revision Techniques

  Mon 23 Mar 2026

  Preparing for GCSE examinations requires dedication, resilience and, above all, a strong commitment to consistent hard work. Developing effective revision habits is not something that happens overnight; it is a skill that needs to be learned, practiced and refined over time. At UBHS, we are committed to ensuring that every learner is equipped with the tools and strategies they need to revise effectively and achieve their very best.

   

  Over the last week, our Year 11 learners took part in a ‘How to Revise’ session designed to support them as they prepare for the important months ahead. During this session, expert teachers shared a range of practical revision techniques, helping learners to understand how knowledge can be retained in long-term memory. Learners were introduced to a variety of strategies so that they can find approaches that best suit their individual learning needs and styles.

   

  The session also explored useful revision resources and explained how these can be used effectively. By modelling these techniques, staff were able to address common misconceptions about revision and demonstrate how structured, purposeful practice can deepen understanding. These strategies are designed not only to consolidate learning but also to provide additional stretch and challenge, helping learners make strong progress as they approach their examinations.

  Of course, successful preparation relies on sustained effort. Revision is most effective when it is approached with commitment, organisation and a willingness to practice regularly. We continue to encourage all Year 11 learners to take responsibility for their revision, building positive routines that support their learning both in school and at home.

   

  To further support this, a programme of after-school revision sessions is running in the lead-up to the GCSE examinations. These sessions complement the learning that takes place in lessons, providing additional opportunities for learners to revisit key knowledge, practice examination techniques and seek guidance from their teachers. Attending these sessions will help learners strengthen their understanding and build the confidence needed for the summer examinations.

   

  We recognise that Year 11 can be a demanding time for both learners and families. Please be assured that we are here to support every learner throughout this important period. With consistent hard work, effective revision strategies and the continued support of our staff, we are confident that our learners will place themselves in the strongest possible position to succeed in their GCSE examinations.

   

  Mr Aman Singh Kang

   

  

• The Importance of Reading

  Mon 16 Mar 2026

  At Upper Batley High School, we believe that reading is one of the most powerful tools a young person can have. It underpins success across all areas of learning and helps our learners develop the knowledge, confidence and curiosity they need to succeed both in school and beyond.

   

  Strong reading skills allow young people to access the full curriculum, develop their vocabulary and deepen their understanding of the world around them. Reading regularly not only supports academic progress, but also encourages imagination, critical thinking and empathy. For this reason, we place a strong emphasis on reading across our school and work hard to create a culture where reading is valued and enjoyed by all.

   

  Last week, we used World Book Day to further reinforce the importance of reading across the school. Learners took part in a range of activities designed to celebrate books, encourage discussion about reading and highlight the enjoyment that reading can bring. It was fantastic to see so many young people engaging with texts and sharing their enthusiasm for stories and authors.

   

  Parents and carers play a hugely important role in developing positive reading habits. Showing an interest in what your child is reading, asking them about books, and encouraging regular time for reading at home can make a significant difference. Simple things such as reading together as a family, discussing articles or stories, or setting aside a few quiet minutes each day for reading help young people to see that reading matters.

   

  Thank you for your continued support in encouraging reading at home. By working together, we can help our learners develop a lifelong love of reading and the skills that will support them throughout their lives.

   

  Mr Aman Singh Kang

   

  

• Developing Confidence and Resilience

  Mon 09 Mar 2026

  At UBHS, we believe confidence and resilience are fundamental life skills. Alongside strong academic outcomes, we are committed to nurturing learners who are self-assured, articulate and able to approach challenges with determination.

   

  These qualities are developed every day through high-quality teaching and learning. In classrooms, learners are encouraged to think deeply, collaborate with others and persevere when learning feels challenging. Our broad and balanced curriculum provides opportunities for success across academic, creative and practical subjects, helping learners to discover their strengths and build self-belief.

   

  Beyond lessons, experiences such as Forest School, activities in the Barn Yard, fun cooking sessions, extra-curricular clubs and educational visits further strengthen independence, communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills. By stepping outside their comfort zones, learners grow in confidence and resilience.

   

  Through this rich range of opportunities, we aim to ensure that every learner leaves UBHS not only well-qualified, but also well-prepared for the next stage of their education and future career.

   

  Mr Aman Singh Kang

   

  

• Making a Difference Beyond Our School Gates

  Mon 02 Mar 2026

  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

  

• Our Brilliant Extracurricular Curriculum

  Mon 23 Feb 2026

  At Upper Batley High School, we strongly believe that a truly well-rounded education extends far beyond the classroom. Our extracurricular curriculum plays a vital role in nurturing creativity, building resilience and supporting our learners to fulfil their full potential. We are proud to offer a wide and varied programme of activities designed to meet the interests, talents and needs of all our young people.

   

  Sport - Building Teamwork and Resilience
  From football and basketball to table tennis, our sports programme provides learners with opportunities to develop their skills, improve physical fitness and enjoy the excitement of friendly competition. Beyond the physical benefits, participation in sport helps young people develop essential life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, self-discipline and leadership.

   

  Creative Arts - Unleashing Talent
  Our creative clubs offer learners the chance to explore and express their talents across a broad range of activities, including art, music, cookery and design. These sessions encourage creativity, collaboration and confidence, while providing a safe and supportive space for learners to celebrate their individuality. For many young people, these clubs ignite a lifelong passion for creativity and self-expression.

   

  Forest School - Building Confidence and Leadership
  Our Forest School curriculum provides rich outdoor learning experiences that support learners to grow both as individuals and as members of a team. Through practical, hands-on activities, young people develop confidence, resilience and self-esteem - qualities that are essential for success in school and beyond.

   

  We are incredibly proud of the wide range of opportunities available to learners in school, and we actively encourage all young people to engage with our extracurricular offer. Whether discovering a hidden talent, developing new skills or simply enjoying a hobby, these experiences enrich learners’ school lives and make a powerful contribution to their personal development.

   

  Aman Singh Kang