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

• Celebrations of Excellence

  Thu 16 Jul 2026

  As we reach the end of another successful academic year, I would like to thank you for your continued support. The strong partnership between home and school plays a vital role in helping our learners thrive, and we are incredibly grateful for everything you do to support Upper Batley High School.

   

  This week has been a wonderful way to end the year. Through our Celebration of Excellence days, organised by Mr Farooq, we have recognised the hard work, resilience, commitment and positive attitudes of our learners. It has been fantastic to come together as one big family to celebrate the achievements and successes of our young people. Events such as these remind us that everything we do throughout the year comes together to support our shared values of helping every learner to Believe, Achieve and Succeed.

   

  We also enjoyed our annual Sports Days, held across Wednesday and Thursday to ensure everyone could participate safely during the warm weather. Thank you to Mr Bamfield and the PE team for organising two excellent mornings of sporting activities. It was wonderful to see so many learners demonstrating teamwork, resilience and excellent sportsmanship.

   

  A sincere thank you also goes to the parents/carers who supported the Sports Day bake sale. Thanks to your generosity, £352.70 was raised towards the forthcoming Netherlands football residential.

  Thank you to Mr Akram for organising this successful fundraiser.

   

  Looking back over the year, there is so much to be proud of. Our learners have achieved success both inside and outside the classroom, and our school has received a number of awards and accreditations that reflect the dedication of our staff, the support of our families and the commitment of our learners. Together, we have continued to strengthen our school community and create opportunities that enable our young people to flourish.

   

  As the summer holidays begin, I wish all our families a safe, happy and restful break. Please encourage your child to stay safe, enjoy time with family and friends, and return in September refreshed and ready for another successful year.

   

  September Return to School

  We look forward to welcoming learners back on Thursday 3 September.

  • Year 7: Arrive by 8.25am
  • Years 8 to 11: Arrive by 10.00am

   

  Thank you once again for your continued support throughout the year. Have a wonderful summer, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in September.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

   

  

• Next Milestones

  Mon 13 Jul 2026

  The past week has been one of celebration, reflection and new beginnings at Upper Batley High School.

   

  We were delighted to celebrate our Year 11 learners at their Leavers' Celebration held at Lakeside, Ponderosa in Heckmondwike. It was a wonderful occasion that gave us the opportunity to recognise the achievements, resilience and character of a truly special year group as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives.

   

  The event featured heartfelt speeches from Mr Parkin, Assistant Headteacher, and Mrs Dent, Year 11 Leader, who reflected on the many memorable moments and successes our learners have experienced during their time at Upper Batley High School. A range of awards were also presented to learners in recognition of their commitment, achievements and contributions to school life. It was a fitting way to celebrate all that they have accomplished, and we wish every one of them the very best as they move on to further education, apprenticeships or employment. We look forward to welcoming them back on GCSE Results Day and celebrating their successes together.

   

  As one chapter comes to an end, another begins. We were equally pleased to welcome our new Year 7 learners into school for their Transition Day. It was fantastic to see them embracing their first experience of secondary school with such enthusiasm, confidence and curiosity. Throughout the day they met their new teachers, experienced lessons, made new friendships and began to familiarise themselves with their new school environment.

   

  Earlier in the week, we were delighted to welcome parents, carers and families to our Transition Evening. This provided an excellent opportunity to share our expectations, values and vision for the years ahead, whilst ensuring families felt informed and supported as their children prepare to join our school community in September.

   

  Starting secondary school is a significant milestone for both learners and their families. We are excited to work in partnership with our new Year 7 families and look forward to supporting every learner as they grow academically, socially and personally during their time at Upper Batley High School.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

   

  

• A Provision of Excellence

  Mon 06 Jul 2026

  This week has been another wonderful reminder of the talent, dedication and commitment of colleagues across Upper Batley High School and I am delighted to share two pieces of fantastic news with our school community.

   

  Firstly, I would like to congratulate two outstanding members of our SEND team, Gemma Sinclair and Denita Raw, who were nominated by Kirklees Local Authority for the prestigious Jaz High Five Excellence Award. This award recognises individuals who go above and beyond to make a lasting difference to the lives of children, young people and their families.

   

  The awards ceremony took place at Huddersfield University, where the inspirational Dr Jaz Ampaw-Farr personally presented Gemma and Denita with their certificates. It was a fitting celebration of the incredible work they do every single day to ensure that our learners receive the care, encouragement and support they need to thrive both academically and personally.

   

  Anyone who has worked alongside Gemma and Denita knows the genuine passion, compassion and determination they bring to their roles. They consistently place the needs of our young people at the heart of everything they do, building positive relationships with families and ensuring that every learner is given the opportunity to succeed. Their nomination and recognition are thoroughly deserved, and we are immensely proud of both colleagues for representing Upper Batley High School so brilliantly.

   

  I am also delighted to share some excellent news from our Science Department. Our Senior Science Technician, Terri Halliday, has successfully secured £2,500 through the Sea-Changers Main Grant programme. This funding will be used to enhance the equipment available within our Science Department, providing our learners with even greater opportunities to experience practical, engaging and high-quality science lessons.

   

  This is a fantastic achievement and reflects Terri's commitment to continually improving the learning experiences we provide for our learners. By securing this external funding, she has helped ensure that our young people will benefit from improved resources that will support their scientific curiosity, practical skills and understanding for years to come.

   

  These achievements perfectly reflect the values we hold as a school. Whether it is supporting our most vulnerable learners or creating exciting opportunities within the classroom, our colleagues consistently demonstrate exceptional professionalism, care and ambition for every child.

   

  I hope you will join me in congratulating Gemma, Denita and Terri on their outstanding achievements. They are a real credit to our school and wonderful examples of the positive difference that dedicated staff can make every single day.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

  

• Bringing Our Community Together

  Mon 29 Jun 2026

  One of the things that makes Upper Batley High School so special is the strength of our community. This past week has provided a wonderful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared sense of purpose, kindness and belonging.

   

  Last weekend, learners, staff, families and members of our wider community joined colleagues from across our Trust schools to take part in the annual Run for Jo at Oakwell Hall. This year was particularly poignant as it marked the 10th anniversary of the passing of our former local MP, Jo Cox. The event brought together hundreds of people from across the region to celebrate Jo's legacy and the values she championed throughout her life.

   

  Jo's famous words continue to resonate today:

   

  "We are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us."

   

  These words have never felt more relevant. The Run for Jo was not simply about completing a distance; it was about coming together, supporting one another and demonstrating the power of community.

   

  We continued this spirit of togetherness last week with our annual Batley Bake Off, held as part of the nationwide Great Get Together celebrations inspired by Jo's legacy. The event was a tremendous success, bringing together learners, colleagues, families and guests for an afternoon filled with creativity, conversation and, of course, some fantastic baking.

   

  We were honoured to welcome Jo's parents, Gordon and Jean, alongside Jo's sister, MP Kim Leadbeater, who kindly joined the judging panel. Their presence made the occasion even more special and helped reinforce the importance of the values that underpin the Great Get Together.

   

  Whilst there were prizes to be won and some outstanding cakes on display, the true purpose of the event was never really about competition. Instead, it was about creating opportunities for people to connect, share experiences and strengthen the bonds that make our school and local community such a welcoming place. It was wonderful to see so many people enjoying each other's company and celebrating what unites us.

   

  As we move towards the end of another busy academic year, events such as these remind us that schools are about much more than education alone. They are at the heart of their communities, bringing people together, creating lasting memories and helping young people understand the importance of compassion, inclusion and service to others.

   

  Thank you to everyone who participated in the Run for Jo, entered the Batley Bake Off, supported the events or simply took the time to come together with others. By doing so, you have helped keep Jo's legacy alive and demonstrated the very best of what our community stands for.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

  

• Upper Batley Receives Eco-Schools Green Flag Award Again

  Mon 22 Jun 2026

  I am delighted to share some more fantastic news with our school community. Upper Batley High School has once again been awarded the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award, with Distinction (the highest grade possible).

   

  This nationally recognised award celebrates the commitment of schools to environmental education, sustainability and positive action. Achieving Green Flag status is a significant accomplishment in itself, but receiving the Distinction grade reflects the exceptional efforts of our learners and staff in promoting environmental responsibility across the school.

   

  At Upper Batley, we believe it is important that our learners develop an understanding of the challenges facing our world and recognise the role they can play in creating a more sustainable future. Through a range of projects, initiatives and curriculum opportunities, our learners have demonstrated a genuine commitment to making a positive difference both within school and in the wider community.

   

  This work is superbly led by Miss Woods, whose passion, expertise and dedication have been instrumental in driving our environmental agenda forward. Through her leadership, our learners have been provided with a wealth of opportunities to engage with sustainability issues and take meaningful action to improve our school environment and wider community.

   

  This award is recognition of the collective efforts of everyone involved. I would like to thank Miss Woods, our Eco Committee and all colleagues and learners who have worked so hard to support environmental initiatives throughout the year. Their enthusiasm, creativity and determination have been key to achieving this outstanding result.

   

  Receiving the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award with Distinction once again demonstrates our commitment to being responsible, ambitious and environmentally conscious. It is an achievement of which we can all be extremely proud.

   

  Congratulations to everyone involved, and thank you for continuing to make Upper Batley High School a school that cares not only about the success of our learners, but also about the future of our planet.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

  

• Upper Batley High School - Employer of the year 2026

  Mon 15 Jun 2026

  At Upper Batley High School, everything we do is focused on helping, supporting and guiding our learners to achieve their very best. Alongside providing excellent opportunities for young people, we are equally committed to developing our staff team to ensure they have the skills, knowledge and experience needed to deliver the highest quality education and care.

   

  Professional development is a key priority within our school. In addition to our extensive programme of internal training, many colleagues undertake nationally recognised qualifications, including National Professional Qualifications (NPQs), to further enhance their expertise and leadership skills. More recently, a number of colleagues have also been completing apprenticeship programmes, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

   

  I am delighted to share that Upper Batley High School has recently been awarded Small Employer of the Year 2026 through the Apprenticeship Awards at the University of Huddersfield. This is a fantastic achievement and reflects our commitment to investing in our people and creating opportunities for professional growth.

   

  Most importantly, this award is a testament to the incredible hard work, dedication and commitment shown by colleagues across the school every day. Their passion and expertise make a real difference to the lives of our learners, and we are incredibly proud of all they do to support our school community.

   

  Thank you, as always, for your continued support. By working together and continuing to invest in both our learners and staff, we can ensure every young person at Upper Batley High School has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

  

• Building Character for Life

  Mon 08 Jun 2026

  "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." – John Dewey

   

  At Upper Batley High School, we believe that education extends far beyond the classroom. Whilst academic achievement remains an important part of every learner's journey, we are equally committed to helping young people develop the personal qualities, values and character traits that will enable them to thrive throughout their lives.

  The world our learners will enter is constantly evolving. Success in the future will require much more than qualifications alone.

   

  Employers, universities and communities increasingly value qualities such as resilience, kindness, integrity, adaptability and confidence. These attributes help young people navigate challenges, build positive relationships and make meaningful contributions to society.

   

  Character development is embedded into everyday life in school. Through lessons, enrichment opportunities, leadership roles and wider school experiences, learners are encouraged to develop a strong sense of responsibility, empathy and self-belief. We want every young person to understand not only what they can achieve, but also the positive impact they can have on others.

   

  One of the most rewarding aspects of school life is witnessing learners grow in confidence and maturity. Whether they are supporting their peers, representing the school, participating in community projects or stepping outside their comfort zone to try something new, these experiences help shape the individuals they become.

   

  We are proud to provide opportunities that encourage learners to develop important life skills. Through teamwork, problem-solving, communication and leadership experiences, they learn to work effectively with others, overcome obstacles and approach challenges with determination. These are skills that will benefit them long after they leave our school gates.

   

  At Upper Batley High School, we strive to create a culture where kindness is valued, effort is celebrated and every learner feels empowered to succeed. We believe that by developing character alongside academic achievement, we are equipping young people with the tools they need not only to achieve success, but to lead fulfilling and purposeful lives.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

   

  

• A Foundation for Success – Curriculum at Upper Batley High School

  Mon 01 Jun 2026

  “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” - William Butler Yeats

   

  At Upper Batley High School, we are incredibly proud of the rich and bespoke curriculum we provide for our learners. As William Butler Yeats so powerfully expressed, education should ignite curiosity and inspire a passion for learning: a principle that sits at the very heart of everything we do.

   

  Our commitment to excellence extends far beyond academic achievement. We aim to nurture individual talents, develop confidence and equip our young people with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

  Our curriculum is broad, balanced and inclusive, offering a wide range of subjects designed to both challenge and inspire. From traditional academic studies to vocational pathways, every learner is given the opportunity to explore their interests, discover their strengths and fulfil their potential.

   

  Whilst we celebrate the excellent outcomes and strong progress achieved by our learners, our vision for education is a holistic one. We firmly believe that developing the whole child is just as important as academic success. In keeping with Yeats’ idea of “lighting a fire”, our curriculum encourages learners to become curious, resilient and ambitious young people who are eager to grow and succeed.

   

  Through their learning experiences, learners develop essential life skills including resilience, communication, teamwork and problem-solving: qualities that are vital for future learning, employment and personal growth.

   

  Learning at Upper Batley is engaging, dynamic and purposeful. Our classrooms are vibrant spaces where innovation and curiosity thrive, and we are fortunate to make full use of our outstanding facilities to enhance the learning experience. Whether exploring the natural world through Forest School, developing responsibility within our Barnyard and Horticulture areas, expressing creativity in Food Technology, or building confidence and wellbeing in the school gym, every environment offers valuable opportunities for learning and development.

   

  We remain committed to ensuring that every young person benefits from meaningful and memorable experiences that support their academic, social and emotional growth. Thank you, as always, for your continued support as we work together to empower every learner to become the very best version of themselves.

   

  Aman Singh Kang

  

• Using Technology in School

  Mon 18 May 2026

  At UBHS, we recognise the many benefits that developments in technology can bring to both school and home life. In school, we use a range of digital tools including reading devices, specialist software and artificial intelligence applications to support high-quality teaching and learning.

   

  However, we are also mindful that technology can sometimes have a negative impact on young people, particularly when it becomes a distraction to learning or affects wellbeing. For this reason, we continue to work closely with parents and carers to ensure that technology is used positively and responsibly.

   

  We would like to thank all parents and carers for supporting our home-school agreement, particularly in relation to the use of mobile phones in school.

   

  You may have seen recent national discussions regarding mobile phone use in schools, including concerns about distractions to learning and the impact that social media can have on young people’s mental health and wellbeing. We are pleased to say that mobile phones do not present a significant issue at UBHS. This is due to the strong support we receive from parents and carers, alongside the consistent approach taken by staff in following our school policies and procedures. Learners fully understand that they cannot use their mobile phone within the school grounds (inside the green gated areas).  

   

  I would like to take this opportunity to thank all members of our school community for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated and plays an important role in maintaining the positive learning environment we value at UBHS.

  Further information can be found below:

  • DfE
    DfE guidance on mobile phones in schools
     
  • UBHS
    UBHS Home-School Agreement

  

• Together We Make a Huge Difference

  Mon 11 May 2026

  At Upper Batley High School, we place great importance on the views of our parents, carers and learners. We actively listen to your feedback and use it to shape the improvements we make as a school. While we are proud to be a strong, oversubscribed and successful school, we are equally committed to continual development, ensuring that we provide the very best education for every young person in our care.

   

  Our dedicated staff team works tirelessly to deliver high-quality teaching, excellent pastoral support and a wide range of enriching opportunities. We are guided by evidence-informed practice and a clear focus on what has the greatest impact on learning. This commitment enables us not only to maintain our strengths, but to keep improving further.

   

  As Headteacher, I greatly value your perspective as we continue this journey. We would be very grateful if you could take a few minutes to complete a short survey, sharing your experiences and suggesting where we can develop further. We also seek and act on the views of our learners, ensuring that their voices help shape the school they experience every day.

   

  Your feedback is vital. By working together, we can build on what is already a great school and make it even better for the young people in our community. Our learners deserve nothing less than the very best, and we remain fully committed to achieving this each and every day.

   

  Please spend 10 minutes of your time completing this short survey.
  https://edurio.com/teacher/poll/7djSsx

   

  Thank you for your continued support.

  
  Aman Singh Kang