A WIDNES school has become the latest to join a Warrington-based group of schools

The Warrington Primary Academy Trust (WPAT), dedicated to progressing children's learning, has upheld its national reputation by expanding, with Ditton Primary School joining.

WPAT is a community, formed in 2016, of more than 1,900 children aged two to 11 in six primary schools and a teaching school.

The move from Ditton Primary School in Widnes was finalised last week and sees WPAT expand to six primary schools.

Dr Denise Lee, chair of governors at Ditton Primary School, said: "The Board of Governors are really excited to join WPAT.

"The aim is to provide and support the children to reach their full potential and we look forward to working closely and collaboratively with the trust to achieve the best educational environment possible."

Ditton Primary was inspected by Ofsted in autumn 2018 when inspectors said the school required 'significant improvement'.

WPAT was identified by the Regional Schools Commissioner – responsible for improving underperforming schools by matching them with support from a strong sponsor - as best placed to help raise standards at Ditton Primary.

Louise Smith, WPAT chief executive, added: "I’ve already met staff, parents and governors and they are really positive about becoming part of the WPAT family.

"They see it as a fresh start and a way to move forward.

"They are really positive and upbeat about this new chapter and they are very keen to work with us - as we are with them. We are all stronger together."

As part of the WPAT family, staff at Ditton Primary School will receive additional training and support from WPAT colleagues in a range of areas including the quality of teaching.

Teachers will also be helped to adopt new, efficient ways of evaluating the children’s learning.

Louise added: "We’ll be working really closely with the team of Ditton to raise standards in the areas that have been identified as needing development, as well as building on the strengths of staff.

"Everything we do will be focused on the outcomes for children."