Kirkburton Middle School (KMS)

`Kirkburton is a good school. Several aspects of the school’s work are outstanding and these contribute significantly to pupils receiving a good education and achieving well.’

(Ofsted : December 2009)

     Welcome to Kirkburton Middle School, my name is Gary Johnson and I am privileged to be headteacher of this successful and vibrant six-form entry 10-13 Middle School. We are a member of the highly popular and very successful three-tier Shelley Pyramid (or family) of schools within Kirklees.

     Most pupils come to us from First Schools in the surrounding villages of Emley, Farnley Tyas, Highburton, Shelley, Shepley, Thurstonland and Kirkburton itself. We also have an increasing number of pupils applying to join us from neighbouring catchment areas. The vast majority of our pupils transfer to Shelley College at the end of Year 8. Close links exist at all levels between schools throughout the pyramid, ensuring continuity, progression and efficient transfer between phases.

     The three years between the ages of ten and thirteen are characterised by rapid physical, social and emotional change and are of great significance in the academic and social development of young people. KMS provides a welcoming and secure environment in which pupils enter as young children and leave as confident young adults, each developing at the rate that is right for them. We specialise in nurturing and guiding young children through this time in their lives – emotionally, socailly and academically.

     We believe strongly in the importance of the principle of inclusion, the development of the whole child and meeting the needs of the individual. To this end we provide a broad and balanced curriculum together with an extensive range of enrichment and extra-curricular activities.

     We believe that development best takes place in a calm and orderly atmosphere where young people are encouraged to behave in an appropriate manner and where self-discipline is important and valued. Pupils are encouraged to care for and think of others, with members of staff leading by example.

     Attendance is excellent, bullying and vandalism are rare and pupils feel safe and well-cared for as a result of the consistent application of policies and practice designed to protect and safeguard their interests. High standards of work, dress and behaviour are maintained and relationships between all members of the school community are excellent. Partnership between school and parents is a particularly strong feature of the school and is considered to be vital for success.

I hope you find all the information you need in our web-site but if you need further information please do not hesitate in contacting us.