A primary school in Heckmondwike today (1 November) became the latest school to join an academies trust run by one of the UK’s biggest businesses.

The John Curwen School has joined  Co-op Academies Trust which runs 11 other academies in West Yorkshire, and from now on will be known as Co-op Academy Smithies Moor.

The school, is the latest to join the rapidly growing Trust, following a £3.6m investment by the Co-op group last year.

Steve Stafford, Headteacher, said “Over the past year we have had the pleasure of working alongside the team at Co-op Academies Trust and it has become clear through this work that the John Curwen team and the Trust shared the same philosophy of education and aspirations for children and communities.

“Starting our new journey as Co-op Academy Smithies Moor is an exciting time for us, as we continue to strive to be the best that we can be, in a supportive environment that enables us to excel and deliver a curriculum that raises standards and engages all learners.”

Chris Tomlinson, CEO of the Co-op Academies Trust, said “Our aim is to increase the number of children benefiting from our unique educational offer so that we can play a significant role in helping to drive up standards. We have shown that Co-op values and principles are highly effective in driving positive culture and behaviour and I am confident that Smithies Moor will benefit from our unique approach.”

Changes to uniform and signage will be phased in over the coming months and no parent or carer will be out of pocket by the change of name.