A special visit to celebrate reading and inclusion
We were delighted to welcome The Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP back to Wensleydale School on 6 February to celebrate two areas that are central to who we are: a love of reading and our commitment to inclusive education.
Mr Sunak joined us to officially reopen our refurbished, student-led library - a space that sits at the heart of school life. Our Head Girl, Magda Pleskacz, and Deputy Head Boy, Charlie Wilkinson, proudly welcomed him before escorting him to the library for the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The visit provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase the energy and enthusiasm our students bring to their learning. During a discussion with Key Stage 3 students and members of our English team, conversation turned to favourite books, the importance of reading, and how our dedicated ‘Reading Weeks’ are helping to foster a culture where literacy is valued and celebrated. It was a proud moment to see our students speak so confidently and thoughtfully.
We’re growing in strength and reputation
During the visit, Mr Sunak and our Headteacher Julia Polley discussed Wensleydale’s journey over the past decade. He praised how hard she and her team have worked and what has been achieved, remarking on how the school’s reputation has grown and that it is now oversubscribed. He remarked, “It is commendable that the school is focussing on fundamentals, like reading, but also developing expertise in special education, with the TMP unit helping to bridge the gap to mainstream schooling.”
Conversations also touched on the unique realities of rural education and the importance of ensuring that schools like ours can continue to thrive and offer exceptional opportunities to our young people.
Supporting every student to fulfil their potential
A key part of the visit focused on our Targeted Mainstream Provision (TMP), a specialist setting within our school that supports students with high-level communication and interaction needs.
The TMP is designed as a bridge between specialist and mainstream education, enabling students to access the full life of the school while receiving the tailored support they need to flourish. During the visit, Mr Sunak met Assistant Headteacher and TMP Lead Richard Lundie, members of the TMP team, and some of the students who benefit from this provision. He also met Roscoe, our much-loved spaniel therapy dog, who plays an important role in supporting students’ wellbeing.
A boost for staff and students
Reflecting on the visit, Julia said, “Welcoming Mr Sunak back to our school was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the inclusive, vibrant culture we have built here. I was especially delighted by our students’ surprise and excitement as they spoke to him; they are, as always, our best ambassadors. Reopening our student-led library was a real highlight, alongside the opportunity for a candid conversation about the realities of rural education. This recognition is a real boost for both staff and students.”
We are incredibly proud of our students and staff, who demonstrate every day what makes Wensleydale School such a special place to learn and grow.
