New chapter begins for Ripon primary school as it joins Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust

Sharow Church of England Primary School and Nursery in Ripon has joined Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust, marking a new chapter for the school while retaining its strong links with the local community.

The school officially became part of the Trust on November 1.

Leaders say the move will allow the school to build on its existing strengths while benefiting from working alongside other schools within the Trust.

Sharow is a village school with a strong sense of community and a vision centred around “To Flourish Together”.

The school’s approach focuses on recognising each child as an individual and providing opportunities for pupils to grow in confidence, curiosity and creativity.

Jacqui Palmer, Headteacher at Sharow Church of England Primary School and Nursery, said: “This is an exciting next chapter for Sharow.

“Our vision to ‘Flourish Together’, our Christian character, and our relationships with children, families, and the community remain at the heart of who we are.

“Joining Yorkshire Causeway gives us the opportunity to build on those foundations, work collaboratively with colleagues across other schools and access wider expertise and professional learning.

“We are looking forward to what we can achieve together while retaining the character and community focus that make Sharow special.”

Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust said the partnership would support the school while allowing it to maintain its own identity and traditions.

Jane Goodwin, Chief Executive of Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust, said: “Sharow brings its own identity, relationships and strengths to our Trust.

“We want to build on those strengths, not replace them.

“By working collaboratively, sharing expertise, and learning together, we can strengthen the school’s capacity while ensuring it remains firmly rooted in the community it serves.”

The school is known for its wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom, including outdoor learning, sport, music and performance.

Its grounds include a playing field, all-weather track, Peace Garden, playgrounds and a dedicated Forest School area.

Pupils also take part in residential and outdoor experiences designed to develop independence, teamwork and resilience.

As part of Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust, Sharow will have access to shared expertise and professional networks covering areas including school improvement, special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), safeguarding, governance, finance, HR and digital technology.

Justin Waters, Chief Operating Officer at Yorkshire Causeway Schools Trust, said: “Joining a Trust should strengthen a school’s capacity without taking away what makes it distinctive.

“At Sharow, we work alongside school leaders and colleagues, providing expertise, strong systems and practical support while keeping the focus on education and opportunity for every child.”

Sharow Church of England Primary School and Nursery will now become part of a wider family of schools working together across Yorkshire, while continuing to serve the children and families of Sharow and the surrounding area.