Today marks an exciting new chapter for Wellfield Academy as it officially joins Endeavour Learning Trust and embarks on the design-phase of a new ultra-low carbon ‘GenZero’ school building.

Wellfield has been part of the Endeavour family as a partner school since September 2017, but now is officially part of the Trust after the Department for Education (DfE) approved its formal transfer.

As COP 28 is currently underway, the announcement of the new environmentally conscious, energy-efficient school building granted under the DfE’s School Rebuilding Programme is particularly significant.The so-called GenZero building, named for being both net-zero in construction and operation, will feature a state-of-the-art performance arts centre, a new library and dining hall, and updated IT suites.The innovative design also incorporates specialised areas for design tech and art, along with cutting-edge IT infrastructure featuring interactive screens for the new classrooms.

Wellfield Academy remains committed to community engagement, retaining the existing sports hall for local groups and introducing a multifunctional school hall and drama studio that will act as a community hub, open for broader use outside school hours, including adult learning in the new classrooms.

The enrollment at Wellfield is on the rise, enabling the school to further develop and broaden the array of opportunities for students. Its standing in the community has strengthened, with an additional 100 students per year joining the academy in the past two years. This growth is expected to continue in anticipation of the new build and with the support of the Trust, facilitating increased investment in the opportunities available to students.

David Clayton, the newly appointed CEO of Endeavour Learning Trust, said:

“Wellfield Academy already works closely with the Trust and we're thrilled that the DfE recognises the strength of our partnership, acknowledging its positive impact on our students' experience. This formalised relationship marks a significant achievement as we embark on the design-phase of a brand new school building providing an inclusive, sustainable, and community-focused educational environment.

“Endeavour aims to ensure that every young person experiences a transformative education, going beyond academics to offer a diverse extra-curricular programme to develop their skills, qualities, and talents.”

“We work as one team in school, across our Trust and with our wider partners for the benefit of the communities we serve and we’re delighted to have Wellfield Academy fully onboard. Our collaborative approach inspires us to be bold and brings us together in ways that help us to make a difference to every child.”

Jamie Lewis, Headteacher at Wellfield Academy, said:

“Endeavour Learning Trust shares our strong commitment to fostering a supportive, nurturing and aspirational learning environment. Together, we will continue to strive for excellence and ensure that our students and staff receive ‘nothing but the best’. This includes providing our students with the skills, knowledge, and resilience needed to thrive in an ever-changing world and also providing our staff team with the best resources and support to ensure they are able to successfully fulfil their roles.

“I want to extend my genuine gratitude to everyone who has been a part of Wellfield Academy's story so far. Your dedication and support have been instrumental in shaping our success, and I am excited to witness the positive impact this partnership will continue to have on our students' academic and personal growth. Wellfield is a growing and thriving school which is going from strength to strength. The significant increase in numbers on roll, added to the confirmation of us being a part of the School Rebuilding Programme and what we will achieve with Endeavour provides great excitement to us all for the future at Wellfield”