This Leeds primary school is among the 'very best nationally' for outcomes of disadvantaged pupils
A Leeds primary school has received national recognition for its excellent outcomes for disadvantaged pupils.
Alder Tree Primary Academy, part of White Rose Academies Trust, is celebrating a major national accolade after receiving an official letter of recognition from the Secretary of State for Education, Bridget Phillipson, praising the school’s exceptional outcomes for disadvantaged pupils.
The letter places Alder Tree Primary Academy among the very best schools nationally for its 2024/25 academic year results, recognising the dedication of staff, the hard work of pupils, and the school’s unwavering commitment to ambition, inclusion and excellence. The recognition marks another significant milestone for a school that continues to go from strength to strength.
In her letter, the Secretary of State commended the school’s outcomes for disadvantaged pupils, stating that its performance “places it among the very best nationally”. She highlighted what can be achieved when ambition and commitment come together and thanked staff and pupils for their dedication to giving children the best possible opportunities to succeed.
Principal Kate Burton said: “I am incredibly proud of the recognition received from Bridget Phillipson. This achievement reflects the unwavering determination, love, and care that our staff and pupils show every day. It is a true testament to our community and everything we stand for.”
The letter also encouraged Alder Tree Primary Academy to share its experience and best practice more widely, supporting improvement across the education system. This national recognition builds on a remarkable journey of transformation.
Located in Potternewton, the school was formerly known as Mill Field Primary School and was judged Inadequate in October 2019. Following an Academy Order, the school joined White Rose Academies Trust in December 2020. It was later renamed Alder Tree Primary Academy.
In November 2023, Ofsted validated the success of these changes, awarding the school a Good rating. This achievement reflected the strength of the school community, the effectiveness of the improvements implemented.