Business Details
Your Trusted Primary School in Ilkley
Menston Primary School is a warm, friendly, and successful educational institution dedicated to nurturing young minds and fostering a lifelong love of learning. Our school community prioritises mental health and wellbeing, evidenced by our myHappymind Silver Accreditation, and we integrate outdoor learning into all year groups to enhance engagement and curiosity. With a focus on high academic standards and character development, we empower children to care for their peers, school, and world while achieving exceptional results.Our dedicated team, including specialist staff like the Dog Mentor and Care Club manager, creates a supportive environment where every child thrives. We maintain strong partnerships with families and the local community, ensuring a holistic approach to education that aligns with British values and prepares pupils for future success.
Services
Primary Education
Outdoor Learning
Care Club
Special Educational Needs Support
Parental Involvement Programs
Highlights and features
- We prioritise mental health and wellbeing through our myHappymind Silver Accreditation.
- Our outdoor learning program enhances academic engagement and curiosity.
- Dedicated specialists support unique initiatives like the Dog Mentor programme.
- We maintain strong partnerships with families and the local community.
- High academic standards are paired with character development and British values.
Associations and certifications
- myHappymind Silver Accreditation
What people say
Wonderful start in rich learning environment
Grown in confidence throughout the year
Commitment and hard work of all staff
Daily Mile relaxes after hard work
Woodland area feels like actual forest
Services
Primary Education
We deliver a comprehensive primary education curriculum with a focus on academic excellence and character development. Our approach combines traditional teaching methods with innovative outdoor learning experiences. The school consistently achieves high standards, preparing children for future educational challenges while fostering a sense of community responsibility.
Outdoor Learning
Our outdoor learning program integrates nature-based activities into the curriculum, including the Daily Mile, pond dipping, and den building. This approach enhances environmental awareness and practical learning while supporting physical and emotional development. Children engage with the natural world through structured lessons and free exploration in dedicated outdoor spaces.
Care Club
The Care Club provides quality childcare before and after school hours, featuring creative activities, games, and themed events. Our professional team offers a safe, stimulating environment with breakfast and after-school sessions. Activities include arts and crafts, baking, and outdoor play, tailored to children's interests while supporting working families.
Mental Wellbeing
We prioritise mental health through our myHappymind Silver Accreditation, offering structured wellbeing programs and the Dog Mentor initiative. Our approach includes mindfulness practices, emotional literacy sessions, and animal-assisted therapy with school dog Bonnie. Staff receive specialist training to support children's psychological development and resilience.
Special Educational Needs
Our Special Educational Needs provision offers tailored support through individualised learning plans and specialist staff. We work closely with parents and external agencies to address diverse learning needs. The program includes targeted interventions, accessible facilities, and regular progress monitoring to ensure every child achieves their potential.
People
Mrs Marie Wilson
Headteacher
Mrs Wilson leads Menston Primary School with a focus on nurturing environments and academic excellence. She champions outdoor learning and mental wellbeing initiatives, ensuring children develop both personally and academically. Her leadership fosters strong community partnerships.
Michelle Emsley
Care Club Manager
Michelle manages the award-winning Care Club, designing engaging childcare programs that combine creativity and structured learning. She oversees staff training and ensures high-quality provision for working families, maintaining strong relationships with parents and pupils.
Mrs Belinda Smitheringale
Parental Involvement Worker
Mrs Smitheringale coordinates family engagement initiatives and supports attendance improvement. She builds bridges between home and school, offering guidance on educational matters and facilitating early intervention strategies for families requiring additional support.
Questions
What makes Menston Primary School unique?
Our unique approach combines outdoor learning with mental wellbeing focus, featuring the Dog Mentor programme and myHappymind Silver Accreditation.
How does the school support child wellbeing?
We prioritise mental health through structured programmes, animal therapy with school dog Bonnie, and myHappymind-accredited practices across all year groups.
What childcare options are available?
Care Club offers pre-school (7:30am) and after-school (until 6pm) childcare with creative activities, led by professional staff in dedicated facilities.
How are parents involved in school life?
We encourage parental involvement through regular communication, volunteering opportunities, and the Friends of Menston Primary School association.
What special educational needs provision exists?
Our SENCO coordinates tailored support plans, specialist interventions, and accessible facilities to meet diverse learning needs across all curriculum areas.
