A GROUP of schools in York and East Yorkshire is to become part of a new National Teaching School, giving it an important role in raising teaching standards.

Archbishop Holgate’s CE Academy, Hempland Primary, Osbaldwick Primary, St Mary’s CE Primary, Warter CE Primary and Wilberfoss CE Primary Schools will form the Pathfinder Teaching School Alliance in partnership with the Diocese of York.

The schools, all of which are rated as “outstanding”, will now play a leading role in recruiting and training new entrants to the profession, identifying leadership potential and providing support for other schools.

The schools have been selected by the National College for Teaching and Leadership for their new role because of their shared values and commitment to ensuring all children are known and cared for as an individuals.

The Director of Education for the Diocese of York, Dr Ann Lees, said it was proud to work with the schools in an initiative which would have a huge impact on many schools in the region.

Andrew Daly, headteacher at Archbishop Holgate’s, said he looked looked forward to working collaboratively with partner schools to do the very best for young people in its care and across the region.

Deputy head Jonathan Britton said: “Working collaboratively together and with other schools, the Church of England and educational institutions, we intend to establish an educational dialogue, to identify and implement change and to continually improve practice within all schools.”

Hempland head teacher Stuart Outram said he was delighted to be part of the new Teaching School Alliance. “The opportunity to contribute to teacher development and ongoing school improvement is incredibly exciting,” he said.

Warter acting head Alison Metcalfe said she was proud to be taking part in the exciting venture,’while St Mary’s head Ruth Ellis said: “We are looking forward to working collaboratively together to promote and support educational excellence.”