Primary Update

"As we stride into 2024 we must continue to reflect on our work so far - and share the positive advances we are making in our educational journey here at Voyage.

"Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the collaborative efforts and partnerships steering us towards even greater success. Your attendance at our networks and moderation events is greatly appreciated, and makes such a difference in so many ways – sometimes for you, but very often for those around you, who are always taking something new away for themselves or their colleagues. 

"Together we are making a difference. 

"In Early Years, the Trust GLD (Good Level of Development) has increased by 10% in the last year - and this is expected to increase by a further 10% in the year ahead.

"This is testament to the hard work and dedication of our EY staff teams and leaders, and, of course, the endless enthusiasm that our young people bring every day. Collaborating with Early Years education expert Martha Mullen we are focused on refining our practices, with a spotlight on early writing skills and purposeful continuous provision.

"This work aims to lay a robust foundation that profoundly impacts educational outcomes, emphasising the importance of a strong early start for our youngest learners. 

"Central to our educational mission is the development of early reading skills, beginning in Nursery and Reception and extending into Year 1. Following the implementation of the chosen Phonics scheme in the last 12-18 months, the impact of this is now coming through in the sounds secured and the reading fluency gained by pupils.

"A rigorous approach to early reading has been a focus and our Trust average is expected to reach the national data by the end of this year. This development of early reading is so crucial for our learners, allowing them to transfer and apply these skills across the wider curriculum. 

"At the end of Key Stage Two our pupils are formally tested, with the outcomes reported to the DfE, parents, and published on our websites. We continue to strive for consistency across each academy but understand the varying contexts that they serve provides additional challenges for pupils, staff and parents.

"Again, the improvement in the data outcomes is very positive – an increase in the combined (Reading, Writing and Maths) figure being 14%, compared to the year before. This brought the Trust average just above the national figure, a great achievement by the whole Voyage team - every adult in every academy is making a difference!

"Securing writing skills is a challenge for many pupils, especially those who have English as an Additional Language. With this in mind, we continue to collaborate with English expert Chris Whitney to fine-tune the writing sequence of learning. This collaboration is proving to be impactful and full of learning for everyone involved. The feedback we have received indicates that our concerted efforts are beginning to make waves, positively influencing the provision we have in place for our pupils. 

"The outcomes that our pupils achieve are important for their future life chances but, equally as important, is the care that we provide and the diverse range of opportunities we offer to facilitate their wider personal growth.

"Our young people need this from us.

"The strength of compassion and the quality of the support that is provided every day is exceptional.

"Thank you all for your continued dedication. Take a moment to reflect on the profound impact you are collectively making in shaping the futures of our young people."