Open Evening aims to show pastoral care as well as classroom success
Kirkbie Kendal School will open its doors to Year 6 pupils and their families on Tuesday 15 September as part of preparations for the next academic year. The event is designed to showcase the school’s combination of classroom teaching, extra‑curricular opportunities and pastoral support that leaders say help pupils achieve examination success and become well rounded citizens.
Leaders stress that the school places equal value on academic results and the broader development of pupils. The headteacher, Mr Harris, told visitors the school holds high aspirations for all students and that staff work to ensure each child is encouraged to reach their potential through a supportive environment.
"We have high aspirations for all our students, who work hard and are well supported by our fantastic team of staff to reach their full potential,"
He added that the school works to share careers and future pathway information from Year 7 onwards so pupils are prepared for further education or employment. The message is clear: exam success matters, but so does building confidence, character and values.
Extra-curricular activities play a central role
Staff point to a wide range of extra‑curricular activities as central to the Kirkbie Kendal experience. The school celebrates success wherever it occurs — in the classroom, on the sports field or on stage — and encourages pupils to take part in activities beyond formal lessons.
Examples cited by the school include performing in a musical at Brewery Arts, representing the school in football fixtures and taking part in debating competitions — experiences the headteacher says can be transformative for young people.
- Individual support: form tutors, teachers and pastoral staff know pupils well and support them throughout their time at school.
- Broad curriculum and opportunities: emphasis on both academic and non‑academic growth, including trips and clubs.
- Careers and pathways: early and ongoing guidance on future options starting in Year 7.
Natalie Oddie, the school’s Primary Liaison Manager, is co‑ordinating the open evening. Her role is to ensure that visiting families get a clear, practical picture of what life at Kirkbie Kendal is like and how the school will support pupils in the transition to secondary education.
"We are proud of what our leavers achieve once they move on with their journey into the wider community,"
Practical information for families
Prospective parents and pupils are invited to attend to meet teachers, pastoral staff and current students, see lessons and learn about the school’s extra‑curricular and pastoral provision. The school describes itself as a "happy place to learn and work", where care, resilience and curiosity are at the heart of daily life.
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Year 6 Open Evening | Tuesday 15 September |
| Host | Kirkbie Kendal School |
| Audience | Year 6 pupils and their parents/carers |
The open evening is expected to be a key moment for families weighing their secondary options. For many in Kendal and the surrounding area, a school’s pastoral care and extra‑curricular offer can be as decisive as its examination record. Kirkbie Kendal School is emphasising both in its presentation to next year’s intake.
Families wanting more detail on timings or specific arrangements for the evening should contact the school directly. The open evening gives parents the chance to ask about transition support, special educational needs provisions and the range of clubs and trips available — all important considerations when choosing a secondary school for their child.
