The Upper Wharfedale Primary Federation
Who we are
Small schoolS
Big opportunities
Big heart
The Upper Wharfedale Primary Federation is a vibrant partnership of four small, rural schools: Burnsall CE (VA) Primary School, Cracoe & Rylstone CE (VC) Primary School, Grassington CE (VC) Primary School, and Kettlewell Primary School. Nestled in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales, each school brings its own unique identity and community spirit, yet together, we form a strong, unified federation with one Governing Body and Leadership Team.
Our schools are places where curiosity is nurtured, creativity is celebrated, and character is built. We are proud to offer safe, welcoming environments where children are known, valued, and supported by a dedicated team of professionals who care deeply about their wellbeing and success.
We are forward-thinking and reflective, always seeking new ways to enrich our provision and inspire our learners. Our approach is holistic and inclusive, blending academic ambition with emotional and social development. We believe in lighting the spark of learning through meaningful experiences, high expectations, and a culture of kindness.
At the heart of everything we do is our federation vision: Be the Light. It’s more than a motto - it’s a way of being. It guides us to lead with integrity, learn with passion, and live with purpose.
Our vision
Working together
being a family
Building a future
be the light
Our vision is to help each child flourish into a caring, confident and resilient young person who has a love of learning. We uphold high aspirations for all our children, through our innovative and inspiring approach to teaching.
For nearly a decade, we have proudly grown and thrived as one united organisation — guided by a single Leadership Team and Governing Board, and driven by our shared vision: Be the Light.
This vision inspires our children, staff, and wider school community to shine brightly, lead with kindness, and strive for excellence in all that we do.
Throughout this journey, our federation has gone from strength to strength. We celebrate the success of our Federation Preschool, now welcoming children from the age of two, and we continue to champion the unique character and strengths of each of our four individual schools. Together, they form a federation that offers something truly special: a rich, diverse, and unified educational experience.
Operating as one organisation enables us to deliver the highest standards of 21st-century teaching and learning. Our federation is built on a foundation of nurturing relationships, holistic development, and a strong sense of family. It’s a place where children flourish, feel safe, and are encouraged to grow into confident, compassionate individuals.
We ignite a love of learning in every child, helping them to discover their passions and reach their full potential. Every child is valued, every voice is heard, and everyone plays a vital role in our vibrant school community.
Each of our schools brings its own distinctive character and strengths, and as a federation, we are able to offer a rich and varied educational experience that goes far beyond what any single school could achieve alone. Pupils benefit from collaborative learning across schools, access to specialist teaching, and a wide range of enrichment activities that extend beyond the national curriculum.
This shared approach allows us to broaden horizons, deepen learning, and foster a sense of belonging across our entire federation- all while staying true to our vision to Be the Light.
If you are looking for a school that offers something beyond the norm - a place your child will treasure - then you have arrived.
We are proud of our group of schools, and we hope you can see why.
Mrs Claire Greenwood and Miss Wendy Thompson
Executive Co-Headteachers
The schools within our federation have a long history of providing education in the communities in which they reside.
Each has its own unique identity.
