Chesterfield infant school embarks on new academic year under new name

Gilbert Heathcote Nursery and Infant School took on a new identity on Thursday, September 2, under Cavendish Learning Trust which it joined in 2018.

On Monday, it welcomed pupils back for the new academic year and officially opened its doors for the first time as Whittington Moor Nursery and Infant Academy.

The academy, on Scarsdale Road, hosted an official opening ceremony to celebrate the day, attended by staff, children, and their families.

Speaking to those at the opening event, headteacher Lauren Kay said: “Whittington Moor Nursery and Infant Academy is at the beginning of a new chapter, one which we are very excited to share with you.

"The importance of Early Years can never be underestimated and at Whittington Moor we pride ourselves on striding for excellence in Early Years. We appreciate all your support and we look forward with excitement and enthusiasm to the months ahead.”

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The event was also attended by the Mayor of Chesterfield, councillor Glenys Falconer, and her consort Keith Falconer, who were on hand to cut a ribbon and welcome the pupils back to school in their uniforms emblazoned with the new school name.

Coun Falconer said: “It is a great name, I really like it and I think it will attract more parents bringing their children here. It has been a pleasure to be at the academy this morning.”

Dave Williams, CEO of Cavendish Learning Trust, encouraged parents to work with the school as it moved forward as Whittington Moor Nursery and Infant Academy.

Describing the rebranding as ‘exciting times’, Dave Williams, CEO of Cavendish Learning Trust, added: “This school is one of the leaders in our Trust and one of the leaders in Chesterfield for Early Years provision.

"From my perspective, I feel very proud and priveleged to have this school in our Trust and you should be very proud and priveleged for your children to attend it.

"It is a fabulous school with fabulous staff and I know that this is the start of a new future for the school, particularly in the way that the school is looking at its curriculum.”

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