Portfields Primary School joins Inspiring Futures through Learning, launching an exciting new chapter of collaboration and opportunity

Portfields Primary School has officially become part of Inspiring Futures through Learning (IFtL) this September, marking the beginning of an exciting new era for the Newport Pagnell school community.

Following a thorough period of due diligence and approval from the Department for Education, Portfields has converted to academy status and joined IFtL’s growing family of schools. The move brings together two respected education providers with a shared commitment to educational excellence, inclusion and ensuring every child has the opportunity to flourish.

More than a change in status, this partnership represents the coming together of two communities rich in expertise, ambition and a passion for helping young people succeed. Portfields will benefit from access to the wider networks, opportunities and support available across the IFtL community of schools, equally IFtL will also benefit from the wealth of experience, knowledge and proven practice that Portfields colleagues bring to the family.

With a strong reputation in the local community and a long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality education, Portfields has built a culture where children are encouraged to be confident learners, responsible citizens and active members of their community. These strengths will play an important role in shaping and enriching the wider IFtL family of schools.

Rebecca Hook, Chair of Governors at Portfields Primary School, said: “Joining IFtL marks an exciting new chapter for Portfields. Throughout this process, governors have been focused on securing the very best opportunities for our pupils, staff and wider community. We are delighted to be joining an organisation that shares our values and aspirations, while recognising and celebrating everything that makes Portfields special.”

Portfields will retain its distinctive identity, values and central role within the Newport Pagnell community, while gaining access to wider opportunities for staff development, curriculum collaboration and school improvement.

Sarah Folkard, Headteacher at Portfields Primary School, said: “This is a significant milestone for our school and a moment we are genuinely excited about. Portfields has a fantastic team of staff whose dedication, expertise and commitment to children have helped create a thriving school community.

Joining IFtL opens the door to even greater collaboration and professional learning opportunities. Importantly, it is a partnership where knowledge and expertise flow both ways.”

Since its formation, IFtL has developed a strong track record of supporting school improvement, developing leadership capacity and creating sustainable systems that help schools thrive. Their collaborative approach has enabled schools to strengthen outcomes while preserving their unique character and place within their local communities.

Sarah Bennett, Chief Executive Officer of Inspiring Futures through Learning, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Portfields Primary School to the IFtL family. From the very beginning of our discussions, it was clear that Portfields is a school with enormous strengths, talented colleagues and a deep commitment to serving its community.

This is not simply about what IFtL can share with Portfields. It is also about what Portfields can offer. The experience, expertise and passion of the staff will enrich our wider family of schools, creating new opportunities for collaboration and learning that will benefit children across IFtL.”

As Portfields begins this exciting new journey within IFtL, pupils, families and staff can look forward to the benefits of being part of a thriving and ambitious family of schools, where expertise is shared, opportunities are expanded and every child is supported to achieve their full potential.

About Inspiring Futures through Learning (IFtL)
Inspiring Futures through Learning is a multi-academy trust serving schools across Milton Keynes and Corby. The Trust is committed to inspiring futures through learning together, creating a family of schools united by shared values, collaboration and a relentless focus on achieving the very best outcomes for children and young people. www.iftl.co.uk