As part of a monthly series, we're delighted to follow Benjamin Barker's journey to the opening of King's Leadership Academy Wavertree, Liverpool
March 2025
Welcome to the latest update on our journey toward the opening of King’s Leadership Academy Wavertree in September 2025. We’re excited to share our progress and recent events that bring us closer to welcoming our first Year 7 cohort.
Meeting the Mayor
Earlier this month, Mr. Barker attended a seminar on the Liverpool City Region Long-Term Skills Plan, featuring keynote addresses from Mayor Steve Rotheram and Sir Paul Grant. The event provided valuable insights into the region’s success stories and upcoming initiatives, with a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI).
Recognising the Mayor’s focus on AI, Mr. Barker has reached out to his office to discuss the innovative work being done by the Great Schools Trust with CredimusAI. This initiative has the potential to bring AI-driven teaching solutions to educational settings across the region, enhancing learning opportunities for students.
Welcoming King’s Northway Primary Academy
February 5th marked a significant milestone for the Great Schools Trust with the official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at King’s Northway Primary Academy. Principal Mr. Barker and Principal Administrator Mrs. Livingston joined the celebrations, welcoming the newest member of the GST family.
The event was filled with excitement as Northway pupils delivered outstanding choral performances, dance routines, and poetry readings, proudly wearing their new King’s uniforms. Reflecting on the day, Mr. Barker expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It was fantastic to welcome Northway into the Trust and meet Year 6 pupils who may be joining us in September.”
Great Schools Trust Shortlisted for MAT of the Year
In early February, the Great Schools Trust was honored to be shortlisted for the ‘MAT of the Year (Medium)’ award by the Multi Academy Trust Association (MATA).
This recognition highlights the dedication and hard work of our entire school community—students, staff, parents, and partners—who contribute to creating an environment where every student can thrive. Being shortlisted motivates us to continue our mission of shaping successful citizens for the future.
Leadership Adventure Away Day
On February 11th, the Trust Leadership Team and Central Leadership Team embarked on an inspiring adventure away day at the Brathay Centre in the Lake District. This event marked the official launch of the new King’s Adventure programme, led by Ted Roberts.
With the Trust experiencing significant growth, this retreat provided an opportunity for leadership teams to bond and gain firsthand experience of the character-building residentials offered to students. Strengthening connections in this way will enhance our ability to provide enriching educational experiences for all.
Learning from Michaela Community School
Last week, members of our leadership team visited Michaela Community School (MCS) in London, one of the highest-performing secondary schools in terms of pupil progress over the past three years.
Joining the trip were Mrs. Livingston (Principal Administrator), Mr. Barker (Principal), Mr. Hargreaves (Principal, King’s Northway Primary Academy), and Mr. Pye (Vice Principal, King’s Leadership Phoenix Academy). The visit provided valuable insights into MCS’s approach, including its unique Family Dining model and choral poetry traditions—elements we are eager to incorporate at King’s Wavertree in September.
Celebrating Creativity: Mural Competition Winner
We received an incredible array of entries for our February Mural Competition, making it difficult to choose a winner. However, one design stood out:
The winner explained, “Despite different backgrounds, race, and gender, our community unites us all as one.” Using vibrant colors and diverse shapes, the mural beautifully captures this message. Congratulations to the winning artist!
Partnering with Love Wavertree
Since Christmas, we have been working closely with Love Wavertree, a Community Interest Company (CIC) dedicated to improving the local area. Operating out of the Reloved Shop on Wavertree High Street, the organization reinvests its profits into community initiatives and hosts free events.
During the half-term break, Mr. Barker attended their Volunteers’ Update Meeting at Wavertree Library. Reflecting on the collaboration, he shared, “We are excited to support Love Wavertree’s mission. There are upcoming events where our school will play an active role in giving back to our fantastic community.” To stay updated on their initiatives, sign up for their newsletter at Love Wavertree.
We are now in the process of aligning applicants with our admissions criteria and look forward to making some very positive phone calls in the coming weeks.
Building Updates
In late February, site workers focused on clearing vegetation to improve accessibility for pupils and staff. These improvements will ensure safe and easy movement around the school grounds.
Commitment to Safeguarding
At King’s Leadership Academy Wavertree, safeguarding is our highest priority. Our approach is built around the 4 Ps:
Prevention – Acting before harm occurs
Proportionality – Taking the least intrusive response appropriate to the risk presented
Protection – Providing support and representation for those in need
Partnership – Collaborating with external services and the community
We ensure that all students learn in a safe, caring, and supportive environment. Through the curriculum, we equip pupils with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves, build resilience, and recognize when to seek help.
Our team has a legal responsibility to refer any concerns to appropriate agencies when necessary, always prioritizing student welfare. Whenever possible, we engage parents/carers in these conversations, unless doing so would put the child at further risk.
Curriculum & Child Safety
We integrate safeguarding into our curriculum, ensuring students understand how to stay safe online and in their daily lives. Topics such as relationships, sex education, and digital safety are covered through enrichment lessons and personal, social, and health education (PSHE).
We empower students with the confidence and knowledge to navigate risks and seek support when needed. Our commitment is to provide clear guidance on where to turn for help, fostering a culture of safety and awareness across our school community.
King’s Leadership Academy Wavertree is founded on international research and traditional values with a huge focus on leadership and academic development.
At King’s, the vision is “To develop in each of our students the academic skills, intellectual habits, qualities of character and leadership traits necessary to succeed at all levels and become successful citizens in tomorrow’s world”.
King’s Leadership Academy Wavertree are a proud member of the Great Schools Trust family of schools, a values-led Trust that wants their children to believe in themselves and develop the character traits necessary to make a difference in society.
Stay connected by following our progress on social media and attending our upcoming events.
