Recent News and Events

The school has high expectations of pupils’ achievement [and] provides an ambitious curriculum (Ofsted 2025)

Pupils quickly develop a strong feeling of belonging to this school. They are united by their understanding of ‘The William Howard Way’ (Ofsted 2025)

The school provides a comprehensive programme of personal development that prepares pupils well for life in modern society (Ofsted 2025)

Every effort is made to ensure that these pupils [with special educational needs] experience all that the school has to offer (Ofsted 2025)

The calm and purposeful learning environment, together with the plethora of extra-curricular opportunities, has helped to achieve a school that pupils want to attend (Ofsted 2025)

Showing Racism the Red Card

Today marked the 11th anniversary of Wear Red Day, and our usual navy livery turned bright red as students and staff proudly Showed Racism the Red Card. As part of Black History Month, assemblies this week have shared inspiring stories of anti-racism— reminding us all of the importance of unity and respect. Our Sixth Form…

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Wowed by Owls

Beautiful owls captivated students during the second of our Animal Encounters sessions after school on Thursday. Gary from The Cumberland Birds of Prey Centre introduced three remarkable birds: Ester, an African spotted eagle owl; Alan, a barn owl; and Gizmo, a morepork owl (also known as the boobook owl). Students not only had the thrilling…

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Bookbuzz Brings Reading Excitement to WHS

WHS is delighted to be one of over 1,200 secondary schools taking part in Bookbuzz, a nationwide reading programme that helps create excitement about books and supports a whole-school reading culture. Supported by BookTrust, the UK’s biggest reading charity, Bookbuzz gives every new student the chance to choose a book to keep, chosen from 16…

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Sixth Form Students Inspired by Local Artist

Last week, our A Level Art students took part in a wonderful workshop led by Mark Bradley, a local watercolour artist who exhibits widely across Cumbria. In a tranquil and inspiring session, students had the opportunity to develop their skills and creativity, benefiting greatly from Mark’s expert guidance and tuition.

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Inclusive Sports Clubs Off to a Great Start!

It’s been fantastic to see so many students taking part in the extra-curricular inclusive sports clubs since the start of term. These sessions offer students a great opportunity to be active, have fun, and make new friends. The afterschool club on Mondays continues to be popular, with students from across the year groups coming together…

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Year 7 Magic House Morning

Year 7 House membership was revealed in true Hogwarts-style today with an anticipation-filled sorting hat ceremony, where students discovered their new teams: Eden, Talkin, Gelt, or Vindolanda. The morning was filled with fun challenges—from quizzes and biscuit decorating to dancing and an inflatable assault course—all aimed at earning House Points. The event ended on a…

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