Excellence for All

“The headteacher, supported by governors, leaders and staff, has developed an exceptional learning culture within the school“
Ofsted
Ofsted2019
“For me, the best thing about Upper Wharfedale School is PE. The PE hall is really good and the fact that we have a swimming pool is really good. The facilities are amazing!”
Elliot AshleyStudent 2018
"‘Upper Wharfedale School goes above and beyond to make sure that each and every child feels well cared for and important. What they achieve in progress, not only academically, but also in confidence and as a person, is something that cannot be measured by exam results alone"
Parent2019
“Coming to Upper Wharfedale School was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I have learnt so much academically, about diversity and grown as an individual with opportunities I would never have had elsewhere”
Alice MolloyHead Student 2018
“Leaders are uncompromising in their ambition for pupils”
Ofsted
Ofsted2019
"We would like to show our appreciation for the way Upper Wharfedale School has shown "outside of the box" thinking and have delivered "reasonable adjustments" to an incredible level."
Parent2018

Our key achievements…

English Grade 4 and above (2026) (71% nationally)
1 %
Maths Grade 4 and above (2026) (72% nationally)
0 %
English Grade 5 and above (2026) (60% nationally)
1 %
Maths Grade 5 and above (2026) (52% nationally)
0 %
5 Grade 4 and above including English & Maths (2026) (61% nationally)
0 %
All grades 4 and above (2026) (67% nationally)
1 %
Progress 8 (2024)
+ 0

Remains as Outstanding by Ofsted, 2024

Successful Lifelong Learners

Who enjoy learning, make good progress and achieve their full potential, regardless of ability, gender, social/economic background or ethnicity.

Confident Individuals

Who are able to live safe, healthy and fulfilling lives, with confidence in their own abilities and how to use and apply them.

Active and Responsible Citizens

Who make a positive contribution to society. We value and respect all members of the school community and we demonstrate that every child really does matter by teaching them well and expecting the very best from them.

“Upper Wharfedale School is great because every student can build a personal relationship with all staff. This allows better learning and a stronger bond between all people in school”
Rory Gambles-KingStudent 2018
“The special needs provision is very good. I always feel I can speak to staff about any concerns I might have. Staff are actively looking for ways to ensure that my child is continually moving forward”
Parent2019
“Leaders have designed a vibrant and rich curriculum which meets the needs of pupils extremely well”
Ofsted
Ofsted2019
“Our child is very happy and confident and we are happy with the school"
Parent2018
"Pupils’ outcomes are truly outstanding in the widest sense"
Ofsted
Ofsted2019
“Teachers use their excellent subject knowledge to plan learning that will challenge pupils, capture their interests and meet their differing learning needs“
Ofsted
Ofsted2019

Latest News

Leadership Team

Mr I Chapman
Headteacher
Subjects: Design & Technology

I am proud to lead Upper Wharfedale School, where Excellence for All is at the heart of our work. We are committed to developing successful lifelong learners, confident and resilient individuals, and active and responsible citizens. Through high expectations, strong relationships and excellent teaching, we aim to ensure every student is supported to thrive and achieve their full potential.

Mr B Richardson
Deputy Headteacher (Pastoral)
Subjects: Physical Education

As Deputy Headteacher (Pastoral), I lead on safeguarding, behaviour, attendance and student wellbeing. My aim is to ensure that every student feels safe, supported and valued, while developing the confidence, communication skills and resilience needed to succeed both in school and beyond. I am passionate about helping young people build positive friendships, enjoy their time at school and achieve their full potential. My background is in Physical Education, a subject for which I continue to have a real passion. The values that sport promotes, including teamwork, determination, leadership and respect, have shaped my approach to education and remain at the heart of my work with students every day.

Mr J Ashley
Deputy Headteacher (Curriculum)
Subjects: Maths and Business

I am proud to be part of a school where young people feel known, valued and supported. As Deputy Head with responsibility for Curriculum and SEND I enjoy the challenge of working with all staff to ensure every student achieves their full academic potential while also developing the confidence, resilience and character to succeed beyond the classroom. 

Mr H Barton
Assistant Headteacher
Subjects: Science

I have worked at Upper Wharfedale School since 2013. The positive changes I have seen the school go through result in an enjoyable community to work in that turn our students into confident, able young adults ready for the next step in their education.

Mr J Mitton
Assistant Headteacher
Subjects: History

I’m a Director of Learning for Human Studies which incorporates English, MFL, RE and History. I have worked at UWS since 2008 and I’m passionate about supporting our young people to be the best they can be.

Ms V Cooke
Assistant Headteacher
Subjects: French, Health & Social Care

I love languages and believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn one – it’s good for your brain and it also opens up a world of opportunities. I have taught four languages to all ages from reception to retired adults and am very proud to be working at UWS in such a lovely setting with such great students.

Open Evening

An opportunity to visit 

Upper Wharfedale School

A chance to meet the staff, students, tour our school and get a feel for what we have to offer.

At 6.00pm & 7.00pm there will be a Headteacher presentation.

From 5.45pm to 8.00pm
Monday 18th September 2023

For more information please contact our school office.

Would you like to join us?

If you would like to enquire about a place at Upper Wharfedale School, please contact us below to arrange a visit.

Admissions are dealt with by the North Yorkshire County Council Admissions Team and more information can be found on their website.

North Yorkshire Admissions

Your can also find out more about our admissions by reading our admissions page.

Admissions

“Leaders show extraordinary care for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND)”
Ofsted
Ofsted2019
“We are very thankful we have this school on our doorstep.”
Parent2018
“All the teachers are so supportive and everybody is really nice. There is a wide range of subjects that are enjoyable, and the school trips are really exciting!”
Sophie HallewellStudent 2018
“Upper Wharfedale School has a respectable learning environment, in which I feel safe and enjoy the many activities they provide. The teachers try their hardest to ensure the best work from students, and give us the tools to have a good life”
Freddie Marsden Student 2018
“I really like Upper Wharfedale School because of its really nice atmosphere, it makes you feel good and safe”
Oscar GambleStudent 2018

Contact Us

Phone: 01756 752215
Email: admin@uws.n-yorks.sch.uk

Upper Wharfedale School
Wharfeside Avenue
Threshfield
Skipton
North Yorkshire
BD23 5BS

MON-THU 08:30 – 16:30, FRI 08:30 – 16:00

Our Admin Team

A member of the following team will deal with your request.

Mrs S Neill
Office Manager

I have worked in the School since 2016 in various roles and I am currently the Office Manager.

Mrs K Durkin
Admin Assistant

I started working in the school office in 2023. I, along with my children attended UWS and am very much looking forward to progressing my role within the School.

Mrs B Amourdedieu
Admin Assistant

I have joined Upper Wharfedale School in September 2024. After working mainly in finance, I’ve joined the office team and am thoroughly enjoying being part of the school again.

Mrs L Lawn
School Receptionist & Admin Assistant

I have worked at Upper Wharfedale School since 2012 and have a varied role that includes reception duties, administrative support and attendance management. I enjoy the diversity of my work and the opportunity to support students, parents, staff and visitors on a daily basis. Providing a warm and welcoming environment is important to me, and I strive to ensure that everyone’s experience of Upper Wharfedale School is a positive one.