Message from Headteacher:
Message from the Headteacher
Welcome to Dean Gibson RC School.
I am Clare Ritchie, Headteacher, and it is a privilege to lead this wonderful school where I have been part of the community for 25 years, as a pupil here and now as a leader dedicated to nurturing the next generation.
At Dean Gibson, we are guided by the Holy Spirit to Listen, Learn, and Care. These values shape our ethos and underpin everything we do. We are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where every child has the right to learn and thrive.
Our curriculum is broad, balanced, and faith-centred, designed to ignite curiosity, celebrate diversity, and encourage outdoor learning. We are proud to embed the CUSP and Magister Curriculums, ensuring children experience rich and meaningful learning across all subjects, including history and English, where strong leadership and expert teaching are pivotal.
As Headteacher, I am dedicated to maintaining high standards of teaching, behaviour, and personal development, fostering a positive school culture where children feel valued and inspired. I work closely with staff, governors, and families to continuously improve our school, ensuring every child is prepared for their next phase of education and life.
Having grown up in this community and served here for many years, I understand the importance of strong leadership that is rooted in ethical conduct, accountability, and a genuine commitment to the well-being and success of every child.
Thank you for visiting our website. I warmly invite you to explore and learn more about how we work together to provide an enriching and supportive education for all our children.
With best wishes,
Clare Ritchie
Headteacher
“She absolutely loves Dean Gibson and says she does not want to leave next year as it’s like home. ”
“this is exactly why I know we were right to send him here. The school is a credit to you all.”
All faiths and none
Here at Dean Gibson we provide a primary education within a Catholic setting for the children in the parishes of Holy Trinity & St George, Kendal and Christ the King, Milnthorpe.
However, we welcome children of all faiths and dominations because we believe faith is “lived” and not just taught. This is a belief reinforced by Father Hugh Pollock, who spends a great deal of time with us in school.
We are a family, sharing respect for each other, where we value the uniqueness of every child. We care for our children and create a community in which they can grow and develop, both academically and in self-esteem.
Parent’s Pit Stop
We know it can be hard keeping track of everything when you’re a busy parent, so we’ve collected some of the key information here. From term dates and where to buy our school uniform to upcoming events and access to newsletters. If you need more information or have any questions, please just get in touch.
Term Dates
We currently have term dates posted for 2025/26 and also have provided a link to Westmorland & Furness Council 2026/2027 future term dates. These dates are still to be confirmed. We recommend making a record of key dates including start date, half-term and end dates.
NEWSletters
Every month we upload a newsletter with dates for your diary and information. We will let you know about what the children have been up to during the week, special visits, field trips, as well upcoming events and annual celebrations via our Facebook page.
UNIFORM
Our School Uniform is a visible expression of belonging to the Dean Gibson family. Our maroon sweatshirts adorned with the Dean Gibson logo represent unity among children. Book bags, ties and drawstring bags can be bought from the school office (card payment only).
Don’t just take our word for it…
We know statistics don’t give the whole picture, but here are a few we are particularly proud of!
97%
of year 6 children
A fantastic 97% of our children in Year 6 achieved the expected standard for reading and 35% at greater depth.
88%
Key stage 1 sats
88% of our children achieved the expected level across the board in reading, writing, maths and spelling/grammar.
92%
Phonics Screen check
We’re delighted to say that 92% of our children passed the phonics screening test
Get involved
Our Parent, Teachers and Friends Association (PTFA) has two roles: to provide a social framework and services for parents and to raise funds for school projects which will benefit the pupils.
PTFA
Fund-raising projects vary from year to year and during the year the PTFA Committee runs a number of events, interspersed with opportunities for parents to meet socially. Events include fairs, cake sales, film nights, discos and BBQs.
Fundraising
Throughout the year, each fund-raising event focuses on something different. Thanks to the hard work of our PTFA, the money raised from recent events has helped to purchase some fabulous outdoor gym equipment for our playground.
JOIning the team
The PTFA Committee is always keen to welcome parents who are new to the school. We appreciate that not everybody has time to join a committee and attend meetings so we also welcome non-committee parents who are prepared to help manage individual events.