The Rookeries Carleton Junior Infant and Nursery School

The Rookeries J, I & N School was built in 1961 and is situated in the south-east of Pontefract in a semi-rural setting opposite the picturesque Carleton Green. It backs on to open fields and the Rookeries' trees – after which the school is named.

There are currently around 260 children aged 4 to 11 in the school, which allows for a lively learning environment where children of all ages are encouraged to play with each other, share their work with each other and be respectful and mindful of each other’s feelings at all times.

The main school is in a modern building which has, in recent years, benefitted from significant refurbishment to create light and attractive classrooms, providing a stimulating environment for learning.

In 2018 it was decided, by the Wakefield Pupil Placement Planning Department, that The Rookeries would expand to one and a half form entry. Last year the school had an extension to create two spacious classrooms and a dance/music studio.

Our children benefit from many additional aspects to the school environment including three good-sized playgrounds, as well as ample playing fields.

The school is proud and pleased to be able to have the Wakefield Local Authority Primary Resource for deaf and hearing-impaired pupils based at the school. It is the only primary resource within the authority and there are currently places for 16 pupils. In order to provide high quality acoustics in all areas of the school, classrooms have sound-field systems, which help to amplify the sound of teachers’ voices. There is also a PA system in the main hall with speakers and microphones so that music is amplified and pupils can be more easily heard in assemblies and other performances.

A thriving breakfast club operates at the school and we run a variety of after-school activities including gymnastics, cheerleading, street dance, football, rugby, cooking and choir.