Mayor of Dudley Officially Opens Innovative Pathway Learning Centre at Rufford Primary School
Rufford Primary School welcomed Mayor Peter Lee and the Mayoress on October 2nd 2025, for a special visit to officially open the school’s new Pathway Learning Centre.
The event marked a significant milestone in supporting vulnerable children from across Dudley through a collaborative initiative between the Invictus Education Trust and the Local Authority.
During the visit, Mayor Lee toured Rufford Primary School, a well-regarded primary school in the heart of Dudley, where pupils proudly shared their favourite aspects of school life. The Mayor engaged with the children, answering their questions and learning more about the inclusive environment that Rufford fosters. The highlight of the visit was the official opening of the Pathway Learning Centre, a bespoke unit designed to support vulnerable pupils from other schools across the borough, providing tailored educational support to meet their individual needs.
The Pathway Learning Centre exemplifies how Invictus Education Trust and Dudley Local Authority are working closely to ensure all children receive the support they require to thrive. At Rufford, the Invictus mantra of “Belong with us” is lived out daily, creating a welcoming atmosphere for every child. Mayor Lee also enjoyed exploring the school’s extensive outdoor spaces and met the school dogs, Luci and Reggie, who are popular among the children and staff alike.
Phillipa Harris, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Invictus Education Trust, said, “Invictus Education Trust is dedicated to being inclusive and Rufford is showing this through their approach and through their specialist SEND Base and Pathway. We are so pleased that the Mayor was able to visit and open the Pathway, this meant a lot to the children.”
Rufford Primary School continues to demonstrate its commitment to inclusion and excellence in education by providing specialist facilities and support to vulnerable children, ensuring they have the best possible start in their learning journey.
Looking ahead, Rufford Primary School aims to build on this success by further strengthening partnerships within the community and expanding opportunities for all children to flourish. The school warmly invites local families and stakeholders to learn more about its inclusive programmes and the positive impact they have on children’s lives.
