"The LEA is particularly successfully in collaborating with other departments and external agencies to support its priorities....the LEA has developed strong links with its partners" 

OFSTED Report February 2001

The history of Wakefield and its surrounding areas stretches far beyond the industrial and commercial development of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Wakefield and Pontefract are among the oldest and most historic towns in England, with the remains of Sandal and Pontefract castles, and the Chantry Chapel, Castleford, formerly known as Lagentium, has Roman origins.  Wakefield Cathedral is the mother Church of a Diocese covering much of West Yorkshire; and throughout the District, ancient churches, country houses and industrial buildings give reminders of a rich and evocative past.

Tourism is becoming increasingly important, as visitors are drawn to attractions such as the Yorkshire Sculpture park at Bretton Hall, the National Coal Mining Museum, and the annual Waterways Festival, as well as festivals based on the traditional food products of rhubarb and liquorice.

New shopping centres have opened, or are planned, in the Wakefield District after success of the Glasshoughton Juntion 32 retail outlet in Castleford. Work is going ahead on the Waterfront project in Wakefield, which will breath new life into the areas by the River Calder.

Wakefield's Museum and the Hepworth Wakefield have collections of regional and national importance. The local arts and theatre scene is lively and vibrant. There are opportunities for playing and watching all kinds of sport. The District is famous for its Rugby League teams.