Weekly Update - 19th November 2021
We have come to the end of another industrious and activity-filled week in the academy.
We have celebrated and championed Anti-Bullying Week with assemblies for every year group, led by one of our Student Support Advisors, Mr Simpson. These have emphasised the importance of this issue and have provoked discussion and thoughtful ideas from our students. They have also been instrumental in encouraging more students to join our existing team of anti-bullying ambassadors. This student team, who receive full training, provide invaluable peer support to other students who may be experiencing difficulties or struggling with day to day academy life. They are wonderful role-models and demonstrate the real value of student voice and influence. The academy will always deal with reported incidents of bullying swiftly and decisively, but can only do so if made aware of these; so please do report any concerns to our Student Support Team, or to your child’s mentor or Head of Year.
On a similar theme, we are currently in the process of forming our first “Teaching & Learning” student voice team, and would really like as many students as possible to contribute to this. The aim of this group is to enable us to gather meaningful feedback from students regarding the content, quality and learning experiences of their lessons. After all, it is their education and their eventual outcomes and futures that are at stake, and we therefore feel it is vitally important that their voices are heard, listened to and acted upon. I look forward to providing you with further information and updates in this respect over time.
This week has also seen the re-launch of our “Elite Scholar Programme” for both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 students. The programme is not intended just for the highest academic achievers, but rather to encourage all students to strive for their own excellence, to have high aspirations for themselves and their futures, and to understand that achievement and success require hard work, dedication, and a commitment to “going the extra mile”. It was a delight to read the applications from students who applied for the programme, and I am certain that they will achieve magnificent things going forwards. If you have any queries regarding this programme, please contact Mr Madajczyk, Assistant Principal, on: [email protected].
Today, we have participated in the annual “Children in Need” charitable event, with a non-uniform day and themed treats on sale, provided by our excellent catering team. I would like to thank you for your support of this event, and have included some pictures below.
A message was sent out earlier this week regarding student Christmas lunches. If you would like your child to have a Christmas lunch, please ensure that you book this via ParentPay by the end of the day on 23rd November 2021. If your child is entitled to free school meals and you would like them to have a Christmas lunch, please reply directly to the message previously sent, or contact Mrs Mahoney at: [email protected]
We have been experiencing some system issues with the new tills that were installed during half term. We are investigating this and refunds will be processed for any discrepancy that is found. The new card system has had a major positive impact on queuing, thank you for your support with this and for bearing with us while we deal with these teething issues.
Finally, from Monday 22nd November, we will be trialling a new entrance system, where all students will enter the building via the main foyer/hall. This will enable staff to properly welcome students at the start of each day.
As always, I wish you a happy, refreshing and relaxed weekend.
