Our building now has windows and walls! 

This week we have been discussing internal IT systems, the function of cloud based verses physical servers, how we use technology in school and how we want to be leaders of new technology in our new building. 

Students have been congratulated in our termly rewards assemblies today with STAR nominations, certificates and commendations for being Confident, Ambitious and Respectful. 

Following assembly, students in every year group enjoyed an afternoon of rewards ranging from Robotics to Archery, using their Classcharts achievement points in exchange for prizes. 

Well done to all students who have been nominated for going the extra mile. 

Year 10 students have already asked when we are going back to university and there's a definite feeling of sadness about their residential coming to an end. 

22 students stayed in an all inclusive (and free to students) experience last week. Thursday involved team building and communication skills including fear facing and a fabulous fashion show made of bin bags and cardboard creations. Friday saw sports, a silent disco and painting. Saturday was filled with a science fair, a murder mystery, traitors and a karaoke, culminated in a formal dinner with everyone looking extremely smart and the residential ended with an a careers talk, Dragon's Den and an awards ceremony on Sunday when students were joined by their parents and carers to celebrate the skills and confidence they had developed during the previous three days. 

A huge thank you to the Durham University YPP volunteers and staff alongside Grace College who our students have now made life long friends with. 

Don't forget that we still have some Feeding Families boxes available in school. Please drop into reception after the holidays to pick them up. 

We have been interviewing for some vacancies this week and as part of every interview process we include a student panel. Anyone who works here knows that this is most nerve wracking part of any interview as they students create their own questions and deliver them interrogation style! 

They know what makes a great member of staff and their feedback is always very astute. 

At the end of every interview candidates are allowed to ask the panel a question and Miss Ramm said we needed to share what the students said in response to these. So here they are...

Q - What is it like to be a student here?

A - I couldn't imagine going anywhere else, Its a small school, Its more like a family.

A - Staff don't just say 'Hello', they know your name and are about you.

Q - What is the best part of an English lesson?

A - Never being wrong, its all about how you interpret it and as long as you can back it up you are right.

Q - What is the thing about your school you are most proud of?

A - All staff are approachable. I feel I can go to anyone If I have a problem at home.

Our students shone brightly during our evening of talent last night with comedy routines, choir performances, readings, piano and guitar solos all introduced by the marvellous Ella in Year 9. 

The whole programme showcased their wit, confidence and amazing musical talents and the Auditorium was full of imensly proud parents, carers and staff. 

A big thank you must go out to Miss Tomlinson and Miss Dixon who have coached the students to this point and our peripatetic teachers who stayed behind to support. 

It is moments like that when our values really come to the surface and from Year 7 to 10, students where confident and ambitious in their delivery. It isn't easy to perform in front of others and each and everyone of them should be as proud as we are of what they achieved. 

Not only did each individual performance impress the crowds but the overarching theme of positivity, friendship and family added a deeper level of emotion to the event and at some points there was not a dry eye in the house!

There will be another talent showcase in the Summer term before we move into our new (and very sophisticated) performance space in the new build. If your child doesn't have additional music lessons but would like to learn an instrument please get in touch with Miss Tomlinson via school reception and we will be happy to arrange this. 

Well done Superstars, you were fantastic!

A letter has been sent to all parents/carers in Year 11 to advise them of Easter revision sessions. Ideally, your child should attend this in person but if transport is impossible, they should speak to the individual teacher who will enable them to join virtually on their chromebook via Google Meet. 

If you have any questions please contact Mrs Anderson via the school reception. 

Follow this link to find out about activities and events taking place during the Easter break. https://www.thisisdurham.com/whats-on/family-events/easter-events

The Easter Holidays can provide challenges both during and as they come to an end. If you fee you need some extra support please visit your local Family Hub. The Brandon Hub has lots of sessions to support 0-12 years and separate groups for teens and they all can be accessed via this website. Sessions include CAMHs drop ins, online safety, help with self esteem and anxiety and lots more. It might feel like you are alone when things get tough but between school and the Family Hub, there is always someone to help. 

Telephone: 0191 3730336

Email: contact@durhamacademy.org.uk

For the most up to date information about what is going on in our school, please visit our website at:

https://durhamacademy.org.uk