Halley's Comment

Issue 30 - Module 2

“We make every lesson of every day count, so that all students can flourish in our care"

A message from Mr Russell, Principal

When writing my contributions to Halley's Comment, I am always taken aback by the sheer vast array of fantastic achievements and exciting developments that have taken place across the Academy since November - it's hard to believe we've managed to fit everything in over the last 7 weeks!

With our expanding roll and learning facilities, we have more students studying a wider range of subjects and courses than ever. We've hosted more community events and competitions at the Academy than last year, and run more enriching trips and extra-curricular activities than ever before. We know that students only get one secondary school education. The impact of that education will shape and change the rest of their adult lives. That's precisely why we make every lesson of every day count, providing a rich and deep array of learning experiences so that all students can flourish in our care. The items in this module's edition of Halley's Comment are a testament to our shared and steadfast commitment to providing the best education possible to our students.

None of this would be possible without the hard work of everybody in our learning community. We want to thank all parents and carers for their unwavering support of all the work we do at the Academy. Making sure your child attends school every day, ready and prepared for learning, keen to get the most out of their time at school, makes all the difference to their success. I am also fortunate to work with a staffing body of unparalleled commitment, expertise and compassion, who share their love for their subjects, and their commitment to working with young people, every day, come rain or shine. And finally, none of this would be possible without our greatest asset - our students themselves. Whether in the classroom, or on the sports pitch, whether delivering assemblies in the Academy, or leading events outside of it - our students serve as fantastic ambassadors for our community. The milestones of module 2, captured in this newsletter, embody how our students exemplify our Academy motto in practice - as together we learn, inspire and achieve.

We wish you and your families a very restful and relaxing break and look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.

Mr Russell

Principal

“Those who can imagine anything can create the impossible”

Turing School

Turing Small School proudly marks the successful end of Module 2, celebrating the impressive academic and pastoral achievements of our students. These accomplishments are a direct result of the unwavering commitment of the Turing Small School team and the invaluable support and collaboration of our parents.

Since the beginning of the academic year, our students have earned a remarkable 6,354 positive points, reflecting their development of key skills such as research, critical thinking, and self-management. A big shout-out goes to the top three students who have accumulated the highest positive points: Aiden, 87 points, Maximus, 55 points, and Balaban, 54 points.

Among all tutor groups, 8T1 leads the way with an impressive 812 positive points, while 7T3 has shown the most significant progress since transitioning to secondary school, earning 600 positive points. A special congratulations go to Advait who earned 4 Award Cards, contributing to our Small School’s total of 12 awards in this module.

Our success is also closely linked to excellent attendance and the absence of negative points. Many of our students have achieved perfect attendance and maintained a record of no negative points, setting a strong example for their peers with their dedication and commitment to daily learning.

We are also incredibly proud of our Year 11 students for their outstanding work ethic, commitment, and ‘can-do’ attitude. Whether in lessons or during extra-curricular revision sessions, their resilience is truly inspiring. Their dedication will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their performance throughout the December mock exams, and together with their teachers, will pave the way for continued success as they work towards their GCSE goals.

We are also delighted to welcome new students from diverse backgrounds, who bring a wealth of culture and perspective, further enriching our school community. Our students continue to demonstrate kindness, respect, and understanding for the different faiths and beliefs of those around them. This was beautifully exemplified by a group of students who waited patiently for their friend to complete their prayer during lunchtime.

Cultural Capital Day was another highlight, where students took part in several enriching trips and activities. Their exemplary behaviour on public transport, praised by members of the public, reflected the values we instill in them. The day also provided students with a deeper understanding of how lessons learned in school connect to real-life situations, such as exploring why certain species, like dinosaurs and dodos, became extinct. Experiences like these are invaluable in broadening their perspectives and contributing to their personal growth.

As we approach the close of 2024, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support in helping your child strive for excellence. I wish you all a joyful and restful festive season with your family and friends.

If you would like to contact Turing School at any point, please email us at turing@halley.latrust.org.uk.

Mr Kamya

Head of Turing School

Easley School

It has been another busy and productive module for Easley Small School. I am continually impressed by the kindness, compassion, and integrity shown by our students to each other. In the last week alone, it was lovely to see Easley students using their Chromebooks to use Google Translate to make friends with another student, new to this country. This small act of kindness demonstrates a commitment to our Academy and community. Our fortnightly Small School Assemblies allow us the opportunity to unite as a community, highlight our shared valued, and celebrate our successes. This warmth and care for our community contributes positively to the caring climate within the Academy.

Our Year 11 students have shown incredible resilience during their recent mock exams. Their hard work and dedication are commendable; the most important aim of these mock exams is to ascertain each student’s areas for development. It is important that we use these mocks as motivation to close any learning gaps students may have and thereby increase their attainment in their real examinations.

Our recent Cultural Capital Day was a great success. Students enjoyed a variety of trips and activities, broadening their horizons and enriching their learning experiences. They are a credit to the Academy and enjoy doing things slightly differently. We encourage students to keep on being courageous by trying new things with their families as it broadens their minds and they may discover a new passion.

Most importantly, our students continue to work hard day in and day out - their dedication and perseverance are the foundation of their success. The staff has awarded over 6,750 positive points to Easley students since September. Additionally, we wanted to give an extra shout-out to all students who have made the Roll of Honour by achieving 100% attendance and zero negative positive points in the last module. Their names are proudly displaced outside the Easley office and we look forward to celebrating even more names being on this list in the near future.

As we approach the festive period, I encourage you all to stay safe and enjoy time relaxing with family and friends. We look forward to welcoming you back in the new year refreshed and ready for the next module’s learning.

If you would like to contact the Easley Small School then please do so by emailing us at easley@halley.latrust.org.uk.

Mr Senior

Head of Easley School

“You can do anything you want to, but you have to work at it”

“All that is necessary is the belief that by doing our best we shall come nearer to success and that success ..... is worth attaining”

Franklin School

As the academic module draws to a close, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the many achievements of our students and to extend our heartfelt thanks to all parents and families for their continued support. This module has been filled with exciting activities and academic progress. As we head into the festive season, I hope that students and families take time to celebrate, recharge, and enjoy a well-deserved break.

Our Cultural Capital Day was a great success, providing students with opportunities to broaden their horizons and this module’s STEM assemblies were a resounding success. Students had the chance to learn further about the discoveries and innovations of our small school role models and to discover how STEM skills are transforming industries. It was great to see two of our Franklin students Jack and Marcella talking so passionately about these individuals and being such great ambassadors for our small school.

A special mention must also go to our Year 11 students in this module, who have shown remarkable dedication and commitment as they completed their mock examinations. Students attended early morning revision sessions at 7.30am and after-school interventions. These exams are an important milestone on their journey towards GCSEs, and we are incredibly proud of the effort and focus they have demonstrated. It has been inspiring to witness their resilience and determination, and we are confident that this hard work will pay off as they approach the final stretch of their studies.

We have also been delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students who have excelled this term in both attendance and behaviour. Congratulations to all those who have achieved 100% attendance and have earned only positive achievement points throughout the module. It was a delight to hand out so many certificates highlighting this achievement and to create the Roll of Honour display in our corridors that recognises the success and dedication of so many of our students. Three of our Year 7 students have also been recognised at Tea with the Principal; Tillie, James and Yanneal. These students have gone above and beyond in all of their lessons and commitment to extracurricular activities.

As we approach the holiday season, we encourage all students to take time to relax and enjoy the festivities with their families and friends. However, we also ask that students remember to keep up with their homework tasks over the break. Completing these assignments will not only help reinforce the knowledge gained during the term but will also prepare students for the upcoming Module 3 assessments. A balanced approach to rest and revision will ensure that students return to school in January ready to tackle the next challenge with confidence.

I wish all of our students and their families a joyful, peaceful, and well-earned festive holiday. I look forward to seeing everyone in the New Year, recharged and ready for the exciting opportunities that lie ahead!

If you would like to contact the Franklin Small School then please do so at franklin@halley.latrust.org.uk.

Mrs Parsons

Head of Franklin School

Hawking School

As Module 2 draws to a close, we are delighted to share the exciting and impactful experiences that have enriched our Sixth Form community. This term has been filled with opportunities for growth, engagement, and achievement across Years 12 and 13.

Mock Interview Days at The Tallow Chandlers Hall

Year 12 students had the privilege of participating in Mock Interview Days at the prestigious Tallow Chandlers Hall near Cannon Street. Hosted by members of the Tallow Chandlers Company, the event offered students a unique opportunity to gain professional insights and refine their interview techniques. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with students feeling more confident and prepared for future career aspirations.

Sixth Form Open Evening

On 21st November 2024, we hosted our most highly attended Sixth Form Open Evening to date! Prospective students, both internal and external, explored the diverse and dynamic courses available at Key Stage 5. The buzz of excitement and curiosity among attendees reflected the appeal of our Sixth Form offer.

Year 13 Parent/Carer Evening

Our final Year 13 Parent/Carer Evening marked an important milestone for our students. Valuable conversations between families and staff focused on strategies to support students in achieving their full potential as they approach the end of their school journey. The evening was one of the best-attended events, underscoring the strong partnership between home and school.

Cultural Capital Day at the University of Southampton

Sixty of our Year 12 students experienced a memorable day at the University of Southampton, one of the esteemed Russell Group institutions. The day included:

An insightful introduction to university life.
A comprehensive campus tour.
An engaging lecture covering topics such as university finances, extracurricular opportunities, and personal development, delivered by inspiring student ambassadors.

This visit provided our students with invaluable insights into higher education pathways and inspired them to consider their future goals.

First Aid Workshop for Year 12 Sports Students

Our Year 12 sports students excelled during their dedicated First Aid workshop. The facilitator was impressed by their active engagement and thoughtful questions, highlighting the students’ enthusiasm for learning practical and essential skills.

Mock Examinations and T-Level Assessments

Year 13 and Year 12 students demonstrated their dedication during the recent mock examination period. The high attendance and productive atmosphere reflected their commitment to academic success.

Meanwhile, T-Level students in Engineering and Digital Services engaged in Employer Set Projects and Core Exams. These assessments showcased their practical skills and theoretical knowledge, providing excellent preparation for their future careers.

UCAS Progress Update

As the January deadline approaches, we are thrilled to report that we are in a fantastic position with many UCAS applications already submitted. Our students have shown incredible dedication in preparing their applications, and we are confident they will achieve great success as they take their next steps toward higher education. A big thank you to our Sixth Form team and families for supporting our students through this important process.

This module has been a testament to the energy, ambition, and dedication of our Sixth Form students and staff. We look forward to building on this momentum as we head into Module 3. As we wrap up this eventful module, we would like to wish all our students, parents, carers, and staff a restful and joyful festive period. Take this time to relax, recharge, and celebrate with loved ones.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the new year, ready for another term.

If you would like to contact the Hawking Small School then please do so at hawking@halley.latrust.org.uk.

Mr Cowie

Head of Hawking School

"Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet"

Jack Petchey Awards

On Thursday 17th October, four of our students and their families attended the Jack Petchey Awards Ceremony, a flagship programme which recognises outstanding young people aged 11-25 across London and Essex.

The students proudly represented Leigh Academy Halley as they received the Jack Petchey Medallion from the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich. Celebrating the achievements of our students via the Jack Petchey programme plays an important part in their personal development and empowers them to become positive even more citizens than they already are for our community.

Our students who attended the event were Jack, Dorina, Sean, and Ruby. Their nominations included: being excellent role models in the community, personifying our values, supporting EAL students new to the Academy, being exemplary student ambassadors, and leading a charity event as part of the MYP Community Project.

Students now have the opportunity to invest £300 in their Academy to improve their educational experience. These awards were used for: buying books for the library, funds for the STEM Club, funds for the Madrid trip, and a donation to “Kick it Out", a charity dedicated to kicking racism and discrimination out of football.

National Digital Workshop - BIMA

Year 7 students had the incredible opportunity to attend a National Digital Workshop hosted by the British Interactive Media Association (BIMA) on Wednesday 13th November. This nationwide initiative aims to inspire the next generation by showcasing how digital technology is shaping the world of industry. During the workshop, students delved into engaging challenges set by leading organisations, including Microsoft, Burberry, and the RSPCA. They explored real-world applications of digital technology, such as digital marketing strategies, app development, and user experience (UX) design. Working collaboratively, they tackled these challenges with creativity and critical thinking, gaining hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used in the technology industry.

Our students thoroughly enjoyed the experience, with many feeling inspired to pursue further exploration of technology and its endless possibilities. A huge thank you to BIMA for running such an impactful workshop!

Parents' Evenings

During Module 2, we hosted Parents' Evening events for Year 11 on 14th November where key conversations were held focusing on supporting the Year 11 students regarding their preparation for their GCSE assessments with parents showing their support and, engagement with, the Academy. Similarly, our Year 8 and 13 events were also well attended and fostered a positive atmosphere where parents/carers and teachers reinforced their partnership in supporting our students' education. Engaging discussions highlighted student progress and areas for improvement, emphasising the collaborative effort needed for academic success. The evenings are a testament to our shared commitment to nurturing each student's potential.

Paralympic Assembly

In November, Leigh Academy Halley were thrilled to welcome back a former student, Matthew Robertson, a Paralympic bronze medallist. Matthew shared his inspiring journey with us during a special assembly for Years 7, 8, and 9.

In the Paris Paralympic Games, Summer 2024, Matthew won a bronze medal in the Mens C2 300m Individual Pursuit, alongside his many other accolades in cycling. Matthew is a shining example of perseverance, determination, and excellence in sports. The visit was a momentous occasion for our Academy, as Matthew returned not only as a medalist but as someone who once walked the same corridors and sat in the same classrooms as the students he was addressing. His story of overcoming adversity, pursuing dreams, and achieving greatness resonated deeply with all who attended.

During the assembly, Matthew spoke about challenges throughout his life and career. He shared how he became involved in cycling, balancing his training with academic commitments, and the personal obstacles he had to overcome. His story was a powerful reminder that setbacks and obstacles don’t define us—they are simply part of the journey toward success; this powerful message of resilience ties directly into one of our school’s core values. Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back from failure; it’s about having the courage to keep going, even when things are difficult. Matthew shared that his proudest sporting moment was overcoming a serious leg injury in 2022, following a crash with a car whilst in training for the Paris Paralympic Games. Such resilience and determination not only meant that he continued his sporting career, but he also stood on the winning podium at the Paralympics, a long-held dream of his.

Matthew said to students; "I remember sitting where you are now, not knowing where my future would take me," He went on to inspire the students to find their passion and believe anything is possible with hard work and dedication.

Matthew also spoke about how sport shaped his character, highlighting the importance of achievement not only in the medals he has won but in the personal growth he experienced along the way. His focus on personal improvement and setting new goals aligns with our Academy’s commitment to achievement. At Leigh Academy Halley we believe that every student has the potential to achieve greatness, whether through academic success, artistic expression, or athletic performance. Matthew’s message reminds us all that true achievement comes from pushing beyond our limits and striving to be the best version of ourselves.

One of the most powerful parts of Matthew’s visit was when he spoke about the role of collaboration and teamwork in his success. Even though much of his training and performance is individual, Matthew emphasised the importance of the support network that has helped him along the way: coaches, technical teams, family, and teammates. He highlighted the importance of the whole team to achieve success in elite sport.

This reinforces our Academy’s value of collaboration—the idea that success is often built on working together, supporting one another, and sharing in each other’s victories. Whether in the classroom, the sports field, or in life, collaboration is key to personal and collective success.

Another important value that Matthew embodies is integrity. As a Paralympian, he is a role model not only for his physical achievements but also for the ethical standards they uphold. Matthew spoke about how the journey to success wasn’t always easy, but staying true to his values and maintaining commitment in both his training and competition are essential to his career.

The visit included questions from students, who took the opportunity to quiz Matthew on the demands of competing at the highest level and how he stays motivated during the tough times. Matthew answered with honesty and humility, offering insights not only into the life of a Paralympian but also into how to handle challenges in all areas of life.

Matthew’s visit was a proud moment for our Academy community, providing a clear and inspiring example of the values we strive to instil in all our students: respect, achievement, collaboration, integrity, and resilience.

We are incredibly proud of Matthew and all he has accomplished. His journey and success serve as an inspiration to us all. His visit has undoubtedly motivated many of our students to aim higher, work harder, and pursue their dreams, whatever those may be. We look forward to watching Matthew continue to inspire others and know that his achievements will leave a lasting legacy at our Academy.

A Christmas Carol Theatre Trip

Charles Dickens’ classic is studied by Year 8 across Module two. This popular classic was published in 1843 and its story of a miserly man visited by a series of ghosts on the night before Christmas, who show him visions of past, present, and possible future continues to be a staple of the festive season.

The Middle Years Programme (MYP) encourages students to see a range of live theatrical performances to enable them to confidently analyse play scripts and live theatre productions.

Students in November had the exciting opportunity to enrich their learning and see the text studied in school performed live on stage at The Old Vic Theatre. Students were left amazed at the interactivity of the set and bellies were filled with the free mince pies given out by the cast.

Year 12 - Tallow Chandlers Mock Interviews & Participation Days

Thanks to our livery company sponsor, The Tallow Chandlers, all of our Year 12 cohort were given the opportunity to participate in Mock Interviews & a Preparation Day tailored to help them hone their interview skills. Students received one-to-one guidance and feedback from business people from a range of sectors and experiences. They also had the opportunity to tour the stunning and historic facilities of the Tallow Chandler's Hall.

Year 10 Cambridge University Visit

At the end of November, 12 Year 10 students visited Cambridge University, one of the world's oldest and most prestigious universities in the world which educates 20,000 students, from 140 countries . Cambridge itself is a beautiful city, recognised throughout the world as a place of learning and innovation. Students received a personalised tour of one of Cambridge's oldest colleges - Trinity Hall - from current undergraduates. They also received a workshop from an Admissions Officer on the process of applying to university in Sixth Form, and the steps they can take now to best prepare for this. As well as having lunch at the college, students also visited the historic King's College Chapel, one of the oldest and most famous places of Christian worship in England, before returning to the Academy.

Cultural Capital Day

On Wednesday 4th December, students journeyed on their various adventures to museums, galleries, football stadiums and theatres across London. On Cultural Capital Days, our usual timetable is suspended so that all students can experience in an exciting array of enriching extracurricular activities and visits.

Students in Years 7, 8 and 9, despite the cold temperatures, fully immersed themselves into their different cultural experiences. On the day, a total of 14 trips set off. Students visited the National Courts of Justice Museum and court rooms where they re-enacted the trial or Emmeline Pankhurst. Other Year 8 and 9 students visited Bletchley Park to explore lives and work of the famous code-breaking mathematician, Alan Turing. Year 8 geographers visited the Thames Barrier, while Year 7 brought to life their Religious Studies lessons through a visit to the Neasden Temple.

In school, Year 10 participated in Speak Out! workshops led by the Speakers Trust. Year 12 students enjoyed university visits to Southampton, exploring possible future pastures.

We were also delighted to host over 60 Year 5 students from Kidbrooke Park Primary school, who departed us after a day of STEM and Food Technology activities, thoroughly enthused and keen to return to us in 2026 to form part of a future Year 7 Leigh Academy Halley cohort.

Parental Teaching & Learning Workshop

Our Lead Practitioners facilitated a parental teaching & learning workshop on Thursday 5th December. The session introduced parents/carers to the Approaches to Learning we use throughout the Academy and our careers provision. There was also time for parents to ask questions to our experienced team. The feedback was very positive and we look forward to our next parental workshop which will be held on Thursday 13th February.

Reading Lab Celebration

Students from Years 7-10 celebrated their achievements following their 10-week reading lab achievement on 5th December. The intervention programme is designed to improve students' reading ages, through small group intervention, reading, oracy, and comprehension.

The Reading Lab team is made up of highly qualified staff who have many years of experience of working in schools at both primary and secondary levels. It's been wonderful to see students gain confidence in their reading skills during the course of the programme, and the Reading Lab staff really enjoyed working with each and every one of them.

Breakfast with the Principal

As part of our Rewards Programme, Riley-James, Floria, Freida, Lucius-Casey and Dominykas all achieved their Gold Medal Awards. To celebrate this wonderful achievement, students and their families were invited for Breakfast with the Principal on Friday 8th December.

A Gold Medal Award is a culmination of award marks given by teachers and support staff where students produce work of a high standard, demonstrate a positive commitment to learning, contribute significantly to the Academy community through acts of kindness, or demonstrate our Academy's values.

The breakfast was a wonderful event to celebrate the fantastic achievements of our students, who have made such a positive start to the academic year.

Award Assemblies

In the final week of Module 3, we held Awards Assemblies for our small schools. They are a vibrant celebration of achievement, recognising the hard work and dedication of students across various disciplines. A total of 84 students were honoured with Half Colours, while 15 exceptional individuals were awarded Full Colours. The recipients of Full Colours were also presented with a £20 Waterstones voucher as a token of recognition.

The awards include categories such as Exceptional Commitment to Learning, Sports Achievement, Creativity, and STEM & Innovation. These distinctions highlighted the diverse talents and contributions of students, showcasing excellence both inside and outside the classroom.

We are extremely proud of our students and continue to celebrate their outstanding achievements!

Infinity Hub Updates

The Infinity Hub continues to have more students than ever before learning within mainstream lesson, speaking to the confidence our students are developing. The widening participation and outreach from the Infinity Hub has become well-established and include:

Breakfast Club

Breakfast Club has become increasingly popular and is going from strength to strength with students eating a healthy breakfast in the morning and having check-ins with staff, enabling them to start the day on a positive footing. Everyone is welcome to join! The club starts at 8am in The Infinity Hub.

Lunchtime Club

Year 7 and 8 lunchtime clubs are for students who wish to come to the inclusion classroom and have a quiet space to eat lunch and make new friends.

Homework Club

Homework Club is available to students who find homework challenging. It is run every Tuesday and Thursday. Our team of learning support assistants are available to support students with any homework queries, so that they can gain in confidence at completing their homework successfully.

Interventions

In this module, more students from mainstream schools have attended interventions. We offer interventions covering literacy, numeracy, Zones of Regulation, Think Good Feel Good and SEMH support.

On Cultural Capital Day, 27 students from the Infinity Hub visited the London Transport Museum. Both modern and vintage modes of travel were experienced.

Students sat behind the wheel of London Bus where they got to sample what the role of a bus driver involves on Cultural Capital Day.

Christmas celebrations at Roots4Life. Roots4Life is a charity set up to equip people with the tools to live healthier lives.

Sporting Fixtures

Football Blackheath Cup - Year 8 Boys

On Wednesday 13th November, Year 8 boys' football team successfully navigated their way through to the third round of the Blackheath Schools Cup following a thrilling 6-5 win against Knights Academy in Bromley.

Despite dominating possession in the first 30 minutes the Leigh Academy Halley found themselves 3-0 down, completely against the run of play. The group however stayed resilient and soon their efforts paid off. A fantastic strike by Martim ignited the comeback, and this was followed up with a quick-fire double by Samuel and a long-range finish by Alfie. The blitz of first-half goals however would see Knights claw back another to make it 4-4 before half time.

A tense opening 15 minutes into the second half was brought to life by an audacious halfway-line free kick by Oliver that was inadvertently deflected into the goal by the opposition keeper. Leigh Academy Halley was put back in the lead although the see-saw format of the scoreline continued with Knights equalising moments later. With 10 minutes to go Samuel rocketed a left-footed strike that bounced off the frame of the goal before nestling in the back of the net; to spark crazy celebrations! Some nervy final moments seemed to take an age, however, Leigh Academy Halley held firm and eventually the referee blew the whistle to signify the end of the game. A huge congratulations to all those boys involved and we look forward to the next round.

Football Blackheath Cup - Year 7 Boys

Year 7 boys represented the Academy in the Blackheath Cup, competing against Haberdashers' Hatcham College on Monday 2nd December. A delicately poised first half saw Leigh Academy Halley 1-0 down despite this not being reflected in the flow of the game. However, a revitalised Leigh Academy Halley opened the second half with greater intention and soon found themselves 2-1 up within the first 10 minutes, thanks to goals from John and Kamsi. Halley looked 'hungry' for more goals but were caught on the break, and despite what for most looked like a perfectly good challenge, a dubious penalty decision was gifted to Hatcham College. Well done to Nicholas who saved the initial penalty. The opposition managed to snatch a goal on the rebound, however, thus swinging the momentum back into Hatcham College's favour who went on to win 4-2.

The Year 7 team (Jayden, Abdoul, Vijus, Mohammad, Marvellous, Alexander, Justin, John, Kirubel, Kamsi, Thomas, Nicholas, Nevauin) can hold their heads high for a commendable performance and Mr Small is confident that the future looks bright for this group.

Football Blackheath Cup - Year 8 Girls

The Year 8/9 girls delivered an outstanding performance, securing a 10-0 victory against St. Mary Magdalene in the Blackheath Cup on Tuesday 3rd December. The result is a testament to their determination, teamwork, and skill on the pitch. Despite limited opportunities to train together as a full team, the girls demonstrated great vision down the pitch using the width to their advantage allowing them to maintain possession and put relentless pressure on the opposition. The defense consistently turned over possession and created opportunities for the attack to thrive further down the pitch, with goals from Celina (4), Libby (3), Dahlia (2), Hannah (1), and Marsha (1). In goal, Sasha worked tirelessly to ensure the girls kept a clean sheet making several crucial saves within the game. Libby was awarded Player of the Match by the opposition for her work rate, sportsmanship, and commitment to the game. Celina was awarded the opposition's coach's Player of the Match. The girls will now face Thomas Tallis in the next round. Congratulations to Libby (C), Celina, Dahlia, Lily, Marsha, Hannah, Sasha, Tyler, Rebecca, Lexi, Rayah, and Lewhat.

Football Blackheath Cup - Year 7 Girls

The Year 7 girls' football team played their first-ever match representing Leigh Academy Halley against a strong and well-practised Leigh Stationers' Academy in the Blackheath Cup on the 18th November. Despite their best efforts, the team lost, however, they showed great promise and determination throughout. The match was challenging with the opposition displaying impressive attacking skills. However, the defenders stood out for their exceptional work by stopping the opposition's advances. They worked tirelessly to turn over the ball and create opportunities for their team, with Rachel being awarded Player of the Match by the opposition for her defensive performance. In goal, Stacey's quick reflexes and ability to read the game were key throughout the game and she received Player of the Match from the opposition coach. While the team may not have won, they gained valuable experience in their first competitive match, displaying resilience and teamwork. Congratulations to Leah, Stacey, Daria, Annie, Ivy, Scarlett, Elena, Rachael, Elizabeth, Tillie and Daisy.

STEM Club

This module, STEM Club members experimented with building and testing car safety with egg passengers, investigated how animals in cold climates keep warm, considered what effect the weather might have on the shape of trees, looked at the importance of hand washing to prevent the spread of disease and made a wintry forest.

Building a car prototype and strapping in the egg passenger.

Testing crash safety of cars - no eggs were seriously hurt in this experiment.

Using germ simulation powder to test handwashing

Finding common germ ‘hotspots’ in a room.

Wind Turbine Challenge Event

Sixty Year 7 students took part in an exciting Wind Turbine Challenge carried out by The Smallpeice Trust, a renowned educational charity dedicated to inspiring young people to explore careers in science and engineering.

Working collaboratively in groups, students designed, built, and tested model wind turbines, including a support tower for the blades to be mounded and a gearing system that would allow the maximum energy output, gaining a hands-on understanding of how these renewable energy devices operate. The challenge also highlighted the environmental benefits of wind energy compared to fossil fuels, fostering awareness of sustainable energy solutions.

The students' enthusiasm and teamwork paid off as they successfully completed the challenge and were thrilled to receive a prestigious CREST Award Certificate, recognizing their hard work and achievements. This engaging experience encouraged creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration and enhanced their knowledge of renewable energy - key skills for budding scientists and engineers. Well done, Year 7!

STEM Quiz Championship

On Monday 11th November, teams from Easley, Turing and Franklin Small Schools competed for the Halley STEM Quiz championship. It was a closely fought, nerve-inducing final, with points won and lost by all three teams. Easley and Turing tied on points, and a tie-break question was needed to split the teams. Emerging victorious was Easley Small School, comprising Pema 7E2, Nouredeen 8E1, Safeerha 9E2 and Jane 10E1.

Contestants from Years 7 to 10 who excelled in their intraschool preliminaries and semi-finals represented Longfield Academy and the Leigh Halley Academy to battle it out in the finals that were held on Tuesday, 9th December 2024 at the Leigh Academy Halley. The competition consisted of a practical challenge, general knowledge STEM questions, code-breaking, dingbats, and lateral thinking rounds to test students’ problem-solving, critical thinking, and teamwork abilities.

Rounds 1 to 5 saw fierce competition between the two schools with Leigh Academy Halley trailing Longfield Academy by 1 point. Going into the final round of lateral thinking puzzles, where points were lost and gained, tensions were running high with both teams poised over their buzzers. The Halley team took a gamble on an answer to beat the Longfield team to the buzzer that unfortunately it did not pay off, leading to a loss of marks and slightly widening the gap between the teams. Longfield Academy then consolidated this lead with a series of correct answers, giving them the overall victory and the title of LAT STEM Quiz Champions 2024. Both teams performed magnificently on the day in what was a truly nail-biting competition.

Leigh Academy Halley Team

Longfield Academy Team

Mr Mensah presenting Longfiled Academy with the winner's shield.

Leigh Academy Halley were presented with a participation award.

Student Leadership Elections

We were delighted to launch the Student Leadership Elections this module. The elected student council collaborates in leadership roles to continually improve our Academy dommunity.

The Student Leadership Council consists of form tutor ambassadors from Year 7 to Year 11, prefects from Years 10 and 11, and Head and Deputy Prefects from Years 12 and 13. Together, these students will serve as the student voices of Leigh Halley Academy, working on projects designed to enrich the school experience and strengthen our connections with the wider community.

Current student-led initiatives include fundraising for the Year 11 prom, collecting non-perishable food items to support the Emmaus homeless charity, and gathering toys for Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Additionally, students are actively involved in running assemblies, such as the STEM assembly, and preparing for the Duke of Edinburgh's Bronze Award training.

Looking ahead to next module, we are excited to see the council roll out even more initiatives that will promote a better enrichment experience for all students. We believe these leadership opportunities will not only empower our students but also make a meaningful difference in our community.

Bugsy Malone

The Drama Department is thrilled to announce that preparations for our 2025 production of Bugsy Malone are in full swing! With a talented cast and crew from across the Academy, students are diving into character work, learning choreography, and rehearsing iconic numbers like Fat Sam's Grand Slam.

Rehearsals have begun every Monday after school, with additional sessions scheduled from January to bring this high-energy, jazzy spectacle to life. The production will showcase not only our actors but also the hard work of students managing backstage roles, set design, and marketing—building valuable skills in teamwork and creativity.

We can’t wait to share this exciting journey with you. Mark your calendars for the performances on March 12th, 13th and 14th , 2025—it's a show you won’t want to miss!

Peripatetic Lessons

We are excited to share the incredible growth of our extra-curricular instrumental lessons, which have been thriving thanks to our talented team of tutors. Our dedicated peripatetic staff, who are all experienced professional musicians, bring a wealth of expertise and passion to every lesson, ensuring that each student receives high-quality, engaging instruction.

Currently, students have the opportunity to take lessons in vocals, piano, trumpet, and drums, with each of these disciplines being supported by our highly skilled teachers. Their dedication to fostering creativity and musical development has made a real difference in the lives of many students, and continues to do so at Leigh Academy Halley.

Looking ahead to the new year, we are thrilled to expand even further with the addition of guitar, bass guitar, and saxophone lessons, as well as band clubs and ensembles! This new offering will open up even more opportunities for students to explore different genres and instruments, enhancing their musical journey.

We are excited to see how this growth will continue to inspire our students and look forward to further expanding our music programme in the coming year!

Mock Examinations

Year 11 and 13 students completed their first set of mock examinations between 2nd December - 17th December 2024. The Mock Examinations are an opportunity for students to attempt a full set of exams similar to the ones they will have during their GCSE,IB and A Level exams towards the end of the academic year.

The attendance, punctuality and attitude of the students was exemplary throughout the examination period. Students will receive the results of their mock examinations in the first week of module 3. Please ensure that students have an opportunity to rest and enjoy the Christmas break as well as complete all the homework that their teachers have set for them as the work they complete at home will help lay a strong foundation for the work they will be doing from module 3 to their final examinations.

Giving Back Together - Emmaus/Queen Elizabeth Hospital Visit

On Thursday 19th December 2024, our students visited two important places within our Greenwich community to spread kindness and support.

The first stop was the children's ward at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where our students and staff generously donated toys and games. Mars, a Year 11 student, discovered many roles within the department, with staff working together to care for 19 young patients ranging in age from a few months to 14 years. The dedicated hospital staff work tirelessly around the clock to ensure these children receive the best care possible. We are incredibly grateful to the NHS staff for their unwavering commitment and compassion.

Our second stop was the Emmaus Charity in Plumstead, where students delivered non-perishable goods donated by our school community. During the visit, students had the opportunity to meet the charity’s staff and learn about their vital work in supporting the homeless. Emmaus generates income through its social enterprise, helping people move away from homelessness by providing a home, training and work opportunities as part of a package of long-term support.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed toys or food. Your generosity will undoubtedly make a positive impact on those in need, especially during this festive season, and help bring hope and comfort to our community. Your kindness truly makes a difference.