Halley's Comment

Issue 31 - Module 3

“Our Academy values - respect, achievement, collaboration, integrity and resilience - permeate everything we do"

A message from Mr Russell, Principal

We're now officially half-way through the academic year, which acts as a timely opportunity to reflect on the achievements of our community thus far, and the direction of travel for the months ahead.

The events of the last 6 weeks, that you'll see showcased in this edition of Halley's Comment, encapsulate our commitment to providing rich, meaningful and diverse learning experiences to all our students. As a proud IB World School, we know how important these opportunities are to enrich our curriculum, encourage students to draw links between their learning in the classroom and to the world of work, and equip them with the knowledge and wider skills to play an active and informed role in wider society.

Our commitment to providing this gold-standard of education to all students is perhaps best personified by the exciting news we received this week from the Department for Education. Our Sixth Form outcomes for 2024 show that, across all three different course types that we provide, students made significantly more progress than expected, and in comparison to national averages. Not only does this place Leigh Academy Halley as the top performing sixth form provider in the borough of Greenwich for the value added provided to students, but this also means that we are the only secondary school in the area which has positive progress outcomes for students in both Year 11 and 13. This is an immense and unprecedented achievement that everybody in our Academy community - students, staff and families - can take real pride in.

As our current cohorts of Year 11 and 13 students gear up for the all important exam season, with many taking part in our February half-term holiday sessions next week, we have every confidence in each of them to replicate the same successes of last year, and we will support them every step of the way to do so in the coming modules ahead.

Thank you for all your continued support of the Academy, and the work we do with your child to have the best possible experience of school.

I wish you and your families a wonderful and well-deserved half-term break, and we look forward to welcoming students back to the Academy on Monday 24th February.

Mr Russell

Principal

“Those who can imagine anything can create the impossible”

Turing School

On behalf of the Turing School Senior Team, I would like to congratulate our students for their outstanding attitude to learning and the high levels of engagement with the wider Academy activities throughout Module 3. Our small school assemblies and tutor time sessions have continued to promote Leigh Academy Halley values and our mantra as Turing School, ‘those who can imagine anything can create the impossible’.

As we approach the next modules of this academic year and the added demands to students as they begin to prepare for their end-of-year assessments for Years 7, 8 and 9, Year 10 mock examinations and the GCSEs for Year 11s, it is important that we all continue to recognise and reflect on what makes them special.

The celebration of our students is something that we are always keen to promote, so it is fantastic to recognise students who have demonstrated fantastic engagement in and around the Academy with their Award Cards: Turner 7T1, Advait 7T1, Ireoluwa 7T2, Harrison 7T3, Sara 8T2, and Aiden 9T1, have all been awarded over 3 or more award cards this year, demonstrating their excellent commitment to Academy life.

We also congratulate Aiden and Joao 9T1, Amiona, Jessie and Marina 8T1 for being among the top 20 students in achieving the highest number of positive points at the Academy. We also acknowledge 7T1, 7T2 and 8T1 as tutor groups that have achieved over 100 positive points in this module.

Attendance is a significant contributing factor to a student's engagement and progress at the Academy, so it is fantastic to have the Turing School leading the way in their attendance this year. Of note 7T2 and 8T1 have an attendance of 96.49% and 96.21% respectively this academic year, with 172 of our Turing students in Years 7-11 registering 100% attendance so far this academic year.

The theme of contribution and celebration is continued with a number of students attending Tea with the Principal. This is a space and opportunity for them to share their ideas with Mr Russell on how we can support the continued growth and development of the Academy. Congratulations to Chaz 10T2, Aarya 7T1, Boussouratou 10T1, Nikhilesh 10T1, Amiona 8T1, Zilan 10T2, Djeissy 9T1, Harriet 7T2. I am delighted that they were able to share their ideas with the Principal and be outstanding ambassadors to the Academy.

I would like to conclude by thanking you for your support and communication throughout this calendar year. We rely on your openness and willingness to support us and your child during their school lives, with those firmly rooted relationships enabling each child to prosper. As always, we are here to support your child and will keep you, the families, updated as we travel through the course of this academic year.

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

Mr Kamya

Head of Turing School

Easley School

The Easley team are thrilled to share some of our Small School’s fantastic contributions to the wonderful culture at Leigh Academy Halley. Students have had a truly positive start to 2025, filled with diligence in their learning, support of our community, and exciting events.

The energy and enthusiasm from students and staff alike has been truly inspiring this module. We have seen fantastic progress in classrooms, during careers events, various school trips, on sports fields, and in all our extracurricular activities. From exciting science experiments to creative writing projects, they are embracing every opportunity to learn and grow.

Students are consistently committing lots of powerful knowledge to their long term memory as evidenced by recent assessments and teacher feedback. This is a result of having consistently high attendance rates across all year groups. We are delighted to report that Easley attendance figures are above national and local averages.

Thank you to parents and carers for your support in ensuring students are in school and ready to learn every day. We look forward to this continued dedication to education as families work with Ms Stratford to ensure that we maintain overall attendance at over 95% throughout the next module.

Every day counts and every lesson matters. So a huge congratulations to all students who will be added to the Roll of Honour for having both 100% attendance and zero negative behaviour points for the entire module. Be proud that your name will be displayed outside the Easley Office as an excellent role model to others. Additionally, well done to all the students who have achieved 100% attendance for module three - we look forward to awarding you with a certificate when we return after the holidays.

We joined the world in commemorating Holocaust Memorial Day, remembering the victims of the Holocaust and other genocides. Some select students participated in thoughtful discussions and activities led by a descendant of a Holocaust survivor. They learnt about the importance of tolerance, respect, and understanding. It's vital that we continue to educate future generations about these important events to ensure they are never repeated. We encourage families to continue to openly discuss the importance of showing tolerance and celebrating the difference of everyone within our community so that no one ever feels marginalised.

This year's Safer Internet Day was a great success, with students learning valuable lessons about staying safe and responsible online. We explored topics such as online privacy, cyberbullying, and safety when navigating the digital world. All students were encouraged to not be involved in large group chats and to never interact with someone online that they do not know in person. Remember, online safety is an ongoing conversation, and we encourage you to continue discussing these important issues at home. Families that proactively monitor their children’s use of technology and digital media are often happier in the knowledge that they know their children are safe and are not putting themselves at risk online. Furthermore, ensuring digital devices are only used late into the evening or overnight reportedly has a positive impact on children’s mental health and sleep patterns.

A big thank you to students and parents for ensuring Chromebooks are consistently fully charged in preparation for each school day. This has made a significant difference in the smooth running of lessons and ensures students are ready to engage with their learning without any technical hiccups. Keep up the fantastic work! If there is ever an issue or fault with a student’s Chromebook or charger then they must go to the Easley Office as soon as they come on site so that we can support them with a resolution.

We have lots of exciting events planned for the coming months, including the Bugsy Malone play, career’s events, cultural capital days, mock assessments for Year 11s, assemblies on keeping yourself safe on public transport and various competitions. Keep an eye out for further information and updates on our website and via email.

We appreciate the strong partnership between the Academy, families, and the wider community. Together, we are creating a positive and enriching learning environment for all our students. Have a wonderful half term break and we look forward to making module 4 the best one ever.

If you would like to contact the Easley Small School then please do so by emailing 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

This module has been a busy and exciting start to the new year and Franklin students have taken advantage of the many opportunities that have been provided to them. Firstly, our students in Years 7 to 9 have conducted themselves with maturity and diligence in preparing themselves for their Module 3 assessments, whether that be in the Main Hall, or in the classrooms. Whilst, our Year 11 students have taken on board the advice and feedback following their mock examinations and have shown great dedication to their studies. This commitment has been highlighted by the 11,753 positive points that we have collectively achieved within Franklin alone over the course of the academic year so far. The following Year 7 Franklin students are also the four highest achieving students within the entire Academy: Lucius-Casey (308), Floria (246), Riley-James (231) and Ishmael (224). Thirty of our students from Years 7 to 11 were also in our Roll of Honour for Module 2, achieving 100% attendance and a perfect behaviour record.

Franklin began this module with an assembly led by Mr Russell focused on new resolutions and our student representatives who take part in weekly meetings, are striving together to ensure that our community is able to communicate in focused meetings on a range of subjects that matter to the students. Those Franklin students who are already epitomising great leadership qualities are our student ambassadors: James (7), Jayden (7), Celina (8), George (8) Rayhanath (9), Laila (9), Emmanuella (10), Urbain (10), Hannah (11), Hamido (11) and our prefects: Shucayb (10) and Mars (11).

As well as collaboration, our students have been exploring and researching the range of careers and opportunities available after their learning journey at the Leigh Academy Halley throughout this module. All of our students have participated in some form of careers discussion over the last six weeks, within and outside of their tutor sessions. Meanwhile, our student-led assemblies have also showcased how our Franklin students can demonstrate a range of skills and qualities. Special mentions should in particular be made for Hannah and Hamido, our Year 11 student ambassadors who provided us with an opportunity to explore the history and customs of the Lunar New Year. Meanwhile, Jack and Marcella provided us with further insights into the achievements of our small school namesakes.

Finally, the following students should be congratulated for their outstanding academic success and contributions to Academy life throughout the course of this module. This has been acknowledged with a Principal’s Tea: Matteo (7), Yacqub (11), Pebbles (9), Maliha (8), Marziya (11), Emmanuel (11), Diya (11), Mohamed (11) and Hannah (11). Whilst, Tillie (7) and Salvador (9) have been asked to represent the Academy in student voice meetings.

We are excited to see how the same positive start to 2025 continues throughout the rest of the academic year ahead and in particular, to see the achievements of our students as we head into Module 4.

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

Mrs Parsons

Head of Franklin School

Hawking School

As we move through the academic year, our students continue to embrace a wealth of opportunities, gaining invaluable experience and preparing for their futures. From university and apprenticeship guidance to leadership and extracurricular successes, here’s a look at what’s been happening at Hawking Sixth Form.

Year 12 Work Experience Assembly – Launching Future Careers

This module, we officially introduced the Year 12 Work Experience Programme, which will take place in the final week of the academic year. Students will secure placements via Unifrog, a fantastic platform that provides guidance and access to a wide range of professional experiences. Work experience is an excellent way for students to develop skills, explore potential careers, and enhance their university and apprenticeship applications.

Exeter University Assembly – Insights from a Prestigious Institution

Year 12 students were recently treated to an informative and engaging assembly from representatives of the University of Exeter, a prestigious Russell Group institution. The session provided valuable insights into university life, course options, and the benefits of studying at a leading UK university. Students left inspired and better prepared to consider their higher education choices.

Oxford Brookes University Assembly

Year 12 students had the privilege of having a guest speaker from Oxford Brookes University, which is known for its innovation, research, and student satisfaction, with a rich history of academic excellence since its founding. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate courses across disciplines such as business, humanities, sciences, and creative industries, with flexible learning pathways that allow students to tailor their studies to meet their personal and career goals. Oxford Brookes is renowned for its strong industry connections, providing valuable opportunities for work placements and real-world experience. The campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including libraries, digital labs, collaborative study zones, and sports amenities, alongside a vibrant student life with clubs, societies, and events. Students also benefit from extensive support services, including mental health counseling, academic tutoring, career guidance, and inclusion programs for international students. Beyond the classroom, Brookes emphasises employability with internships, global exchange programs, and industry mentorships, as well as research-led teaching that contributes to global projects. During the assembly, students were exposed to the university experience at Oxford Brookes, which is diverse and inclusive, with a strong balance between academic and personal development. Students were then encouraged to sign up to their newest prospectus and were made aware of the application process. After the talk, students were left with an understanding of Brookes' excellent environment for academic growth, personal development, and career success, encouraging students to explore their passions and take the next step in their educational journey.

UCAS Applications – Key Deadlines & Exciting Offers!

With the UCAS deadline having passed on 29th January 2025, many of our Year 13 students finalised their applications. Many have already received exciting university offers, including several from Russell Group institutions—a testament to their hard work and dedication. We wish all our applicants the very best as they take the next step toward their futures!

Year 12 Apprenticeship Assembly & Borough Apprenticeship Fair

Students were able to consider alternatives to university during our Year 12 Apprenticeship Assembly, where they gained crucial information about apprenticeships and how they provide an excellent route into various industries. Additionally, we are excited about the upcoming Greenwich Apprenticeship Fair, which is being organised in collaboration with most schools across the borough. This proved to give students the chance to meet employers, explore opportunities, and ask questions about their career paths.

Law & Advocacy: Sixth Form Success on Prestigious Legal Platforms

Three of our students were selected to attend the Law UniFocus Day at City, University of London on 31st January 2025, where they gained firsthand insight into legal careers. Additionally, two of our students competed in the LSE School Moot 2025 on 5th February, an incredible opportunity to develop advocacy skills at one of the world’s top universities.

Student Leadership – Making a Difference!

We are incredibly proud of our student leadership team, who have been working hard to support the school community:

Fatou (Head Student) and Priscilla (Deputy Head Student) have been delivering a series of inspiring assemblies to both the wider school and Sixth Form, demonstrating excellent leadership.
Kevin (Sport Ambassador) has been instrumental in supporting lower school sports fixtures, while also captaining the Sixth Form squad with great determination and leadership.

Their dedication is making a real impact, and we thank them for their contributions!

Year 13 Mock Exams – Starting 3rd March 2025

With the final IB and Vocational exams fast approaching, Year 13 mock exams will take place from 3rd March 2025. These mock exams are a crucial opportunity for students to practise under exam conditions, identify areas for improvement, and build confidence ahead of the real thing.

We encourage all students to take their revision seriously, using their notes, past papers, and revision resources to prepare effectively. These exams provide a realistic measure of progress and help teachers offer targeted support in the final weeks before the summer exams. Now is the time to establish good study habits, manage time wisely, and seek help where needed. Let’s make these mocks count!

Year 11 KS5 Taster Sessions – A Glimpse into Sixth-Form Life

In the last week of term, all Year 11 students had the exciting opportunity to experience a range of KS5 taster sessions at Hawking School. With 14 different sessions on offer, students explored a variety of subjects, gaining insight into the breadth of courses available in our Sixth Form.

These sessions provided a valuable chance for students to sample new subjects, engage with specialist teachers, and get a feel for the challenges and opportunities of post-16 study. From sciences and humanities to vocational and technical courses, the diverse programme showcased just a snapshot of our KS5 provision.

The event was met with outstanding feedback from both students and teachers, with many expressing excitement about their future studies. A huge thank you to all staff involved in delivering such an engaging and inspiring experience!

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

Mr Cowie

Head of Hawking School

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

National Apprenticeship Week

Throughout Monday 13th to Friday 17th January, we held a fantastic Apprenticeship Week across the Academy, giving students from Years 7–13 the opportunity to explore the wide range of apprenticeship options available. During tutor time, students learned about Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships, discovering how these pathways provide hands-on work experience while earning a qualification. They explored different career sectors, heard real-life success stories, and considered how apprenticeships could fit into their future plans.

Students also used Unifrog to research different apprenticeship opportunities, helping them to understand the entry requirements, career prospects, and industries that offer these qualifications.

This initiative helped raise awareness of alternative routes to higher education and employment, ensuring students are well-informed about all the opportunities available to them.

Greenwich Degree Apprenticeship Assemblies

In the first two weeks in January, students in Years 10, 11, and 12 attended an insightful assembly delivered by Greenwich University, where they learned about degree-level apprenticeships—an exciting alternative to traditional university study.

The session covered key aspects such as how degree apprenticeships work, the application process, and the benefits of gaining a degree while working in a professional environment. Students were encouraged to consider this pathway as a way to develop industry skills, gain experience, and earn a qualification without student debt.

Positively You

The Positively You sessions for Year 11 on Mind Mapping and Year 12 on Bridging the Gap on Wednesday 22nd January were a huge success. The sessions were energetic and effectively engaged our Years 11 and 12 students. With the upcoming PPE mocks and the real exams starting in May, the strategies they learned will be invaluable in supporting their revision.

Year 11 students delved into the art of Mind Mapping, a creative strategy that enhances critical thinking and helps organise thoughts visually. Meanwhile, Year 12 students participated in Bridging the Gap sessions, which aims to connect theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering a deeper understanding of the material. These engaging and helpful workshops are designed to provide students with effective techniques for improving information retention and comprehension, essential skills for academic success.

This initiative is a vital part of LAH’s ongoing commitment to equip students with diverse revision strategies, enabling them to harness their full potential.

Cambridge University Visit

On Thursday 23rd January, ten year 10 students were lucky enough to spend a day at our Cambridge link college, Gonville and Caius. We were hosted by their school's Liaison Officer, who began by explaining why students might choose to attend university and how Oxford and Cambridge are different by virtue of their collegiate structure and small group tutorial system.

We were then joined by current undergraduates who described their experiences and answered student's questions on a wide range of topics from interviews to clubs and societies. They then gave tours of the college, including the beautiful library, the serene chapel and the beautiful fourteenth century architecture.

A three-course lunch in the historic dining hall followed and the day ended with a lecture from a neuroscientist about her work to better understand the many forms of dementia that are rapidly increasing in our ageing population. It was an engaging and thought provoking day that will hopefully inspire our students to apply to Oxbridge when they reach Year 13.

University of Exeter and Oxford Brookes University

During Module 3, Year 12 students had the opportunity to listen to representatives of Exeter University and Oxford Brookes University, who gave assemblies on university life, courses, and the application process. The sessions provided students with valuable guidance on choosing the right course, understanding the UCAS application process, and what to expect from life at university. These talks were an excellent way for our students to start thinking about their future pathways, and we encourage them to explore the resources provided by both universities.

KPMG Visit

On Monday 27th January, forty Year 9 and 10 students visited KPMG in Canary Wharf, a global professional services firm specialising in audit, tax, and advisory services. This visit allowed students to experience the professional environment of a leading global organisation, helping them build confidence, explore career pathways, and develop valuable employability skills. During the trip, students worked alongside KPMG mentors, collaborating to solve real-life client briefs using cutting-edge technologies. This hands-on experience provided a unique insight into the world of professional services, inspiring students to think about their future careers and the skills needed to succeed in the workplace.

Lunar New Year Celebrations

The Lunar New Year in 2025 falls on January 29th and ends on February 8th. Student ambassadors from Turing, Franklin, Easley Small School, as well as the Head and Deputy Students of Hawkins Sixth Form, presented assemblies showcasing how this vibrant occasion is celebrated worldwide. Students learned that the traditional festival honors family, gratitude, and renewal—values that have been cherished for centuries. The celebration follows the lunar calendar, beginning with the first New Moon and concluding 15 days later with the Lantern Festival, in contrast to the widely used Gregorian calendar.

Each year in the Lunar New Year cycle is represented by one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. This year marks the Year of the Snake, symbolizing characteristics such as mystery, passion, wisdom, enthusiasm, and sensitivity. Students and staff enjoyed discovering their zodiac animal on the displays around the school, as well as sampling delicious Chinese cuisine in the restaurant.

Holocaust Memorial Day

On Monday 3rd February 2025, students in Years 9 and 10 attended a moving and insightful talk on the Holocaust, delivered by a parent of one of our students. This talk provided a personal and thought-provoking perspective on one of history’s darkest chapters.

The speaker, whose family has a personal connection to the Holocaust, shared their knowledge and research experiences, helping students to understand the immense impact of these tragic events. As part of the history curriculum, students have been studying the Holocaust, and this session served as an invaluable addition to their learning.

Throughout the session, students listened attentively as the speaker highlighted the dangers of prejudice, discrimination, and intolerance. They shared stories of resilience, survival, and the importance of remembering history to prevent such atrocities from happening again. The talk encouraged students to reflect on the significance of human rights and the role they can play in fostering a more compassionate society.

Additionally, students had the rare opportunity to handle artefacts from the time period, giving them a tangible connection to history and further deepening their understanding of the events discussed.

We are incredibly grateful to the parent who took the time to share this story and knowledge with us. Talks like these are essential in helping young people understand the past and shape a future.

A Student's Reflection

The Holocaust Memorial was a wonderful way of educating students on not only the struggles and challenges that Jewish people and activists endured at that time but it showcased how this impacts the future generations of Holocaust survivors. It was incredibly inspiring to see the pieces of research being put together to discover the things of the past that were previously unknown. I was interested in the journey of friends, families, and couples, and how they had sadly been torn apart when escaping to safety and seeing all that was sacrificed to make freedom a reality. Emmanuella, Year 10

Year 9 Livery Showcase Career Event

On Tuesday 4th February, ninety Year 9 students attended the Livery Careers Showcase at Guildhall, City of London, a unique and exciting highlight of the event that gave students the opportunity to explore a wide range of professions, trades, and crafts. Students interacted with professionals, tried practical tasks at various stalls, and observed skilled craftspeople demonstrating intricate techniques. This hands-on experience allowed them to broaden their understanding of potential career paths, while inspiring them with the diverse opportunities available across industries. It was an invaluable opportunity for students to explore different fields and gain insights into the skills and expertise required in various professions.

Year 9 Construction Taster Day

On Wednesday 5th February, 12 Year 9 students had the exciting opportunity to participate in a Construction Taster Day at Shooters Hill College. This event allowed students to explore the world of construction and trades while gaining valuable, hands-on experience in four different trades. Throughout the day, students took part in practical workshops led by experienced trade professionals, learning about the exciting possibilities within the construction industry. The event also included a careers-focused session with the Shooters Hill College team, offering students insights into Post-16 pathways such as T-levels and apprenticeships. Additionally, students had the opportunity to speak directly with employers about potential careers in construction and the trades. This was a fantastic opportunity for students to explore various career options and gain firsthand experience of the practical side of the construction industry.

Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Workshop

On Friday 7th February, GCSE Food and Nutrition students were delighted to have had another opportunity to work with the Royal Culinary Arts Society this year in a mastery workshop led by a professional chef.

The students benefitted from an engaging session, enriching their technical cooking skill along their exciting culinary journey.

During the session, students observed the chef’s culinary demonstrations, showcasing key knife skills and highly skilled cooking techniques. The students then had an opportunity to put these skills into practice by preparing a high-skill dish under the Chefs' guidance.

This workshop has provided invaluable hands-on food preparation experience for our students and significantly sparked their interest when they found out the chef’s day job includes training Gordon Ramsey’s kitchen apprentices and the fact that he also lectures on Chef Skills.

Years 10 and 11 Work Experience Assemblies

Students in Years 10 and 12 attended assemblies to introduce them to their work experience week, which will take place in the last week of Module 6 (Monday 14th - Friday 18th July).

Work experience provides students with an invaluable opportunity to build confidence, take on responsibility, and develop key skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. All students will spend a week in a workplace environment, allowing them to apply their skills in a professional setting while gaining a practical understanding of different industries.

Students have begun using Unifrog to explore potential placements, ensuring they make the most of this valuable opportunity. Families are encouraged to discuss work experience with their children and support them in securing placements, if you have any questions please contact isabel.ruthven@halley.latrust.org.uk.

University and Apprenticeship Showcase

On Friday 7th February, students attended the University and Apprenticeship Networking Event at Leigh Academy Halley, where they had the opportunity to explore their future education and career pathways. The event brought together representatives from universities and apprenticeship providers, allowing students to engage in meaningful discussions, ask questions, and gain valuable insights into higher education and vocational training.

With attendees including Canterbury Christ Church University, Newcastle University, University of Essex, University of Greenwich, Goldsmiths (University of London), and Birkbeck (University of London), as well as several apprenticeship providers in industries including construction, design, and the civil service, students left feeling more informed and inspired about their next steps. The event was a fantastic opportunity for students to broaden their understanding of the many different routes available to them after school and make connections that could support their future aspirations.

Business in Fashion Workshop

On Friday 7th February, students in Years 10 and 12 attended the ‘Business is in Fashion’ workshop at the Fashion Retail Academy in central London. The visit introduced students to the diverse career opportunities within the fashion industry, and offered insights into how the industry provides pathways for entrepreneurs, marketers, and creatives. Students had talks from professionals at the Fashion Retail Academy and a tour around the Academy, inspiring them and broadening their understanding of the business side of fashion. Students explored how various roles within the fashion industry contribute to its success, helping them gain a deeper appreciation of the careers available.

M & G Maths Challenge

On Monday 10th February, a group of 30 Year 8 students participated in the M&G Enterprise Challenge, a maths-focused workshop where students worked in teams to budget, plan, resource, and pitch for a large-scale concert for 10,000 young people. Through teamwork and problem-solving, they applied key mathematical concepts while enhancing their communication, critical thinking, and self-management skills.

The workshop covered topics such as data interpretation, profit calculations, and 3-D shape construction, providing students with a valuable opportunity to apply their learning in a real-world context.

Careers Workshop at City of London

On Monday 11th February, 10 students were lucky enough to participate in a ‘Careers at City of London’ workshop at City of London Guildhall as part of London Careers Week. This event, specifically designed for students aged 16-25 with special educational needs, offered a unique opportunity to explore potential career pathways in a supportive and inclusive environment. Students took part in a tour of the City of London Corporation buildings, a meet-and-greet session with professionals from various departments, and work skills activities aimed at enhancing employability. They also had the chance to participate in 1-to-1 mentoring or interview practice with City professionals, providing them with invaluable insights and experience to help shape their career aspirations.

One-to-One Career Interviews

Year 11 students have begun participating in their one-to-one career interviews with a qualified careers advisor. The first of these personalised interviews have been very successful, tailored to each student’s goals and aspirations. These sessions help students gain the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed decisions about their future, whether exploring post-16 or post-18 options, or considering long-term career aspirations. These interviews will continue In Module 3 for Year 10, 11 and 12.

Student Ambassadors

At the start of Module 3, Mr Russell introduced the Student Leadership Team during student's assemblies. The team, made up of the Head and Deputy Heads, Prefects, and Small School Ambassadors, has been tasked with focusing on three core objectives:

Encouraging students across Leigh Academy Halley to embrace additional responsibilities and lead student participation throughout the Academy community.
Developing essential leadership skills.
Ensuring that all students are engaged in the leadership/voice process, with student leaders remaining visible and accountable.

The first meeting, held in mid January, saw the Leadership Team split into two groups: Student Ambassadors and Head/Deputy Head Students, along with Prefects, each assigned a respective teacher link. These weekly meetings have proven successful, providing a valuable platform for students to engage in discussions about various aspects of school life, propose ideas for improvement, and collaborate on driving change.

By participating in the Leadership Team, students understand the importance of their contributions and learn how to balance their roles with academic and personal responsibilities. This process boosts their self-confidence, motivating them to take on more initiatives and further realize their potential.

A central goal of these leadership meetings is to equip students with essential leadership skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making. This was evident through student-led assemblies on International Day of Education and Lunar New Year, where they shared global events and exposed their peers to different cultures.

Student leaders are actively encouraged to take the reins, whether leading discussions, presenting ideas, or offering solutions to school-wide challenges. Currently, the Leadership Team is collaborating with the STEM Team to implement eco-friendly projects, further enhancing their leadership abilities and preparing them for more complex roles in the future.

Student leaders are not only encouraged to take ownership of their actions but also set an example for their peers, cultivating a culture of responsibility throughout the Academy. Feedback from students who attended the student-led assemblies has been overwhelmingly positive, with many peers finding the sessions engaging and informative. Some students even expressed interest in volunteering for future assemblies.

Through weekly meetings, student leaders are planning a variety of initiatives, including mentoring peers in subjects like Maths and English, assisting teachers during parent evenings, and acting as library monitors and support around the school.

Additionally, a group of student leaders, together with Mrs. Cronin, revisited the school’s Respect Code to ensure its principles are continuously upheld. This discussion provided valuable insights for the leadership team, reinforcing the importance of modelling and representing the school’s values to their peers.

As the school year progresses, the Student Leadership Team will continue to drive meaningful change and bring fresh ideas to the table. We eagerly anticipate the continued growth of the team and the impactful projects they will introduce to the Academy.

Library News

The Leigh Academy Halley Library continues to thrive and is well-established as a welcoming space for all students to complete homework, read and revise. We have developed student leadership through the introduction of Library Monitors. Many congratulations to the following students: Abdulaleem 8F1, Abraham 7E2, Ariel 7F1, Shrey 10E2, Baybeesha 10F1, Alfie 7E1, Haya 7F1, Rebecca 9E2, Kexin 7F2, Lucius-Casey 7F2, Advait 7T1, Greisi 7E1, Aiden 9T1, David H, Darius 10F2, Beau 10F1, Ronnie 10T2.

Reading for pleasure is growing in strength shown through the number of digital and physical books students have read so far this academic year. Students have loaned over 850 books from our library and read over 2,700 books on Sparx Reader!

In our previous Newsletter, we shared the photos from The Reading Lab Partnership. The outcomes of this intervention are fantastic and demonstrated the hard work and engagement of all the students involved. Over 70% of students increased the reading age and across the cohort combined, over 160 months (total) of reading age progress was made by this first cohort. The second cohort hace started their sessions.

Sporting Fixtures

LAT 5 A Side Tournament - Years 9 and 10

On Monday 20th January, Years 9 and 10 girls attended the LAT 5 a Side Football Tournament at Goals in Dartford. Our team put in a fantastic effort at the tournament, showing great determination and teamwork despite never having played together before.

Over the course of eight matches, we secured three impressive wins, one hard-fought draw, and faced four narrow defeats. Goals, including penalties, came from Libby, Favour, Joy, Sariah and Anisah, demonstrating the attacking strength across the team. A shout out goes to Joy, Anisah and Marcella for their continuous hard work in defence and in goal making vital saves!

The team were: Libby, Anisah, Marcella, Joy, Sariah and Favour. Well done to all of you!

Years 8 and 9 - Blackheath Cup vs Thomas Tallis

On Thursday 23rd February Years 8 and Year 9 girls took on Thomas Tallis after successfully making it to the next round of the Blackheath Cup. Despite the rain the girls fought hard for the 70 mins showing excellent defensive work from all. A special mention must go to Marsha, Celina and Dahlia who stepped up to go into goal - taking some vital saves and for Dahlia who saved a penalty. Despite the score line not in our favour the girls demonstrated resilience and commitment to each other in difficult conditions.

Well done to the following students: Dahlia, Celina, Lily, Marsha, Rayah, Harley, Libby, Rebecca, Sophi, Georgia, Lollicia and Raegen.

Year 8 Netball - LAH vs Woolwich Poly Girls

LAH's Year 8 netball team played their first-ever netball match against Woolwich Poly Girls, gaining valuable experience despite a loss. The team showed great effort across all areas of the court, with strong defensive work, determined attacking plays, and solid performances in the centre court.

Their patience in scoring paid off, and they managed multiple turnovers throughout the game, demonstrating great potential. This match was a fantastic learning opportunity, and the team is looking forward to their next game, ready to build on their progress. Well done, Year 8s!

Well done to the team who were made up of: Taylor, Felicia, Sabrina, Marsha, Abi, Elizabeth, Kahye and Rayah.

Year 10 Netball - LAH vs St Thomas More Catholic Comprehensive School

The Year 10 team played their second game of the year against a very tough opposition. Although the result didn’t go in our favor, the team remained in high spirits and showed great determination throughout the match.

For some players, it was their first-ever netball match, and they took the challenge in stride, gaining valuable experience. The team learned a lot from this game and will take these lessons forward as they continue to grow and develop. Well done to all who played—looking forward to the next match!

Well done to Aakima, Anisah, Fola, Joy, Ruweyda, Andesha, Ketty and Sariah.

Year 9 Greenwich Netball Tournament

The Year 9 netball team took part in the Greenwich Netball Tournament at St Thomas More Catholic Comprehensive School, competing in five games. They secured one win, one draw, and three losses, gaining valuable experience along the way.

This was the first time the girls played together as a team, and for some, it was their first taste of competitive netball. Despite facing tough opponents, there was great defensive work to win back possession and patience in moving the ball towards the goal. Libby and Sabrina were on target, scoring for the team. A fantastic effort from everyone involved—well done, Year 9! We look forward to seeing their progress in future matches.

Well done to the following girls: Aisha, Pebbles, Libby, Harley, Franceska, Marcella, Tia, Lily, Dahlia and Sabrina.

Year 8 Football vs Woolwich Poly Girls

The Year 8 girls' football team secured a fantastic 2-1 win in a highly competitive match against Woolwich Poly Girls. The team showed great determination throughout the game, making it an exciting contest from start to finish.

A mention must go to Marsha who scored both goals with assists from Celina. In defense, Georgia and Rayah put in crucial blocks to keep the opposition at bay, while Divine made some incredible saves to protect the lead. A brilliant performance from the whole team—well done, girls! Looking forward to the next match against Leigh Academy Blackheath.

Congratulations to the following students: Marsha, Celina, Lily, Dahlia, Hannah, Raegen, Rayah, Divine, Georgia, Lollicia and Sasha.

The Infinity Hub

This module The Infinity Hub has been working very hard during our weekly sessions at Roots4Life, a charity organisation that works with schools and the local community. They aim to make access to healthy food, exercise and green space available to all. Every Wednesday our sessions are based around nature, the weather, growing and tasting food!

This module we have been testing the soil to see which plants will grow best, planting seeds in preparation for spring and doing lots of bird watching. We have also used the landscape and the weather as an inspiration for our creative writing lessons back at school.

Pauline, a Roots4Life teacher, came to the Leigh Academy Halley to work with the students in our Infinity Hub garden, sharing tips and ideas on how to turn this lovely space into a secret garden.

On Tuesday 11th February two exciting trips took place - a visit to Eltham Hill School to see their production of Chicago and ten Year 11 students with additional needs visited The Guild Hall for a careers event specifically designed to support SEND students in making career decisions and choosing their next pathway.

Parental Teaching and Learning Workshop

Our Module 3 Parental Teaching and Learning Workshop held on Thursday 14th February focused on Digital Technology and in particular, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within our classrooms. Parents were introduced to a number of platforms that are readily accessible to our students and demonstrated the learning power of these tools. The session also provided tips on how to support students outside of the classroom, when using these tools.

STEM

Year 8 STEM Aircraft Challenge

The Year 8 Aircraft Challenge STEM took place on Tuesday 11th February. It was an exciting and hands-on event where sixty Year 8 students came together for a day of creative problem-solving and friendly competition.

Students were tasked with designing, building, and testing model aircrafts. Throughout the day, they collaborated in teams, applying STEM principles to construct their planes, while learning about aerodynamics, engineering, and teamwork.

The event culminated in a thrilling competition, where each aircraft was tested for its flight distance, stability, and speed. It was an inspiring day that sparked curiosity, fostered teamwork, and allowed students to explore the world of aviation in a fun and interactive way.

STEM Club

This module,, the STEM club hosted a series of exciting, hands-on sessions that sparked curiosity and creativity. STEM ambassadors guided students through fun, interactive activities such as modeling the process of digestion to demonstrate how our bodies break down food. They also explored the world of light and reflection by creating holograms using reflective plastics.

In another session, students built scribble bots, combining motors, plastic cups, and felt-tip pens to create quirky, moving robots. The module wrapped up with an engaging hovercraft challenge, where participants used CD discs and balloons to model the concept of air pressure and lift. These activities not only enhanced students' understanding of STEM concepts but also encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and experimentation.

Hologram

Scribble Bot

Celebrating our UKMT Maths Champions

The UKMT Intermediate Challenge, one of the most prominent maths competitions in the UK, was attended by students chosen from Years 9 and 10. This national competition encourages a love of problem-solving.

Every year, we enter our students to compete at the level that is appropriate for their age. The Intermediate Mathematics Challenge is a multiple-choice test that promotes mathematical thinking, precision of thought, and fluency when applying fundamental mathematical concepts to challenging tasks.

The Mathematics Department would like to thank all those students who participated and congratulates the following students for their stand-out performances.

Name Year Group Award

Daniel 10 Gold

Ash 10 Silver

Andesha 10 Silver

Olawunmi 10 Silver

Yusuf 10 Silver

Yashica 9 Bronze

Arnan 9 Bronze

Ange-Benoit 10 Bronze

Sofiat 10 Bronze

Jaden 10 Bronze

Mario 10 Bronze

Aurora 10 Bronze

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