Halley's Comment - Issue 36

Halley's Comment

Issue 36 - Module 1

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

Introduction from the Principal

Module 1 is always one of the busiest and most exciting times of the school year, and this half term has been no exception. The past eight weeks have truly showcased what makes our Academy community so special. Every day, we see our students and staff living our Academy motto—inspiring, learning, and achieving together—and this edition of Halley’s Comment offers just a snapshot of the many ways that spirit shines through.

We’ve had a wonderful start to the academic year, particularly with our new Year 7 and Year 12 cohorts, who have settled in brilliantly and are already making their mark. We’ve also been delighted to welcome new students across other year groups into the Halley family. Our Open Events saw record numbers of prospective families visit the Academy, all commenting on the warmth, confidence and professionalism of our student ambassadors and staff—a true reflection of our community’s strength and character.

Our co-curricular programme continues to go from strength to strength, with more students than ever taking part in before- and after-school opportunities designed to extend their learning and develop their skills beyond the classroom. From sports and performing arts to debating, STEM, and service activities, our students are demonstrating the curiosity, creativity and commitment that make our Academy such a vibrant place to learn.

This module has also been one of record-breaking success. We’ve achieved the highest attendance figures in the Academy’s history—an incredible milestone that reflects the importance families place on learning and consistency. We’ve also awarded more praise points than ever before, recognising our students’ dedication, kindness, and embodiment of the IB Learner Profile and Approaches to Learning.

Academically, we are immensely proud of our continued upward trajectory. Just this week, the Department for Education’s published league tables confirmed our best-ever GCSE results, with the Academy continuing to rank as one of the top-performing schools in Greenwich for students' performance across 8 subjects. We also have the highest EBacc entry rate locally, reflecting our commitment to both curriculum ambition and equity. Our students’ achievements go far beyond exam results, with outstanding post-16 destinations that highlight the strength of our pastoral care, careers guidance and personal development programmes.

Our results continue to demonstrate consistently strong performance above local and national averages, across almost all indicators—and most importantly, our commitment to inclusive success, with 100% of students achieving at least one qualification, significantly above local and national benchmarks. These outcomes are a testament to the hard work and ambition of our students, and the unwavering commitment of our staff to delivering the very best for every young person in our care.

As we reach the end of this first module, I would like to thank all families for their continued support and partnership. On behalf of all the staff at the Academy, I wish you a restful and enjoyable half-term break, and we look forward to welcoming students back on Monday 3rd November —refreshed, recharged, and ready for another exciting module ahead.

Mr Russell

Principal

“Those who can imagine anything can create the impossible”

Turing School

The Turing leadership team is incredibly proud to welcome the new Year 7 students, as well as new students within other year groups, who have already settled in so well to the Turing School community.

It has been a pleasure for me, as Head of School, to get to know all of the students in Turing Small School in the first few weeks of this academic year, for the new students and over the past few years for those who have been with us previously. Our leadership team continues to ensure a supportive environment for every student. Working alongside me, Turing has two Deputy Heads of School, Mrs Panton and Mrs Nguyen-Quan, who are pivotal in the school's day-to-day operation. Supporting them is Mr Rajendran who remains our Director of Progress, dedicated to overseeing the academic achievements of all Turing students at the Academy and the two Small School Managers, Ms Halliday and Ms McCrossen. Furthermore, Ms Murfitt continues to provide essential support as the school's administrator.

At the start of Module 1 we had a Turing School Assembly where all students were reminded of our values and the expectations at the Academy. We also looked at how the work of Alan Turing inspires us to always be a positive influence in all that we do. Next module we will have opportunities in assemblies to celebrate the achievements of the Turing students.

As you may be aware, Turing small school now has an extra tutor group in Year 7 in line with the Academy’s plans for expansion in the coming years. We are proud that the Academy is increasingly becoming the school of choice for many families in the borough and beyond. Our Year 7 students have now settled well into academy life. The Year 7 students have had a positive attitude to the various learning opportunities within the academy and are beginning to form strong positive relationships with fellow students, including beyond their year group and small school. Our Year 11 students have also had a positive start to the academic year and various intervention sessions are already taking place to support them prepare for their mock examinations in December, and eventually their GCSEs in the summer next year.

We continue to celebrate the large number of Turing students who have a 100% attendance record. At the Academy we believe that students who attend school regularly have been shown to do much better academically than students who do not have regular attendance.

As the academic year unfolds we will of course strive to keep you, the families, updated with everything that your child partakes in.

We would like to thank everybody in the Turing learning community - students, parents/carers, tutors and staff who have continued to make this Small School as successful as it is. A special mention to the form tutors in Turing who go above and beyond every day to support our students.

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

Mr Kamya

Head of Turing School

Easley School

As we successfully conclude the first module of the academic year, we are pleased to present this review highlighting the significant achievements and positive developments within the Easley Small School community. The collective commitment demonstrated by our students and staff has established a strong foundation for continued success.

Despite the challenging change in weather and the expected rise in seasonal illnesses, student attendance has remained commendably high across all year groups. This unwavering dedication to continuous learning is particularly notable. We are proud to specifically celebrate the 133 Easley students who have achieved 100% attendance so far this academic year, underscoring their commitment. We extend our gratitude to all families and students for prioritising education and ensuring absences are reserved only for instances of serious illness.

Our students exhibited outstanding conduct and engagement throughout Module 1. We have observed a marked increase in positive behaviour points awarded, surpassing 5,700, which is over 2000 more than this time last year. This impressive figure reflects the success of our shared commitment to fostering a supportive, respectful, and focused learning environment.

Furthermore, many students were commended for their role as exceptional school ambassadors, demonstrating great maturity and confidence while providing tours for prospective families, and proudly showcasing the Academy's environment. Additionally, it was a delight to get a call from a member of the public who wanted us to commend the three Easley students who gave their place up on a bus for a person with a pushchair. This is an excellent example of showing respect to others, and having integrity when in the community.

The start of the academic year has brought significant transitions and notable progress across our key stages. Year 7 students have integrated seamlessly into secondary education, displaying inspiring enthusiasm and adaptability in their new environment. Their smooth transition bodes well for their future academic careers at Easley.

Simultaneously, our Year 10 students have embarked on their rigorous GCSE courses with commendable diligence and focus. Their determination in these early stages is crucial, recognising that the GCSE journey is a marathon requiring sustained effort and solid habits. We urge them to maintain this positive momentum.

A special mention goes to Ava, Year 7 who will be taking part in the filming of a show based on a Harry Potter novel, named "The Dark Train". We are incredibly proud of her and with her the best of luck in her exciting venture!

As the holiday period approaches, we encourage all students to use this time strategically. We ask them to return with all functional stationery and uniform items, including essential spares, to guarantee they are fully equipped for Module 2. Furthermore, the completion of holiday homework is vital for reinforcing the knowledge acquired to date. Most importantly, we hope that all students take this necessary time to rest, recharge, and enjoy the break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back energised for another exciting module.

In all their efforts, we encourage our students to remember the words of pioneering scientist Annie Easley: "Don't let anyone deter you from achieving your goal." Each students needs to individually ensure that they are being the best version of themselves by trying their hardest in every lesson, every day.

Have a lovely holiday and we look forward to welcoming you back for Module 2.

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

Franklin students have had a fantastic start to the 2025-26 academic year. It has been a delight to see our Year 7 students settling in so well, and relishing every opportunity that the Academy provides. Meanwhile, our Year 11 students have shown great determination and maturity with their attendance to early morning and afternoon interventions, highlighting a drive to do the best that they can.

In total, Franklin students have already achieved over 5,600 achievement points. This is a substantial 2,000 more points than at this point last year. Jessica (8) has individually gained 46 positive points, and is the highest achiever in the Academy. Jayden (8), Ajao (8), Maliha (9), and Haya K (8), have also been rewarded with over 35 praise points in this module. This commitment to learning and effort in all that they have done underpins self-management, the Approach to Learning that we have been focusing on during tutor sessions throughout this module. Those students that have been commended for their efforts this module in the Principal’s tea have been Olivia (10), Kamsi (8), Jayden (8), Tillie (8), Victoria (11), Zahra (7), Sasha (9) and Jessica (8).

Self-management was also evident for all those students who achieved 100% attendance certificates from last year. Research consistently shows that students with good attendance tend to earn higher grades and more money in future careers, as well as staying on track socially, and emotionally. Those tutor groups that can be congratulated so far on their excellent attendance record are 10F2, 11F1, 7F1 and a special mention should be made to 11F2 who have received the accolade of highest attendance with Franklin on two consecutive weeks during this module.

This module has also seen the Academy welcoming many of our prospective students and families into the building for our Open Evening and Mornings. Franklin students have once again been exceptional touring the building and explaining about what it is to be a Halley student. The feedback from every single family was glowing about the calibre of our ambassadors, so well done to all of those students who played a role in these events. Well done to all of our newly elected student ambassadors: Jimi (7), Chloe (7), Sofiyullahi (8), Jadyen (8), Maliha (9), Marsha (9), Rayhanath (10), Laila (10, Emmanuella (11) and Naomi (11). Special mentions to Dara (10) and Victoria (11), who are also two of our school prefects. Franklin students that have also been nominated as Sports Captains, again displaying their leadership qualities are Amelia (7), Rebekah (7), Jayden (8), Henry (8), Celina (9), Taylor (9), Sasha(9), Rebecca (10), and Anisah (11).

Finally, we would like to make a special mention to one of our Year 11 students, Victoria, who has been volunteering with the British Red Cross across a number of years, outside of the Academy. This October, Victoria was invited the National Youth Conference which gave allowed her the opportunity to connect with over 100 young leaders from across the UK. What an incredible opportunity and accomplishment for Victoria!

Thank you as always to all the wonderful staff within the Franklin team. We are all excited to see how the positive start to this module continues throughout the academic year ahead.

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

We’ve had a brilliant beginning to the academic year as our new Year 12 cohort have made an outstanding start to their Hawking Sixth Form journey. They’ve jumped straight into their studies with enthusiasm, curiosity, and with a true Hawking spirit!

A very warm welcome back to our Year 13 students, too. Now in their final year of school, they are working diligently to secure their next steps — whether that be university, apprenticeships, or employment. We’re proud to see their dedication and focus as they set their sights on their future goals.

Engineering Students Shine at Mansion House

Our T-Level Engineering cohorts in both Year 12 and Year 13 had an incredible opportunity to attend the prestigious “Fellow in the City” event at Mansion House in the City of London. During the event, our Year 13 students delivered a presentation on T-Levels to an esteemed audience that included the newly appointed Fellows of City and Guilds, as well as the former Lord Mayor of London and his team.

The students also attended an enlightening panel discussion on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its potential future applications — a fascinating insight into how technology is shaping industries and careers of tomorrow.

Health Students Learn from a Leading Surgeon

Our T-Level Health students were treated to a captivating visit from Doctor N. Moody, a vascular surgeon who specialises in limb amputation. Doctor Moody delivered an engaging seminar on the importance of communication and relationships between healthcare professionals and patients, highlighting how empathy and dialogue are vital to excellent care.

Students also took part in role-play activities that demonstrated examples of effective, and not-so-effective , communication in clinical settings. It was an inspiring and thought-provoking experience for all involved.

IB Psychology Masterclasses – Striving for Excellence

This module also saw our IB Psychology students take part in a series of masterclasses designed to help them achieve those top grades. These sessions focused on deepening analytical skills, strengthening essay techniques, and exploring real-world applications of psychological theory. Students found the classes both challenging and rewarding, giving them the confidence to push their understanding even further.

Student Leadership Team Announced

We’re thrilled to announce our new student leadership team for this year! Congratulations to Alexandrea, Lee, Lagrace, Bilaal, Marvellous, and Isparsh for being appointed to key positions representing both the Sixth Form and Hawking School. These students will help lead initiatives, support their peers, and embody the values of our school community.

Unifrog Induction – Planning for the Future

Our Year 12 students have also completed their Key Stage 5 Unifrog induction, a fantastic opportunity to start exploring future pathways and goals. Whether it’s university, apprenticeships, or other exciting ventures, Unifrog will be an essential tool in helping them plan their next steps with confidence.

Supporting UCAS Applications

For our Year 13 students, the UCAS application process is now well underway. Staff across the Sixth Form are providing ongoing guidance and one-to-one support to help students perfect their personal statements, finalise their course choices, and submit strong applications to universities and apprenticeship providers. We’re proud of the ambition and focus our students are showing as they plan for their next chapter.

Looking Ahead

As Module 1 draws to a close, we couldn’t be prouder of the energy, effort, and ambition shown by all our Sixth Form students. Here’s to a successful and inspiring year ahead at Hawking School Sixth Form!

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"

Greatness in Greenwich Award Ceremony

Four of our top achieving Year 11 and 13 students from last academic year, Aisha, Mohamed, Hannah and Colombe, attended the Achieving Greatness in Greenwich Award Ceremony at Victoria Hall, Woolwich Town Centre on Wednesday 10th September, hosted by Councillors Anthony Okereke and Adel Khaireh.

This is a prestigious event celebrating the top-achieving students across the Borough. It was an excellent opportunity to connect with other students from across Leigh Academies Trust who were also being celebrated. We are extremely proud of all our students and this was a truly momentous occasion.

Congratulations to you all!

Open Evening & Open Morning Events

Two of the most important events in the Academy calendar took place on Thursday 25th September when we welcomed prospective families to the Academy. We had our largest number of visitors ever to the Academy, with over 500 visitors.

Open Mornings were also held in the following week, with our students acting as fantastic ambassadors for our academy community.

We thoroughly enjoyed meeting our prospective new students and families. Feedback from them was incredibly positive - they really saw the passion of our staff for our learning community, the charm of our building and the quality of our students.

Fellows in the City Event

At the start of the academic year, Mr Cowie, Head of Hawking School, attended the City & Guilds Fellowship in the City event; Engineering, construction and AI. Hosted at Mansion House, and in the attendance of the City & Guilds Vice-Chair and City & Guilds Foundation Chair, Dick Palmer FCGI and Sir Andrew Parmley, representing the Lord Mayor.

Mr Cowie spoke as a panellist speaker representing Leigh Academy Halley, of the challenges of using AI, he went on to say that the UK education system needs to better embed and use AI, learning from other countries like Germany and China where AI is empowering learning.

Polly Rowe, Awards Alumni, Events, Fellowship Awards, Fellowship Network wrote, “A highlight of the event was the presentation by Leigh Academy Halley’s Engineering T Level students, showcasing the talent and ambition of the next generation. Students were able to share some of the projects they have worked on, including a robot lamp which they produced using skills such as welding, wasting and forming metals; and their most recent project of making a mechanical crane which will pull a variety of objects and focus on how to use more complex machinery in engineering alongside AI”.

After the Fellowship Diploma presentations, guests then took part in table discussions, exploring the ethical and practical implications of AI, and writing “Postcards to the Future”, messages of hope and advice for the next generation. These will be proudly displayed in Leigh Academy Halley’s Sixth Form.

Year 11 Futures Fair

All Year 11 students attended a Futures Fair at Woolwich Works on Tuesday 16th September.

The Future Professions Careers Fair is designed to help students explore the many options available to students after Year 11, including the schools, colleges, universities, and apprenticeship providers available in the Greenwich Borough. This was an invaluable opportunity for students to start thinking about their Post-16 journey as they enter this challenging and important academic year.

With GCSEs fast approaching, this was the perfect time for students to begin thinking of their next steps; whether continuing their education, entering an apprenticeship, or exploring other career options, the fair gave them a clearer sense of the opportunities available in Greenwich and beyond to motivate students to focus on their goals during Year 11 to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Black History Month

This October, our Academy proudly celebrates our cultural diversity through Black History Month with the empowering theme "Standing Firm in Power and Pride."

This year’s theme is a powerful tribute to the resilience, strength, and determination of Black individuals and communities throughout history. It reminds us that Black history is not defined solely by struggle, but also by pride, courage, creativity, and leadership.

To mark the occasion, our Student Leadership Team led a series of inspiring assemblies across all small schools, engaging their peers in meaningful reflections on the significance of Black history and identity. Around the academy, beautiful displays in the library and corridors showcase key figures, stories, and moments that reflect the richness and diversity of Black heritage.

The theme continues across the curriculum, with each faculty embedding Black history into lessons and activities. These opportunities help deepen our students’ understanding and appreciation of the lasting impact Black individuals have had on culture, science, politics, the arts, and beyond.

Sporting Fixtures

Year 9 Netball

Our Year 9 netball team have once again shown their determination, and quality on the court, looking to build on last year’s excellent performances.

The girls started their season strongly with a 4–0 win against Bexley, thanks to accurate shooting from Marsha and Sabrina, alongside crucial turnovers at the centre pass from defenders Elizabeth, Dahlia, and Lily. Building on this momentum, the team went on to win their next few games comfortably, driven by tireless effort through the centre court from Abi, Mishu, and Taylor.

It was also fantastic to see Felicia, Yasmine, and Kahye take to the court, maintaining the same high standard of play, and contributing to the team’s improved level of performance throughout the tournament.

A tough challenge came against a strong Mascalls Academy side. The girls led for most of the match, however, were unlucky to concede in the final seconds, finishing with a draw. Undeterred, the team lifted their game and secured comfortable victories in the remaining group matches. Knowing it would come down to goal difference, the girls gave everything in their final group game, winning 9–0 in just seven minutes. Despite this incredible effort, it wasn’t quite enough to win the group, and the team finished in 2nd place.

This set up a play-off for 3rd and 4th place against Hundred of Hoo Academy. Determined to finish strongly, the girls fought hard and went into half-time level at 4–4. Unfortunately, in the second half, they were unable to take the win, finishing in 4th place overall.

The girls should be extremely proud of their effort, teamwork and the way they represented the academy. Their commitment and spirit throughout the competition has been outstanding, and the progress shown is a credit to all involved.

Year 10 Netball

Our Year 10 netball team showed fantastic determination and growth in this year’s competition, with some players experiencing their first taste of competitive netball, while others drew on experience from their second or third tournaments.

Arriving focused and well-prepared, the girls made a strong start, securing wins against Bexley Academy and LA Ebbsfleet. They then faced tough challenges against LA Wilmington and LA Minster, however, refused to let these setbacks affect their spirit. Showing resilience, they finished with a well-earned draw in their final game.

The team grew in confidence and quality throughout the day, improving with each match and taking feedback on board positively. A special mention must go to the defensive unit of Zainab, Azeezat and Rebecca, who made numerous interceptions and applied constant pressure to their opponents.

The full squad — Zainab, Azeezat, Rebecca, Dara, Libby, Harley, Tyler, Daisy, Tia and Pebbles — should all be proud of their performances and the way they represented the academy with commitment and determination.

Congratulations to our Student Leadership Team

We are proud to announce, and congratulate the newly appointed members of our Student Leadership Team for the 2025/2026 academic year. Following a competitive and thoughtful selection process, these Year 12 students have been chosen to represent their peers and help lead our school community forward.

Head Students - Alexandrea & Lee
Deputy Head Students - Cyaren & Bilaal
Prefects - Marvellous & Isparsh D

Whether serving as Head Students, Deputies, Prefects, or Ambassadors, each member of the team will play a vital role in amplifying the student voice, and shaping a positive and inclusive school environment.

Student leaders will work closely with staff, lead important initiatives, and represent the academy at events both within and beyond the school. Their responsibilities include, promoting student well-being, supporting learning, fostering school spirit, and helping build strong connections with the wider community.

On Friday 10th October 2025, we had the first meeting to welcome our Student Leaders. We look forward to the energy, creativity, and dedication they will bring to their roles.

Jamie's Farm

For the third year, students from Years 8 and 9 visited Jamie's Farm; they made the much anticipated journey to Hereford on Monday 6th October, and spent the week getting stuck into farm life. The group were actively involved in a variety of farm-based activities including feeding the animals, looking after the horses, harvesting vegetables from the garden, and collecting apples from the orchard. The students also took part in cooking meals for the group, preparing delicious homemade pizzas and breakfast together. Comments from students upon their return demonstrated how they were inspired by country life. One student stated that their new ambition is to be a chicken farmer, whilst another declared that they will move out of the city when they grow up. The whole experience has been truly inspiring for students and staff.

Year 11 Information Evening

This event took place on Wednesday 17th September where families were provided with details on strategies, plans and resources that we have in place to support all the Year 11 students leading to their mock exams at the end of Module 2 and eventually the GCSEs in the summer of 2026. During the evening families had the opportunity to hear from the Directors of Learning and Directors of Progress who were able to discuss more specific details about the curriculum offer, assessments, progress and the interventions available in the respective subject areas.

Positively You Sessions

Positively You is the UKs leading provider of educational workshops and resources. For over 20 years they have inspired students to achieve their potential in their academic, professional and personal lives.

On Tuesday 23rd September, in an “Exam Buster” session, Year 11 and 13 left the workshop feeling empowered, enriched and motivated to advance their learning using the following tools and techniques they learned: manage exam stress, adopt effective revision and memory strategies, and build positive attitudes toward learning and exams.

Chromebook Introductory Sessions

In the second week of Module 1, all Year 7 students were equipped with Chromebooks, marking an exciting essential addition to their academic journey. All students participated in an introductory session focused on safely navigating Google Classroom, both at home and in lessons. It's been wonderful to witness their enthusiasm as they dive into their studies, making great use of the Google Classroom platform to enhance their learning experience. Students have been using Chromebooks to support their learning in and out of the classroom, helping them to stay organised and ensure home learning is completed on time.

All Year 7 students will be working towards their Google Workspace Skills Level 1 as part of their Information Technology curriculum and will continue to do so throughout the year, further supporting their development in digital literacy.

Year 11 Intervention Programme

The Year 11 Intervention Programme officially launched on Monday, September 22nd. This crucial programme is designed to provide students with the very best support as they prepare for their mock exams in December and, ultimately, their GCSEs in June 2026.

Intervention sessions run daily, offering targeted support either before school at 7:45 am or after school from 3:10 pm. In addition to these focused sessions, students also receive further interventions during the academy day, with teachers providing specific support and feedback, particularly within their lessons.

Students completed unit assessments across their subjects. Crucially, they have been provided with detailed feedback on these assessments and have already had opportunities to actively improve their work. This cycle of assessment, feedback, and refinement during interventions is key to solidifying their understanding and boosting their performance. We look forward to a successful and productive Year 11.

STEM Hub & Engineering Club

The STEM and Engineering Clubs have launched enthusiastically this academic year, offering a wide range of exciting, hands-on activities designed to inspire curiosity and deepen students’ understanding of scientific and engineering concepts. Through these sessions, students have been developing key transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking.

In the STEM Club, students have explored the science behind every day phenomena by making ice cream to investigate its chemical processes, and designed gingerbread men to understand genetics and inheritance. They have also conducted fitness experiments to study the relationship between exercise and body response, and used coding software to compose digital music, integrating technology with creativity.

Meanwhile, in the Engineering Club, students have been completing the final stages of their racing car project, preparing it for upcoming inter-school competitions. In addition, they have been developing precision and design skills by constructing buzz wires and experimenting with laser cutters to create intricate shapes and models.

Both clubs continue to provide an engaging platform for students to apply their classroom learning in innovative and practical ways, nurturing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers.

Royal Society Rocket Optimisation Project

The STEM Hub is delighted to announce that it has successfully secured a £3,000 grant to launch an exciting new initiative, the Model Rocket Optimisation Project, aimed at inspiring and engaging students in Years 7 and 8. This innovative project will combine principles of physics, engineering, and computer science to give students a hands-on experience in real-world STEM applications.

Currently, the project is in its planning phase, with the STEM Hub working closely alongside our valued partners at the Engineering Department of King’s College London. Together, we are developing a comprehensive and holistic plan to ensure the project provides both educational depth and practical engagement.

Throughout the programme, students will work collaboratively in teams to design, construct, and test model solid-fuel rockets, applying their understanding of aerodynamics, propulsion, and material science. Each rocket will be launched and optimised using coding programs, allowing students to explore the integration of engineering design with computational technology.

The project will culminate in a school-wide competition, where the best-performing team will earn the honour of representing the school at the Young Engineers stand during the 2026 Royal Society Science Exhibition. This prestigious opportunity will allow our students to showcase their innovation and technical skills on a national stage, inspiring others and celebrating the power of STEM education in action.

Gardening Club

Green shoots are already appearing (literally for the micro herbs planted in October!) for our new gardening club.

Relaunched in September, after a gap of several years, the weekly club is organised by Ms Milligan working with Mr Azarkan, Ms Murch and Ms Penn.

The gardening club is a great way to develop teamwork skills, promote hands-on learning and connect with nature through fun.

Activities to date include collecting and planting seeds, clearing a vegetable bed ready for spring replanting, taking and potting cuttings and sowing microgreens. By growing our own vegetables and fruits, we aim to improve the students' understanding of where their food comes from, and the work involved in producing it

Aedan, a Year 7 student said: “The Gardening Club is a great opportunity to admire the wonders of plants, flowers and more. You dig down and help out in the garden, finding potatoes, tomatoes, plums and much more. If you’re interested in gardening, whether you've got a garden or not, join the Gardening Club now - you’ll love it!”

New members are always welcome - we are looking forward to seeing our Gardening Club grow!

Bee Colony at Leigh Academy Halley

July saw the arrival of a new bee colony at the Leigh Academy Halley, kindly donated to us by our beekeeping mentors at Ruxley Beekeepers. The colony has spent the summer settling in and building up stores of food for the winter months.

The last few winters have seen massive losses in bee colonies across the country, and no one is really sure why. We lost our last colony over winter, so are keeping everything crossed for this new one. If all goes well we should be able to take a honey crop at some point next year.

Students and staff are always welcome to join beekeeping club - during the active season we inspect the hive on a weekly basis to check that all is well, make and repair the hives and hive parts, and process the honey ready for sale.

Year 10 & 11 GCSE Performing Arts Trip to ABBA Voyage

To further support Year 10 & 11 GCSE Performing Art students' GCSE Drama and Music qualification, they travelled to the Queen Elizbeth Olympic Park, ABBA Arena on Wednesday 15th October to see the production of ABBA Voyage.

The aim of this trip was for students to understand what is involved in a production of this scale. Drama students gain inspiration for their Unit 2, and Music students gather invaluable evidence for their listening Diaries, as part of their Music Technical Award.

Guardian News Trip

Students from 7EN5 had a fantastic day at the Guardian Newspaper Headquarters in Kings Cross, London, on Monday 13th October. As part of a 2 hour, award-winning, "Behind the Headlines" workshop, students learned how to compose an effective front page as well as how journalists choose stories, select key images to support those stories, and discussed how headlines are written to grab the attention of the reader. They then put this learning into action and created their own front page, exploring current affairs and writing the newspaper articles which focus on these. Students worked fantastically throughout the day; their behaviour in central London, as well as their focus throughout the workshop, was a credit to the school.

This trip supports student's understanding of the Middle Years Programme (MYP) characteristics and develops the MYP Approaches to Learning principles, which promote independence and critical thinking skills. The day provided an opportunity to explore current affairs, using imagination and creativity in learning, investigating, and offering personal views about moral and ethical issues.

Reading Lab at Leigh Academy Halley

The Reading Lab resumed at Leigh Academy Halley on Tuesday 30th September. The Reading Lab is a bespoke 1:3 intervention, led by experienced tutors from the Children's Literacy Charity. The tutors attended the Academy every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday throughout Module 1. Our new tutors are Kevin Heaney and Allie Stewart. Last year, students made fantastic progress on the programme and we look forward to celebrating the success of this first cohort in Module 2.

Year 11 Prom Committee Update

Plans are underway for the Year 11 Prom 2026. The Prom Committee efficiently ran a cake bake sale this module which were a great success. The event raised £150 which will go towards extras like decorations and refreshments for the Year 11 Prom in June next year.

Thank you to everyone who donated cakes or bought some sweet treats during these events, we couldn't do it without you!

Parental Teaching & Learning Workshop

It was wonderful to see so many parents attend our first Teaching and Learning Workshop of the year. Our Lead Practitioners facilitated this session, which provides parents/carers with practical advice on supporting students’ academic engagement at home, our homework expectations and the use of Knowledge Organisers. Thank you to all who attended and continue to play such an important role in our students’ success.

We host one of these workshops every module, so look at for more information about the next workshop in this series, if you would like to attend!

Stationery Shop

A stationery shop is available to support families in ensuring students are fully equipped for their learning, without the inconvenience of sourcing items outside of school. By offering affordable stationery onsite, students will be able to arrive at class with the equipment required so that they can successfully engage in lessons, supporting their academic success.

Stationery is available to purchase from the library between 8.10-8.25am and during break time each day.

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