Dear Parents and Carers,

As we move further into the spring term, I wanted to share some updates on how our students are progressing and highlight some of the new opportunities available to them here at Leigh Academy Mascalls.

It has been wonderful to see our students enjoying the new benches recently installed under the covered seating space on the Quad. This addition has proved particularly timely given the unsettled weather we have experienced this week; it is heartening to see the space being utilised so effectively as a social hub, even when the clouds gather. On that note, may I take this opportunity to remind parents and carers to ensure their children come to school with a waterproof coat. As you are aware, we are an open campus, and students must move between buildings for their various subjects. With the recent heavy rain, those without coats are arriving at lessons cold and wet, which is naturally a distraction to their learning. We want to ensure every student remains comfortable and ready to focus throughout the day.

I am also pleased to announce the launch of our Homework Hub. Located in A8 (the Nightingale Room), this dedicated space is available every lunchtime for students to complete assignments or find a calm, focused environment for revision. We have already had a number of students utilising the space, and it is led by Mr Jegede and staffed by our Lead Practitioners and Heads of Department to offer high-level professional support. Beyond just finishing tasks, we are using this space to foster independent learning. The ability to self-regulate, manage time, and solve problems autonomously is a vital skill. It builds the academic "stamina" required for later success, and we encourage all students to take ownership of their progress by utilising this provision.

Regarding academic progress, our latest reports will be released via the MCAS app next week. For Years 7–9, these MYP reports show current assessment results. As students will not have a full set of data until the end of Module 4, these provide an initial insight into their progress. Please encourage your child to share their Performance Portfolio with you to review their reflections and assessment criteria in preparation for their next assessments. Students in Years 10 and 12 will receive current and forecast grades based on their performance during the first term. Please review these with your child and emphasise the importance of independent study. Effectively using online platforms for recall and retrieval practice is essential for success in final exams; our reviewed homework policy highlights this focus on establishing the best routines to ensure students reach their full potential. For Year 11 and 13, mock results and forecasts are already available on the app, with a further report to be issued following the next round of mock exams. At this stage, revision plans should focus on targeted recall and addressing weaker areas identified through mock results and teacher feedback. If you have any questions regarding academic progress, please use the college email address provided on each report.

On the sporting front, we are committed to developing our rugby provision at the academy and have some exciting opportunities I will be sharing over the coming weeks. While we have incredible talent here, turnout has been low over the past two weeks (perhaps exacerbated by the dreary Mondays and dark evenings). To reignite interest, the PE Department is hosting a Six Nations Tournament on Monday 2nd February. This is open to Year 7 and Year 8 students only, including both new players and those who play for clubs outside of school and is being supported by some of our older students who are players for local clubs and the academy historically. The event will run from 2:10 PM (Period 5) until 4:00 PM. Students must be signed up via the sheet on their PE Google Classroom to attend, so please do encourage your child to get involved, it is a great opportunity to try something new and be part of a team.

Thank you for your continued support in helping our students stay prepared and active.

Mrs Brooks 

Principal