Year 6 Open Evening

Author:

Mrs Bonthron - Assistant Head of Shakespeare College

Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy recently threw open its doors for the Year 6 Open Evening 2025, and the atmosphere was one of electric excitement and warmth. The event was a huge success, packed with prospective students and their families eager to begin the important journey of selecting a secondary school.

The entire evening was designed to give visitors a real, unfiltered feel for what student life is truly like at the academy. The proceedings kicked off with a welcoming address delivered by the Principal, who chatted enthusiastically about the school's ethos, firmly rooted in the core values of Resilience, Responsibility, and Respect. This opening provided a great, easy-to-digest snapshot of the academy's supportive and ambitious spirit.

One of the standout successes of the night was the role played by our current students, who stole the show as tour guides. These student ambassadors took charge, leading small groups through the modern, bustling campus. They proudly showed off everything from the state-of-the-art Science labs to the dedicated college buildings named after inspiring figures. Their friendly demeanor and genuine enthusiasm showcased the supportive, small college model and the positive vibes that permeate the school.

The evening was intensely hands-on. Visitors got stuck in with interactive sessions across all departments. There was serious fun and energy in the Science labs, noise and creativity in the Design Technology workshops, and vibrant activity in the Art rooms. Families were able to witness learning in action, seeing exactly how engaging and enjoyable the Key Stage 3 curriculum can be, while meeting our dedicated teaching staff in a relaxed setting.

To ensure clarity for parents, a dedicated station was set up to address all admissions queries. Staff were on hand to patiently explain the necessary steps, particularly focusing on the mandatory Fair Ability Banding Assessment—a crucial part of the application process.

The turnout was fantastic, and the team was thrilled to showcase the academy's International Baccalaureate curriculum and its supportive environment. The event successfully left prospective families feeling informed, confident, and genuinely enthusiastic about the prospect of joining the Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy community in September 2026.