Dear Parents/Carers,

Happy New Year!

I hope you have all enjoyed a restful Christmas break and are feeling refreshed and ready for the new module ahead. It is a pleasure to reconnect and share some updates from Strood Academy. This week has been filled with energy and enthusiasm as our pupils and staff have wholeheartedly embraced academy life. They have hit the ground running, building upon the strong momentum established in Modules 1 and 2. It is inspiring to see our school community so engaged and committed to their learning.

Throughout this week, I have taken the opportunity to visit numerous lessons across the academy. I am delighted to report that the level of engagement and participation from our pupils is exceptional. Their commitment to their studies and the positive attitudes they display are a true credit to them, highlighting the values we uphold at Strood Academy. It is heartening to see students actively involved in their learning and supporting one another in a collaborative environment.

Earlier this week, I communicated with you regarding our procedures in the event of adverse weather conditions. While we will always strive to ensure the smooth running of the academy, I kindly remind you to refer back to that letter should any unforeseen circumstances arise. Keeping you informed and ensuring the safety and well-being of our pupils is of utmost importance to us.

https://stroodacademy.org.uk/adverse-weather/ 

We are particularly proud of our Year 13 students who returned to the academy this week to undertake their external examinations. I have been impressed by how they have approached these challenges with calmness and maturity, demonstrating the highest levels of resilience. Their ability to stay focused and dedicated during this crucial period is commendable and sets a wonderful example for their peers.

Additionally, our Year 11 pupils are thriving in their intervention sessions. They are working tirelessly to address gaps in their knowledge identified during their recent mock examinations. The commitment they are showing is exemplary, and it is encouraging to witness their determination to improve and excel. I encourage all parents and carers to continue to support their children in making the most of these valuable opportunities for learning and development.

Congratulations to everyone for an excellent start to Module 3! Your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. As we move forward, we look forward to welcoming you all back on Monday at 8:00 am. Please remember that the main gates will close promptly at 8:30 am to ensure we begin the day on time.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a restful and enjoyable weekend. Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we work together to ensure the best possible outcomes for our pupils.

Yours sincerely,

Jon Richardson

Principal

Strood Academy

STRUCTURE OF THE DAY 

ATTENDANCE

As we approach the midway point of the second year of Vision 2028, we take this opportunity to reflect on the significant strides we have made as a community. Together, we have worked tirelessly to create a nurturing and dynamic environment that supports our students in every aspect of their education and development.

One of our key achievements has been the successful introduction and embedding of essential routines that provide structure and consistency for our students. Morning line-ups, for instance, have helped instill a sense of discipline and readiness for the day ahead, while the implementation of an effective assembly protocol has fostered a collective sense of purpose and belonging. These routines are now integral to the fabric of our school culture, setting a strong foundation for learning and personal growth.

Equally, we have focused on enriching our students’ experiences beyond the classroom. By offering a wide array of lunchtime and after-school clubs and activities, we have encouraged students to explore their interests, develop their talents, and build confidence. From sports teams and creative arts workshops to academic enrichment sessions, these extracurricular opportunities have not only cultivated a love for learning but also strengthened our sense of community and teamwork.

In addition, we have taken significant steps to enhance communication and collaboration with parents and carers, recognizing their vital role in our students’ success. Events such as face-to-face Parents’ Evenings and Parent Voice Forums have created meaningful platforms for dialogue and partnership. These initiatives have allowed us to better understand the needs of our families, celebrate achievements together, and work collaboratively toward common goals.

We are incredibly proud of all we have accomplished so far, and while we acknowledge that we are still at the early stages of our Vision 2028 journey, the progress we have made fills us with optimism and determination. This vision represents our collective ambition to shape a brighter future for our school community, and we are committed to building on these foundations with unwavering focus and dedication.

We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and the milestones we will achieve together. We look forward to celebrating every success, big or small, and to continuing to inspire and empower our students to reach their full potential. The journey is just beginning, and the best is yet to come.