Key Information

Please ensure you are contacting the Academy via email or text message to alert The Attendance Team if your child is going to be late or will not be attending the Academy that day. Also, please ensure you are advising the attendance team of any appointments your child may have so we can ensure students are in reception at the correct time, ready to be collected. Contact details are listed below:
- - - - Text - 07860054458
        Email and attached medical evidence where possible - attendance@stroodacademy.org
        Phone/ voicemail - 01634 716621
A reminder of uniform expectations shared with all students.
A reminder of Student Code of Conduct.

letters shared - whole school

End of Module Newsletter - Module 2 - shared 20/12/24
Cost of Living Letter - shared 07/01/25
New Year Letter - shared 07/01/25
Adverse Weather - shared 07/01/25

Personal Development Letter - shared 07/01/25
Bikes Letter - shared 07/01/25

Whole school notices

Challenge Partners Success

We are delighted to share with you the full report from our recent visit by Challenge Partners, which has provided us with invaluable insights into our academy's performance and achievements. We are pleased to announce that the academy received a judgement of LEADING in both the areas of Leadership and Quality of Provision. This marks a significant milestone in our journey, as it is the first time we have achieved such a commendable report, highlighting the remarkable strengths we possess as a community. The dedication and hard work of our teaching and administrative staff have clearly shone through, and I am incredibly proud of the effort that everyone has put in. Furthermore, our academy was accredited for an area of excellence in Behaviour and Attitudes, which solidifies the exceptional culture of learning we have fostered, emphasising respect and cooperation among all members of our academy community.

Please find the full report attached here, as well as some of our key highlights from the report. We would highly encourage you to take some time to read through it, as it reflects not only the operational effectiveness of our academy but also the positive experiences of our students.

February Attendance Incentive

We are excited to announce our attendance incentive for this module! There will be a KS3 draw and a KS4 draw on Thursday 13th February, where students have the chance to win a £50 Hangloose voucher or a £30 Gravity voucher (there are two prizes per key stage). Entries are based on 100% attendance for the module and 100% punctuality each week. Good luck to you all!

Literacy Spotlight

Literacy Spotlight! As we begin the new module we would like to take a moment to remind students of the expectation that every student should be reading at home every week. For KS3 students this is mandatory homework, but we expect that KS4 and KS5 students will also choose to read at home. An article from Silicon Valley International School recently stated: "time spent reading is the best indicator of a child’s success in school. It is essential in the development of all language skills, and something your child will access their entire life, no matter what direction their career path brings them." We cannot deny the huge benefit that reading at home has on our children's development- it helps them learn new vocabulary, understanding and mimic correct grammar, and teaches them to be empathetic; it builds their cultural capital and exercises their minds. This is why, at Strood Academy, we ask that your child spends at least 30 minutes reading at home each week. You can get involved by reading with your child; listen to them read, read out loud to them, and talk to each other about what you are both reading. Reading is, honestly, the best thing your child can do to secure their future success.

SAFEGUARDING

Returning to Routines

For some children, the return to education at the end of the school holidays can be a difficult time for a variety of reasons. The start of the new term comes with plenty of challenges, from social worries to the stress of ensuring they’re entirely ready for upcoming lessons and learning.

Of course, these youngsters don’t have to weather these burdens alone, and as parents and educators, we should do all we can to support the children in our care as they head back to school. This guide offers you expert advice on how you can be there for children and young people as they transition back into their school’s routine.

As always the Strood Academy Safeguarding team are here to help. Please get in touch with us by using the below contact details:

Designated Safeguard Lead = Ms Lindsay

Deputy Safeguard Lead = Ms Barlow

College Safeguarding Officers and Contacts:

Victory = Ms Trussell victory@stroodacademy.org

Hercules = Mrs Brice hercules@stroodacademy.org

Trafalgar = Ms Hurley-Sherwood trafalgar@stroodacademy.org

Please note, Strood Academy has a Safeguarding email which is operating both during and outside of school hours- safeguarding@stroodacademy.org. Please reach out to us if there is anything we can do to support.

Kooth and QWELL

Kooth is available in Medway for 10–25-year-olds
QWELL is available in Medway for 18+ year olds

Both Kooth and QWELL support CYP and young adults online in relation to their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

There is the capacity to support MORE children, young people and adults so let’s get the message out!

https://explore.qwell.io/medway/

https://www.kooth.com/

Transition to strood academy

Year 4, 5 and 6 Transition Events

At Strood Academy, we are committed to ensuring a smooth and successful transition for Primary students who are currently in Years 4, 5 and 6 and we believe it is vital to maintain early relationships with both parents and students.

To achieve this, we are running a series of weekly sessions from our subject areas. These will run every Wednesday between 4pm and 5pm. For further information, including the timetable, please see the attached letter.

We look forward to seeing many of you there!

Extra curricular clubs on offer

Year Group Updates

Year 7

Year 7 students have returned from the Christmas break with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, settling back into school life seamlessly. Their energy and engagement in lessons have been commendable, showing a renewed focus and determination to build on their progress from the first term. Many students have demonstrated excellent organizational skills, arriving prepared and eager to learn, while others have shown resilience as they adjust back to the routine. The supportive environment created by both staff and peers has played a significant role in ensuring a smooth transition, fostering a sense of community and belonging that continues to grow stronger. Overall, their commitment and adaptability have been impressive, setting a promising tone for the rest of the academic year.

Year 8

Year 8 students have returned after the Christmas break with maturity and a focused approach to their learning. They have settled back into routines effectively, showing that they are building on the foundations established in their first year. Many have displayed increased confidence in their studies, actively participating in lessons and contributing thoughtful ideas. Their ability to manage their time and responsibilities has been evident, with homework and classwork completed to a high standard. The students are also strengthening their relationships with peers and staff, creating a collaborative and positive atmosphere across the year group. Overall, their strong start after the break reflects their growing independence and readiness to embrace the challenges of the new module.

Year 9

Year 9 students have settled back into school life after the Christmas break with a sense of maturity and focus, demonstrating their readiness for the challenges of Key Stage 4 preparation. They have approached lessons with enthusiasm, showing an eagerness to deepen their understanding and take greater ownership of their learning. Many students have returned with clear goals, participating actively in discussions and displaying strong problem-solving skills. Their ability to balance academic work with extracurricular activities highlights their growing independence and time management capabilities. The year group has also shown a positive attitude toward teamwork and peer support, contributing to a productive and encouraging learning environment. This promising start to the term sets a solid foundation for continued success and personal growth.
We encourage students to begin having conversations, both with teachers and parents and carers at home, regarding GCSE Option Choices and the route they would like to take, which best aligns with their future plans. We will soon be sharing more information regarding Year 9 Parents and Options Evening, where students are able to continue these conversations with their subject teachers.
Duke of Edinburgh Letter - shared 12/11/24

Year 1o

Year 10 students have returned from the Christmas break with a determined mindset, ready to tackle the demands of their GCSE courses. Their focus and commitment in lessons have been evident, with many demonstrating a proactive approach to their studies by seeking clarification and striving for deeper understanding. The year group has shown increased independence, managing their time effectively to meet deadlines and balance their coursework with other responsibilities. Peer collaboration has also been a highlight, with students supporting each other in group tasks and discussions. Overall, Year 10 have settled back into the routine with a mature attitude, laying a strong foundation for continued progress in this pivotal year.

Year 11

Year 11 students have returned from the Christmas break with a clear sense of purpose and determination as they approach the final stages of their GCSE journey. Their focus in lessons has been commendable, with many displaying a strong work ethic and taking greater responsibility for their revision and coursework. Attendance at intervention sessions and after-school study groups has increased, reflecting their commitment to achieving their potential. The year group has shown resilience and a mature approach to managing the pressures of this crucial year, fostering a supportive environment where peers encourage one another to succeed. Overall, Year 11 have settled back into school life with focus and drive, ready to meet the challenges of the module ahead.
Year 11 Interventions - shared 07/01/25

Sixth form

The sixth form students have returned after the Christmas break with a strong sense of focus and determination, particularly as Year 13 prepare for their upcoming mock exams. Both Year 12 and Year 13 have demonstrated a mature and proactive attitude toward their studies, making effective use of independent study time and engaging fully in lessons. Year 13 students, in particular, are showing a clear commitment to their exam preparation, utilizing revision resources and seeking support from teachers where needed. Meanwhile, Year 12 are continuing to build on their progress, embracing the challenges of their A-level or vocational courses with enthusiasm. The supportive and collaborative atmosphere among the sixth form students has been excellent, creating a positive and focused start to the new module.
Attached is the KS5 dress code for your information, as well as Expectations which have been shared with year 12 and 13 students