Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope this letter finds you well.

I would like to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your continued support and engagement with our academy. It has been another excellent week filled with opportunities for our students to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

This week has been particularly vibrant, bringing with it many reasons to celebrate. We had the pleasure of hosting our Korean visitors, which provided an extraordinary opportunity for cultural exchange. Our students actively participated in various activities, and it was heartening to witness everyone fully embracing this enriching experience. Such interactions are invaluable in fostering a global perspective among our pupils and enhancing their understanding of diverse cultures.

Additionally, our Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) department had a curriculum review on Tuesday, conducted by Leigh Academies Trust. This proved to be a resounding success, and I would like to extend my sincerest gratitude to the MFL team for their dedication and hard work during this busy period. Their commitment to excellence is evident and contributes immensely to the vibrant language learning environment we strive to provide.

I am also thrilled to report the remarkable success of our Year 11 pupils in Hospitality and Catering. We have particularly large cohorts completing this course this year, and our students have risen to the occasion, overcoming challenges with resilience and flair. Under the expert guidance of our experienced team, they have produced an array of delightful dishes that highlight their culinary skills. I commend each pupil for their creativity, hard work, and determination. Well done to all involved!

We also extend a huge congratulations to our Year 13 pupils for completing a further set of mock examinations this week. Well done to all involved for showing such resilience and strength throughout this challenging period.

In addition to our academic and cultural achievements, our students have been actively participating in sports, including basketball, swimming, and girls' football fixtures. The energy and enthusiasm displayed by our pupils during these activities have been commendable. Moreover, today saw the organisation of two successful trips, further adding to what has been a dynamic and action-packed week at our academy.

As we look ahead, next week promises to be equally engaging. We have scheduled further curriculum reviews in both Art and Literacy, and we eagerly anticipate showcasing the very best of our students' work across these areas. The insights gained from these sessions are vital in helping us provide the highest quality education.

We also warmly welcome parents to our Parent Voice Forum taking place on Tuesday at 6pm. Please come along to share and discuss your opinions on a range of matters. We look forward to seeing you there. Additionally, on Wednesday, we will welcome our Strood Board to the academy for a learning walk. Finally, I wish to remind you that on Thursday, we will be hosting our Year 8 Parents’ Evening from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. This is an excellent opportunity for you to engage in discussions regarding your child’s progress and development. I encourage all parents to attend, as your involvement is crucial in supporting your child’s educational journey.

Lastly, I would like to remind you that Friday will be our INSET day. Please note that the last day of Module 3 is Thursday, 13th February, and the academy will only be open to staff on Friday, 14th February, as we conduct our annual Trust INSET day. This day is vital for our staff’s professional development, allowing us to uphold the high educational standards we are committed to delivering.

As we approach the weekend, I wish you a restful and enjoyable break. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education.

Best wishes,

Mr Jon Richardson
Principal

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.