Dear Parents and Carers,

Thank you for your continued support and partnership throughout this academic year. Your involvement and encouragement greatly contribute to the success and well-being of our students, and we greatly appreciate the efforts you make to engage with the school community.

As we move swiftly through Module 5, it is important to note that the duration of this module has been especially short due to the two bank holiday Mondays. The momentum for our Year 11 and Year 13 pupils has undoubtedly increased, with students displaying commitment and continued determination with their examinations. The effort and application demonstrated by our students during this busy time is quite remarkable, and it is a testament to their dedication.

In an effort to further support our students, this academic year we have introduced online masterclasses in addition to the various interventions and after-school sessions already in place. These sessions have been excellently received by our pupils, who have engaged with them enthusiastically. Alongside these, our Saturday sessions continue to be popular, providing valuable additional support. I would like to take this opportunity to commend all pupils for their hard work and perseverance. Additionally, a huge thank you goes to our committed staff, who consistently strive to provide the best possible education and support for our students.

Next week marks an exciting milestone for our Year 10 pupils, as they embark on their work experience placements. This invaluable experience offers pupils a unique insight into the working world, enabling them to develop important skills and connections. We are confident that our students will embrace these opportunities and shine during their placements, gaining practical experience that will serve them well in the future.

This week has seen a range of events take place at the school, reflecting our commitment to providing a well-rounded education. Activities have included a rugby tournament earlier in the week, which showcased the sporting talents of our students. Additionally, our Think Forward pupils had the opportunity to participate in a business mentoring trip, which provided them with invaluable insights and networking opportunities. Furthermore, we were pleased to welcome our International Baccalaureate consultant, who is assisting us as we prepare for our reauthorisation process scheduled for January 2026.

Looking ahead, I would like to remind all parents about our upcoming Parent Voice Forum taking place on Tuesday, commencing at 6:00 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents and carers to engage with the school community, share insights, and contribute to discussions that impact our students. We look forward to welcoming as many of you as possible, as your perspectives are greatly valued. The focus of this meeting will be on our pupil rewards and providing information about our newly established Parent, Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA), which aims to enhance the school experience for all students.

Additionally, I would like to remind all parents and carers that next Friday, 23rd June, marks the last day of Module 5. We will be concluding the module at 3:20 PM, after which we will break for the half-term. We will resume school on Monday, 2nd June, to commence Module 6. It is essential that our students return refreshed and ready to engage with the experiences that await them in the coming module.

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable weekend. Thank you once again for your continuous support and engagement with our school community.

Sending best wishes,

Mr Jon Richardson

Principal

Strood Academy

STRUCTURE OF THE DAY 

ATTENDANCE

At Strood Academy, we take pride in reflecting on our progress over the past two years. As we continue our journey towards Vision 2028, we celebrate key achievements that have strengthened our academy’s culture and learning environment.

• Embedding Key Routines: We have established and reinforced routines such as morning line-ups, assembly protocols, and structured transitions between lessons. These ensure students move with purpose, feel safe, and are ready to engage in learning.

• Addressing 'Culture Killers': We have tackled challenges such as poor uniform standards, litter, inappropriate language, and disengaged behavior in lessons. By setting high expectations, we foster a culture where students take pride in their presentation, remain focused in class, and contribute positively to our academy community.

• Standardising Homework Expectations: A consistent approach to homework has been introduced, ensuring all students understand expectations and the value of completing independent study. This supports their academic progress and develops self-discipline.

• Encouraging Extracurricular Engagement: We continue to promote student participation in clubs and activities, both during lunch and after school. By offering a wide range of opportunities, we nurture students' interests, talents, and social development beyond the classroom.

• Strengthening Parent & Community Relations: Effective communication with parents, carers, and the local community has been a priority. Through social media updates, Weekly Parent Bulletins, and events such as Parents’ Evenings, Year 7 Meet the Form Tutor, Parent Voice Forums, and Parental Drop-Ins, we ensure families are engaged in their child’s education. We have also introduced accessible tools like the 'Request Call Back' button and college-specific email addresses to improve communication.

We are proud of the progress we have made and remain committed to further enhancing our academy experience. While there is always more to achieve, we are excited to build on our successes and continue striving for excellence in the years ahead.