Dear Parents and Carers,

Thank you for your continued support and engagement with our community at Strood Academy. Your involvement is instrumental in creating an environment where our pupils can thrive, and we greatly appreciate your commitment.

This week has proven to be exceptionally busy at Strood Academy, filled with numerous events and activities that highlight the talents and dedication of our students. We would like to take this opportunity to share some of the significant highlights with you.

Firstly, our pupils took part in the LAT Sports Day earlier this week. It was inspiring to witness them compete with such professionalism and sportsmanship as they represented the academy. Their enthusiasm and determination not only brought home accolades but also showcased the spirit of teamwork and perseverance that we instil in our students.

This Monday marked a memorable experience for our Year 7 pupils, who participated in a Solar System experience. A large dome was set up in our Sports Hall, where pupils were treated to an engaging and informative lecture. The immersive nature of this event allowed students to explore the wonders of space in an exciting yet educational manner, sparking curiosity and encouraging a passion for science.

We were particularly delighted to welcome parents and carers to our Parent Forum on Tuesday. These gatherings are invaluable for fostering communication between the academy and our families. Your comments and suggestions are extremely helpful as we strive for continuous improvement in all areas of the academy. We appreciate your insights, which guide our efforts in ensuring that we provide the best possible education for your children.

On Wednesday, we hosted the Leigh Academies Maths Feast. Our pupils demonstrated remarkable skills and creativity during this event, and their exceptional performance filled us with pride. It is always a joy to see our students rise to challenges and excel in collaborative problem-solving.

Another highlight of Wednesday was our Cultural Fashion Show. It was a vibrant celebration of diversity, as pupils showcased their cultural attire. The energy, passion, and excitement displayed during this event were truly incredible, providing a unique opportunity for students to express their identities and teach one another about their backgrounds. Such events reinforce our commitment to inclusivity and respect within our academy community.

Thursday was a day filled with anticipation as our annual Sports Day took place. It was an exhilarating experience for all involved, with Hercules College emerging victorious once again. The sense of camaraderie and healthy competition amongst students was palpable, and it reminded us all of the importance of unity and shared goals.

That evening, we held our Performing Arts Celebration Evening, which allowed us to shine a spotlight on the incredible talents of our pupils in Dance, Drama, and Music. The dedication and hard work displayed by our students were commendable, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all those who participated. Such events highlight the creative talents of our students and the importance of the arts in fostering a well-rounded education.

As we draw closer to the end of the academic year, we eagerly await the return of our pupils on Monday for our final two days of the module. During Period 6 on Monday, we will honour our Year 9 pupils with an MYP graduation ceremony, recognising their hard work and achievements during their course of study since Year 7. This significant milestone is not only a celebration of their academic progress but also a reflection of their growth as individuals.

On Tuesday, our last day of the school year, we are set to have college reward assemblies designed to celebrate the accomplishments of all our pupils. It is a wonderful time to acknowledge the efforts and successes of every student.

As a gentle reminder, we will conclude the academic year on Tuesday with an early finish at 1:30 pm. 

Finally, we are excited to inform you that our summer newsletter will be published next week. This edition will encapsulate the various successes and events that have transpired throughout the year, serving as a celebration of our community’s hard work and dedication.

Sending best wishes,

Mr Jon Richardson

Principal
Strood Academy

STRUCTURE OF THE DAY 

ATTENDANCE

At Strood Academy, we take great pride in reflecting on the significant progress we have made over the past two years. As we approach the end of this academic year, we remain deeply committed to sustaining the positive changes we’ve embedded and look forward with excitement to the next chapter in our journey towards Vision 2028.

We are especially proud to have maintained and built upon the following key developments:

• Embedding Key Routines
  We have successfully established and maintained key routines—morning line-ups, clear assembly protocols, and smooth transitions between lessons—that help students move with purpose, feel secure, and stay focused on their learning. These routines are now firmly part of our daily culture.

• Challenging 'Culture Killers'
  From improving uniform standards to reducing litter and tackling inappropriate language or disengagement in lessons, we have tackled behaviours that previously undermined our academy culture. High expectations have created a community where students take pride in their conduct and appearance.

• Standardising Homework Expectations
  A consistent and clear approach to homework has supported academic progress and fostered habits of self-discipline. All students now understand what is expected of them and the importance of independent learning.

• Encouraging Extracurricular Engagement
  Our diverse range of lunchtime and after-school activities continues to thrive. These opportunities nurture students’ interests, develop their talents, and support their social growth beyond the classroom.

• Strengthening Parent & Community Relations
  We have prioritised strong, effective communication with parents and the wider community through Weekly Parent Bulletins, social media, and events like Parents’ Evenings, Year 7 Meet the Form Tutor, and Parent Voice Forums. Features such as our ‘Request Call Back’ button and college-specific email addresses have enhanced accessibility and responsiveness.

As we conclude this academic year, we celebrate not only the progress we’ve made but the consistency with which we have sustained it. Looking ahead to Year 3 of Vision 2028, we are more determined than ever to build on this momentum and continue striving for excellence in every aspect of academy life.