Dear Parents/Carers, 

What a remarkable week it has been at our school, filled with a plethora of achievements and enriching experiences that we are excited to share and celebrate as a community.

Firstly, I am absolutely thrilled to announce that last Friday, our talented students secured victory at the Leigh Academies Trust Maths competition. This exceptional achievement is a testament to the hard work, enthusiasm, and determination demonstrated by our pupils as they engaged with challenging mathematical concepts. Their success reflects not only their individual efforts but also the dedication of our fantastic teaching staff who continue to inspire and motivate our students in their academic pursuits.

This week has also seen our Year 12 students actively participating in work experience placements, where they have gained invaluable insights and skills that will undoubtedly benefit them in their future endeavours. The experiences they have gathered are not only vital for their personal growth but also play a significant role in helping them make informed career choices as they transition into adulthood.

Furthermore, the Year 11 geography field trip to Rochester and Strood has been a resounding success. Students engaged in hands-on learning, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. Such practical learning experiences outside the classroom are integral to fostering a deeper understanding of their studies, and I have received positive feedback from both students and staff regarding the impact of the trip.

In our pursuit of academic excellence, we have also focused on assessing reading levels through recent tests. These assessments are crucial in identifying the strengths and areas for improvement for our students. Alongside this, we have conducted a thorough curriculum review in Maths to ensure that we are providing the most effective and stimulating educational experience possible for all our pupils.

A highlight of the week was the recent theatre trip to see Macbeth, which was not only an entertaining outing but also an invaluable cultural experience for our students. Such excursions broaden their horizons and allow them to appreciate the arts, encouraging creativity and critical thinking.

Moreover, our Year 10 students engaged in the Think Forward Business Mentoring programme, which helps them to prepare for their future careers. This initiative introduces them to various industries and professional environments, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the job market. Simultaneously, our girls' team achieved a commendable second place in the LAT Cross Country event, showcasing their hard work and athleticism. It is occasions like these that build resilience among our students.

It was wonderful to see so many parents during our Year 11 mock results afternoon; your support and engagement play a crucial role in the educational journey of your children. The attendance was truly commendable, and I thank you for taking the time to join us and celebrate our students' achievements.

Looking ahead to next week, we are excited to embark on our Community Projects as part of the International Baccalaureate curriculum. This initiative encourages our students to engage with and contribute positively to society, fostering a sense of responsibility and community spirit. We are also hosting the highly anticipated LAT Bake Off, which promises to be a delightful event. I extend my best wishes to all participants as they showcase their culinary talents.

In addition, there will be upcoming engaging Maths sessions for Year 4, Year 5, and Year 6 students, designed to strengthen their foundational skills and enhance their confidence in the subject. The Year 9 options and parents’ evening will also provide an important opportunity for parents and guardians to discuss their child’s academic future, ensuring that they make informed choices about their pathways. Lastly, I would like to remind you that reports for pupils in Years 7, 8, and 9 will be published shortly, providing critical insights into their progress and achievements throughout the academic year.

Thank you for your ongoing support and involvement in our school community. Together, we can continue to foster an environment of learning, growth, and success for all our students, allowing them to reach their full potential.

Yours sincerely,

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.