The Halley's Comment
Issue 23 - Module 2
“Our Academy values - respect, achievement, collaboration, integrity and resilience - permeate everything we do"
A message from Mr Russell, Principal
Writing my contributions to Halley's Comment is always one of the highlights of each module - it gives us a chance to reflect and look back on the fantastic achievements and exciting developments that have occurred across the Academy over the last 6 weeks.
It's been a real pleasure to see students maximise the excellent learning opportunities that their teachers provide every day. Whether during our weekly Values sessions or Small School assemblies, in our extensive extra-curricular programme or Cultural Capital Day trips, or in our well-attended Parental Workshops and Parents' Evenings, this module has seen a wealth of additional experiences that really enrich our students' learning journey.
A particular source of pride for our Academy community this module has been featured in an article in Schools Week magazine, the UK's leading weekly education publication. We were celebrated as the 3rd most improved school in the country, when comparing our Progress 8 score between 2019 and 2023. As part of the article, I had the pleasure of speaking to reporters about how all the collective efforts of students and staff over the last few years, alongside our curriculum of excellence for all, small school model, digital learning opportunities, intervention programme and being part of Leigh Academies Trust, led to significant improvements in the academic performance of our students.
Thanks for your continued support of your child's learning and all that we do here at the Academy. We wish you and your families a very restful and relaxing break and look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.
Mr Russell
Principal
“Those who can imagine anything can create the impossible”
Turing School
The end of module 2 is a time for reflection, for recognising and celebrating our key achievements, and for challenging ourselves by setting new goals for the next calendar year. Turing School recognises the incredible achievements staff and students have made since September of this year. The amazing work of the small school team is always at the forefront of the success of Turing school. I would like to congratulate all the students who have continued to model the values of the academy consistently and have therefore made students in Turing School shine across all year groups.
Throughout module 2, Turing School students and their families received several praise emails from their teachers, small school staff and tutors, celebrating their excellent commitment to learning and attitude around the academy. Turing students have also achieved the completion of 12 award cards in lessons, demonstrating that our students are committed to diligently completing all learning activities to the best of their ability. These two figures alone show that, despite the uncertainty outside of the Academy gates, Turing students continue to flourish across the Academy.
Turing students are positively committed to learning and this is reflected in student attendance; the number of Turing students who are setting the standard by maintaining 100% attendance this year is outstanding.
Individually, our students also continue to astound us with their exceptional talent and brilliance in lessons and the wider community. The following students achieved the highest number of praise points in Turing school; Nahum 7T1 (204), Lucas 7T1 (168), Freida 7T2 (57), Djeissy 8T1 (52), Alex 7T1 (47), Robert 8T2 (44), Enzo 7T2 (44), Levent 7T2 (44), Kristina 7T2 (44) and Marina 7T1 43.
Congratulations to Gintaras in Year 9 who was one of 12 students that took part in the Leigh Academies Trust Cross country event in November. He is a keen long-distance runner and is a member of the football team. Gintaras came 17th out of over 40 competitors. He is excited to take part again next year.
I would also like to congratulate Jeyda in Year 7 and Libby and Callia in Year 8 for having played exceptionally well in a recent girls' football game against John Roan School.
A special mention to Daniel in Year 11 who has successfully completed the bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Turing School will continue to provide its students with the environment and support to thrive. We also get immense pride from the information you provide us about your child and their achievements outside of the Academy, so please do continue to share this with us in the Turing School.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you as parents and carers for your continued support. As the academic year unfolds we will of course strive to keep you, the families, updated with everything that your child has been up to.
If you would like to contact someone from Turing School at any point, please email us at turing@thehalleyacademy.org.uk.
Mr Kamya
Head of Turing School
Easley School
What a wonderful first 2 modules of the 2023-24 academic year. Easley students continue to meet and exceed our highest standards and expectations. Our Year 11 students have stepped up and are currently demonstrating an immense commitment to their studies through the mature and thorough approach to their mock examinations. This series of exams enables them to apply their learning and reflect on the work that still needs to be done to achieve the very best that they can in the summer of 2024. It was wonderful listening to their excited chatter and comparing notes as they left each exam animated and enthusiastic about their studies. The support they have shown for each other has been exceptional and demonstrates how much they value each other. The whole of Easley is behind them and supporting their endeavours every step of the way. If your child has any concerns, worries, or questions about the examinations they can speak to a member of the Easley team or their subject teachers.
Our Year 7 students have settled extremely well and it already feels like they have been Halley students forever! They have made friends, both in Easley and the rest of the year group and we are excited about the potential they have already shown. It has been fantastic to see how quickly they have settled and grown in confidence. As a cohort, they have shone in their kind consideration of others and engagement with their teachers and the Easley team. The attendance of the Year 7 Easley students has been exceptional and surpassed all national markers. This is a key indicator of their enjoyment and commitment to school, as well as a marker of how much progress they will make in the future.
It is always a pleasure to celebrate individual achievements and recognise the students who have embodied both the values of The Halley Academy and the Easley motto; “You can be anything you want to, but you have to work at it.” Baker, Oliver, Arman, Felicia, Ansh, Gabrielius, Sevan, Istabya, Alisdair and Zain have all completed award cards during module 2. Well done to each of these students.
I would also like to recognise our students who have received the highest number of praise home emails this academic year. I know that parents and carers really value and appreciate the congratulatory messages home from teachers. Arman, Baker, Felicia, Istabya, Sevan, Zain, Ansh, Lexi, Elizabeth, Georgia-Rose, Olamide, Lily, Olivia, Melvin and Adam have been our highest earners of positive emails, with over 35 each.
We would like to thank all of our parents and carers who continue to work positively with us to ensure that all of our students make great progress and are happy at the Academy. It was a pleasure to see so many parents at the Year 10 Parents’ Evening this module and the Year 11 Open Evenings, as well as welcoming families with children in other year groups to our parent forum.
The Easley Team wishes you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and look forward to continuing to work with you and your children in 2024.
If you would like to contact the Easley Small School then please do so by emailing easleyschool@thehalleyacademy.org.uk.
Mrs Cronin
Head of Easley School
“You can do anything you want to, but you have to work at it”
“All that is necessary is the belief that by doing our best we shall come nearer to success and that success ..... is worth attaining”
Franklin School
As module 2 comes to a close, we are provided with a unique opportunity to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students. The past weeks have been filled with moments of triumph, progress, and community spirit that truly embody the spirit of Rosalind Franklin.
It has been pleasing to see so much of the work of Franklin students embody the mantra upon which our Small School is founded - “by doing our best, we come closer to success”. Well done to all those students who have achieved high commitment to learning scores in their academic studies, or who have achieved personal milestones during the last module. Our top achieving Award Card holders illustrate the power of being driven consistently by the pursuit of high standards: Taylor F (7F2), Arsen S (7F1), Ola J (7F2) and Leo F (7F1).
Franklin School students have also played a positive and significant role in our wider school community, showing a commitment not only to their own learning and personal development but also to the betterment of others. It has been a real delight to celebrate the community achievements of our current Franklin School students. Of particular note, two of our Year 10 students were highly commended by a member of the public during this module who, when faced with a critical situation, acted with incredible compassion. Their quick thinking and assistance to a member of the public in distress demonstrates the true spirit of community and care. The actions of Micah (10F1) and Sid 10F2 exemplify the values of an IB learner.
Every day we are committed to delivering the best we can in academic support and pastoral care to all of our students to drive forward their success and successful transition into adulthood. We would like to thank you for all your work and efforts as parents and carers in this module in strengthening the home-school partnership. It has been a real pleasure to meet so many of you at our successful Year 10 Parents Evening and Year 11 Open Evenings over the last few months. As the academic year unfolds we will of course strive to keep you, the families, updated with everything that your child has been up to.
In the words of Rosalind Franklin, "Science and everyday life cannot and should not be separated." Let us carry this wisdom forward as we continue to learn, grow, and thrive together.
As we approach the festive season, we wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
If you would like to contact the Franklin Small School then please do so by emailing franklin@thehalleyacademy.org.uk.
Mrs Parsons
Head of Franklin School
Hawking School
As we reflect on the accomplishments of the second module, it's clear that our community continues to thrive. From outstanding Year 13 mock examinations to exciting cultural capital experiences, the past weeks have been a busy run-up to Christmas indeed.
Year 13 Mock Examinations: Preparation and Determination
The successful run of Year 13 mock examinations marked a significant milestone in our students' academic journey. It was not merely a test of knowledge but a demonstration of the hard work, dedication, and resilience exhibited by our students. Their commitment to mastering the subjects was evident, and it's with pride that we commend them on their exemplary behaviours and high attendance. These mock exams not only serve as a vital practice for the upcoming final examinations but also vital for providing robust information for UCAS applications, Post-18 next steps and information for their teachers to guide future lessons.
Inaugural Student Government Meeting: Shaping the Future Leaders
The inaugural meeting of the student government was a great occasion that showcased the emerging leaders within our student body. The meeting was filled with enthusiasm as students engaged in thoughtful discussions, proposed innovative ideas, and demonstrated their passion for shaping a positive school environment. The establishment of the student government is a step towards fostering student involvement, leadership, and a sense of community. We look forward to witnessing the impact these young leaders will have on the Hawking School and the wider Academy community.
Cultural Capital Day: Exploring Future Opportunities
A highlight of this module was the Cultural Capital Day, where all Year 12 students had the chance to visit either the University of East London or the University of Greenwich. This immersive experience allowed our students to explore potential future academic endeavours, understand university life, and gain valuable insights into different career paths. Such opportunities are invaluable in broadening horizons and empowering our students to make informed decisions about their educational and professional journeys.
Launch of 'Opportunities' Folder: Guiding Sixth Formers Towards Success
In line with our commitment to providing holistic support, we are thrilled to announce the launch of the 'Opportunities' folder on the Independent Study Google Classroom. This comprehensive resource will serve as a centralised hub, keeping all sixth-formers informed about upcoming work experience opportunities, university visits, seminars and so much more! We believe that access to such information is key to empowering our students to make informed decisions about their future paths, be it in further education or the workforce.
For more information on Hawking Small School, please visit our website where you can access our prospectus and application platform. If you would like to contact the Hawking Small School then please do so by emailing hawking@thehalleyacademy.org.uk.
Mr Cowie
Head of Hawking School
"Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet"
Little Fish Theatre Company
On the 7th November, Year 9 students watched and took part in a social awareness production by The Little Fish Theatre company. The performance explored relevant themes, ranging from consent to safe use of social media. All of our students actively engaged in the themes, sometimes to the extent of challenging their own views. This was due partially to the interactive nature of the production, whereby the performance would pause for an audience-based discussion. Through actively incorporating discussion throughout the production, the students were able to develop their communication and active citizenship skills which are paramount to entering the modern world. Hung, a Year 9 student commented: “The play was funny and made sense to us. It was about things we needed to know to keep us safe online”.
Year 10 Parents' Evening
On 16th November we had the Year 10 Parents’ Evening, the first one of this academic year. We were excited to welcome over 70% of families, where we were able to have positive and productive conversations about how parents can best support their child with their Key Stage 4 studies. We are looking forward to hosting future Parents' Evening events for other year groups in the New Year.
Year 11 Information Evening
On 21st November, Year 11 families attended The Halley Academy for a Year 11 information evening. Families had an opportunity to talk to individual Directors of Learning about the support in the form of intervention sessions and revision resources that are available for students as they prepare for their mock examinations and GCSE examinations.
During the evening, the Academy shared key dates leading to GCSEs with families, strategies to support Year 11 students at home, and the in-school pastoral support available to students as they complete their GCSE studies.
Sparx Reader Launch
Following the success experienced by students using Sparx Maths, we also partnered with Sparx to use their new reading platform, Sparx Reader.
Sparx Reader is a reading, comprehension and vocabulary programme that gets young people reading regularly to help improve their literacy. Students are set the task of reading a book of their choice on the platform each week. Students need to collect 300 SRP per week to complete their homework; this equates to around 30 minutes of slow, concise and accurate reading per week. SRP points, or Sparx Reader Points, are awarded to students for completing their homework. Students will also compete in form groups to collect the most SRP points.
Students who are new to Sparx Reader are given a selection of carefully selected e-books that they can work through over several weeks. This allows us to understand whether they are able to read carefully and are motivated to independently finish a book. Those who demonstrate they can do this will then be able to add their own books to the system.
6th Form Open Evening
On the 23rd November, we held our Sixth Form Open Evening. It was a great showcase of our outstanding Post-16 provision that we hope left parents and prospective students inspired and excited about the possibilities ahead. The evening unfolded as a testament to our commitment to providing diverse and exceptional educational pathways.
One of the highlights of the evening was to present on our extensive range of pathways, catering to the diverse interests and ambitions of our students:
The International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IB CP) stood out as a beacon of academic excellence and global perspective, offering a unique blend of rigorous academics and practical, real-world skills. Prospective students and parents alike were captivated by the prospect of a holistic and internationally recognized education that prepares students for success in both higher education and the workforce.
For those with a keen focus on academic pursuits, the Academic-only pathway of IB courses beckoned, promising a deep dive into a wide array of subjects. The breadth and depth of our academic curriculum were on full display, showcasing the richness of knowledge and the nurturing environment that defines Hawking School's post-16 provision.
The Vocational-only pathway emerged as a dynamic option for students eager to embark on a more hands-on and practical educational journey. The integration of vocational skills with theoretical knowledge received enthusiastic applause from attendees, highlighting our commitment to preparing students for the demands of the professional world.
The T-Levels pathway added another layer of excitement to the evening. These innovative, employer-backed qualifications were presented as a bridge between education and industry, offering students a direct route into skilled employment, higher-level apprenticeships, or further study. The emphasis on real-world application and industry relevance resonated with both students and their families, reflecting our dedication to staying at the forefront of educational advancements.
Cultural Capital Day
In the last week of term, Halley students journeyed onto the platforms of local train stations on their various adventures to museums, galleries, football stadiums and theatres across London. On Cultural Capital Days, our usual timetable is suspended as all students get the experience to participate in an exciting array of enriching extracurricular activities and visits.
Students in Years 7, 8 and 9, despite the cold temperatures, fully immersed themselves into their different cultural experiences. On the day, a total of 16 trips were organised and set off. Students visited the famous Chislehurst caves, home to many South-East London residents during the World War Two blitz. Complimenting this theme, other students visited the even more famous HMS Belfast and the Imperial War Museum London, while 60 students attended the theatre to see The Lion King and Noises Off.
In school, Year 10 participated in Speak Out! workshops led by the Speakers Trust. Year 12 students enjoyed university visits to Greenwich and East London, whilst Year 13 students benefited from a UCAS and Apprenticeship Day at the Academy.
We were also delighted to host over 60 Year 5 students from Kidbrooke Park Primary school, who departed us after a day of STEM, Food Technology and PE activities, thoroughly enthused and keen to return to us in Year 7 for more of the same from 2025.
Visual Arts
The Halley Academy Visual Arts team has been focused on improving the curriculum to enhance students' experience and knowledge of these important subjects. We have launched a new spiral curriculum, where artistic concepts and skills are repeated in order to be embedded more rigorously. In Year 11 Art, students have been given the starting theme of ‘Broken’ and then independently developed their ideas about links to sub-themes such as mental health, relationships, body image, and conflict. Our Year 12 IB Visual Art students have taken part in several skills workshops to develop their use of different art media and techniques, which will now feed into their project ‘Human Condition’. Whilst in Key Stage 3, as part of their Middle Years Programme, students have completed a homework research project that links artists, genres and themes together. We are extremely proud of our students’work across all of these projects, and look forward to these being showcased in our brand new Visual and Performing Arts Centre, which will be opened in Spring 2024.
Parental Teaching & Learning Workshop
The focus for our Teaching and Learning Workshop this module was questioning. Over 28 families joined us to discover the ways in which we challenge and question within our class teaching.
The session also addressed examples of the challenging questions that we face within the classroom and at home, guiding how to best respond. Our parents and career were also introduced to our tutor programme and Values curriculum, in which we cover the statutory taught RSE lessons.
Breakfast with the Principal
Baker 7E2, Arman 7E2, Lucas 7T1 and Nahum 7T1 achieved Gold Medal Awards in module 1 and to celebrate this wonderful achievement, an invitation was extended to the students and parents to Breakfast with the Principal on Friday 8th December. A Gold Medal Award is a culmination of award marks. Award marks are given by teachers and support staff where students produce work of a high standard, demonstrate a positive commitment to learning, contribute significantly to the Academy community through acts of kindness or demonstrate The Halley Academy values and characteristics. When a student completes their 6th award card in the academic year they are invited, with their family to breakfast with the Principal.
Congratulations to you all for such a fantastic achievement!
Infinity Hub
Students in the Infinity Hub have had a very busy and productive time throughout module 2. Work at Roots for Life continues whereby we investigate all things nature. We also experienced a fantastic cooking workshop where we explored healthy treats to create over Christmas. Fruit kebabs with chocolate and sprinkles along with chocolate truffles were very popular! We look forward to our continued flourishing relationship with Roots for Life in the future.
The Infinity Hub was also lucky enough to visit Lewisham Police Station. Apart from being very excited to look at the Police cars, we also met the Police horses at the back of Lewisham Police Station where there are horse stables. These hard-working, strong horses are used within the police force for several reasons which vary from football matches and marches in London to formal events with the Royal Family!
We loved meeting all the horses and hearing about how hard they work and how much work it is for the police officers to care for and keep the horses healthy. We also got to look in the tac room at the equipment needed for these wonderful animals to carry out their duties.
Thank you to all the staff who work with our Infinity Hub students, we enjoy seeing the students progress throughout each term and this term has been fantastic!
Sporting Fixtures
Students from across key stages competed in a range of competitive sporting fixtures against schools in both the borough and across Leigh Academies Trust.
Both the Year 8 boys and Year 7/8 girls' football teams triumphed with victories in the Blackheath Cup against St Mary Magdalene and John Roan respectively. The girls convincingly beat their opponent 6-1 whilst the boys' fixture was a closer affair. However, the boys dug deep, beating the opposing team 3-1 on penalties. All students involved showcased their resilience, strength, determination and collaboration on their way to victory.
In addition to the footballing successes, the students representing the academy in the LAT cross country championships excelled with their efforts and competitiveness in what was a highly contested competition. Overall the academy placed 5th (boys) and 7th (girls) in the competition. Amongst our competitors, we had 1st place in the Year 8 girls competition, 2nd place in the Year 7 boys' competition, 5th in the Year 7 girls' competition, 4th in the Year 10 boys' competition as well as many other top 20 finishers.
Congratulations to all those involved in these successes throughout module 2; not only do these victories represent our competitive nature but they demonstrate that when hard work is put in the rewards soon follow. We are looking forward to celebrating further in module 3 where students will participate in new sporting challenges.
Year 7/ 8 Girls' Football
Celina, Dahlia, Marsha, Hannah, Libby, Jeyda, Fatima, LeWhat, Sasha, Callia and Tyler.
Year 8 Boys' Football
Owen, Samrat, Seth, Fortune, Dareck, Yumilson, Moses, Ola, Zekran, Simi (1 Assist), Olly, Rokeeb + (1 Assist), Devonte and Giuseppe.
LAT Cross Country Championships
Sabrina, Ola, Libby, Giuseppe, Olly, Joy, Gintaras, Sidney, Abdullah and Aymric.
STEM Club
This module, STEM club members have studied the chemistry behind fireworks, challenged themselves with intriguing maths puzzles, looked at car safety modifications, considered what features a tree needs to withstand strong winds and modelled different methods animals employ to survive in cold conditions.
GiSTEM
This module, Ms Matuta introduced GiSTEM, a club for girls interested in STEM subjects. The intention is for the club to be largely student driven; Ms Matuta and the members are currently planning what they would like to do first, so watch this space for further details!
Greenpower Racing
The final touches are being put to the car, ready for race entries next year. The team are currently working on ways to recruit more team members, as well as going through the car's construction and checking all of the parameters against the F24 scrutineers list to ensure that on race day the car will be compliant. If you are aged between 11 and 16 inclusive, and want to be a part of the race team (with the opportunity to drive in national events), speak with Mr Mensah and he will be happy to assist.
Bee Club
The Halley bees are now tucked up in their hive for the winter months. The hive will remain undisturbed (apart from a very quick check once a month) until spring time. This doesn’t mean that the bee club members have nothing to do though - they have been as busy as the proverbial bees making new frames for next year, and participating in a number of bee themed crafts.
Eco Schools
Mr van der Linden is currently deep in preparations to relaunch the EcoSchools project. More details will be available next module - in the meantime please speak to Mr van der Linden or Miss Milligan if you would like to be involved.
STEM Outreach
Mr Mensah and other members of the STEM team hosted 60 Year 5 students from our neighbour, Kidbrooke Park Primary school for some fun and exciting STEM activities as part of our Cultural Capital day in the last week of the module. This is the first of many such opportunities for our local primary students to come in and experience how exciting STEM is.