Term 6 Newsletter

Cornwallis academy

End of year message from Mrs McMahon

Dear parents/carers,

As we reach the end of another academic year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the journey we've shared and to thank each and every member of our school community.

This year has been filled with achievements and countless moments of growth. From academic successes and sporting triumphs to school performances, trips, and community projects—our students have continually demonstrated their Cornwallis ‘SMILE’. I am so proud of all they have accomplished.

I’d also like to extend my deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff, whose passion and commitment continue to make our school a nurturing and inspiring place to learn. Thank you to our parents and carers as well, for your ongoing support and partnership throughout the year.

Wishing you all a safe, restful, and joyful summer break. We look forward to welcoming our new Year 7 and 12 students on Wednesday 3rd September and the rest of the school on Thursday 4th September.

Kind regards,

Mrs McMahon

Headteacher

Term 1 Key Dates

3rd September - Year 7 & 12 Return

4th September - Whole School Return

4th September - Year 7 CATS Testing (P1&P2)

17th September - Naples Trip

Friday 19th September - Non Uniform Day (Jeans for Genes)

26th September - Macmillan Coffee Morning

30th September - Year 11 Sociology IWM Trip

1st October - Open Evening (early finish for students at 12.15pm)

3rd October - European Day of Languages

6th October - Year 12 Parliament Trip

7th and 8th October - Open Morning

7th October - Year 10 Aim a Little Higher Day

9th October - Year 7 'Meet the Tutor' Evening (4.30-6.30pm)

10th October - Whole School Photos

14th and 15th October - Open Morning

14th October - Year 8 & 9 Wakehurst Trip

15th October - Year 13 Parents' Evening (3.45-6.00pm)

16th October - Year 11 Music Performance (4.30pm)

16th October - Last day of Term

Message from the School Office

Cornwallis Academy is now closed for the summer holidays. We will re-open to our Year 7 and Year 12 students on Wednesday 3rd September 2025. All other year groups will return on Thursday 4th September 2025.

Below are useful email addresses, should you need to contact someone urgently during the break:

To alert us about a safeguarding issue: safeguarding@cornwallisacademy.com

For any IT issues: helpdesk@futureschoolstrust.com

To report an absence: attendance@cornwallisacademy.com

To contact us regarding an In Year Admission: iyca@cornwallisacademy.com

Message from the Exams office

Summer 2025 examination results day collection information for GCE and GCSE see below:-

Thursday 14th August 2025:- GCE – Results collection

The GCE ‘statement of results’ will be released on Thursday 14th August 2025. Students will have their results emailed to them.

Should the student have any queries or concerns regarding results and university placements they are welcome to come in and see the team, who will be available between 9.30am and 11am on the same day from the Heart Space.

If you are a year 12 student, we will have the results hardcopy held in the exams office for you to collect at the start of the new academic year.

Thursday 21st August 2025: - GCSE – Results collection

The GCSE ‘statement of results’ will be released on Thursday 21st August 2025. Students will be able to collect their results between 9.30am and 11.30am from the Sports Hall.

Please can you remind the student that their results can only be released to them personally, if they are unable to collect, they may send a representative with a named authorised letter giving their permission for that person to collect them on their behalf. ID for that representative will need to be shown. This applies to both GCSE and GCE results collection.

If you have any queries or questions, please do not hesitate to contact our Exams Officer Mrs Wooding on mwooding@cornmwallisacademy.com

House Points

September Uniform - Tie Update

Uniform plays a key role in reinforcing the values of our school, and ensuring all students wear the correct tie for their year group helps maintain a clear sense of structure, unity, and belonging.

As you will already be aware, we’re delighted to be able to provide students in Years 9 to 11 with their new school tie at the start of the new academic year in September.

Tie Colours by Year Group (from September 2025):

Year 7 – Lilac
Year 8 – White
Year 9 – Pink
Year 10 – Blue
Year 11 – Yellow

When students arrive for their first day of term on Thursday 4th September, our Year 9–11 students (current 8-10) are to arrive at school on their first day wearing their current tie. During form time, new ties will be distributed, and each student will be asked to sign to confirm they have received one.

This system ensures we can track distribution and maintain fairness for all students. We trust you will support us in this initiative by encouraging your child to continue taking pride in their appearance and in representing the school positively.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Mr King - tking@cornwallisacademy.com

The uniform policy is available on our website School Uniform - Cornwallis Academy.

Classroom Champions

What a fantastic end to the academic year! We are so proud of all of our students and everything they have achieved. Please click on the link for our final instalment of Classroom Champions:

https://cornwallis.greenhousecms.co.uk/docs/imported/Classroom-Champions-2324/Classroom_Champions_-_End_of_Term_6.pdf

Duke Of Edinburgh - Bronze Expedition

Term 6 saw our Year 9 Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award students complete their Expedition section. In June students undertook a Practice Expedition around Harrietsham to develop their map reading, navigation, and camping skills.

This was followed by their Qualifying Expedition in July, which took place around Wye and Chilham, crossing much of the beautiful Kent countryside along the North Downs Way and Pilgrim’s Way. Students walked approximately 12km each day carrying their own supplies, and equipment, cooking their own meals at the campsite, demonstrating excellent progress in their DofE skills.

I am pleased to announce that all students successfully passed their Expedition section. Hopefully, many of these students will enrol into the Silver Award in the new academic year.

Year 8 are now invited to enrol into the Bronze Award, to start in September 2025. They can collect a letter from Mr Clapp or sign up here https://forms.office.com/e/jKaG5KvZfd

Year 10 And 12 Work Experience

For the last week and a half of this term our Year 10 and 12 students have gone out into the wide world of work and have an array of placements from building design to dog grooming, the ever popular primary schools, hairdressers, tea rooms, restaurants, Kent County Council and car garages, they really are all over Kent! Students have embraced these new opportunities and feedback from employers has been amazing. Thank you as always to all of the parents, carers and friends of school that have accepted our students on placements as it is an invaluable taste of the real world. We look forward to reading all about their adventures in their work experience diaries.

Art Summer Exhibition

We have reached that time in the year when we celebrate the talents of our students as all the work comes together in the Summer Exhibition.

This year it was exciting to welcome visitors via our new Creative Corridor with its vivid portrayal of British cultural diversity in both the Visual and Performing Arts.

Students from year 11 GCSE, Year 13 A Level and Year 7, 8 and 9 Art Scholarship showed work across four rooms. Ninety-four students showcased two hundred pieces of their most accomplished paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, and sculptures.

We saw models and photography inspired by the work of Tim Burton. Paintings responding to the themes of Dreams and Remembrance and sculptures exploring Power and Frailty.

Every year the variety and originality thrills visitors who remarked how good it was to see KS3 at the start of their Artistic development, alongside our incredibly talented A Level students, who themselves were not so long ago, starting out in secondary school.

It is with sadness therefore that our best wishes go to our year 13s as they start a new phase in their life. To our Year 11, we hope to see you back in the department in September and wish a fond farewell to students who are leaving us.

Thankyou to parents and families for supporting and helping us to celebrate the achievements of our young people.

We will see you all again in 2026.

The Art Department.

Year 12 Reward Trip

On Friday the 4th of July we took 40 of our Year 12 students to Thorpe Park for our annual summer rewards trip. Students were nominated for this trip by staff for either academic excellence, impressive work ethic or for always embracing the school ethos of SMILE. The sun was shining and the water rides were calling! Everyone had a fantastic time, many giant teddies were won and most of us returned somewhat ‘sunkissed’! Well done to the students for an excellent and productive first year of Sixth Form.

Enrichment Week

We are delighted to share highlights from our exciting Enrichment Week, which took place from Monday 14th to Wednesday 16th July. This special week gave students in Years 7 to 9 the opportunity to step outside of their usual timetable and take part in a variety of enriching and inspiring activities.

Students were invited to choose from a wide selection of workshops, trips, and creative experiences, all designed to develop new skills, build confidence, encourage teamwork, and spark curiosity beyond the classroom. Whether exploring the arts, taking on physical challenges, or diving into digital creativity, every pupil had a chance to find something they loved.

Some of the fantastic activities on offer included:

Bracelet & Jewellery Making
Bucket Hat Making
Celebration Cake Making
Digital Design
Film, Games and Chill Out Day
Fishing Trip
International Film Day
Laser Tag
Maidstone United Football Academy
Make an Insect House
Music Day
Show in a Week
Spanish Day
Thorpe Park Trip
Water Colour Illustration
Water Sports Activity Day
Wellbeing Day

It was wonderful to see so many students engaging enthusiastically, stepping out of their comfort zones, and trying something new. From the excitement of Thorpe Park to the creativity of Water Colour Illustration, every activity offered a memorable experience that contributed to our students’ personal growth and wellbeing.

A huge thank you to our staff for their incredible work in planning and delivering such a diverse range of activities — and of course, to our students for making the week so enjoyable and positive.

We look forward to making next year’s Enrichment Week even bigger and better!

Year 12 Careers Day

Our annual Year 12 Careers day took place on Wednesday the 2nd of July. Students engaged in sessions for University, Apprenticeships and Money Matters. They also received a talk from Anthony Bennett ‘The Miracle Man’ who demonstrated what it is to persevere and be resilient as well as seizing opportunities in life, students were very moved by his life story and had many questions for him afterwards. Again, our students engaged in all sessions thoroughly and went away with invaluable information and much to think about for their next steps.

E-waste warriors

Earlier this year, Cornwallis students took part in the KCC’s ‘e-Waste Warriors’ project. The aim of the project was to educate students in the art of repair rather than simply wasting. As part of the project, students made a small games console and completed tasks about effective recycling and repairing techniques. We also had pink recycling bins on-site for our families to safely dispose of any unwanted electrical goods. Within our cluster, we came 2nd for the weight of electronics recycled! Well done to all those that supported us in the project.

Year 6 Transition Days

On Thursday 3rd and Friday 4th July, Cornwallis Academy proudly welcomed the new Year 7 cohort for their two-day induction experience. All 240 students joined us full of energy and excitement, ready to begin their journey into secondary school life.

Over the two days, the students took part in a range of taster lessons across different subjects. Many were particularly eager to sample the food on offer in our canteen – a definite highlight for some! They also completed an orienteering activity, helping them to explore the school site and gain confidence navigating their new surroundings.

Each student spent valuable time with their form tutor, starting to build positive relationships that will be central to their pastoral support. Form tutors are the first point of contact for our students and play a vital role in helping them settle and thrive at Cornwallis.

In addition, the new Year 7s had the chance to meet Headteacher Mrs McMahon and their Head of Year, Mr Spurling, during a formal assembly. They also began forming new friendships, which we hope will flourish in the months ahead.

We were incredibly impressed with their behaviour, enthusiasm, and eagerness to get involved. It was particularly lovely to see students engaging in science experiments and throwing themselves into life at Cornwallis.

Our new Year 10 prefects were also on hand to support throughout the two days. They were an absolute credit to the school – helping in classrooms, guiding students through routines, and offering a friendly face at break and lunch.

Everyone left with the Cornwallis smile and a real sense of excitement for the year ahead. We can't wait to welcome them back in September!

A Night Of Musical Talent – Our Annual Music Showcase

Our annual Music Showcase was a fantastic success, with students from Years 7 to 10 performing a wide variety of songs to a packed audience of family and friends.

The evening opened with a powerful set from the Year 9 Band, who performed Back to Black, 505, and Otherside. The newly formed Year 7 & 8 Band made their exciting debut, confidently playing Believer, Umbrella, and Chasing Cars. Despite a few nerves, the group thoroughly enjoyed their first time on stage and made a great impression. The event concluded with a high-energy performance from the Year 10 Band, featuring Read My Mind, Beat It, Paranoid, and Crazy Train.

In between band sets, students showcased their individual talents with solo performances on vocals, guitar, drums, and more. It was a joy to witness the variety of styles and the dedication of each performer.

A huge well done to all the students involved: Amber, Betty, Noah, George, Olive, Mia, Gracie, Ruby, Victoria, Cadence, Mason, Oscar, Gabriel, Tommy, Vinnie, Monty, Emily, Jason, Alex, and Duke.

Thank you to everyone who came along to support – it was a truly memorable evening of music and talent!

Year 12 Induction Day

On the 26th and 27th of June we welcomed our prospective sixth formers for their induction days. Students were able to attend lessons for the subjects on offer to help with decisions for September. We welcomed many new students to Cornwallis including our new Basketball Academy applicants through the Kent Panthers. On the second day we had lots of fun with a team activity at Maidstone Hollywood Bowl where students could mingle and make new friends. The students were all fabulously behaved and we look forward to welcoming them in September as our new Year 12’s!

Sports Day Success

What a fantastic day we had for Sports Day on Friday 11th July! Under a blazing summer sun, our students were absolutely immaculate — not only in their uniform, but in their attitude, sportsmanship, and athletic talent.

The day kicked off with some old-school favourites, including inflatable horse racing, tug of war, and a crowd-pleasing gladiator-style challenge where students battled to knock each other off podiums — much to the delight of teachers and spectators alike!

Throughout the day, students took part in a wide range of events, from traditional track and field races to competitive house tournaments in rounders, netball, football, and ping pong. The inflatable obstacle course added a brilliant mix of fun and friendly rivalry.

The relay races were a real highlight, with some outstanding performances and electric energy as houses cheered on their runners with enthusiasm and pride.

After a day full of teamwork, competition, and celebration, it was Hanson House who emerged victorious — congratulations to all involved, and a special well done to Mr Lewis!

A huge thank you to all staff and students who made the day such a success. Here's to next year!

To view this terms sports reports, please click here!

Geography Trips

Year 12 Geography trip to London

In June, the A level Geographers spent the day exploring London as part of their course. Visiting locations such as Hays Galleria, Canary Wharf, Brick Land and Spitalfields they investigated 'what makes a place' and also the impacts of regeneration on 'place'. Students enjoyed their London experience and came home with a range of ideas for their forthcoming independent investigations.

Year 10 GCSE Geography fieldtrips

Our GCSE Geographers have completed the fieldwork component of their course - visiting two different locations.

On their visit to Coxheath, they investigated the possible impacts of new housing developments on the area and enjoyed assessing the varying environmental quality within our local area. All students showed great resilience on what was a very hot day - completing the long, but beautiful walk with smiles on their faces!

At Herne Bay, they investigated whether coastal management impacted on natural coastal processes - carrying out several fieldwork techniques on the beach and also assessing how effective the different types of management were. Fieldwork continued despite the rain - followed by fish, chips and ice cream on the promenade.

Swanage Trip

After much anticipation, 40 students travelled to Dorset for the 2025 Geography enrichment trip. The weather was perfect for a weekend of outdoor adventures - including coasteering, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, tunnelling, target sports and team building games.

We also had the opportunity to visit Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove - looking at coastal processes and landforms. Geography in action!

The students demonstrated determination and resilience, supporting each other through some challenging activities. They also worked well as a team - particularly in the staff versus students water fight...

Thanks to Ms Eloff, Mr Mortimer and Mr Baker for their support and hard work.

Year 12 Globe Theatre Trip

On Tuesday the 17th of June we took 25 Year 12 English A Level students to Shakespeare’s Globe in London to see a performance of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible. It was a scorching day and students were captivated by the play which was both dynamic and moving. Seeing this play on stage strengthened their understanding of the art of playwrights and enhanced their knowledge of contextual factors and issues of the set time. Our Year 12’s were impeccably behaved and thoroughly enjoyed their day out.

Canterbury Festival of Languages and Cultures -University Of Kent Trip

Our Year 8 language students had a fantastic day at the University of Kent, taking part in a variety of multicultural and multilingual activities.

Workshops included Japanese origami, French gastronomy, beginners’ sessions in Mandarin and Italian as well as Brazilian samba to name but a few.

They were also treated to Spanish paella at lunch!

Onatti Spanish Production

Last week, our Year 8 Spanish students watched a Spanish performance delivered by the International Theatre company, Onatti.

All students thoroughly enjoyed watching the production. The play was interactive, funny and involved the audience throughout.

Special mention to Ed and James who took part in the play on stage and became Spanish actors for the afternoon!

A Day To remember: My Coronation Experience

This year, I was honoured to receive a Coronation Medal in recognition of my volunteer work with Team London as part of King Charles III Coronation in May 2023.

I first volunteered for the major events team as a member of Girlguiding during the lead up to the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, helping visitors navigate around the city and pay their respects. When the opportunity came to volunteer again for the Coronation of King Charles III, I jumped at the chance to be part of such a historic moment.

Our team was based at St Martin-in-the-Fields church and worked in the Leicester Square area, assisting the public so they could make the most of the occasion. One of the highlights was meeting Dr Debbie Weekes-Bernard, London’s Deputy Mayor for Communities and Social Justice, who thanked us personally for our contribution.

It was an unforgettable experience, and I’m proud to have played a small part in such a significant national celebration.

Mrs Rawlins

Teacher of Design & Technology & Head of Linton House

The Cornwallis Purple Award

Leading on from our extremely successful Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award for students, Mr Clapp organised a ‘Purple Event’ for staff which involved walking the Surrey Three Peaks – a challenging 35km round trip.

On the 7th of June, 2025, eleven intrepid explorers left Cornwallis Academy full of hope and expectation, box fresh walking shoes, brand new waterproofs and bags full of wine gums. Led by the indefatigable Mr Clapp, they started the first leg of the peaks; a challenging 14km walk to the summit of Leith Hill. The weather, at this point, was lovely.

Very soon, the undeterred explorers arrived at the second hill: Holmbury Hill. This beast of a hill was essentially like an SAS training ground with the added bonus of beautiful flora and fauna, which we clung to as we grappled to the top of the second peak.

Sitting at the top of Holmbury Hill, enjoying the beautiful views, we soon observed the dark and brooding clouds as they ominously crept upon us. The creeping didn’t last long as the heavens opened…and stayed open for the next six hours!

Holmbury Hill to Box Hill was a soggy slog which sapped our energy and enthusiasm. It was difficult to remain chipper when soaked through to the skin!

Finally, we rounded the corner to Box Hill feeling satisfied, relieved and proud. Buoyed by this experience, we are now endeavouring, in 2026, to take the Purple Award to Eryri (Snowdon).

We send our huge appreciation to Mr Clapp for taking a throw away comment about ‘going for a walk’ and transforming it into an amazing day where challenges were overcome and memories were definitely made.

Cornwallis Academy’s Women's Euros 2025 Extravaganza

Welcome to our first Cornwallis Academy’s Women’s Euros 2025 Extravaganza update for Matchday 1 and 2.

The competition started well for Norway and Finland, who both won their opening games against some tough opposition but unfortunately for the hosts (Switzerland), the support of the home fans could not stop a first game defeat.

The usual strong European teams such as Italy (beating my Tutor Group’s team in this competition) and Spain showed their dominance in their opening games but it was the World champions Spain that showed why they are favourites with a 5 – 0 win over their neighbours (Portugal).

On Friday, Sweden and Germany also took all 3 points in their Groups with comfortable wins over Denmark and Poland.

Unfortunately, Saturday was not a ‘Super Saturday’ as both England and Wales lost their opening games – this meant it would make it tougher for both to now qualify and with the added pressure that they have to play each other too in their final Group game.

Matchday 2 started with another win for Norway and some better news for the hosts, who beat Iceland and subsequently, knocked them out.

Spain continued with their dominance and beat Belgium 6 – 2, meaning my Tutor Group (7GR) have been knocked out of the Cornwallis Academy’s Women’s Euro 2025 Extravaganza ☹ already. Despite going down to 10 players, Portugal picked up a valuable point against Italy, which might give them a slim chance of making the next round.

On Tuesday, both Germany and Sweden made it 2 wins out of 2 by beating Denmark and Poland. Unfortunately, this also meant that both Denmark and Poland are now eliminated.

And finally…our Lionesses showed why they are the current Champions and still strong contenders to retain their title after a 4 – 0 win against Netherlands. This result means that if they beat Wales on Sunday, they will be through to the next round.

A different story though for Wales, who are now on the brink of elimination following their 4 – 1 loss to France.

Good luck to those teams and Tutor Groups still in with a chance during the final Group games over the next few days.

Kind regards,

Mr G Robinson

Year 7 Bulletin

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach the end of the academic year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the successes of our Year 7 students, share important updates, and provide essential information for the start of the new school year in September.

We are incredibly proud of how well Year 7 have adapted to secondary school life. From the very beginning of the year, they have demonstrated maturity, resilience, and a fantastic attitude to learning. Across the year, behaviour in lessons, around school, and during extra-curricular activities has been consistently impressive. The vast majority of students have upheld our school values and shown mutual respect, responsibility, and readiness to learn. Staff have regularly commented on how polite, engaged, and supportive this year group is – a true credit to themselves and to you as parents and carers.

We thank you for your continued support at home, which has helped reinforce these positive behaviours and create a truly nurturing environment for learning and development.

We finished the academic year in the best possible way with an action-packed Enrichment Week and thrilling Sports Day! From creative workshops, team-building adventures to exciting theme-park trips, Enrichment Week gave the students an opportunity to try something new! Sports Day brought out the team spirit and friendly competition across all of our Houses. It was fantastic to see students compete across multiple activities and races in a bid to be House Champions. Thank you to all staff who helped organise such a fun and memorable week, and to parents and carers for supporting your children in participating fully.

As we prepare for Year 8 in September, I wanted to inform you that there will be some slight changes to our tutor groups which is outlined below:

· 8CE – Mrs Eloff

· 8FJ – Miss Johnson

· 8GR – Mr Robinson

· 8JM – Mrs Monk

· 8RQ – Mrs Quinlan (Mrs Holmes on a Tuesday)

· 8SC – Mr Cracknell

· 8MS – Ms Sangster (Mr Henry on a Friday)

· 8KC – Mr Capeling

Thank you to the outgoing form tutors for their dedication throughout the year and a warm welcome the new staff who are excited to continue supporting your child in their journey in Year 8.

A reminder that students are expected to return to school in full uniform and in line with our uniform policy, which includes:

Blazer: Black school blazer with logo
Shirt: Plain white, buttoned to the collar
Tie: Year group tie (white stripe)
Trousers/Skirt: Plain black formal trousers or school skirt
Shoes: Plain black (no trainers or branded footwear)

Please ensure all items are clearly labelled with your child’s name. For a full uniform list, please visit our school website or contact the main office.

I was thrilled to celebrate the success of some of our top-performing and most dedicated students. The following pupils have been selected for awards in our end-of-year celebration assembly:

SMILE Awards

Successful

Ophelia M

Emily B

Julia M

Kayra S

Amalie A

Motivation

Lukas B

Isla W

William B

Amelia L

Scarlett L

Inspired

Isla B

Mara C

Caelan C

Luke E

Honey J

Learning

Adam A

James P

George H

Liam E

Gio M

Excited and Engaged

Millie C

Leighton B

Gabriel H

Katie K

Tyler M

Form Tutor Awards

7CE

Cadence W – Outstanding attendance and punctuality

Josh M – Outstanding attitudes to learning

7FSI

Liam B – Outstanding work ethic and dedication

Isabelle S – Outstanding work ethic and dedication

7GR

Isabel G – Outstanding contributions to school life

William B – Outstanding contributions to school life

7JM

Ricky D – Outstanding attitudes to learning

Layla S– Outstanding work ethic and dedication

7KC

Isla B – Outstanding attitudes to learning

Scott M – Outstanding dedication and focus

7MS

Andrid I– Outstanding attitudes to learning

Evie L – Outstanding attitudes to learning

7RQ

Heath V– Outstanding attitudes to learning

Francesca L – Outstanding attitudes to learning

7SC

Izzy M - Outstanding attitudes to learning

Lewis R - Outstanding attitudes to learning

Year Team Awards

Student Support Manager

Ethan H – Continually demonstrating the SMILE ethos

Rosie S – Outstanding work ethic and dedication

Head of Year

Mason Q – Outstanding work ethic and dedication

Millie H – Outstanding attitudes to learning

Headteacher Award

Lukas B - For being a role model to others

Congratulations to these students and to the entire year group for their effort and achievements throughout the year.

Key Dates

Inset Days: Monday 1st and Tuesday 2nd September 2024

Start of Term 1 for Year 9: Thursday 4th September 2024

End of Term 1: Friday 24th October 2024

We wish you and your family a restful, safe, and sunny summer break. Thank you for your continued support throughout Year 7 – we look forward to welcoming your child back as a confident, enthusiastic Year 8 student in September.

Mr King & Miss Edwards

Year 8 Bulletin

Dear Year 8 families,

This is the last opportunity I have to contact you all before the end of year 8. I am again overwhelmed with how quickly the year has passed and how quickly your children have grown up. Throughout the year, most students have turned 13 and become teenagers, they have significantly matured in lessons and around the school and most students, are now taller than me!

We have had such a busy year learning which culminated, at the start of June, in end of year examinations. You will have recently received the end of year reports showing your child’s grades in each area of the curriculum. Please do contact us if you have any questions regarding the reports or any concerns about their progress. So many of the students have done really well with their examinations and are exceeding their minimum expected target grade. Please pass on congratulations from the year team and their teachers.

There has been lots taking place this term within our languages department. A selection of year 8 students visited the university of Kent for a Festival of Languages. They took part in workshops where they learnt about some Origami and some Mandarin. Over the two days students were impeccably behaved and such a positive representation for the Academy. Also we had external guests in school to perform a play where students spent a Spanish lesson in the lecture theatre understanding languages in a real life environment.

A number of students participated in sporting activities representing Cornwallis Academy in athletics competitions and a rounders tournament. It is so nice to see so many of our students involved in sport and enjoying being part of the school community. Trials for scholarship also took place this term, congratulations to those who were successful in football, art and Dance.

Last week students were able to showcase their skills in a Performing Arts evening. There was music, drama and dance performances and many parents were able to see the skills developed across the year.

Epraise has been used by staff and students all year, so many of our cohort have been awarded with house points and so many prizes have been purchased from the EPraise shop. Throughout the year we have also been rewarding students weekly for being outstanding in lessons and for their positive attendance. Next week I will be holding an awards assembly where I will give out the final awards to year 8. Please see below at who has won this terms awards.

SMILE Awards

Successful Award

Ava A- For success within academic studies

Tyler B - For success within academic studies

Layla-Mae B - For success within academic studies

Olly R- For success within academic studies

Matilda M - For success within academic studies

Motivation Award

Bethany C- For being motivated within academic studies

Kevin C- For being motivated within academic studies

Abi L- For being motivated within academic studies

Junior R - For being motivated within academic studies

Oleg N - For being motivated within academic studies

Inspired Award

Sofia W- For showing inspiration within academic studies

Harvey H - For showing inspiration within academic studies

Rubie O - For showing inspiration within academic studies

Oscar W- For showing inspiration within academic studies

Oakley S- For showing inspiration within academic studies

Learning Award

Isla S- For dedication to learning within academic studies

Evie N- For dedication to learning within academic studies

Alex S For dedication to learning within academic studies

Ella S - For dedication to learning within academic studies

Chimamanda O- For dedication to learning within academic studies

Excited and Engaged Award

Hermione W - For being excited and engaged within academic studies

Siobhan F - For being excited and engaged within academic studies

Jess G- For being excited and engaged within academic studies

Yasmin L - For being excited and engaged within examinations

Charlie H - For being excited and engaged to improve ATL

Tutee of the Term Award

Charlie B - Charlie has improved his participation in form and his behaviour.

Maisie T - Masie always completes work and follows form procedures

Alex S - Alex has a consistently positive attitude: He is always polite and kind and takes a genuine interest in others.

Rosie H - She is polite, enthusiastic and always willing to take part in form activities.

Mollie - Mollie does everything she is supposed to without being asked and always works hard.

Asten M - Asten's behaviour in registration has improved so much this term.

Finley N - Always has a big smile on his face and he has improved his attendance and punctuality this term.

Emilija S - Always positive and friendly and a great addition to our team.

Kaelen S- Quietly gets on with his work. Behaviour record is good. Keep it up in year 9!

Emily M- Behaviour record is good and a significant amount of E-praise points indicates her hard work across her learning

Layla-Mae B - Fitting in seamlessly with our form and being a calm, kind and friendly presence.

Maizie H - Displaying massive resilience whilst experiencing a tough and challenging time.

Oliver Z - Excellent attitude and impeccable behaviour and manners.

Chloe F- Excellent attitude and impeccable behaviour and manners.

Freya L- For being a credit to the form and setting a good example to others

Miller D - Impeccable uniform and behaviour and he is hardworking and supportive to others.

Ella S - For outstanding attitudes to learning

Arafat K- For outstanding dedication and focus

Year Team Awards:

Most improved

Harley G - Harley has improved his behaviour considerably this term.

Jacob E - Jacob has improved his attendance and punctuality considerably this term.

Student of the Term

Eve R - For outstanding contributions to school life

Blake H- For outstanding contributions to school life

Molly H - For outstanding contributions to school life

Jake C - For outstanding contributions to school life

Head of Year Award

Zehn K- For outstanding contributions to school life

Luchia CH - For outstanding contributions to school life

Headteacher Award

Jack Marston - For continually demonstrating the SMILE ethos

Well done to everyone who has been rewarded this term but I want to thank the whole year group. I am beyond proud of each and everyone of the cohort who has worked hard in lessons, been smartly dressed and been a real credit to year 8. Thank you also to parents who have been supportive and encouraging all year, without your help your children would not have made the progress they have. I am looking forward to seeing everyone back after the holiday on Thursday 4th September. Please take care over the summer break and please do be in touch if there is anything we can help with.

Best wishes

Mrs Clark-Keen

Year 9 Bulletin

Dear Year 9 Families,

As we share our final e-bulletin of the academic year, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support throughout Year 9. It has been a pleasure to see our students grow, both academically and personally, and we are proud of all they have achieved.

Looking ahead to September, as your child begins their important GCSE journey in Year 10, we want to make you aware of a few changes to the tutor group structure. To better support students in core subjects, we will be introducing some targeted tutor groups alongside our regular groups:

10LW – Miss Willets (English Focus)

10LA – Miss Austen (Maths Focus)

10MR – Mr Ray (Science Focus)

10SP – Mr Pope (Science Focus)

10ER – Mrs Rees

10CM – Mr Mortimer

10DG – Mrs Glover

10RP – Mrs Petch / Mrs Edmed

Students selected for the targeted groups will be identified by the Heads of English, Maths, and Science over the summer. All other students will be placed across the remaining tutor groups. These targeted groups are designed to provide additional subject-specific support and will remain flexible, with students moving in and out based on their academic needs as the year progresses. This is part of our ongoing commitment to help every student achieve their full potential as they prepare for Year 11.

As we head into the summer break, we encourage students to rest and recharge, but also to take a moment to prepare for September. Please ensure your child returns with all the necessary equipment, including a well-stocked pencil case and a scientific calculator, to help them start their GCSEs with confidence.

We look forward to welcoming all students back on Thursday, 4th September 2025, ready and refreshed for this exciting new chapter.

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable summer.

Warm regards,

Mr McMahon & Mrs Judd

Year 9 End of Year awards:

Huge congratulations to the following students who have demonstrated our school ethos of S.M.I.L.E (Successful, Motivated, Inspired, Learning, Excited & Engaged) our also our pastoral award winners across year 9 too. Well done to you all 😊

‘Successful’ Award winners:

Matilda B

Daniel H

Lexi A

Will K

Mia G

‘Motivated’ Award winners:

Luke C

Emily C

Millie R

Caydence P

Leon I

‘Inspired’ Award winners:

Jessica W

Darcie O

Melissa N

Isabelle B

Sophie H

‘Learning’ Award winners:

Brandon S

Isabelle B

Noah W

Caydence P

Mia H

‘Excited & Engaged’ winners:

Brandon S

Tolu W

Betty K

Isaac C

Samuel B

Form Tutor Awards

9CM

Ema V - for outstanding contributions to school life

Kieran B – for outstanding resilence

9LW

Reece R – for outstanding attendance and punctuality

Emmie M – for outstanding resilience

9NS

Samuel C - for being a role model to others

Beau W - for outstanding extracurricular activities

9RL

Mitchell J – for continually demonstrating the Cornwallis SMILE

Scarlett A - for continually demonstrating the Cornwallis SMILE

9RP

Elsie E - for outstanding work ethic and dedication

Shane L – for outstanding work ethic and dedication

9LM

Mia G - for continually attitudes towards learning

Sam M - for outstanding resilience

9HV

Noah W - for outstanding contributions to school life

Abi G - for outstanding attitudes towards learning

9ER

Isaac C – for continually demonstrating the Cornwallis SMILE

Jessie J – for outstanding resilience

9DofE

Reece Ring – for outstanding extracurricular activities

Noah W - for outstanding extracurricular activities

Student Support Manager Awards

Caydence P - for being a role model to others

Brandon S – for outstanding attendance and punctuality

Head of Year Awards

Beth B - for outstanding dedication and focus and being a role model to others

Daniel H - for outstanding dedication and focus and being a role model to others

Headteacher Award

Amber Startin – for being a role model to others and continually demonstrating the SMILE ethos

Year 10 Bulletin

Dear Year 10 Families,

And just like that, our Year 10 students have completed the first year of their GCSE studies at Cornwallis Academy. The year has been full of new experiences for our students, from GCSE focused fieldtrips and residentials to coursework sessions and assessments. As always, Ms Stephens-Clark and I have been incredibly proud of all their achievements and to have had the pleasure of supporting them as their year team. Since the 7th July, students have been partaking in Work Experience, learning new skills and gaining invaluable experience. Several staff members had the opportunity to visit students on their placements, where they observed students continuing to demonstrate to Cornwallis SMILE, whilst representing the school. To end the term, we celebrated the year’s achievements with a year group assembly. I would like to congratulate the following award winners:

Year 10 End of Year awards:

A huge congratulations to the following students who were celebrated in our end of year assembly, for having won an award from the following SMILE categories…

SUCCESSFUL award winners:

Jaden F

Sophie MK

Eddie P

Yasin EB

Charlotte B

MOTIVATED award winners:

Violet C

Jason C

Jack C

Evie H

Leah W

INSPIRED award winners:

Katie G

Sara A

Viktoriia K

Izzy D

Gracie O

LEARNING award winners:

Nazeeha A

Daniel D

Abigail D

Archie T

Lennon M

EXCITED AND ENGAGED award winners:

Summer H

Ollie W

Victoria P

Martina A

Zack C

TUTEE OF THE TERM award winners:

Sophie MK

Daniel D

Sara K

Zac F

Owen F

Frankie E

Larisa S

Ruby B

Kaan M

Sara A

Tyler P

Lucy M

Nazeeha A

Alexander C

STUDENT SUPPORT MANAGER award winners:

Violet C

Kailan EH

HEAD OF YEAR award winners:

Jason C ‎

Ruby B

HEADTEACHER award winner:

Finn A

Key Reminders for September 2025:

· Uniform

- Black formal shoes

- Black socks

- Blazer

- Knee length pleated skirt/ formal black trousers

- Strictly no false nails, nail varnish, false eyelashes, nose studs and other jewellery (accept one small, studded earing in each ear).

· Equipment requirements

- 2 black pens (one to write with and spare)

- A set of different coloured pens

- Pencil

- Sharpener

- Eraser

- Ruler

- Protractor

- Compass

- A scientific calculator (Ideally a Casio fx-83GTX or Casio fx-85GTX)

If there are any financial issues with purchasing any school items then please do not hesitate to contact me as we may be able to support.

· Attendance

Excellent punctuality and attendance is such an important aspect of your child’s school life. Please ensure that your child attends school every day and remind them of the importance of being on time for both school and their lessons.

Year 10 Team - Final message

We hope you all have an amazing summer break and take lots of time to relax and refresh, ready to embark on the final year of GCSE studies in September. Please take care of yourselves and stay safe.

We will look forward to welcoming you all back in September!

Ms Harding and Ms Stephens-Clark

Year 11 Bulletin

Although the Year 11s left the building nearly a month ago, staff continue to enthuse about both their conduct throughout the GCSEs, and the wonderful Year 11 Prom which took place at the Mercure Hotel. During both the mock examinations before Christmas and the summer exams, the year group demonstrated just how mature they were in their conduct, their dedication, and their willingness to listen to advice and to instructions. They were phenomenally well behaved over 6 extremely intense and demanding weeks this summer. A large number of them returned for the Sixth Form Induction Days, which enabled them to get used to the feeling of life and lessons in Cornwallis Sixth Form.

The Year 11s looked amazing on Prom night. After arriving by lorry, sports car, horse and cart and even on foot, they impressed everyone with their sartorial elegance. They got stuck into the buffet, and then danced the night away with their friends. It was a truly memorable occasion, and a fitting send off for a year group which Miss Perry and I have been proud to run.

As we have said to the students, they can feel free to approach Miss Perry and I for references over the coming months and years as they embark on their post 16 lives. We wish Year 11 a great summer and every success in the future.

Mr Spurling & Miss Perry

Sixth Form Bulletin

The past year at the Trust Sixth Form at Cornwallis has been busy as always.

September seems like a lifetime ago but conversely, the year has flown by so quickly. Our year 12 cohort continues to grow and this academic year we welcomed a record number of students from other schools both in and around Maidstone and the wider area too. Our Football Academies grew also and are a real indicator of the strength of our partnership with both Maidstone United and EMC Academy.

Our new year 12s settled quickly into Post 16 learning and adapted well to the demands of not only more challenging learning, but also the need to be far more independent in their approach to their studies. The change from 25 taught lessons a week to having more non contact time is not lost on me and I know some initially find this difficult in the first few weeks.

I am though, immensely proud of the progress they have made not only in an academic context, but also in their personal development.

Two very long terms before Christmas enabled all to fully immerse themselves into their chosen courses, some of which such as Criminology and Beauty Therapy are new to them. Our first parent consultation evening took place and as always, it was lovely to meet so many of you and put faces to names.

Awards evening in October was a truly inspirational evening and a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate the achievements of our students with you. I am very much looking forward to the next evening which takes place in October.

Our Sixth Form Open Evening Open Mornings are incredibly important events for us. Not only do they give us an opportunity to showcase what we do here but the morning tours also enable parents and prospective students the opportunity to come and see the school in full flight. The student ambassadors that toured parents around were a real credit to our community and the feedback on not only they themselves, but also the way the school operates on a day to day basis was extremely positive.

Our year 13 students ended term two with a series of PPE (mock exams) and for those that were applying through UCAS for a university place, these were key indicator of potential outcomes.

The deadline for UCAS came at the end of January and I am so pleased that all applicants received offers from their chosen institutions.

Whilst on the subject of UCAS, information has gone out to you all regarding collection of results - please read this carefully regards timings on the day.

Spring came and with that our focus very much turned to the run up to the summer season for not only our year 13 students but also some of our year 12 student who were studying Sociology, Psychology and Maths - all of whom were entered for external exams.

Our second parent consultation evening took place and as before it was lovely to meet you all.

In term five, our year 13 prom took place at the Weald of Kent Golf Club and a fantastic time was had by all. I suspect some may had sore feet the next day from all the dancing but it was great fun and as always wonderful to spend an evening with the students away from school.

This term we held our annual year 12 Careers Day which gave our students an opportunity to interact with our partners from the University of Kent, Domeg and Anthony Bennett "The Miracle Man".

As the year draws to a close, students nominated by their class teachers enjoyed a fun day at Thorpe Park with the weather being much kinder tOo us that last year. Our year 12 students finish the year on their work experience placements and I hope that all have found it a useful insight into the world of full time work.

To finish I'd like to thank you all for your continued support and I wish you all a lovely summer.

Mrs Woollett

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse