END OF AUTUMN TERM NEWSLETTER - DECEMBER 2025
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Stay tuned for a STEM-mas surprise waiting for you at the end of this newsletter... think you can handle the physics of a fruitcake? 🧬🎄
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Parents,
I would firstly like to thank parents and students for their continued and unwavering support in maintaining high standards of business dress, punctuality, and behaviour. Since joining WMG Academy Solihull in September, the new staff have made an exceptionally positive contribution to academy life, bringing fresh expertise, energy, and commitment. Their impact has been felt across classrooms, pastoral systems, and enrichment activities, and I am pleased to acknowledge the strong relationships they have already built with students and families.
Students in Years 10 and 12 have made a fantastic start to their educational journey at WMG Academy Solihull and have fully embraced the ethos of the academy. They demonstrate our core values of being Respectful, Aspirational, and Professional on a daily basis. Years 11 and 13 have settled quickly into academy routines, showing maturity and determination. This has been particularly evident during their mock examinations, which took place this December. These mocks represent the first stage of a rigorous preparation process for their Summer Examination series and serve as an important litmus test to help identify areas of strength as well as those requiring additional support and intervention.
As the final week of the autumn term draws to a close, it provides an opportunity to reflect on this term’s achievements and look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead. This term, the academy has hosted a number of employers, and many students have taken part in workshops, activities, and talks delivered by our business partners. Further details can be found later in the newsletter. We also celebrated the accomplishments of students from last academic year at our Trust Awards Evening, held in the Oculus Building at Warwick University on Wednesday 10th December—a fantastic showcase of the talent within WMG.
Next term, students in Year 11 will have the opportunity to participate in a PGL revision residential trip designed to support their preparation for the summer examinations in a focused, engaging, and supportive environment. Additional trips and visits are planned for all year groups across both the Spring and Summer terms.
As we look forward to the next term, I encourage students in Years 11 and 13—whether studying GCSEs, A Levels, or BTECs—to reflect on their progress this term and return after the holidays rested, prepared, and committed to achieving success. For students in Years 10 and 12, this is an opportunity to continue building on the excellent progress made so far and to engage fully with the wide range of opportunities available to them.
Finally, I would like to wish all families and students a well-earned break—a time to recharge and spend meaningful time with loved ones. My thoughts and best wishes are with you over the holiday period; please stay safe and take care of yourselves and each other.
Kind regards,
Claire Morris
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO OF WMG ACADEMY
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO OF WMG ACADEMY
Another successful and busy first term draws to a close in both WMG academies that has again seen record numbers of companies attend on site provision of engaging activities for the students, particularly during the Tomorrows Engineers Week and National Engineering Week in October and November. The festive break will be welcomed by students and staff as a period to rest and recharge batteries following either sitting or preparing for Mock examinations. As always, both academies value and hugely appreciate the support that parents and carers provide for sons, daughters and the school staff. On behalf of all the staff, I wish all students, parents, carers and families a restful break and a very Happy New Year for 2026!
Stewart Tait - CEO
Meet our Student Ambassadors
Meet our Student Ambassadors
At Solihull we have embarked on recruiting a Student Leadership Team from across all four year groups. Students have selected which Ambassador roles they would like which cover the four main areas of the Academy. Enrichment, Community, Academy Culture & Student Well-Being.
Each main subject area in the Academy will also have four student Ambassadors to help with open evenings, interviews and meeting guest visitors to the Academy.
I am really pleased at the response of applicants for these new and exciting roles, and I am determined to ensure that the Student Voice across the Academy will now be heard thanks to the new Student Leadership.
Super Learning Day - Monday 24th
Super Learning Day - Monday 24th
WMG Solihull hosted the 1st of it's 3 Super Learning Days which saw students taking part in various activities with different groups, workshops and external providers.
Year 10 got to experience "Study Sensei" "The Hurricane Challenge" provided by Tilbury Douglas, Fire Safety provided by West Midlands Fire Service and many other workshops.
Year 11 for to experience "Ace Your Exams" "Poetry to Page" provided by Alan Durrant, a Knife Crime Drama workshop provided by "Altru" and a visit to the Police Station that's to PC Ben Lowe and his team.
Overall the day was a huge success and the feedback from the students was great.
WMGA Chess Success
WMGA Chess Success
On Wednesday 27th November, a team of WMG Academy students took part in the ECF ESCC online qualifier, competing against 17 other school teams from across the country. Although we narrowly missed out on a place in the final, the team produced an excellent performance. Made even more impressive by the fact that this was the first ever chess tournament for every single one of our players.
They rose to the challenge brilliantly, showing resilience, tactical awareness, and real competitive spirit. There were standout moments across the board:
Wojciech delivered one of the performances of the event, holding a 2000-rated opponent to a draw in Game 5, and finishing with four wins overall. He placed joint 27th out of 94 players: an outstanding achievement.
Lux put in a consistently strong showing, earning 9 points across the tournament.
Can saved his best for last, playing a superb final round and snatching victory from the jaws of defeat with a brilliantly executed difficult fork.
Slava started the day on fire, beating two 1200-rated players and achieving a performance rating of 1044.
Krishnaraag and Afeef each secured a solid tournament win, contributing crucial points for the team.
Overall, the students represented WMG Academy with pride, professionalism, and no shortage of fighting spirit. With this experience under their belt, the team is already looking forward to the next competition.
Well done to everyone involved!
Awards Assembly
Awards Assembly
I had the pleasure of being able to host this term's awards assembly. It really is the assembly I look forward to the most. Subject teachers get to pick one student they teach and show recognition for their effort, attainment and positivity in the Academy. Heads of Department get to select a Subject Champion who upholds the Academy Values of Professional, Aspirational and Respect. I was able to nominate some "Special Recognition" Awards for their contribution to the Academy. The amazing success of our students is evident through the amount of certificates that were issued. Well done to each and every one of them.
PAR Awards
PAR Awards
As we approach the end of term, I am pleased to inform you all that since the introduction of our Professional, Aspirational and Respectful Awards Assemblies we have handed out 250 Student Ambassador certificates including Sparx Champions in Maths, English and Science. Attendance Ambassadors to those who have maintained 100% since the beginning of September. Inclusion Awards and Pastoral Ambassadors to those who have made a big impact both in lessons and around the Academy.
I am so happy to see the amount of different names each fortnight, showing how each winner is living upto the P.A.R standards we embedded at the start of this academic year.
National Historical Debate Competition
National Historical Debate Competition
WMG Academy student Izzy has brought pride to the Academy after delivering an impressive performance at the National Historical Debate Competition, held at Bablake School. Izzy demonstrated exceptional research and public speaking skills while navigating several demanding rounds of the prestigious event.
Her strong showing was particularly impressive given the complexity of the final question she debated: "How important are personal and public records as evidence for explaining the story, or stories, of your local area?"
Judges praised Izzy's thought-provoking analysis and clear articulation, noting her ability to use historical evidence precisely to support her claims on such a nuanced historical methodology. Her success highlights the high standard of academic engagement and critical thinking within WMG Academy.
While Izzy may not have taken the top prize, her achievement in reaching such a high level of the competition is a significant success, marking her as a promising future leader in both public discourse and historical scholarship. The WMG Academy community congratulates Izzy on her remarkable performance.
Mock Triumph: Celebrating Our Students’ Hard Work
Mock Triumph: Celebrating Our Students’ Hard Work
As we reach the end of our mock exam period, we would like to extend our warmest congratulations to all of our Year 11 and Year 13 students. Your commitment, determination, and resilience over the past two weeks have been truly admirable. We are incredibly proud of the effort you have put into your studies and the mature way you have approached this important milestone.
Thank you for your hard work, focus, and positivity throughout the process. You have earned a well-deserved rest, and we hope you enjoy a peaceful and restorative Christmas break.
A reminder that our Mock Results Day will take place on Friday 16th December, when we look forward to celebrating the fruits of your labour and supporting you with your next steps.
Wishing you all a restful holiday and a happy New Year.
Poetry with Alan Durant
Poetry with Alan Durant
WMG Academy students recently enjoyed a transformative Super Learning Day organised by Steve Adams, which focused on creativity and self-expression.
One of the major highlights of the day was a visit from a professional author/poet Alan Durant who shared inspiring personal experiences and worked directly with the students. The experience directly developed the students' literacy skills by expanding their vocabulary as they explored how poets carefully select words for their implied meaning (connotation). By creating their own poems, students practiced manipulating literary structure to control meaning.
The workshop also successfully promoted their expressive voice, enabling the young engineers to effectively relay complex thoughts and feelings through verse, which is crucial for developing a confident written style. This amazing Super Learning Day successfully broadened the students’ literacy repertoire, proving that the precision and structure valued at WMG Academy can be powerfully applied to creative and emotional writing.
Winter Wonderland 2026 - Poetry Competition
Winter Wonderland 2026 - Poetry Competition
WMG Academy student Luke Lowe has demonstrated his creative flair by entering the Young Writers competition with his poem, "Joy."
Under the guidance of teacher Naina Begum, Luke crafted a piece that vividly explores the concept of joy using powerful sensory imagery. His poem describes joy as looking "like a sunflower", sounding "like a summer song," and smelling "like cupcakes and rainbow." He effectively uses figurative language to express abstract emotion through concrete, relatable experiences.
Luke's entry showcases the Academy's commitment to developing well-rounded literacy skills, proving that the precision learned in STEM subjects can be effectively channelled into creative and expressive writing. We congratulate Luke on his excellent submission.
Embedding Excellence: Enhancing Everyday Education
Embedding Excellence: Enhancing Everyday Education
As we reach the end of our first term working with the SSAT Embedding Formative Assessment (EFA) programme, we are delighted to reflect on the positive progress made across our academy community. The EFA programme is designed to strengthen everyday classroom practice through high-impact formative assessment strategies—helping teachers gather meaningful information about student learning and adapt teaching in real time.
Over the term, all staff have taken part in three Teaching and Learning Communities (TLCs), where colleagues from across different subject areas met to collaborate, share experiences, and trial new approaches. These purposeful discussions have supported staff in developing strategies such as effective questioning, feedback that moves learning forward, and increasing student ownership of their progress.
In addition, each teacher has completed at least two peer observations, allowing colleagues to see the EFA principles in action and learn from one another’s practice. This collaborative, supportive approach has been central to building a culture of professional growth and reflective teaching.
The impact in classrooms is already being seen:
Students are becoming more active participants in lessons,
Teachers are using real-time information to shape learning more precisely, and
Classroom dialogue is becoming richer and more purposeful.
Ultimately, the EFA programme strengthens teaching in a way that is sustainable, research-informed, and focused on long-term improvement. By improving how teachers check understanding and respond to it, we ensure every student receives the support and challenge they need to make strong progress.
We look forward to continuing this work in the spring term and building on the strong foundations set this term. The commitment and enthusiasm shown by all staff have been exceptional, and we are excited to see the further impact on teaching and learning as the programme develops.
211,000 Questions. 530 Books. One Super Term of Sparx
211,000 Questions. 530 Books. One Super Term of Sparx
As we move through the year, it’s inspiring to see how our students continue to embody our academy values of being Professional, Respectful, and Aspirational through their commitment to Sparx Learning. Their hard work is clear in the outstanding progress across Maths, Science and Reader: there is plenty to celebrate!
- Exceptional Individual Achievement
A special congratulations goes to Jake Mann and Numaan Munshi, who have both maintained an incredible 100% completion rate across all three Sparx subjects (Maths, Science and Reader) so far this year. Their dedication is a perfect example of what it means to be aspirational learners who take pride in their progress. Well done to both of them!
- Year Group Performance: A Close Competition
The competition between year groups is heating up.
Year 10 currently leads with an impressive 75% average completion across Maths, Science and Reader.
Year 11 follows at 63%, showing steady progress but with clear room to push themselves further.
This friendly rivalry reflects the respectful and supportive culture our academy champions. We encourage Year 11 to rise to the challenge and show what they can truly achieve.
- Subject Highlights
Across the academy, Reader continues to shine as the highest-performing Sparx subject:
- 83% average completion in Year 10
- 69% average completion in Year 11
Maths is close behind, with students showing strong engagement and perseverance in problem solving. In fact, students have already answered an astonishing 211,000 Maths questions, representing 1823 hours of learning, a powerful demonstration of professionalism and commitment.
In Science, students have matched this dedication with 146,000 questions answered so far this year. And in Reader, students have collectively read 530 books, totalling over 1500 hours of reading, a clear sign of aspiration and curiosity.
- Tutor Group Success
A huge well done to Tutor Group 10-6, who are currently the best performing group with an outstanding 86% average completion rate across all Sparx subjects. Congratulations to Mr. Mahmood and the students of 10-6 for leading the way through consistent effort and a strong team spirit.
- Skills Growth and Improvement
We’re also proud to share that 100 students have improved their times-tables since the start of the year, an essential foundation for long-term success in Maths and beyond. This achievement reflects our collective commitment to being a professional and aspirational learning community.
As an academy, we are incredibly proud of the progress made so far. Let’s continue to stay professional in our approach, respectful of each other’s efforts, and aspirational in our goals as we move through the rest of the year. Keep up the fantastic work, there is so much more to achieve!
Virgin Media O2 Work Experience
Virgin Media O2 Work Experience
We are proud to announce that Felix successfully completed the Virgin Media O2 October Half-Term Virtual Work Experience programme. His dedication and achievement have earned him the prestigious Bronze Industrial Cadets Award—well done, Felix!
Field practical
Field practical
Students carried out a sampling practical in the school grounds, learning how scientists estimate the number of flowers in a field. They used quadrats and careful counting to collect data and apply their maths skills in a real-life setting.
762 Pupil and Vehicle Safety on Academy Site Letter 2025.pdfIMPORTANT REMINDER: STUDENT AND VEHICLE SAFETY ON ACADEMY SITE
Online Parenting Support
Online Parenting Support
The Council fund sponsorship of togetherness.co.uk (previously inourplace.co.uk) to make invaluable NHS learning and content free for local parents. Please share this wellbeing news update from the Togetherness team (formerly known as the Solihull Approach) with ALL parents/carers.
Togetherness is an online learning environment developed by psychologists and health practitioners providing accessible learning about emotional health and wellbeing, proven to positively impact mental health, behaviour and relationships.
You’ll receive these updates twice per term – if there is anything additional you’d like to see or if you’re interested in teacher training or resources, please email togetherness@uhb.nhs.uk
These courses are developed by NHS experts and parents using the evidence-based Solihull Approach, which promotes emotional health and positive relationships.
Families can access the free online courses here Solihull | Togetherness - Togetherness using the code APPLEJACKS.
Courses available include:
parenting courses from pregnancy through to teenage years
teen courses on understanding your brain and emotions
adult courses on relationships and trauma
professional courses on attachment and trauma
WMG Academy Trust Awards 2025
WMG Academy Trust Awards 2025
On Wednesday 10th December, the WMG Academy Trust held its annual Awards Evening and celebrated the success of students in both the Solihull and Coventry academies. The event took place at the University of Warwick and was hosted in the impressive Oculus building. As well as proud parents supporting the prize winners, guests presenting awards were Lady Bhattacharyya, Alison Hodge, Christine Ennew (Chair of the WMGA Trust), and Hannah Linden (Red Bull Powertrains Formula 1 Team). WMG Alumni who returned to address Award Winners included Jordan Albutt (Rolls Royce), Leo Headley (National Grid) and Miranda Bishop-Timings (Amey) who both shared their inspiring journeys, showcasing the enduring impact of a WMG Academy education. This year’s event was particularly special as we are in our 10-year anniversary, reflecting on a decade since the opening of the first WMG Academy in Coventry in 2014. The ceremony featured the presentation of numerous awards recognizing exceptional accomplishments across Key Stages 4 and 5. These included honours for academic excellence in subjects like Engineering, Maths and the Arts, as well as special accolades; the Best Role Model and Resilience Awards. Slava Zaporozhan and Princess Tetteh from WMG Solihull Academy and Lochlann Barker and Priyanka Harsha from WMG Coventry Academy were awarded Lord Bhattacharyya Student of the Year award, highlighting their outstanding contributions and dedication. The WMG Academy Trust extends thanks to everyone who made the evening a success; parents and carers for their unwavering support, students for their hard work and determination, teachers and staff for their commitment to excellence, and distinguished guests for sharing their journey.
WMG Academy Student Transforms Lives with Life-Changing Invention.
WMG Academy Student Transforms Lives with Life-Changing Invention.
What started as a simple idea inspired by one little boy has grown into an extraordinary journey of innovation and compassion. Last year, one of our students, Grace Palmer at WMG Academy Solihull saw the challenges her cousin Dylan, who has cerebral palsy, faced when accessing essential equipment to help him transfer safely or sit independently. Determined to make a difference, she took her curiosity and creativity into engineering, designing a solution that could help not just her family, but others in need. Her determination and empathy have since led her to national recognition, demonstrating the incredible impact young people can have when they combine innovation with heart.
“It all started with one idea at the end of last year, inspired by one little boy: my cousin Dylan, who has cerebral palsy.
I saw the challenges Dylan and my family were facing when trying to find equipment to help him transfer, be carried safely, or sit independently at a table. The equipment we needed would have cost around £750. Something our family, like many others, simply could not afford. So, I decided to make my own. That’s what started my journey with the Thrive Transfer Aid. I wanted something not just for my family, but for other families who need it, because everyone should have access to essential equipment regardless of income. In the end, I created a multifunctional product that cost just £85, which I am hoping to mass-produce for other families in need.
I joined WMG Academy Solihull almost 4 years ago with very little confidence, but with one spark inspired by Dylan that pushed me toward engineering to help people. I have changed a lot since year 10, and my confidence has grown significantly. I have gained many skills that are incredibly useful for my future career as an engineer.
On Monday I had the incredible honour of delivering a speech on behalf of Big Bang in Parliament. After winning the Senior Engineering Award back in June at the Big Bang competition, I was invited to talk about my project, The Thrive Transfer Aid, why I created it, and what I’ve learned along the way.
It was a very rewarding event where I got to see the most amazing and historic building of Parliament. I then set up my display with information about my project and began to talk to different ministers and MPs. I also spoke to many different companies and T-Level advocators. Completing my speech, I spoke about the main lesson I have learnt about engineering which is this.
Engineering often begins with empathy; when we understand people’s challenges, we can create products that truly change lives.” – Grace Palmer, Year 12 Student WMG Academy Solihull
We are immensely proud of Grace for representing WMG Academy Solihull on a national stage and for demonstrating the power of empathy driven engineering. Her achievements highlight the spirit of creativity, determination, and social responsibility that we strive to nurture in every student, and we look forward to seeing the many ways she will continue to make a positive impact in the world.
A Christmas Message from Mr Adams
A Christmas Message from Mr Adams
Dear Parents / Guardians
As Christmas draws ever closer, and we finish the first full term here at WMG Academy I just wanted to quickly say how well all of the students in Key Stage 4 have done since the start of the academic year.
Adjusting to a new school is no mean feat and has required a considerable amount of effort and resilience from every student. During my many learning walks, pastoral drop ins and teaching a number of Key Stage 4 students myself, I have seen first-hand the hard work and commitment the majority have shown to their learning. I have noticed that the majority of students have displayed many of the Professional, Aspirational and Respectful attributes here at WMG Academy.
This is best shown through our reward system. Where over 17,000 rewards points have been issued to all those in both year groups, with the average rewards point per student is 42 each.
I believe this best exemplifies the hard work and dedication of our key stage.
I hope you and your families have a wonderful Christmas break and the students return bright eyed and bushy tailed in January to earn even more positive behaviour points!
Kind regards,
Mr Adams
Pastoral Lead for Key Stage 4
Subject Spotlight... Art
Subject Spotlight... Art
What are you working on?
Students across Year 10 and Year 11 are developing their coursework projects for the GCSE Art and Design course, while our BTEC Art students are focusing on their own individual projects. Students are exploring a wide range of materials — from paint and clay to mixed-media techniques and I always look forward to seeing how each project unfolds.
Highlight of the half term
We are delighted to share that two groups of students were winners in the 'Your Chelmsley Wood' art competition. Congratulations to Year 10 students Jorge Draper and Hasan Hussein and Year 11 students Glynnis Bautista, Brooke Davidson and Lily Exton. Their entries were created as part of our Art Enrichment sessions. Each winning entry receives a £30 voucher, and their artwork may appear at local events, exhibitions, or even be featured in future communications for the 'Your Future' Chelmsley Wood project.
Mrs. Kilbride and I also enjoyed a fantastic Sixth Form art trip to Birmingham on Tuesday 9th December. We visited both the Ikon Art Gallery and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery — a wonderful opportunity for students to experience artwork up close and gain inspiration for their own artwork.
Star Students
I have been impressed by so many students across the academy and their enthusiasm and passion for Art are a real joy. A special mention goes to Emily R and Lola W in Year 10 for the beautiful and detailed work they have produced in their sketchbooks.
What's new and upcoming?
I am looking forward to developing an engaging and purposeful Year 9 curriculum designed to equip students with key skills that will support their success as they move on to the GCSE Art and Design course.
Meet the Team Member
Meet the Team Member
Mrs Kit Brown, Teacher of Art
What do you enjoy most about working here?
What I enjoy most is the strong sense of community. WMG Academy is an incredibly supportive, collaborative, and inspiring place for both staff and students.
If you weren’t working here, what would your dream job be?
I would probably be making ceramics—ideally somewhere on the Cornish coast, drawing inspiration from the sea and landscape!
What do you think makes WMG Academy different from other schools or colleges?
WMG Academy stands out because every student and member of staff is known, supported, and valued as an individual. The strong links with industry partners also give the Academy a forward-thinking and innovative edge that is rare in mainstream education.
What unique opportunities or experiences do students at WMG receive that they might not get anywhere else?
Students benefit from exceptional opportunities focused on personal development, technical skill-building, and future career pathways. Our partnerships with leading engineering and technology employers give students access to real-world projects, workplace experiences, and industry-standard equipment.
In what ways do you feel WMG Academy supports its students to achieve their best?
WMG Academy places great emphasis on recognising students as individuals. Staff take the time to understand each student’s strengths, aspirations, and challenges, ensuring they receive tailored support both academically and pastorally.
Business Dress Consultation Now Closed
Business Dress Consultation Now Closed
Thank you to everyone who completed the Google Form regarding the potential change to the WMG business dress code. The consultation has now closed. We will be analysing the results and will provide feedback in the New Year.
Please Note:
Please Note:
The WMG academy is currently consulting on changes to its admissions arrangements for September 2027 where we are proposing some minor changes to the oversubscription criteria. Click here to view the policy
Mental Health Awareness Over the Break
Mental Health Awareness Over the Break
Mental Health email address for Parents/Carers to report concerns with mental health, mentalhealth.sol@wmgacademy.org.uk managed by Mental Health Team to give the students the best support.
Safeguarding Over The Break
Safeguarding Over The Break
Any safeguarding concerns should be forwarded to safeguarding.sol@wmgacademy.org.uk and marked 'CONFIDENTIAL-FAO SAFEGUARDING LEAD’. Additional contacts are also listed on the academy website.
Key Dates For Your Diaries
Key Dates For Your Diaries
Friday 19th December 2025 - Academy Closes for End of Autumn Term Break
Monday 5th January 2026 - INSET Day
Monday 5th January 2026 - Sixth Form Information Evening 4pm - 7pm
Tuesday 6th January 2026 - Academy Opens For Spring Term
Friday 13th February 2026 - Academy Closes for Half Term Break
Monday 23rd February 2026 - Academy Opens After Half Term
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