With GCSE examinations beginning next week and A-Levels the week after, we wish the best of luck to all students in Years 11 and 13. A number of Year 10 and 12 students are also taking exams for vocational units. Read on for advice on supporting your child during the exam season. Our other year groups are also buzzing with activity, with more students than ever making the most of extracurricular opportunities this term.
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Q3 Academy News – 11th May 2022

With GCSE examinations beginning next week and A-Levels the week after, we wish the best of luck to all students in Years 11 and 13. A number of Year 10 and 12 students are also taking exams for vocational units. Read on for advice on supporting your child during the exam season. Our other year groups are also buzzing with activity, with more students than ever making the most of extracurricular opportunities this term.

Subject spotlight: English

Our Year 8 students are currently exploring the topic 'Diverse Voices'. Students have been looking into the different definitions of diversity and embracing their own. - Miss Russell

Photo

Extracurricular spotlight: Chess Club (Tue 3:15-4:15pm)

Lots of students from Year 7 to the Sixth Form attend our Chess Club every Tuesday afternoon. All abilities are welcome and we support students to improve their play, whether it's learning how the pieces move or how to distinguish between their Scandinavian Defence and Fried Liver Attack!

Last week, thirteen students travelled to Q3 Academy Tipton for a competition. Our students represented the Academy well, behaving impeccably and playing with great concentration and prowess.

Chess 1

"It was great fun and a privilege to play. I was really pleased to win my match. I look forward to more games in the future" said Yves, in Year 7.

Chess 2

We won 15-7 and took home the trophy in this inaugural match. Alex in Year 12 won a medal for 'best match', selected by the host member of staff.

Chess 3

Thank you to Mr Burgess, Mr Mousa, Mr Parekh, Miss Y Smith, and Mr Webster for regularly supporting the club. We always welcome new members regardless of experience, so if you're interested please come and collect a letter. - Mr Brocklebank

Chess 4

Extracurricular spotlight: Table Tennis

In our Table Tennis club, students have been practising their singles and doubles play and honing their service, forehand, and backhand shots. Along with enhancing their knowledge of the rules, they have effectively incorporated this understanding into game situations. We've been developing tactics such as playing certain attacking shots to outwit opponents, and using defensive shots to effectively recover and get back into position for the next return shot. Students' improvement has been impressive and their enthusiasm contagious. - Mr McGeough

Table Tennis

Supporting your child: Exams

With exams coming up, here are some top tips for parents and carers:

  • Help your child make a revision timetable. Students feel more confident when they are organised. It's also a great way of helping them balance study with rest.
  • Try to provide a quiet space, free from distractions, for your child to revise at home.
  • As well as using past papers, flashcards, and other revision materials, remind your child to do their Tassomai goals every day.
  • Encourage your child to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. It's much better to be well-rested than to stay up all night cramming for an exam. It's also best to leave their phone outside the bedroom, so they're not kept awake on social media!
  • Support your child to keep up some physical activity, as this is a great way of managing stress and staying healthy during the exam season.
  • Let your child's Personal Tutor know if they are struggling. We realise how stressful it can be, and we're always here to help.

Upcoming Events

  • 16 May - Exam season begins (view list of exams and Year 11 summer timetable)
  • 20 May - Year 13 Leavers Assembly
  • 20-27 May - France and Spain Trip
  • 23-27 May - Year 10 Work Experience
  • 28 May-5 Jun - Half Term
  • 13-27 Jun - Year 12 mocks