In some ways it feels like we only just returned from the summer, but already we've reached the last week of this half term. Looking back, our students have come a long way in their learning and it's been great to see so many taking part in extracurricular activities too. Over 400 students attended clubs last week! We hope you all enjoy a well-earned rest over the break, and make the most of the opportunity to relax and recharge.
Q3 Academy Great Barr Logo

Almost Half Term!

In some ways it feels like we only just returned from the summer, but already we've reached the last week of this half term. Looking back, our students have come a long way in their learning and it's been great to see so many taking part in extracurricular activities too. Over 400 students attended clubs last week! We hope you all enjoy a well-earned rest over the break, and make the most of the opportunity to relax and recharge.

Please note that the Academy reopens on Tuesday 1st November after the break.


Careers Pop-Up!

Last week we invited several providers into the Academy to chat with students during lunchtimes. Students were enthusiastic to find out about Sixth Form, colleges, and apprenticeships, as they start making informed career decisions.

Careers 1

As well as our own Sixth Form, we had representatives from BMET and Walsall Colleges, In-Comm Engineering, and Juniper Training. Thank you to everyone who came in to support this event. – Mrs Meredith

Careers 2

Performing Arts

Our new Year 7s have been doing fantastic work in their drama lessons. They have been creating still images and rolling tableaux based on the theme of starting secondary education.

Performing Arts 1

Students have shared some of their own experiences such as being excited to receive their first timetable, making new friends and meeting up with old friends, and parents/carers taking their photograph on their first day.

Performing Arts 2

Students also discussed some worries commonly associated with starting secondary such as getting lost, being told off, or not knowing anybody. These discussions developed into some wonderful practical work. – Mrs Karim

Performing Arts 3

Our Next Generation of Scientists

Year 7 students have had fun mastering the techniques of safe Bunsen Burner use. They have started feeling like real scientists using the lab coats and safety specs.

Science 1

Students have enjoyed the challenge of heating and burning different substances, and have worked maturely with their new lab partners to support each other in developing these important skills. – Mrs Perera

Science 2

Dipping Back In Touch with the Wild Side

In Nature Club this week, students enjoyed exploring the wildlife in the pond. We caught a wide variety of aquatic insects such as dragonfly larvae and freshwater hoglouse.

Nature Club 1

Students were also pleasantly surprised to discover a thriving newt population in the pond. We have been preparing the bug hotel ready for another winter ahead to support the wildlife at Q3 Academy Great Barr over the colder months. – Mr Wilson

Nature Club 2

Hands-On Psychology

Over the last couple of weeks, Year 11 have been learning about the brain and neuropsychology. They had great fun creating their own neurons out of sweets and explaining synaptic transmission with skittles! – Miss Morgan

Psychology

Upcoming Events

  • 20 Oct - Year 8 (Home) and 9 & 10 (Away) Boys Football vs. Wodensborough
  • 22-31 Oct - Half Term (the Academy reopens on Tuesday 1 Nov)
  • 1-11 Nov - Year 13 mocks
  • 11 Nov - Remembrance Service
  • 14-25 Nov - Year 11 mocks
  • 17 Nov - Sixth Form Open Evening
  • 5-9 Dec - Celebration Assemblies
  • 6-8 Dec - Pantomime evening performances
  • 12 Dec - 2 Jan - Holiday
  • 3 Jan - Staff Training Day (we reopen to students on Wednesday 4 Jan)