It's been a year since we sent our first newsletter, and it's wonderful providing parents and carers with this weekly window into Academy life. We've shared stories of our students' achievements, from sporting triumphs to musical milestones. We've taken you behind the scenes of our classrooms, where our talented teachers have been delivering innovative and engaging lessons. And we've celebrated the diverse learning experiences that make our Academy such a special place.
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Q3 Academy Great Barr Logo

A Year of Stories and Successes

It's been a year since we sent our first newsletter, and it's wonderful providing parents and carers with this weekly window into Academy life. We've shared stories of our students' achievements, from sporting triumphs to musical milestones. We've taken you behind the scenes of our classrooms, where our talented teachers have been delivering innovative and engaging lessons. And we've celebrated the diverse learning experiences that make our Academy such a special place.

As we look ahead to the next 12 months, we're excited to continue sharing our journey with you. We'll be bringing you more of the stories that inspire us, more insights into our programmes and initiatives, and more ways to stay connected with our community.


Most Positive Radiator!

In assemblies before half term, we talked about how people can be "radiators" who uplift others with kindness, or "drains" who bring others down. At the Academy, we encourage students to be the best version of themselves, and to spread positive energy which fosters a friendly, welcoming, and safe environment for all. For the next two weeks, we'll be looking out for students to earn the Most Positive Radiator award in lessons!

Most Positive Radiator

Science of Disney

Over half term a magical experience was had by all, looking into the science of different aspects of Disney. Students enjoyed a chemistry lesson led by Miss Tromans on the Science of Fireworks which they were able to apply during the evening show in Disneyland Paris and the awe-inspiring Walt Disney Studios parks.

Fireworks during Hollywood Studios new Marvel show

Students were able to analyse the speed of rollercoasters and look at the ways Disney are making the parks more sustainable, such a solar panels covering the large car park.

Staff photo at Disney

All students thoroughly enjoyed their experience in Disney, with lots wanting to return. – Miss Bloomfield

Year 11 boys enjoying Disney Village

Animal Testing: Moral or Immoral?

This month in Year 9 Religious Studies we've been learning about the study of Ethics. We have been debating whether it's moral for humans to use animals for their own purposes.

Year 9 students

We have investigated the use and purposes of animal testing for the benefit of humans, like testing life-saving drugs, cosmetics, and household products, and weighed up the advantages and disadvantages. Please ask your Year 9 child about the ethical issues we've been learning about in RS, and what they think is moral or immoral. – Ms Colley

Year 9 Students

World Book Day launches extended Library Open Times

World Book Day saw the launch of extended opening hours for our Academy Library. Students were encouraged to visit the Library and explore the wide range of fiction and non-fiction books available. Students can drop in to the Library between 8am and 4pm, including breaktime and lunchtime, to sit and read or borrow a book to take home.

Atlanta and Charly on World Book Day

The Library has been relocated this academic year and can be found on Level 1, next to The Zone. The new area provides a pleasant and peaceful space for reading and quiet study. Literacy Club also runs each Thursday, 3:30-4:15pm in the Library and is open to Years 7 and 8.

Our new Library space available for all year groups

Students are encouraged to download a World Book Day token for £1 off in participating bookshops. – Mrs Burge

Digital World Book Day Token

Duke of Edinburgh's Award

Congratulations to former student Reneé, Year 11 student Levi, and Year 10 students Bailey and Harry who have successfully completed their Duke of Edinburgh's Awards. During their Awards, they have each completed four sections: skills, physical, volunteering, and expedition. As our new cohort of DofE participants start their Award during this half term, it is encouraging for them to see other students achieving their Awards. – Mr Burlace

Harry, Y10 DofE Participant

Year 11 Football Tournament

Year 11 took part in a 7-a-side football tournament. We won the first game 1-0 with Hussein scoring a last-minute penalty.

Hussein penalty

In the second game we unfortunately lost 2-1 and in the third game both teams struggled to score within the 5 minutes of the game and it ended 0-0.

Football tournament

These results didn't take us through to the next round so we had an early exit. Although, all the boys played really well and we look forward to the next one. – Mr Richardson

Karandip free kick

Upcoming Events

  • 27 Feb-10 Mar - Year 11 and 13 Mock Exam Fortnight
  • 9 Mar - Year 13 UCAS Evening for Parents
  • 9 Mar - Year 9 Parent Consultation Evening and Pathways
  • 15-16 Mar - [NEU National Teachers Strike]
  • 27-31 Mar - Year 8 France Trip
  • 29 Mar - Blood Brothers Theatre Trip
  • 30 Mar - Year 10 Virtual Parent Consultation Evening
  • 31 Mar - Staff Training Day (students finish term on Thursday 30 March)
  • 1-16 Apr - Easter Holidays
  • 20 Apr - Year 12 Belgrade Theatre Trip
  • 1 May - Bank Holiday
  • 8 May - Bank Holiday (Coronation of King Charles III)
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