| |
We are proud to introduce our new, rebranded Sixth Form, GB6th. As well as continuing our tradition of strong A-Level provision, from 2025 we will also be bringing in a range of new vocational courses. We aspire for GB6th to be the destination of choice for all our students when they finish Year 11, and we are now offering pathways with a more inclusive range of entry requirements. 
Last Thursday we held our Sixth Form Open Evening and we were delighted to see fantastic attendance from our own Year 11 students as well as those from other academies. Miss Benning, the Head of Sixth Form, presented our vision and explained the many benefits of applying to GB6th. 
We were also joined by a number of our current sixth formers, who spoke confidently to prospective students about their post-16 experiences. The Sixth Form feels very different from studying at GCSE level, with greater independence, smaller class sizes, a relaxed dress code, a dedicated study space, and access to our coffee shop. 
One of the strengths of Q3 Academy Great Barr is our talented staff, and sixth formers benefit from excellent teaching and academic support. 
Our students also tell us that they value the opportunity to continue their studies with adults they know and trust. Pastoral care is just as important for sixth formers as it is for the younger years. 
Alongside academic subjects, we are expanding our vocational offer to potentially include courses such as sport, performing arts, and food science. The government is due to publish its list of funded qualifications in the new year, at which point we will confirm the exact courses we will run in 2025-26. 
We encourage all students to have high aspirations, and our sixth form is a great way to prepare students for university, apprenticeships, or employment. 
Our sixth formers also engage in the wider life of the Academy. We believe it's important for young people to be well-rounded and have opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities such as sport, music, and drama. 
Current Year 11 students can read our prospectus and apply online. 
Treasure Island: Pantomime Tickets Available NowGet ready to set sail on a swashbuckling adventure! Students from Year 7 to the Sixth Form have been working tirelessly since September to bring the classic tale of Treasure Island to life. Packed with action, comedy, and dazzling performances, this year's pantomime promises to be a memorable journey for all. 
Join us for one of two performances next week: Tuesday 10th December or Wednesday 11th December, both starting at 6pm. Tickets are available now via ParentPay – don't miss your chance to experience the magic! – Mrs Karim 
The Science of BakingThis week our Year 10 Food Preparation and Nutrition students have been working hard to develop their baking skills and knowledge of the function of ingredients. 
Students were able to understand and visualise how raising agents work and how dextrinisation causes the colour, texture, and flavour changes that occur to starch products when heated. 
The students all worked hard to create their final Christmas Tree Rolls. Well done! – Mrs Leybourn 
Unlock Your Potential at Chess ClubChess is more than just a game, it's a journey of strategy, patience, and intellectual discovery. Our Chess Club has become a vibrant community where students gather after hours to engage in this timeless game. Every week, the Chess Club transforms into a lively hub where students of all skill levels come together. Whether you're a seasoned player or a curious beginner, there's always something new to learn. 
Chess is renowned for its ability to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Each game requires players to think several moves ahead, anticipate their opponent's strategies, and adapt to changing situations. These skills are not only valuable in chess but also in academic pursuits and everyday life. The Chess Club offers a wonderful opportunity to forge new friendships and deepen existing ones. 
Chess Club is a place where students grow intellectually, socially, and personally. We invite all students to join us and experience the many joys and benefits. Whether you're looking to improve your game, make new friends, or simply have fun, we have something for everyone. – Mr Stephenson 
From Giants to Giggles: Year 7's Unforgettable Theatre Adventure!Last Friday, 120 excited Year 7 students embarked on a festive adventure to the Lichfield Garrick Theatre to watch the magical pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk. From start to finish, the performance had everyone laughing, cheering, and fully immersed in the world of exaggerated characters, sparkling costumes, and heartwarming hilarity. 
The students were captivated by the vibrant production, which featured a towering giant, dazzling costumes, and even some unexpected surprises! A highlight for many was being sprayed with water during a lively scene and experiencing the thrill of seeing themselves projected on a screen as a drone was used to capture images of the audience. Q3 Academy Great Barr even received a personal shout-out from one of the actors! 
A beautiful dog named Cherry stole the show with antics that added even more joy to the performance. Students eagerly joined in the pantomime tradition, enthusiastically booing the villain and cheering for the hero. For some, this was their very first theatre experience. Kireth shared, "It was funny and really good. My favourite moment was everything!" Another student added, "I liked joining in with the cheering and booing." 
Visiting the theatre is a magical experience, providing memories that can last a lifetime as well as showing students what is possible on a professional stage that they can discuss and build on in their drama lessons. It's safe to say that Jack and the Beanstalk left a giant-sized impression on all who attended! – Mrs Karim 
Life Skills Club: Learning and Growing TogetherThis academic year, our Nature and Life Skills Club has offered students a chance to develop essential skills that will serve them throughout their lives. This included students using their creativity and teamwork to make their own litter pickers. In groups, they participated in a friendly competition to see who could collect the most litter, all while working together to keep our Academy clean and green, reinforcing the importance of taking pride in our surroundings. 
Students also dove into essential kitchen skills, learning about hygiene and safety practices. They explored the best ways to maintain a clean and safe kitchen, ensuring they are well-prepared for cooking in any setting. A highlight for many students was learning to make cups of tea and following step-by-step instructions to create a delicious batch of homemade soup. This activity taught them basic cooking skills and also the value of following clear instructions. 
Embracing the festive spirit, students showcased their skills by baking delightful Christmas treats. They worked together to create sweet, homemade goodies, learning the joy of cooking and the satisfaction of sharing their creations. Life Skills Club continues to be a wonderful opportunity for students to engage in activities that build confidence, teamwork, and practical knowledge. We're excited to see what they'll accomplish next as they continue to develop skills that will last a lifetime. – Miss Reardon-Allen 
Join Our Christmas Hamper AppealWith the holiday season approaching, we're launching our annual Christmas Hamper Appeal to support families in need. Each year, your generous contributions will help us create hampers filled with holiday essentials and treats to make the season a bit brighter for families facing challenges. Find out how you can contribute. – Ms Howl Pol's Poetry Passion Provides Prize!Mr Pol secured a prestigious ZAFTA win this week and hosted Zog accordingly. His passion for poetry was cited as a reason for his award. Where will Zog's adventures take him next? – Mr Mills 
Upcoming Events
|
|
