As we continue our drive for high standards of Business Dress, a crucial aspect is students wearing their ID badges and lanyards. These are important for safety reasons and, just like in many professional workplaces, wearing ID badges is a key part of our daily routine.
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Q3 Academy Great Barr Logo

Why ID Badges Matter at Our Academy

As we continue our drive for high standards of Business Dress, a crucial aspect is students wearing their ID badges and lanyards. These are important for safety reasons and, just like in many professional workplaces, wearing ID badges is a key part of our daily routine.

ID badges and lanyards are a key part of business dress

Not only do ID badges allow us to identify students, but they are also required when purchasing food and refreshment items from the Quisine. In addition, ID badges are used to access devices around the Academy such as printers and scanners.

A student scanning their ID badge

If your child misplaces their ID badge, case, or lanyard, replacements are easily available through ParentPay. We thank you for your support in ensuring that your child has the correct equipment with them each day. – Mr Webster

ID badges worn with pride

Shaping the Future of Digital Learning

Please complete our Digital Devices and Internet Access Survey to help us better understand how your children access our digital resources. – Mr Burlace


Year 7 Students Solve a Royal Mystery!

This week in Miss Tyler's Year 7 history class, students have studied the legendary case of 'The Princes in the Tower' and their mysterious disappearance in 1483 which led to Richard III becoming King.

A student writing in a notebook during a lesson

The students assessed the evidence provided to them from historical sources at the time and came to conclusions about whether Richard III had a hand in their demise.

A student working on a timeline and notes about historical events

Overall, students unanimously decided that Richard was to blame for this mysterious episode in English history, and they voted him guilty of the disappearance. Their excellent work is showcased here with Mr Davies, Head of History. Thanks to Viraj, Orla, Kirath, and Imani for being history superstars this week! – Mr Davies

A teacher and four students holding written work in front of a whiteboard displaying a plenary task

Inspiring Future Physicists Through Hands-On Learning

Year 10 Separate Science students visited the University of Birmingham for an exciting 'Girls in Physics' day. Students listened to scientists share insights into their careers and the paths they took to achieve success. A real highlight was hearing from a current lecturer at the university, who explained the strategies she is currently using to study exoplanets.

A group of students and a teacher standing outdoors in front of a clock tower

Students also had a tour of particle physics, introducing quarks, bosons, and leptons. The interactive show introduced students to the theory of particle physics and showcased how physicists are using this in current research. It was a fantastic day to explore possible careers in physics whilst learning about new research.

A teacher conducting a science experiment with a bottle emitting smoke

Back at the Academy, Year 11 students have made a brilliant start to this term learning about forces. They have been investigating the relationship between the extension of a spring and the force applied, a vital concept in engineering.

Students conducting a science experiment with a spring in a classroom

It has been inspiring to see students apply their scientific knowledge and approach to this investigation. – Miss L Smith

Two students conducting a science experiment with a spring and weights

Cadet Grant Brings Exciting Upgrades to CCF Training

The Combined Cadet Force has received a substantial grant to help us develop our range of training resources and continue to improve the quality of training on offer to cadets. This includes developing our flight simulator suite, increasing it to 5 simulators with improved controls and visuals, and Air Traffic Control, allowing cadets to learn all of the key aviation skills that they will need when they visit 8 Air Experience Flight to go flying for real!

A cadet seated in a simulator chair holding a joystick

More CPR manikins will allow every cadet to receive annual first aid training. CPR in particular is an essential skill that every cadet learns. We believe this is vital, but hope they never have to use it for real. If they do, our cadets are prepared!

A cadet demonstrates the parts of the new 3D Printer and one of the models that it will be used to build - a Spitfire!

3D printers will allow cadets to design, print, and build flying model aircraft, rockets, and working models of engines. This will help them to learn about the principles of flight, airframes, avionics, radio communications, and propulsion systems. Instrument panels for the flight simulator suite will also be 3D printed. – Mr Burlace


Final Call for Year 10 Work Experience Placements!

Year 10 students are invited to find a work experience placement for w/c 30th June 2025. Since October, students have been asked to network amongst their friends, family, and community asking for placements, just as they would when applying for a job. Congratulations to all who have beat the deadline and confirmed a placement. For those with no placement confirmed, don't forget you can attend Tuesday morning Careers Club or drop in for support. – Mrs Meredith


Inspiring Futures: Newman University Visits Year 7

On a Thursday in January, we had the perfect opportunity to introduce our Year 7 students to university education and inspire them to think about their futures. Newman University captivated our Year 7 students with an engaging presentation and a thrilling drone tour of their campus. Students were fascinated to learn that there are over 30,000 courses available to study across the UK!

Thank you to Newman University

We couldn't be prouder of Year 7, who listened attentively and asked thoughtful questions. – Mrs Meredith

Newman University explaining qualification levels

Mr Banks scoops ZAFTA!

Mr Banks hosted Zog for the week after being recognised for the high quality knowledge acquisition tasks in his lessons. It was clear that students were being prepared for success through his thoughtful practice. Well done Mr Banks! – Mr Mills

A teacher posing with a knitted dragon in front of a whiteboard with a speech bubble saying 'To Zog or not to Zog?'

Upcoming Events

  • 20-31 Jan - Year 12 Mock Exams
  • 27 Jan - Year 9 Parent Consultation and Pathways Evening
  • 29 Jan - Intermediate Maths Challenge
  • 15-23 Feb - Half Term
  • 28 Feb - Year 9 DTP Immunisation
  • 3 Mar - Year 8 Parent Consultation Evening (Online)
  • 10-21 Mar - Year 11 and 13 Mock Exams
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