In today's digital world, screens are a big part of students' lives, from studying to socialising. While technology has many benefits, excessive screen time – especially late at night – can lead to poor sleep, reduced focus, and lower energy levels. Endless scrolling can also affect students' wellbeing and lead to a shorter attention span. These effects often carry over into the Academy day, making it harder for students to fully engage in lessons.
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Managing Screen Time to Stay Healthy

In today's digital world, screens are a big part of students' lives, from studying to socialising. While technology has many benefits, excessive screen time – especially late at night – can lead to poor sleep, reduced focus, and lower energy levels. Endless scrolling can also affect students' wellbeing and lead to a shorter attention span. These effects often carry over into the Academy day, making it harder for students to fully engage in lessons.

Students sitting at a table using mobile phones

One practical way to manage screen time is by setting clear boundaries, such as keeping phones out of bedrooms at night or establishing screen-free times during meals and before bed. Encouraging alternative activities like reading, exercise, or face-to-face conversations can also help create a more balanced routine. The goal isn't to ban screens but to ensure they're used in a way that enhances, rather than disrupts, sleep, focus, and overall wellbeing – both at home and in the Academy.

Students playing and talking outdoors on a sunny day

In the photos above, we see students acting out the difference between sitting on their phones and enjoying the company of others outdoors!


Year 7 Master Kitchen Safety and Skills

Mr Webster's Year 7 students had their first lesson in the kitchen to create a delicious coleslaw. Students learned to identify kitchen hazards and practised essential safety techniques.

A teacher observing a student chopping vegetables in a classroom

In the lesson, students were able to complete the bridge and claw method to safely cut their vegetables. They were also able to peel and grate vegetables to ensure equal sizes throughout their dish.

Two students grating vegetables in a food lesson

Developing knife skills and understanding of safety in a practical environment is an important aspect of the food curriculum. The students were thrilled with their final creations and are eager to return to the kitchen soon! – Mrs Leybourn

Two students in aprons holding bowls of mixed salad ingredients in a classroom

Year 10 RS Revision in Action

This month in GCSE RS, Year 10 students have been studying the unit of Relationships and Families. Within this unit, students have studied various topics such as human sexuality, contraception, marriage, purpose of the family, and gender equality. Our students are gearing up to showcase their fantastic understanding and dedication in an upcoming assessment! To solidify learning, students completed some intricate revision by using the material provided.

Students holding colourful signs spelling 'REVISION' in an RS classroom

The revision consisted of creating revision mind maps, developing explanation for key teachings, and using knowledge organisers! Students are provided with revision guides that they can use at home alongside detailed knowledge organisers for each unit in RS. This image shows students actively applying their knowledge of key GCSE teachings, ensuring they are well-prepared to provide detailed explanations in their assessment.

Two students in a classroom working on Religious Studies assignments

In RS, we acknowledge the importance of teaching students how to revise and the various ways to do this. These revision techniques have in the past contributed to many students being able to attain and remember information more easily.

A student writing on a worksheet during an RS lesson

Well done to all the GCSE RS students for working incredibly hard in ensuring their knowledge and skills are solidified! – Miss Mahey

A student in a school uniform working on a worksheet at a desk

Unlocking Opportunities: Inspiring Careers Event

On 5th March 2025, we are thrilled to host over 35 leading companies and education providers in an inspiring event and Business Breakfast. This event promises to energise our Year 9 and Sixth Form students as they embark on an exciting journey to shape their futures. – Mrs Meredith

Logos of our industry partners

Stepping Into the Ring: Box Clever

Three students got an amazing opportunity to put boxing skills they have learnt over the past 6 weeks into action in a real ring.

A mentor and a student practising boxing techniques in a gym

The students were very mature and listened to Craig's instructions. Students had to persevere and show resilience even when very tired and working hard.

Two students in a boxing gym, one punching a heavy bag and the other running

We want to thank the Box Clever team for the excellent opportunities they have offered our students. They get so much from the mentoring and boxing challenges, and what a wonderful way to bring it all together in the ring. – Mrs Ward

Students in a boxing ring with a coach during a BoxClever trip

Year 10 PE Students Discuss Gender in Sport

GCSE PE students have been studying social groups as part of their qualification. Some very interesting discussions were had about how gender impacts participation and engagement in sport.

Sam has some very good arguments for gender in sport!

Both teams created some very strong arguments for and against numerous topics which examine fairness and equality in sport. – Mrs M Schwald-Samuel

Charlie responding with his argument

Mrs Rowe and Zog Make History!

Mrs Rowe scooped the ZAFTA Award before half term for her wonderful work in the classroom. She was recognised for her proactive approach to checking student understanding during tasks – well done Mrs Rowe! – Mr Mills

A teacher holding a small dragon toy, standing in front of a noticeboard

Upcoming Events

  • 28 Feb - Year 9 DTP Immunisation
  • 3 Mar - Year 8 Parent Consultation Evening (Online)
  • 10-21 Mar - Year 11 and 13 Mock Exams
  • 31 Mar - Year 7 Parent Consultation Evening (Online)
  • 10 Apr - Term ends at 12:45pm for all students
  • 11 Apr - Staff Training Day (Academy closed to students)
  • 11-15 Apr - Year 8 Paris Trip
  • 12-27 Apr - Easter Holidays
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