As we come to the end of another academic year, it is with immense pride and thanks that I reflect on the incredible journey we have shared as a school community. This year has been a true testament to the strength of our core values –resilience, excellence, and respect – which continue to shine through in everything our students and staff achieve.
From academic successes and creative endeavours to sporting achievements and community projects, our students have consistently demonstrated a determination to rise to every challenge, support one another, and strive to be the very best versions of themselves. Their resilience in the face of setbacks, their pursuit of excellence in all areas of school life, and the genuine respect they show for one another make me incredibly proud to be part of this school and community.
I hope you enjoy reading about the highlights of this term and the many reasons we have to celebrate. As we look ahead to a well-earned summer break, I want to thank you all –students, families, staff, and governors – for your continued support and for making this such a special place to learn and grow.
We look forward to welcoming you all back in September along with our new Year 7s, and remind you that uniform requirements are listed on our website and that students should
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
ensure they have a school bag and full pencil case. Wishing you all a safe, happy, and restful summer.
Warm regards,
Mrs J Betts Principal
FAREWELL TO YEAR 11: A REMARKABLE JOURNEY COMES TO A CLOSE
As the school year draws to a close, we say a heartfelt goodbye to our incredible Year 11 cohort, a group of students who have truly embodied our school values of resilience, excellence and respect throughout their time at Colchester Academy.
From their first nervous steps through our doors to their confident final days, it has been a joy to watch this year group grow into mature, thoughtful and ambitious young people. They have tackled every challenge thrown their way and have demonstrated a strength of character that we are immensely proud of.
The culmination of their hard work came during this summer’s exam period, which was long and demanding. Yet, our Year 11 students rose to the occasion with grit, determination and focus. Their commitment to revision, their calmness under pressure, and their drive to succeed were truly impressive. We are confident that the results they receive in August will reflect the dedication they have shown, and we wish them all the very best on results day.
Beyond the classroom, Year 11 have been a huge part of school life. They have taken part in extracurricular activities, supported younger students, led by example, and helped shape the positive culture we are so proud of at Colchester Academy. Many of them have come to understand the true meaning of excellence — not just in grades, but in effort, attitude, and character. They have also developed a strong sense of self-respect and an enduring respect for those around them, which will serve them well in whatever path they choose next.
Their Leavers’ Assembly was a perfect mix of reflection and celebration. Students were recognised for their academic efforts and commitment, with formal awards handed out to those who had demonstrated consistent excellence. But there was also time for laughter, with fun awards like “Most Dramatic” and
“Funniest Student” bringing smiles all round. It was a memorable way to mark the end of an era. We were also thrilled to celebrate with them at their Prom, a fantastic evening full of laughter, dancing, and style. The event hosts commented that our students were among the most well-behaved, respectful and gracious they had ever welcomed for a prom; praise that speaks volumes about the character of this year group.
Miss Moore, their dedicated Head of Year, shared how proud she is of every single student. “It has been an honour to see them grow over the years. I will truly miss them all and wish them nothing but success in the future. They’ve been a credit to the school and to themselves.”
To Year 11: thank you for everything you’ve given to Colchester Academy. You leave behind a legacy of kindness, ambition and perseverance. Whether you’re moving on to college, an apprenticeship, or the world of work, go forward with confidence and pride. We will miss you dearly and we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.
KS3 CLIMATE CHANGE SUMMIT
Our Year 8 Students attended the KS3 Climate Change Summit at the University of Essex. The event brought together students and educators to explore the science behind climate change — and, crucially, to identify possible solutions, emerging technologies and future innovations that can help
shape a sustainable tomorrow.
Our students — Esther Bolaji, Beth Jackson, Michael Mukada, Alex Wu, Teddi Campbell, Angelina Kostova, Jaiden Obwoya, Yuki Igierobo, Tyler Manning and Chloe Seaden — represented the school admirably, demonstrating
exceptional conduct, confidence and commitment.
Colchester Academy was bursting with colour, pride and cultural celebration as students and staff came together for our annual Culture Day — a highlight of the school calendar that truly reflects the richness and diversity of our community.
The day was dedicated to exploring, embracing and honouring the many cultures represented within our student body. From the very start of the day, the Academy was transformed. Students arrived proudly wearing traditional and cultural attire from around the world; everything from saris and dashikis to football shirts from national teams and beautifully embroidered fabrics unique to family heritage.
Throughout the day, lessons across the curriculum were adapted to explore cultural contributions to different subject areas. In English, students examined literature from global voices; in History, they explored the legacies of diverse civilisations; in Science and Maths, they looked at pioneering contributions from different cultures. This thoughtful and meaningful integration into the curriculum ensured that Culture Day wasn’t just a one-off celebration—but something with lasting educational impact.
Lunchtime saw the heart of the celebration, with an extended break where students hosted vibrant stalls displaying artefacts, posters and information boards about their backgrounds and heritage. Many had brought in delicious homemade food to
CULTURE DAY 2025
share with others—dishes that represented their families, their countries and their communities. From samosas to sushi, plantain to pierogi, the air was filled with amazing smells and even better conversations, as students explained their histories, traditions, and customs with pride and enthusiasm.
Staff joined in the celebration too, many dressed in cultural attire or supported their form groups with food preparation and displays. We were also proud to welcome student volunteers from the University of Essex, who added another layer of richness to the day by sharing their own cultural stories and engaging with students during the extended lunch.
The day ended with a fantastic Culture Day Talent Show in Period 5. Students delivered an array of culturally inspired performances, from traditional dances and songs to poetry and spoken word - showcasing not only their talents but also their connection to their roots. The atmosphere was electric, with students cheering, applauding and celebrating one another.
Culture Day is more than just a celebration, it is a reflection of our school value of respect: respect for others, for different ways of life and for the cultures and traditions that shape who we are. At Colchester Academy, we believe that diversity is our strength and this day stood as a powerful reminder of that truth.
Leah, year 10 student said ‘“I loved
today because I got to experience other people’s cultures and eat other people’s food. I loved it so much!”
Thank you to everyone who took part in making the day such a success, from the students who proudly shared their cultures, to the staff who supported them, and to our guests from the University of Essex. It was truly a day to remember.
Year 8 Reach New Heights on Inspiring STEM Day with the RAF
Colchester Academy’s Year 8 students took to the skies — at least in model form — during an action-packed STEM day delivered in collaboration with the Royal Air Force. With a strong focus on engineering, the day was designed to broaden students’ understanding of STEM industries, spark ambition, and give them a taste of real-world design and innovation.
The morning began with an insightful session exploring the many branches of engineering, from civil and mechanical to electrical and aerospace. Students were introduced to the diverse roles engineers play in shaping our world, from designing transport systems and buildings to innovating within aviation and space exploration. The RAF facilitators provided an engaging overview, helping students understand the connection between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
With this new understanding in mind, students were placed into teams and given a unique challenge: to design, build and test their own model aircraft. The process began with research and paper-based planning, including early prototypes and concept sketches. Each team had to learn about different wing shapes, aircraft styles, and the science behind flight in order to make informed decisions for their designs.
Students were also asked to develop a full marketing concept to support their aircraft, which meant they had to think not only like engineers, but also like designers and communicators. Collaboration was key, with each team member taking on different responsibilities — from lead engineer and designer to marketing lead and production specialist.
It was incredibly impressive to witness the maturity and professionalism with which students approached their teamwork. They developed and demonstrated excellent communication skills, recognising how different roles within a team contribute to the overall success of a project. The atmosphere in the room was one of focused energy and shared purpose.
Once the paper models were refined, students moved on to constructing their aircraft using wood, glue
guns, cutting tools and mini engines. Working within tight timeframes, students showed real resilience, problem-solving in the moment and adapting their designs on the fly to meet the deadline.
As the day drew to a close, the excitement mounted for the grand finale: the flight competition. Each team had the chance to launch their aircraft and see whose design soared the furthest. Some models flew with real distance and elegance, clearly reflecting the students’ learning about wing shape and aerodynamics. The range of ideas and designs showcased just how ambitious and creative the students had been throughout the day.
Awards were given for first, second and third place, based on criteria such as flight distance, overall design, teamwork and communication. Every student should be proud of their contribution; whether their plane flew the furthest or not, they all demonstrated Colchester Academy’s values of resilience, excellence and respect.
ATTENDANCE NEWS
WHY 97% MATTERS
WHAT DOES 97% ATTENDANCE MEAN?
97% ATTENDANCE = NO MORE THAN 5 DAYS OFF IN A SCHOOL YEAR. THAT’S THE MINIMUM EXPECTED LEVEL FOR GOOD ATTENDANCE BY MOST SCHOOLS AND THE DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION.
IT ALLOWS STUDENTS TO KEEP UP WITH LEARNING, MAKE PROGRESS AND ENJOY SCHOOL LIFE.
WHAT HAPPENS BELOW 97% ATTENDANCE?
95–96.9% - MISSING 6–9 DAYSLEARNING GAPS START TO APPEAR
93–94.9% - MISSING 10–13 DAYSNOTICEABLE LOSS OF PROGRESS
90–92.9% - MISSING 14–19 DAYSRISK OF UNDERACHIEVEMENT INCREASES
✅ SPEAK TO US EARLY IF YOUR CHILD IS ANXIOUS OR UNWELL
�� NEED SUPPORT?
OUR STUDENT SUPPORT TEAM IS HERE TO HELP! WE WORK WITH FAMILIES TO REMOVE BARRIERS TO ATTENDANCE – BIG OR SMALL
�� LET’S WORK TOGETHER – EVERY DAY COUNTS
ATTENDANCE: BUILDING RESILIENCE, RESPECT, AND EXCELLENCE
At Colchester Academy, we know that excellent attendance is the foundation for success. Every school day matters — and students who attend regularly not only achieve stronger academic results, but also develop the resilience to overcome challenges and build the positive habits that lead to long-term success. Missing lessons, even occasionally, can quickly create gaps in learning that are difficult to fill and can hold students back from achieving their full potential.
That’s why we’re working closely with students and families to make sure every child can attend school consistently. Good attendance is about more than
just being present — it’s about showing respect for yourself, your education, and your future. By building strong routines and supporting one another, we can help every student develop the character and self-discipline needed to thrive.
Research consistently shows that students with higher attendance make significantly greater progress in their GCSEs and beyond. By demonstrating resilience through regular attendance, showing respect for their learning, and striving for excellence every day, our young people are setting themselves up not just for academic success, but for life beyond school.
SCIENCE
Over the past six weeks, Mr Kader (Science Teacher) and our students Abigail Brewer, Ikem Balamathina, Ruby Clarke and Peter Matyucz have been working together in Science Club on an exciting engineering challenge: to design and build a model car using bio-sustainable materials.
Their aim was to create functional, competitive vehicles made from eco-friendly components such as recycled wood, biodegradable polystyrene and our own sustainable plastics. Along the way, students explored key aspects of car design and manufacturing, including sustainable architecture, design and engineering principles, the history of automotive innovation and car design and the basic aerodynamics. Throughout the project, our students documented their learning, sketched prototype designs, and developed hands-on skills in design and technology.
BETH CHATTO TRIP
This term some of our students visited the Beth Chatto gardens; the gardens are a collection of different plant varieties grown from 1960 onwards by Beth Chatto and her husband, who was the botanist, Andrew Chatto. Beth Chatto was a British gardener (born in 1923) and author, who eventually became internationally recognised for her sustainable gardening practices.
The land was inherited from her husband, at the time, which was full of brambles, dead patches and poor soil, however, over the years they worked with nature to create sustainable garden and horticulture practice as seen today, which is now a Grade 2 listed National Heritage site.
The students were able to immerse themselves in the gardens. They went on a tour during which time they asked fantastic questions. They were incredibly intrigued and fascinated, which was echoed in the feedback from staff who
These included using heated rods to solder and mold custom parts, as well as safely operating electric fretsaws to shape spoilers and wings for their cars. They further encompassed their knowledge and skills throughout the weeks into their final design, with all cars being unique but drawing upon the same principals to create an innovative design.
In our final session, the cars were put to the test in an 80-metre race powered by compressed CO₂ canisters. The fastest car completed the course in just 3.2 seconds.
The students showed outstanding enthusiasm, teamwork and perseverance throughout the project. Their creativity and commitment to sustainability were very impressive, and the final results demonstrate their hard work
mentioned how engaged they were, and how much they loved answering the questions. They went pond-dipping and used a key to identify different species of insects, and carefully put them back. Next, they were given a variety of different herbs to smell and identify, and also created their own mini gardens, in a tinfoil box with soil, grass varieties, stones and other small plants. They used small shears as well to make their gardens aesthetic and tidy. The students then went on to make a sustainable plant pot out of paper, a paper roller, soil, and a herb seed of their choice (dill, rosemary, chamomile or basil). They then covered this with clingfilm to grow at home. Lastly, our students went outside to explore the gardens and went bug hunting, with a plastic bug viewer for observation. Whilst being respectful of the environment, looking under logs or long grasses without causing any environmental disturbance.
It was a really great experience for the students and myself, and allowed them to link what they have learnt about plants and ecology this year to real life examples. They all carried themselves very well, and were polite and attentive to the staff and wonderful representatives of the Academy.
GREENSTEAD COMMUNITY GARDEN PROJECT
Students from Colchester Academy have been taking part in an exciting new community project designed to promote sustainability, wellbeing, and local pride. Planned and developed by Essex County Council in collaboration with National Highways, the project focuses on creating “green and healthy pathways” in and around the local area—spaces where the community can walk, plant, and connect.
Behind the project site, green pathways have already begun to take shape, alongside planted areas filled with fruit-bearing plants. These spaces are being developed for long-term community use, giving local residents access to fresh produce and the opportunity to take ownership of their shared environment.
Children from Colchester Academy, Hazelmere Schools, Unity School, and several others have been invited to contribute their own ideas and designs, helping to shape the identity of these communal areas.
“We hope to get the children involved in bringing their ideas to help develop a sense of community paths in the area,” said the project leader. “Hopefully, they will be able to plant their own fruits, watch them grow, and learn about how food comes from the earth. It’s about making things sustainable, not just getting them from supermarkets. It’s also about creating a space the whole community can nurture and enjoy visiting.”
As part of their involvement, Colchester Academy students have contributed artwork, reflections, and ideas, embracing the values of Resilience, Respect, and Excellence throughout. Whether it’s working as a team to design environmentally-conscious spaces, learning about food sustainability, or showing respect for nature and the community—students are making a real and lasting impact.
The project also fosters intergenerational connection, with participation from older local residents and youth services, helping to strengthen community bonds.
This collaboration highlights the Academy’s ongoing commitment to personal development, character education, and meaningful community partnerships, preparing students not just for exams, but for life beyond the school gates.
MATHS
The Maths Department has been working hard this year on including Problem Solving in maths lessons, and across the school, after being awarded accreditation as a Problem-Solving School. We are continuing to offer all students the chance to tackle Nrich Problem Solving challenges during lessons and in a weekly lunchtime club. Our notice board is being regularly updated with the live problems available and students have been very successful in their attempts.
The Nrich problems are part of the outreach and engagement initiative within the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge (Maths Millennium Project), and is active nationally and internationally. Students who submit correct solutions can be
chosen to have their work published on the Nrich Website at an international level, showcasing their talents.
The tasks develop mathematical thinking in these mathematical areas: exploring and noticing, working systematically, conjecturing and generalising, visualising and representing, reasoning, convincing, whilst also strengthening students’ skills in these general areas: Being curious, collaborative, resourceful and resilient (echoing one of our school values).
We believe these skills are important for students, as they will make them stronger mathematicians, help them in further study, in the workplace and real-life scenarios. We have definitely seen students become more resilient since being introduced to the Nrich tasks.
NEMO MATHS 2024/25
Students at Colchester Academy have risen to the challenge this year by taking part in the prestigious National Extension Mathematics Olympiad (NEMO) competitions. Spanning across the academic year, the competition has seen 23 students from Years 7 to 10 participate in a series of problem-solving tasks designed to stretch and challenge mathematical thinking.
The NEMO challenge is known for its complexity and demand for creative reasoning, and our students have stepped up with determination and enthusiasm. Across the school, pupils have demonstrated resilience, critical thinking and a strong competitive spirit, showing a real commitment to developing their mathematical skills.
We are thrilled to celebrate a bronze award achieved by one of team of students this year—an incredible accomplishment that reflects the hard work and perseverance seen throughout the competition.
So far we have attempted all the Weekly Problems since we joined the initiative. Top contributors of correct solutions have been Danika Wergrzanowska, Jokubas Ivanauskas, Bailey Stoker, Matteo Huncanu and Leila Paterson.
The Nrich website also has a dedicated parent’s area: https://nrich. maths.org/parents/secondary where you can find the following resources: Article about working on Maths at Home, Maths challenges for ages 11-14 and Maths challenges for ages 14-16
We’d love you to use this over the summer holidays, where you could use older siblings to help younger ones or do challenges together as a Family.
This has been a fantastic opportunity not only to test mathematical abilities but to nurture a love of challenge, teamwork, and personal growth. We are proud of every student who took part and look forward to building on this success in the year ahead.
#Excellence #Resilience #ColchesterAcademyMaths
YOUTH HEALTH CHAMPIONS
A group of passionate Year 9 and 10 students at Colchester Academy are taking proactive steps to support the health and wellbeing of their peers as part of the prestigious Youth Health Champion course — a programme designed to promote healthier lifestyles among young people.
Funded by the Health Inequalities Fund through Tendring District Council and Colchester City Council, the school was proud to be awarded 28 places on the programme — significantly more than is typically offered. This opportunity has allowed a carefully selected group of students, identified for their potential to thrive in this leadership role, to work towards a Level 2 Youth Health Champion Award, a qualification equivalent to a GCSE. Not only does this enhance their understanding of health and wellbeing, but it also provides a valuable asset to support their post-16 applications.
The course, which aligns closely with the statutory RSHE guidance, began with an intensive two-day
training programme led by NHS professionals. The sessions were both informative and engaging, and students responded with real enthusiasm. From learning about physical and mental health to exploring the importance of diet and active lifestyles, students have worked through a detailed training booklet to gain a well-rounded understanding of what it means to live healthily.
Now, with their theoretical work complete, the students are preparing to launch their own campaigns; applying what they’ve learned to create impactful, peer-led initiatives that will raise awareness and promote positive choices within the school community.
The entire Academy is excited to see what these Youth Health Champions will produce in the coming weeks. Their commitment and creativity are already shining through, and their work is sure to have a lasting impact on the wider school environment.
Year 10 Peer Mentoring Reading
A number of students in Year 10 have recently received their training to become Peer Mentors. Their first task has been working with a group of Year 8 students to improve their reading and to give them support with their emotional wellbeing.
The Mentors have been doing a fantastic job and they have been working really hard which has benefited both sets of students; the Year 8 student’s reading has improved and they have also enjoyed the interactions and the support that Year 10 have given them. Year 10 have enjoyed the positive responses from the Year 8 students and the knowledge that they have supported them and are making a difference.
Huge thanks and congratulations go to our Year 10 Mentors:
Tamzin Alejo, Billy Baldock, Joshua Barr, Milly Dale,
Lila Gardner, Sophia Griffiths, Oreshaye Hickmon, Yeva Kolesnyk, River Leyland, Lexi-Rose Master, Alex Neagu, Jada Obwoya, Samuel Omoniyi, Zeba Sanaie, Shannon Scrutton, Lily Seager and Matthew Stammers.
University of Essex Residential Trip
By Clinton Ezebuiro
My trip to Essex University was amazing. We took part in many social activities and had a feel of university life, we also had some taste sessions such as sociology, politics, criminology, speech and language therapy, journalism, film making and much more. On Day 1 we had our first session around 10 am which was about improving one step at a time, then we had some sessions before we headed back to our accommodation which were very well equipped. We were able to change into our own clothes and headed back out to a barbecue dinner, which was very delightful may I add, we then had dinner and a movie night afterwards we watched “Top Gun Maverick”, which was a very good movie.
On Day 2, we didn’t have to wear our school uniform, we wore our own clothes and had breakfast. We then had some sessions about Pol-
SPANISH COOKING CLUB
Our talented Year 7 and 8 students have been cooking up a storm in Colchester Academy’s Spanish Cooking Club! Led by our Spanish department, the club has given students the chance to dive headfirst into Spanish culture, exploring its world-famous Mediterranean diet
itics, Computing, Journalism and History and had the opportunity to socialise with another school from Basildon which was a fun experience! After these sessions, we had lunch and then we had a “rate my plate” contest of cooking and presentation where we were given a budget to work with and had to prepare a meal of our choice. This made us understand what uni life is like when it comes to budgeting. My team came 2nd place winning a £15 UberEats voucher, which was very well appreciated. We also had a general knowledge quiz to end the night where we had to work as a team and my team came 2nd place again winning some stress balls which again was very well appreciated.
Day 3, we had breakfast and had a few last sessions and were gifted a packed lunch to go home with. Then we bid our farewells and said goodbye to the student ambassadors, our newly made friends from Basildon and we said goodbye to Essex Uni.
while learning how to make some truly mouth-watering dishes. From sizzling flavours to healthy ingredients, our students showed off fantastic cooking skills and enthusiasm, turning every session into a culinary celebration!
Alongside the cooking, students expanded their Spanish vocabulary, learning ingredient names and spotting fun links between Spanish and English words. It’s been a brilliant mix of language, culture, and food — and we’re so proud of the delicious results our budding
Overall I’d say the trip was certainly an unforgettable experience and I thank the school and my teachers for giving me the opportunity to take part in it. I may not have included every single thing in here but it was definitely a trip to remember, Thank you!
chefs have created. ¡Buen trabajo, everyone!
Olivia Britton, Oscar Philip, Emilia Moodie, Adelina Hotin, year 7 students
Mario Bararu, Year 8 student
Colchester Academy is incredibly proud of Year 11 student Macy Levy, who has been selected to represent Great Britain in artistic roller skating this summer.
Macy’s talent, determination and hard work have earned her a place on the national team, and she will be travelling to Croatia to compete on the international stage. Before that, Macy will be heading to Great Yarmouth to take part in a pre-competition event — an important stepping stone on her journey to representing her country.
What makes Macy’s achievement even more impressive is that she has been balancing the demands of elite-level training with her GCSE studies. Her ability to manage such a rigorous schedule is a testament to her resilience, discipline and passion for her sport.
Everyone at Colchester Academy is cheering her on and wishing her the very best in both her exams and her upcoming competitions. Macy is a fantastic role model for younger students and a shining example of
what dedication and ambition can achieve.
Good luck, Macy — we’re all behind you!
MACY LEVY TO REPRESENT GREAT BRITAIN SPORTS DAY 2025
Sports Day 2025 was a resounding success, ideal weather conditions, and an outstanding level of participation and enthusiasm from students across all year groups. The atmosphere throughout the day was positive and vibrant, reflecting the strong sense of community and sportsmanship within our school. This year’s event was particularly notable for the number of records broken across various disciplines:
Year 7: Moses Aluka (100m boys), Zack Murray (1500m boys) and Henry Tew (800m boys)
Year 8: Gabriel Lawal (boys shot put), Darcey Clark (girls 200m), Jess Hawes (girls 800m), Ella Tuckwell (girls long jump) and Leila Ablonskyte (girls javelin)
Year 9: Abbie Willis (girls 800m)
Year 10: Joel West (100m boys), Benneth Emereonye (boys long jump), Alana Prosser (girls long jump), and the 10C1 boys relay team
Each of these students demonstrated exceptional talent and determination, and we congratulate them on their remarkable achievements. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all staff, volunteers, and participants for their contributions to making the day so successful. Sports Day 2025 was a true celebration of athletic excellence and school spirit.
Colchester Academy Presents: Matilda
We are incredibly proud to announce that Matilda the Musical marks a historic moment for Colchester Academy—it is the first ever full-scale musical production in the school’s history!
With a talented cast of 34 students spanning Year 7 to Year 11, this production is the result of six months of hard work and creative dedication. From the initial auditions to weekly rehearsals, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Students have committed to three, sometimes four rehearsals a week, perfecting their acting, choreography, and vocal performances with passion and resilience.
This is, without doubt, the most ambitious and technically complex piece of theatre we have ever staged at Colchester Academy. From lighting and staging to the intricate demands of live performance, every element has pushed our students and staff to new creative heights.
Their commitment has gone above and beyond—many even came in on Saturdays to make sure the show reached its full potential. The result is a production that not only showcases immense talent but also embodies our school values of resilience, excellence, and collaboration.
We can’t wait to welcome families, friends, and the wider community to witness this milestone event and celebrate the outstanding
work of our students and staff. Bravo to everyone involved!
Mr Searl highlighted ‘It’s been an absolute pleasure to watch our performers grow in both confidence and stage presence over the course of this production.
From the outset, we knew we were setting the bar high, but we also knew our students would rise to the challenge.
I’m incredibly proud to have been part of something so special.
Miss Selfe said, ‘What a journey it’s been for the Colchester Academy drama club! We’ve seen incredible growth over the past few years, with our performances getting stronger and more ambitious each time. This coming Summer Showcase 2025 is set to be truly special, as we present Colchester Academy’s first-ever musical production, bringing together the magic of acting, singing, and dancing. The dedication and resilience shown by our students throughout this project have been truly outstanding, and I am so deeply proud of each and every one of them. It’s an immense privilege to share my passion with such a talented group of budding performers.’
Ms Constantine commented, ‘We knew that this was going to be the biggest, most challenging and demanding production Colchester Academy has ever undertaken, but our incredible students have shown determination, dedication and strength throughout countless
hours of rehearsals and preparation. Every single member of the cast and crew has given their all and the result is nothing short of spectacular. I am extremely proud of these wonderful students and feel incredibly lucky to have worked with them on what is probably one of their greatest achievements to date.’
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YEAR 7s OFF TO A GREAT START
As the summer term draws to a close, it’s been fantastic to reflect on the achievements, growth and enthusiasm of our Year 7 students over the past few months.
This term, students have shown incredible dedication both inside and outside the classroom. Engaging fully in PE lessons, to attending extra-curricular clubs, working hard to prepare for our upcoming sports day. An event which showcases not only athletic skills but also their excellence, resilience and respect. Academically, our Year 7s have continued to impress, approaching the final weeks of their
first year at Secondary school with focus, resilience, and a real commitment to their learning. It has been wonderful to see how much they’ve grown in confidence and maturity, ready to take on new challenges.
As we prepare to welcome our next cohort of Year 7 students in September, it is clear that this year group will be excellent role models. Their positive attitude, kindness and willingness to support others will help our newest students feel at home and settle quickly into school life.
We are proud to celebrate those students who took part in addi-
PEDAL POWER
Essex PedalPower Greenstead, based at Unity House, is working hard to make cycling accessible to everyone in our community. In partnership with Essex County Council, the Active Wellbeing Society, and other key organisations, this inclusive programme provides free bikes, volunteer opportunities, and cycling training sessions to local residents, including those living in some of the country’s most disadvantaged areas.
So far, PedalPower Greenstead has given away over 700 bikes, including 160 children’s bikes, helping families embrace sustainable travel and active lifestyles. The programme has now secured funding to supply bikes for taller children in the community. These new silver bikes, still proudly branded as Essex PedalPower, are designed to ensure every young person can benefit from this fantastic initiative.
Anyone living in the Greenstead area can apply for a free bike, and the project also offers monthly adult
tional opportunities in the school such as the Pedal Power programme, a fantastic initiative that has helped some students develop confidence, independence and cycling skills. This summer term has been a brilliant way to round off what has been an exciting, eventful and successful year for Year 7. We are proud of each and every student for their achievements and the way they have embraced school life. We can’t wait to see what they go onto accomplish in Year 8.
training sessions for those who want to learn to ride, as well as community-led social rides for experienced cyclists. Looking ahead, PedalPower is planning group rides to Alton Water and Sudbury, giving participants the chance to explore the beautiful old railway path to Long Melford.
STAYING SAFE THIS SUMMER BREAK
As we head into the summer break, it’s the perfect time to relax, recharge, and enjoy time with friends and family. Whether you’re heading to the beach, spending time outdoors, or just enjoying the sunshine, it’s important to stay safe and look after yourself and others.
Please remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun—wear sunscreen, take regular breaks in the shade, and avoid being out during the hottest part of the day. If you’re near water, whether it’s the sea, rivers, or lakes, always take extra care. Cold water shock, hidden currents, and slippery surfaces can all pose real risks, so never swim alone and stick to lifeguarded areas where possible.
Summer is also a time to rest your mind as well as your body. If you’re feeling low, overwhelmed, or anxious, you’re not alone—and there is always support available. You can reach out to trusted adults, friends, or organisations like Childline (0800 1111), YoungMinds (youngminds.org.uk), or Kooth (kooth. com) for free, confidential help. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as staying safe physically.
We want everyone to have a brilliant summer—and come back safe, happy, and ready for the new school year.
Artwork by Elisha in year 10
DATES FOR THE DIARY
Monday 1 September - Non-pupil day
Tuesday 2 September - Year 7 first day and photo day
Wednesday 3 September - Years 8 to 11 first day back
Friday 12 September - Years 8 and 9 photo day
Friday 19 September - Year 11 Mock Interview Day
Thursday 25 September - Year 6 Open Evening
Thursday 2 October - Year 7 Form Tutor Evening
Thursday 9 October - Year 11 GCSE Success Evening
Friday 17 October - Years 10 and 11 photo day
Thursday 23 October - Careers Day
Friday 24 October - Non-pupil day
Monday 27 to Friday 31 October - Half Term
Monday 3 to Friday 14 November - Year 11 Mock Exams
