ENRICHMENTANDDEVELOPMENT
Wehavehadagreatstarttotheyear Iamdelightedto seehowwellourstudentshavesettledintotheirnewyear groups and daily routines, including our Year 7 students who have transitioned to secondary school life smoothly andsuccessfully
Thisbulletinhighlightssomeofthefantasticopportunities ourstudentshavehadtoexpandtheirclassroomlearning and enjoy rewarding experiences that enrich their understanding, explore their creative talents and allow them to develop their personal skills and abilities. I am veryproudofthewayinwhichourstudentsengagewith these activities and conduct themselves as representatives for the school and I look forward to sharing many more such experiences with you throughoutthecomingyear.
Please see the pages towards the end of this bulletin for upcomingeventsandactivities.
Warmregards,
OmarDeria Headteacher
OmarDeria,Headteacher
STUDENT COUNCIL
At The Excelsior Academy, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture where students can play an active role in their school community and have a voice. Our student voice model helps to develop a culture of student leadership and creates opportunities for student input and feedback. it also promotes inclusivity.
Since the start of the year, we have held elections for form reps and undertaken a rigorous application and interview process for our head students. The successful students have now been appointed and we have a functioning Student Council. The council meets regularly and has already had involvement in coming up with ideas for celebrating Black History Month.
YEAR 7 PARENTS’ & CARERS’ INFORMATION EVENING
A huge thank you to everyone who attended our Year 7 Information Evening. Not only were parents and carers able to talk to form tutors and receive vital feedback, but they also had an opportunity to see some Year 7 artwork, homework and classwork on display. I have been so impressed with the year group’s transition and dedication to learning thus far and it was lovely to see teachers, parents and students coming together so early on in the year
Mr Thirunimalan Head of Year 7
BOX HOUSE THEATRE
On 10 October, we welcomed the Box House Theatre Company. Year 9 GCSE drama students watched a 'platform theatre' based performance of 'The Twisted Tales'. This was followed by a 2 hour workshop where our students experimented with physical theatre and improvisation. The students had a sound introduction into ensemble devising preparing them for their component 1 GCSE exam.
WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING...?
SEA WALLS
Our Year 11 geography students had an enriching experience during their recent field trip to Walton on the Naze, where they explored coastal management strategies. The day was filled with learning in the field, as students examined various techniques used to combat coastal erosion and flooding.
Students conducted fieldwork assessing the effectiveness of structures such as groynes and sea walls. They engaged in lively discussions about the effectiveness of these strategies, considering both environmental and economic factors. This practical application of classroom knowledge allowed students to connect theoretical concepts with real-world issues.
Overall, the field trip was a resounding success, enhancing their understanding of coastal management. This will allow them to be able to answer the exam questions based on how geographical studies should be undertaken.
WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING...? YEAR 12
JUNIOR DOCTORS EVENT
Year 12 students recently had the unique opportunity to shadow a junior doctor at a local GP surgery, immersing themselves in the fast-paced world of healthcare. They participated in various clinics and even joined the doctor on home visits, engaging with patients and gaining firsthand insight into the intricacies of medical practice. In the afternoon, the experience expanded as Year 10 students joined them for a workshop focused on young people's health Together, they explored the challenges teenagers face when visiting the doctor, ultimately channelling their creativity into designing inclusive surgeries that feature open spaces and calming environments. These innovative ideas, reflecting the voices of young patients, will be presented to local GP surgeries, aiming to enhance the healthcare experience for their peers.
Student views
" It was an insightful experience. Throughout the day, I observed patient consultations, learning how she approached each case with empathy and professionalism. What surprised me was how she balanced addressing physical symptoms with understanding patients' emotional and mental health needs. The day left a strong impact on me, deepening my appreciation for the complexities of general practice and the importance of building trust with patients The experience has been valuable in showing me how diverse and dynamic a career in medicine can be, reinforcing my interest in pursuing it." Kimberly
"The day was incredibly helpful in allowing me to see how a GP's day to day work is conducted. Being able to prescribe people critical medications on the spot shows how amazingly knowledgeable the GP is " Muhammed
"The thing that surprised me was the amount of phone calls doctors have to make instead of face to face meetings with the patient. The impact of this day was that I had an insightful experience that helped build my understanding of the professionalism of the GP and the confidentiality they have for patients For example, whenever a patient was on the phone he would ask them if it was okay for me to listen to the conversation, and when they were face to face he would ask them if it was okay if I stayed there.
This day provided me with key information on the daily life of junior doctors in GP surguries and the essential role they play within our communities " Hamzah
"These moments reinforced my aspiration to become a doctor. I witnessed firsthand how patients often come to healthcare providers with not only physical ailments but also emotional burdens, seeking reassurance and understanding. Knowing that I could potentially be that source of comfort for others inspires me to pursue this career " Aamina
Ms S March
Assistant Headteacher in Charge of Science
BEEN HAPPENING...?
FUTURE ADVICE
The University of Hertfordshire recently came to school to deliver a Year 13 assembly sharing advice and guidance about choosing the right university and course for study beyond sixth form. This will be an important decision for our young people and our dedicated sixth form staff will be supporting them all the way to ensure that they achieve their post-secondary school goals and aspirations.
WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING...?
SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING
This was a fantastic evening showcasing our Sixth Form to Year 11 pupils internally and from other schools across the borough. A massive thank you to our departments for their incriedible displays! If you were not able to attend this event, please contact our Sixth Form Team. Sixth Form applications will open on Monday 11 November.
Miss A Mederick Head of Sixth Form & Careers Leader
WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING...?
BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Our students thoroughly enjoyed our Black History Month workshop. Students learned about inspirational black figures whilst creating mood boards of their aspirations and what they want their futures to look like. Thank you to the Black Wellbeing Collective for this high impact wellbeing session.
Ms R Karikari Deputy Head Teacher
LOGOUTANDJOINOURSCHOOLCLUBS
I wanted to share some highlights from yesterday's Netball end-of-term party. I decided to host this party to celebrate the girls' achievements and reward their dedication to participating in the club each week. Through the Netball club, we have created a sense of community, and it has been great to see the girls form friendship groups and watch them encourage each other, share tips, and have genuine fun together.
I also received a lovely email from Nadirah, expressing how much the netball program has positively impacted her. Reading her message was incredibly rewarding.
Ms E Wright PE Teacher
WHO’S THE CHAMP?
The Year 7 football team played their first match of the year on Thursday 24 October against Waterside Academy. The match started very well as Excelsior were 3-0 up within the first 10 minutes. The goals continued to flow throughout the game and the pick of the bunch was a special long range effort from Nas. At the start of the second half Waterside did manage to get a consolation goal, but the game ended up finishing 13-1 to Excelsior! Goodnews scored 4 goals and Yasir grabbed 3 goals.
Well done boys!
Our deaf students took part in the Panathlon Tenpin Bowling Challenge representing the Deaf Support Base at The Excelsior Academy. They competed against other teams and showed fair play whilst competing. Our students demonstrated good team spirit and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Some of our students met friends from their primary schools and had a good time catching up.
Mr A Curry
Ms S Adam PE Teacher Lead Qualified Teacher of Deaf Children and Young People
DATES TO NOTE
16:30-19:00Y9PARENTS’EVENING
ANTIBULLYINGWEEK CHARITIESWEEK
CHRISTMASLUNCHFORSTUDENTS
