LEO Spring Newsletter 2024

SPrING SSPrING PrING 2024 Spring Newsletter

L E O A T B E T T 2 0 2 4

Pupil Leadership Teams and staff from across the trust recently participated in BETT 2024, the world's leading showcase of education technology. BETT brings together teachers, innovators, and industry leaders to explore how technology can transform learning experiences

This year, our staff and pupils were presented with a wealth of exciting opportunities!

Cheam Park Farm showcased the work they have been doing as part of their coding club using Shape Robotics on the LGFL stand

Digital Leaders from Cheam Common, West Ashtead, Hurst Park and Brookfield took over the Google for Education stand to showcase and share how they are using their Chromebooks to effectively support their learning!

Mrs Shirley, Miss Satchell and Dylan from Manor Park shared their experiences on how the digital platform Nearpod improves engagement and assessment in the classroom.

Pupils from Cheam Common Junior and Cheam Fields reached the finals of the Sustainable Development Goal project, hosted by Innovation X. They joined other participating schools to pitch their projects to a panel of judges in the main arena. Well done to Team level up, Cheam Fielders & Potters, Environmental Savers and Better Breathers. You all presented confidently and passionately about the fight to solve some of the world’s challenges. Congratulations to all the winners!

On the Texthelp stand we had presentations and interviews with staff and children about their experiences of using technology to support our approach to inclusion. Miss Potter, Mr Macaulay and Mr Lewry presented some of the findings of the Pedtech impact report alongside Shawley pupil Ella as well as video interviews with pupils from Cheam Fields.

Mrs Shirley presented on a panel discussion on the Google for Education stand, sharing her experiences of implementing a digital strategy across a multi academy trust alongside other trust and school leaders.

A huge well done to Ella, Mya and Evin who spoke so articulately alongside Dr Fiona Aubrey Smith and Mr Hedger about the impact of Pedtech on learning at Shawley, especially the bespoke support it provides as well as wonderful opportunities for collaborative learning.

On the final day, the children from Brookfield and Hurst Park took part in the final stage of Kids Judge BETT. They carefully evaluated the products on display, considering their educational value, user-friendliness, and potential impact on learning

In addition to presenting awards, the children had the opportunity to meet and interact with other children, educators, and industry professionals They gained valuable insights into the latest educational technology trends and made lasting connections with like-minded individuals. They presented the awards on stage alongside Michael Rosen.

BETT 2024 proved to be an enriching experience, providing us with fresh perspectives and inspiring ideas on how to integrate technology even more effectively in our classrooms We look forward to building these new insights to further enhance the learning journey of all our pupils.

Click here to watch a montage of our best bits at BETT 2024.

Our schools have been celebrating Science Week! This exciting week is a chance for students to explore the wonders of science through fun and engaging activities From mind-blowing experiments to exploring the natural world, students will be ignited by a passion for scientific discovery.

Brookfield Primary Academy

The Silly Science Company delivered workshops for all children from Reception to Year 6 Children discovered how to create fire and controlled explosions, how forces make objects move and how gravity works.

The children said:

"Gravity made the rocket come back to the ground".

"To make fire you need the 3 points of the triangle. Oxygen, heat and fuel".

"The force of the hair dryer kept the pin pong ball in the air"

Click here to watch this in action

Cheam Common Infants’ Academy

The young learners in Nursery have been busy exploring the world around them! They've been learning all about minibeasts with magnifying glasses, experimenting with capacity to see how much different things can hold, creating their very own sand timers and discovering how long they take to run, and discussing how we can measure time – a great introduction to telling time!

Reception has been exploring changes happening all around them! They've been observing the weather and the signs of spring, noticing the exciting changes happening outside, watching their new tadpoles grow and change, commenting on their increasing size and movement, learning about the life cycle of frogs, and understanding how a frog transforms from a tiny tadpole.

Year 1 has been getting scientific! They've been investigating the life cycle of a frog, learning about the different stages of a frog's life, acting out the different stages of a frog's life cycle, moving like a frog at each stage, and creating their own salt pendulums to explore time They predicted how long it would take for the salt to pour out based on the number of holes, and then tested their theories! They even discovered that more holes make the salt fall out faster – just like scientists!

Cheam Common Junior Primary Academy

This year, Cheam Common Junior Academy went on a fantastic journey through time during British Science Week 2024! Students across all year groups immersed themselves in this year ’ s fascinating theme of 'Time'! Importantly, this year was extra special, as British Science Week 2024 marked the 30th anniversary of this exciting celebration of science! Our school joined the nationwide festivities with enthusiasm, curiosity, collaboration and creativity!

In classrooms across the school, teachers brought science to life with exciting activities, rich discussions, and hands-on investigations Younger learners, in Year Three, explored time through exploring life cycles and looked at different stages of development in living organisms. Some of our older learners explored dissolving with the Skittles experiment, while others investigated polymers in plastic by carefully poking pencils through a sandwich bag. The windbag experiment (inspired by Steve Spangler) had students marveling at the power of air pressure, and balloons introduced the wonders of static electricity. Our Year Five pupils took flight with a thrilling paper airplane investigation, teams designed different models, and careful testing and measuring revealed which traveled the farthest. Our school also joined in the BBC's Live Lesson for British Science Week 2024, offering a fascinating look into the science of time

Learning also extended beyond the school day too, with pupils and their families joining in the fun. There were plenty of home-learning activities and experiments, allowing parents and children to delve deeper into the mysteries of science together. Ms Govier, the Science and Curriculum Leader, created a choice board of activities and investigations for children to work on at home! This can still be found here, as it is never too late to join in with the scientific fun!

We also launched our annual ‘British Science Week Poster Competition’ at Cheam Common Juniors, which was open to all pupils across the school. Each year we launch a poster competition related to the national theme and award science related prizes in each year group for the best entries. And this year was no exception; we were totally blown away by the incredible creativity displayed in our school-wide poster competition. Every morning, Ms Govier was inundated with a selection of amazing poster designs. Our students explored the concept of time from a variety of angles, showcasing their scientific understanding, artistic skills, and boundless imagination. Congratulations to our winners and all the participants! To see all the designs, click here

Overall, British Science Week 2024 was a memorable event at our school, and we ' re certain it sparked curiosity and a love of science in our amazing learners Now, we look forward to British Science Week 2025 and exploring the new exciting theme!

Cheam Fields Primary Academy

Cheam Fields embraced British Science Week 2024 with a time-twisting theme Following a lively launch assembly, students across all year groups embarked on a series of exciting experiments all connected to the exploration of time

Younger students focused on hands-on experiences. They built their own sand timers, investigated how the length of a pendulum affects its swing, and observed how different materials dissolve at various rates. Older pupils delved into more complex concepts, conducting experiments with parachutes to understand how air resistance affects the speed of descent They also explored the relationship between temperature and the speed of chemical reactions.

The week-long scientific celebration encouraged collaboration and a love for discovery. Cheam Fields Primary Academy clearly demonstrated that exploring the complexities of time can be both educational and immensely fun We thank Miss White and all the staff for making this happen!

Cheam Park Farm Primary Academy

During Science Week this term, every child, from Reception to Year 6 took part in a fantastic workshop where they learnt all about how Chemistry and Physics can be used to create unexpected forces with fantastic results. They learnt what combustible materials are, and the 3 things needed for a fire to exist They then learnt that when you mix simple solutions such as water and an effervescent tablet, you can create CO2 and that when this reaction is contained, it can have explosive reactions. After lots of laughter and many surprised faces, the children then learnt that with appropriate air pressure, it was possible to make a small ball float in the air, and that if we increased the air pressure we could make a much larger ball defy gravity. The children then learnt that it is this principle that planes use to create lift in the wings so that they can fly. By the end, the children had had so much fun watching explosions and learning, that things they thought were impossible were in fact possible with the application of science

Hurst Park Primary Academy

We're excited to announce that Science Week was a fantastic success! From Monday 11th March to 15th March, our school was buzzing with all things science-related as we delved into the wonders of the natural world and beyond. This year ' s theme was all about Time, and our young scientists had the opportunity to participate in a variety of engaging experiments, scientific discussions and a prize winning competition Science Week was an enriching and unforgettable experience for all our students.

Manor Park Primary Academy

Science Week has been a whirlwind of scientific exploration at Manor Park Primary! Pupils across all year groups have been actively engaged in a variety of exciting activities designed to spark their curiosity around the wondrous exploration of time, delving into the mysteries of the universe.

From the wonders of investigating the life cycle of a frog to making circuits and testing their knowledge of electricity, pupils from across the school have been fully immersed in their learning through a range of handson practical experiments and rich discussions

As part of the celebrations, pupils have also explored the achievements of remarkable female scientists, such as Ada Lovelace, Marie Curie and Mae Jemison. Overall, Science Week 2024 has been a huge success at Manor Park and we look forward to continuing to celebrate and inspire the next generation of scientific innovators

Shawley Community Primary Academy

Children at Shawley have really enjoyed celebrating British Science week. This year the theme was Time and the children took part in lots of activities involving observing over time This included observing what happens to celery when it is left in a glass of coloured water and investigating which material a spoon is best to be made out of to make chocolate melt the quickest.

All classes had a visit on Thursday from Professor Nitrate who taught the children lots about Science through fun experiments It was great to hear children from Year 1 being able to articulate what three elements you need to create fire and to show an understanding of aerodynamics.

West Ashtead Primary Academy

At West Ashtead, British Science Week focused on ‘Time’ The children had great fun looking at dinosaurs, creating marble runs, making sand timers, experimenting with model boats and observing rotting fruit! Each class chose a book about a scientist from the Little People, BIG DREAMS book series and delved a little deeper into these inspirational scientists’ lives throughout the week.

Year 4 were invited to the science laboratories at St John’s School. Here they got to participate in a physics lesson to see how electricity makes your hair stand on end, and a chemistry lesson to learn about the anthocyanins in red cabbage. Year 6 visited St Andrew’s School, where they got to create density rainbows, looked at microorganisms on moss under microscopes and set fire to metal wire using electricity!

Year 5 also joined a British Science Week webinar to learn about volcanic activity around the world in the last 48 hours They also had another virtual lesson on fossils and got to explore these in more detail.

Year 1 got to visit Hobbledown Farm as part of their Science topic this term and had great fun at the interactive animal session where they got to meet a tortoise, guinea pig and cockroaches!

On the 26th January, Cheam Fields Primary welcomed thirty visitors from COMM2IG, a Danish IT supplier for companies of all sizes and industries. Pupils from Cheam Fields were keen to give lots of information to these visitors, allowing them to explore our approach to teaching & learning with digital technology

On the 25th January, Cheam Park Farm Primary welcomed three visitors from GO! Het Laerhof, a Belgian elementary school. Pupils from Cheam Park Farm loved showing off how they learn digitally, giving their visitors an insight into our approach to teaching & learning with digital technology.

On the 25th January, Brookfield Primary welcomed sixteen visitors from Heutink ICT, a Dutch IT supplier that develops and delivers the best, usable ICT solutions. Pupils from Brookfield were given the oppportunity to show how they learn, and how beneficial their Chromebooks are for them in their day to day learning

We are delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for the Collaboration Between School & Supplier Education Resources Award along with Texthelp This is an award for suppliers who have worked with a school/multi-academy trust in an innovative, personalised way to help generate operational excellence, or drive up standards of attainment

Cheam Common Junior Academy roared with excitement this International Women's Day as we hosted the #BiggestGameEver! Over 100 girls stormed the lunchtime pitch, creating their own teams for a thrilling football tournament

The energy was electric from the moment we announced the tournament in assembly Within hours, 16 unstoppable teams were signed up with Miss Brooks – a testament to the girls' incredible spirit! Our dedicated Year 6 Girls' Football Team stepped up, expertly organising, running, and refereeing the event Their leadership was key to its amazing success!

Check out the action here.

A P P R E N T I C E S H I P S A T

L E O A C A D E M Y T R U S T

At LEO Academy Trust, we are proud to offer a diverse range of apprenticeships that combine hands-on experience with formal learning. Apprenticeships provide individuals with the opportunity to gain valuable skills and qualifications while earning a salary.

Our apprenticeships offer a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, allowing individuals to grow and learn in a supported environment. Apprentices benefit from the guidance of experienced professionals, ensuring they receive the necessary support to succeed in their chosen field

This year ' s National Apprenticeship Week took place during 05-11 February. This annual event provides an opportunity to celebrate the positive impact of apprenticeships and to promote the benefits of this valuable learning pathway.

We currently offer apprenticeships in various areas, including teaching assistant, sports coach, business administration, and digital marketing Our aim is to continuously explore new and creative ways to support our curriculum and professional service teams through apprenticeships.

Employing apprentices has numerous benefits for our Trust. Apprentices bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and creativity to our teams Apprenticeships help us build a strong workforce by addressing recruitment challenges and providing opportunities for our local communities to gain valuable skills and work experience. Additionally, apprenticeships offer a cost-effective way to recruit staff, allowing us to provide more staffing hours within our budget

We were excited to welcome nine new apprentices to our Trust in September 2023 These individuals have already contributed to our continued focus on professional development and enhancing the quality of education we provide to our students.

LEO Academy Trust is committed to supporting apprenticeships as a valuable pathway for individuals to develop their careers and contribute to our organisation's success. By investing in apprenticeships, we are investing in the future of our workforce and our communities

Brookfield Primary have had the privilege of participating in the Veolia Orchard campaign On the 22nd March, they welcomed visitors from Veolia UK, Tesco News, Grow at Brogdale, and Groundwork UK to celebrate the arrival of a huge delivery of strawberry plants, meaning they are now a proud part of the nationwide #VeoliaOrchard

Veolia Orchard was launched in 2022 to improve the wellbeing of young people and to nurture their skills towards creating a positive change in their environments

In just two years, they have donated fruit trees and strawberry plants to almost 300 schools! To deliver this initiative, they’ve teamed up with Tesco and the community action charity, Groundwork to improve biodiversity at schools, provide a learning resource for pupils and offer them an ongoing supply of fresh fruit.

This campaign is being powered by Veolia's Sustainable Schools programme Each orchard is intended to become a learning resource for pupils, empowering them to improve their local environment and combat climate change Successful schools will highlight how they intend to integrate their trees into a learning programme for their pupils

We are delighted to announce that Brookfield’s application to Tesco Stronger Starts has been successful and their project will be put forward to a customer vote in Tesco stores

Voting will commence in store from the first week in April 2024 until the end of June 2024

Please show your support by voting in your local Tesco for Brookfield’s allotment.

F O U N D A T I O N

The LEO Foundation, a charitable organisation dedicated to providing wider opportunities and education to disadvantaged pupils, has outlined a comprehensive strategy to maximise its impact and achieve its mission. This strategy focuses on diversifying fundraising channels, expanding grant-making reach, enhancing program effectiveness, and strengthening the foundation's reputation.

Diversify Fundraising Channels

Expand Grant-Making Reach

We are thrilled to share an incredible achievement by a dedicated team of LEO staff and pupils! On Wednesday 6th March, Mr Lewry, Miss Govier, and Mr Macaulay, along with two Year Five pupils from Cheam Common Junior Academy and two Year Six pupils from Shawley Community Primary Academy, embarked on an exciting action packed adventure to Manchester.

This certainly wasn't your typical school trip! Our team had the remarkable privilege and unforgettable experience of co-presenting a keynote speech alongside Grace Kelly of Google and representing Google for Education and LEO Academy Trust at the prestigious MATPN event in the heart of Manchester. After travelling up by train, from Worcester Park, early on Wednesday morning, the eager, enthused and excited children (and staff) arrived at Manchester Piccadilly Station in the early hours of the afternoon Next, they checked into the ultra modern and arty Yotel Manchester Deansgate before enjoying an action-packed afternoon and evening which was a mixture of preparations, sightseeing and fun

Just a short walk from the hotel, the LEO tech team headed to the Hilton Manchester (which is set in the iconic Beetham Tower) to see and experience the venue ahead of the big event and meet Grace Kelly, from Google, for rehearsals They were privileged to practise their speeches in a most glamorous setting – a sky bar in the Hilton called ‘Cloud 23’ which had stunning sky-high views and overlooked the Manchester Metropolis. The team also had time to unwind and soak up the views complete with the most refreshing and delicious mocktails Later, they relaxed with a laugh-filled trip to the Odeon Great Northern Cinema to watch the new action-comedy animation film entitled: ‘Migration’, which was complete with a traditional popcorn treat too. Later, this was followed by a much needed and delicious dinner at Pizza Express with dough balls and pizzas all round. Finally, after a busy day, the team headed back to the comforts of the hotel for showers and hot chocolates before bed

The following morning, the team indulged in a delicious breakfast at the Yotel’s Motley Restaurant featuring tasty items such as sausages, bacon, pastries, cereals, fruit and yoghurt along with fresh juices and much more. After a breakfast of champions, the team headed off back to the Hilton Manchester for the main event On Thursday 7th March, our pupil presenters took the stage at the MATPN event In front of an audience of approximately 300 education professionals and leaders, they confidently, proudly and passionately shared their thoughts and ideas on how the 1:1 devices aid and assist in their learning These tech-savvy youngsters not only learned valuable life skills and presenting prowess but also showcased their expertise, presenting on their favourite Google Suite tools and how they're transforming their own learning experiences

Putting Pupils in the Driving Seat of Education with Google Tools:

Evin, a passionate Google Slides advocate: Evin captivated everyone with her presentation on Google Slides and demonstrated the power of collaborative writing and planning, showing how Google Slides allows her class to work together on projects in real-time, fostering communication, collaboration and teamwork ‘Collaboration is a great way to make sure that everyone has a chance to share their ideas,’ she explained, ‘with our chromebooks it makes that goal much easier to achieve.’

Click above to watch Ella’s presentation

Click above to watch Evin’s presentation

Ella, a whiz with Google Docs:

Ella demonstrated the power of using 1:1 devices and exemplified how this helped her and teachers to support her personal learning journey. She confidently explained, ‘Our teachers are able to see our work live and so can help us out on what we are struggling with either as a class or individually. By doing this, they can personalise our learning and we can continue to improve our work all the time.’ She illustrated how teachers can provide comments on pupils' work, which can support independence and pupil progression She summarised by stating, ‘My chromebook has all of the things I need available to me for my learning!’

Finlay, a promoter of Google Forms:

Finlay championed Google Forms. He impressed the audience with his ability to illustrate how pupils can use Google Forms to complete online digital assessments and how this is a more efficient and powerful form of assessment overall He particularly highlighted that all pupils and teachers gain immediate feedback and knowledge of individual progress and areas of development. He also explained how this saves valuable lesson time as the computer automatically marks everyone ' s work.

Click above to watch Finlay’s presentation

Avi, a champion of Google Classroom: Avi discussed the importance of organisation as a way to be a successful learner and maintain a healthy mindset. He was passionate that Google Classroom was the best way to keep all his digital and online learning in one place and thoroughly organised. He explained, ‘Everyday in our lessons we use a wide range of digital platforms and apps and Google Classroom helps us to keep all this learning in one place It is useful to us as all our learning is organised into different categories, subjects and lessons. Therefore, this makes it easy for us and our teachers to find and locate our learning at the tap of a few buttons!’.

Click above to watch Avi’s presentation

Teacher Tech Talk: From EdTech to PedTech

The learning didn't stop with our passionate and incredibly articulate pupils! The dedicated teachers from LEO Academy also had the opportunity to share their personal experiences and expertise with using one-toone Chromebook devices in the primary classroom They discussed innovative teaching strategies and UDL (Unique Design for Learning) approach that leverage the power of Chromebooks to personalise teaching and learning. From collaborative projects to interactive lessons, the teachers discussed the transformative potential of Chromebooks in the classroom They emphasised how these devices empower pupils to become active participants in their own learning, fostering confidence, creativity, collaboration, critical thinking and digital literacy skills

One of the key takeaways for the teachers was the Chromebook's ability to promote equality and equity in the classroom They highlighted how these devices provide all learners, regardless of ability, with the same access to information, tools, and resources. In a Chromebook environment, pupils can learn at their own pace, utilising built-in accessibility features and differentiated instruction delivered through the Chromebook. This empowers all pupils to participate meaningfully, fostering a sense of dignity and accomplishment in their learning journeys. By sharing best practices and exploring new possibilities, these educators are paving the way for a future where technology empowers pupils to become active participants in their own education, ensuring no child is left behind.

Overall, this experience is a true testament to the innovative spirit fostered at our Trust. We're incredibly proud of our staff members for nurturing such talent and of our pupils for stepping up to this incredible challenge Also, a huge thank you to Google for Education and Grace Kelly, Google Head of Customer Success, for this amazing opportunity

‘I think the trip to Manchester was amazing because of the great experiences we had there and it was a great opportunity for me because I got to express how we use technology in our learning with a wide audience of professionals.’

Avi - Cheam Common Junior Academy

"I was blown away by the children from LEO Academy Trust presenting on stage Their responses were so inspiring, overflowing with bright ideas and delivered with incredible confidence. Their eloquence and passion made it impossible to look away If this is our future, then I think we ' re in very good hands."

Grace Kelly - Head of Customer Success, Google for Education

‘I think that my trip to Manchester was amazing and a school trip like no other! I think I am very privileged to have had such a fantastic experience and I loved every minute of it It was also great to speak at the MATPN in front of such a big audience about how personalising learning affects how we learn and what is so great about chromebooks. I was very proud of everyone who took part in the trip and I am very grateful ’

Ella - Shawley Community Primary Academy

‘I think Manchester was an amazing opportunity and I am proud that we get such experiences from CCJ and LEO. Although it was slightly nerve-racking, it was so exciting to speak in front of so many people to talk about how I use tech in my school and my learning I particularly enjoyed explaining that I am overall in control of my own learning.’

Finlay - Cheam Common Junior Academy

‘Going to Manchester was an unforgettable and an overall amazing experience! Everyone who went had a fantastic time filled with laughter and fun, and I am extremely grateful to have been chosen to speak there. Although everyone was nervous, they still spoke excellently and I am so proud of them all ’

Evin - Shawley Community Primary Academy

On 26th February 2024, Guildhall hosted a unique event aimed at young minds - the London Careers Festival's Livery Schools Link Showcase. This segment of the larger festival provided a special platform for students to delve into the world of work

KS2 pupils from Brookfield, Cheam Common, Cheam Fields, Cheam Park Farm, Hurst Park, Manor Park, Shawley and West Ashtead, were all in attendance, and explored a variety of different career paths and took part in a range of interactive activities, designed to allow them to see what it would be like to work in these areas

The Livery Schools Link (LSL), a participating organisation, offered students the chance to interact with professionals from a wide range of professions and trades This exposure can be invaluable for students as they begin to consider their futures.

The festival, aiming to be inclusive, welcomes schools from all areas, not just Greater London. This ensures a diverse range of students get a chance to explore their options. It serves a vital role in equipping young minds with the knowledge and inspiration to plan their futures By bringing schools and industry professionals together, the festival plants the seeds for a future filled with possibility.

On 8th January, Innovation X and Rock Kidz came to Hurst Park to launch LEO Explorers! The school was buzzing with excitement as we hosted two assemblies With support of our Learning Ambassadors, each characteristic was explained and explored, igniting curiosity and enthusiasm among our young learners.

From collaboration to creativity, the children had a fantastic time as they rocked out to Rock Kidz self esteem anthem “Nobody Like Me” The children were inspired to be the next generation of innovators and leaders to make a positive difference in the world It was an unforgettable morning filled with fun and learning!

In March, Walton Councillor, John Cope, nominated Miss Thorndycraft, Principal at Hurst Park Primary to join a national celebration of Education Champions with Rt Hon, Damian Hinds MP at 10 Downing Street.

It was a momentous occasion, as Miss Thorndycraft represented LEO Academy Trust, surrounded by fellow educators and leaders in education from across the country.

Click here to read the full press release.

The Spring Term has been another busy one for @LEOTraining5 and we have continued to offer a wide variety of professional learning opportunities for staff from across LEO Academy Trust This term has included opportunities for staff to take part in training programmes, Twilight Sessions, Teacher Research Groups, Network Learning Community (NLC) meetings and much more

First-year Early Career Teachers (ECTs) across the Trust have had a range of professional learning opportunities available to them during the Spring Term of their induction LEO Academy Trust has continued its partnership with Harris Teaching School Hub to provide training for ECTs, both within the Trust and at other schools in the Sutton area. The Sutton cluster training sessions are facilitated by Mrs Carlile, Assistant Director of Education and Miss Gibney, Trust Vice Principal. The Croydon ECT Cluster sessions are led by Mr Macuaulay, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Mr Perrott, Director of English. This term's sessions have focused on the questions ‘What makes classroom practice effective’ and ‘How can you use assessment and feedback to greatest effect?’ The sessions this year have moved to in person which has been a great opportunity for ECTs to meet one another, network and share ideas.

The ECT induction programme this term also included professional learning sessions for mentors, ensuring that they are well-equipped to support their mentees' professional development

Alongside the Harris ECT sessions, we have also worked with colleagues from the Sutton Education Trust (SET) to offer ECTs face to face subject specific sessions on a half termly basis. In Spring 1, ECTs enjoyed a session focused on reading led by Mr Perrott, Director of English and Julie Watson, Upper KS2 Leader at High View Primary School and an Inclusion session in Spring 2 led by Mrs Majasi, Trust SENDco and Mrs Savage, Head of Base at Foresters Primary School. Both professional learning sessions included lots of opportunities for ECTs to collaborate and to learn alongside one another as well as exploring lots of great practical teaching and learning strategies from experts from within the trust and beyond.

Professional learning opportunities have also continued for our second year ECTs They joined Mrs Carlile and Mrs Gibney for an in person conference at the National Institute of Teaching, Beckenham This session focused on the development of their second year practitioner inquiries and gave them time to plan their next steps upon return to school. They have also benefited from a further subject specific session with Mrs Greene, Director of Music, where they again worked alongside ECTs from Sutton Education Trust Our Year 2 Mentors have also had a busy term supporting their ECTs with their practitioner inquiries and attended a professional learning session focused on Educative Mentoring to support them in their mentoring role this year. We can’t wait to find out more about the findings of their inquiries at the presentation and celebration event in the summer term

As part of our Challenge Partners Hub Programme of Events, subject leaders from across LEO Academy Trust and Sutton Education Trust had the opportunity to join together for subject leader training. We welcomed Ian Nicholson from RE Today, Naomi Hiscock from Primary Science Consultancy and Karen Summers from the PSHE Association to lead sessions across the Spring Term These sessions provided a wonderful opportunity for our subject leaders to develop their own subject knowledge and leadership skills in RE, PSHE and DT We look forward to hearing how these participants take their learning back into school to further develop their subject area and their teams.

This term also saw new cohorts of colleagues from across the trust benefiting from the suite of Olevi Alliance Training Programmes including. All programmes are led by Senior Leaders at LEO Schools and also members of the LEO Executive Team All programmes have been well received by staff from across the trust and we can’t wait to welcome more colleagues to further Olevi programmes across the Summer Term We have also continued to host termly Network Learning Community Meetings in a range of areas including but not limited to: curriculum, writing, inclusion and safeguarding. These sessions have provided colleagues with a great opportunity to share ideas and to work together on common themes and projects

Thank you to all those who have led professional learning sessions this term and to those who have taken part in those sessions. Look out for more exciting professional learning opportunities coming up in the Summer Term on the @LEOtraining5 Twitter page

This term we welcomed Shawley Wrap Around Care to the LEO Wrap Around Care family. The club leader, Mrs Burn and her team have worked hard to create a welcoming, fun and safe space for children before and after school.

The children are really enthusiastic about the club and tell us:

"The staff are really kind and we have lots of arts and crafts and colouring." “There are so many things you can play with ”

The team has been working with the children to develop the range of activities We are planning to develop our reading corner and invest in activities specifically designed for older children.

The excitement continues with our first Shawley Holiday Club planned for the Easter holidays! The club is open to children from across the LEO trust

Children will enjoy a variety of activities, including sports sessions with a LEO sports coach, fun games and creative crafts.

We're committed to providing a safe, enriching, and enjoyable space for your children outside of regular school hours.

In February, LEO Academy Trust welcomed Texthelp into the Trust.

They talked to pupils, parents & teachers about the impact of technology in education and how tools, such as Read&Write and OrbitNote, are helping to create inclusive learning environments for everyone

This visit highlights the strides that LEO is making when it comes to technology in education, and the amazing work that everyone at LEO is doing to ensure that each student is receiving the best education for them.

A group of lucky children from Cheam Park Farm

Primary recently received a unique and exciting learning experience at the LGfL Shape Robotics pilot event held at the innovative Samsung Kings Cross space in London. The event immersed Year 5 and 6 pupils in the captivating world of robotics, igniting their imaginations and fostering a love for technology.

During the event, the children had the opportunity to work with cutting-edge shape robotics kits and learnt even more about some of the functionality of the equipment! With hands-on guidance, they learnt from other children how to build and program their very own robots, bringing them to life with movement and actions.

The excitement was palpable as the children saw their creations come to life, their faces beaming with pride. The LGFL Shape Robotics pilot event didn't just focus on the fun factor; it emphasized the educational value of robotics. The children discovered core coding concepts, developed problem-solving skills, and collaborated as teams The experience showed them that technology can be a powerful tool for creativity and innovation

The children left Samsung Kings Cross inspired and empowered, carrying newfound knowledge and enthusiasm for the world of robotics. Events like this play a crucial role in sparking an interest in STEM fields, paving the way for the next generation of engineers, scientists, and technology leaders.

In a delightful celebration of World Book Day 2024, West Ashtead welcomed the ITN team to their school on 4th March The ITN team spent the day engaging with pupils, interviewing them about their favourite books and what ignites their passion for reading.

The visit resulted in separate video features for Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 students The videos showcase the students' love of literature and the joy of reading.

To watch the KS1 video, please click here.

To watch the KS2 video, please click here.

E N G L I S H A T L E O A C A D E M Y T R U S T

This Spring Term, LEO Academy Schools have championed the power of literature and language through a vibrant and engaging English Reading & Writing program. From exciting events celebrating National Literacy Week and World Book Day to the innovative use of technology and inspiring author visits, pupils across all LEO schools have been immersed in the wonderful world of literacy

At the beginning of the Spring Term, schools across LEO kicked off by celebrating National Literacy Week, where pupils were provided with a variety of literacy-based activities where they were able to read, write and share their love of stories, whether it be well-known classics to those from different cultures and religions. During the week-long celebrations, schools organised book-themed quizzes, whole class ‘read aloud’ sessions, and creative writing activities, fostering a spirit of collaboration, creativity and a love for reading.

World Book Day was another wonderful highlight in the LEO English calendar, with all schools within the trust celebrating in their own unique ways. From dressing up as a range of colourful and creative literary characters to creating book door displays, pupils enjoyed the range of activities designed to help ignite a passion for books, reading and storytelling Some schools were even fortunate to host a visit from local author, David Mason, providing pupils the opportunity to develop their creative writing before taking part in a whole school immersive assembly Amazingly, pupils at West Ashtead were even captured reading for an incredible report for ITN News showcasing their love of reading.

Technology has also played a key role in enhancing English reading and writing through the importance of embracing digital tools to make learning interactive, engaging and enhancing outcomes for all. Whether it be the use of online resources for research or collaborative writing platforms (Jamboard and Nearpod), to immersive online readers (Read Write and Orbitnote), virtual toolkits (Thinglink) and interactive experiences through ‘Now Press Play!’ pupil outcomes have continued to develop leading to a range of outstanding final outcomes.

Within the trust itself, LEO Academy continues to be fully committed to providing all our teachers with the necessary support to deliver exceptional English programs. Staff Professional Learning sessions or opportunities, as run by Mrs Carlile (Assistant Director of Education) and Mr Perrott (Director of English), ensure teachers are equipped with the latest pedagogical approaches and resources. This investment in teachers directly translates into a more enriching learning experience for the students.

Finally, a huge thank you to Sutton United, who has continued to host a literacy and sports event at their ground Pupils from Cheam Park Farm had a wonderful day taking part in a range of literacy, art and sports based activities before meeting the football team themselves.

In conclusion, the Spring Term at LEO Schools has been a testament to the school's dedication to fostering a love for English Reading & Writing

Through a combination of engaging activities, innovative technology, and inspiring author visits, LEO Schools are nurturing a generation of confident readers, enthusiastic writers, and lifelong learners

At LEO Academy Trust, we understand the importance of fostering a culture of sustainability within our schools It's not just about reducing our environmental footprint; it's about empowering future generations to become responsible stewards of the planet.

Our commitment to sustainability is more than just reducing our energy usage! We recently concluded a fantastic competition that sparked creativity and a spirit of friendly competition across our academies. The challenge? To find innovative ways to reduce paper usage The results were truly inspiring!

Children enthusiastically embraced the competition, implementing clever strategies Classrooms adopted double-sided printing, if printing at all! Digital note-sharing platforms buzzed with activity, as the default tool instead of paper The collective effort yielded remarkable results: a staggering 222,000 sheets of paper were saved in just one month!

Building on this momentum, we ' re thrilled to announce our latest project: tackling single-use plastics Plastic waste is a major environmental concern, and we ' re determined to find creative solutions. Children will embark on a journey of exploration, brainstorming ways to minimise plastic use across our academies From reusable water bottles to innovative lunch box packaging, the possibilities are endless!

This project aligns perfectly with our overall sustainability strategy We are actively working to reduce our carbon footprint by minimising energy consumption and exploring renewable energy options. Furthermore, we are integrating sustainability education into the curriculum, equipping children with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices that benefit the environment.

In addition to these exciting activities to help us all become more sustainable, we ’ re delighted to have been able to install solar panel energy generation into both Cheam Common Juniors and Shawley Community Primary - click here to see a birds eye view of the fantastic solar panels!

We believe that every action, big or small, makes a difference. By fostering a culture of environmental awareness and empowering our children to become sustainability champions, we are confident that LEO Academy Trust will continue to lead the charge for a greener future

The infographic on the page below highlights the amazing effects that these solar panels, and our work at LEO has had compared to February 2023.

Solar Panels Programme Impact

-27% energy consumption

-38% energy consumption

As a trust, we have reduced our electricity consumption by 14,500 kwh. This equates to 10 metric tonnes of CO2 which equals:

2 Homes’ Electricity Use for One Year

3.5 Tonnes of Waste Recycled Instead of Going to Landfill

661,479 Number of Smartphones Charged

166 Tree Seedlings Grown for 10 Years

M A T H S A T L E O A C A D E M Y T R U S T

Maths learning this term has been in full swing across LEO Academy Trust!

The Spring Term saw the celebration of NSPCC Number Day and Times Table Rockstars, a maths-inspired fundraising day for children. Those who took part got to dress up as a number, a rockstar, or their favorite mathematician! This special day is dedicated to raising funds for the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) while having fun with numbers It encourages schools, businesses, and individuals to get involved in mathematical and numerical activities to support the NSPCC’s vital work in protecting children. Check out some of the children’s fantastic costumes!

A huge congratulations to all of the schools that have had a Challenge Partners review and to Cheam Common Junior for having an Ofsted inspection. All staff and children were able to show off their fantastic mathematics teaching and learning. Of particular interest to some inspectors was our use of digital manipulatives in maths lessons Here is an example of Hurst Park using polypad on Mathigon to ‘ merge ’ and ‘split’ base ten resources into one hundred and ten tens The perfect digital accompaniment to understanding place value!

Developing oracy across the curriculum has been a key priority this year, and we have recently introduced the ‘Speak like a Mathematician’ posters, headed by the inspirational mathematician Ada Lovelace. Year 6 at Shawley used these prompts when applying their number knowledge of negative numbers Drawing bar models and vertical number lines helped them reason, problem-solve, and articulate their thinking.

This term has also been the start of hosting our Digital Discovery Days. Participants got to spend an immersive day in Cheam Common Junior and Infants to see for themselves how technology is making an impact in maths lessons. The switch from EdTech to PedTech was beautifully demonstrated, and all went away feeling inspired by the children’s use of technology to explain their mathematical reasoning, how it helped them collaborate on problem-solving, and how the younger years used it to help them record their work. We feel very proud to be leading the way and showcasing to others the strengths in digital maths that we have.

Replacing the old The Mayor’s Fund for London ‘Count

On us ’ competition is the NEW Wondermaths Challenge, a pan London maths enrichment programme and tournament for primary pupils in Years 4 and 5.

The Wondermaths Challenge is designed to challenge and motivate young mathematicians, exciting them with problem-based maths activities and fast-paced mental arithmetic tasks Pupils gain confidence in working through maths problems, taking risks, and thinking outside the box to find solutions in challenging activities Cheam Park Farm hosted the Wondermaths challenge training which looked at: Mathematical reasoning, solving increasingly sophisticated problems, using shape, number, and pattern problems.

Mental maths – focusing on developing quick recall of number bonds – using the very popular 24® Game

Statistics and measurement within problem-based collaborative code-breaking tasks. Maths clubs have already started, and first up has been dazzling dominoes!

As always, it is not just students who have been engaging in fantastic mathematical opportunities; staff and maths leaders across the trust have been busy collaborating, networking, and learning. This academic year saw the first LEO Maths Leaders training session in person. They spent the afternoon assessing maths subject knowledge; curriculum intent, implementation, and impact, curriculum sequencing, and the introduction of ‘Expectations of a subject leader The LEO Maths progression document was checked and edited by all maths leaders and has proved immensely useful back in schools as well as showcasing to other outside agencies the dedication we have to ensure we offer a progressive maths curriculum that build on previous skills

LEO Academy Trust also continues to work closely with the London South West Maths Hub on developing Teaching for Mastery. Our Maths Director Natasha Dolling has been running regular Teacher Research Groups where she has welcomed schools from across the South West region to observe maths teaching in practice and discuss in fine detail the learning points afterward.

The last TRG invited Head Teachers and Principals to discuss the very important topic of assessment in KS1 They considered the latest Ofsted Report; coordinating mathematical success- the mathematics subject report and the latest EEF guidance into improving mathematics in EYFS/ KS1 and KS2/ KS3. This change from the DfE regarding KS1 assessment has given us an opportunity to think and explore other options and potentially change some of our approaches and behaviour towards assessment using evidence-informed research. Principals and maths leaders from across LEO Academy and Cirrus Trust tried some recommended activities from the ATM and MA with a group of Year 2 pupils and reflected on what they would like to continue discussing and implementing back in their schools

All in all, it’s been a busy term both in the wider maths world and here at LEO, and there is clear evidence of the high expectations of maths learning, both in children and in staff This is an exciting time to be involved in LEO as there are opportunities to progress your own subject knowledge, embrace the use of technology, work with the wider maths world and Maths Hubs, and collaborate together for the mathematical success of all our children. We are also really looking forward to Maths Week London 2024, which has the cross-curricular theme of Geography- a whole week dedicated to maths and maps!

Look out for these future mathematics opportunities for both children and staff across LEO and be sure to get involved!

S P O R T A T L E O A C A D E M Y T R U S T

As the Spring Term comes to an end, we welcome the lighter evenings and slightly warmer weather and reflect on another successful term. Each school has had their individual sporting successes this term, whether it be in their Football, Basketball or Netball leagues, or Borough competitions such as Hockey & Rugby

As well as competitive events, there have been plenty of inclusive festivals and participation events for our pupils to enjoy. Our KS1 pupils had a fantastic event at our LEO Panathlon and enjoyed the Easter run, while our KS2 pupils have had fantastic opportunities experiencing Climbing, Tri-Golf, Badminton, Dance and Gymnastics

Here are a few more notable sporting highlights this term

Williams Greaves Trophy - London Capital Kids Cup

After successfully winning our LEO cricket tournament, the West Ashtead cricket team embarked on a fantastic trip to the home of cricket - Lords Cricket ground - earlier this term. Playing against schools from Kingston and Surrey, they competed in the regional round for this year ' s Williams Greaves Indoor Cricket Trophy. The theme of the competition centred around the ‘Bowl Out Racism’ campaign which Capital Kids Cricket are launching in partnership with the Mayor’s office. The team collaborated incredibly well and showed off their high skill levels, however were unable to make it through to the London finals.

Nomads Korfball

Once again we would like to thank our friends at Nomads Korfball for organising two brilliant events this term! Allowing our Year 3 & 4 pupils to experience the fastpaced sport of Korfball for the first time.

Chance to Shine

We have continued our partnership with Surrey Cricket at the Chance to Shine Program Throughout the Spring and Summer term, a Surrey Cricket coach will visit every LEO school to complete a 6 week course of cricket coaching

The coaches support school staff to deliver cricket sessions once a week and aim to develop the all-round skills of the children they work with, whilst improving the confidence of school staff to deliver sessions independently The sessions are specifically designed for the different ages and abilities of the children and make sure that whether it’s the very first time a child has picked up a bat and a ball, or if they play regularly at their local club, everyone learns and improves during the lesson.

M U S I C A T L E O A C A D E M Y T R U S T

In January this year, choirs from across the Trust took part in Young Voices at the O2 Arena This concert, now in its 27th year, brings together thousands of young people to celebrate the power of singing. After weeks of rehearsals, both in school and at home, the choir children became the main stars of this unforgettable evening Professional performers and musicians such as jazz singer Natalie Williams, the legendary Urban Strides dancers and teacher turned rap artist extraordinaire MC Grammar were all part of the show The children sang their hearts out, the parents got to dance to 90’s pop hits, and everyone was wowed by 13 year old drummer, Nanadi Bushell. This was a fantastic experience for all involved.

For the last three years pupils from Year 3 and 4 have had the opportunity to see members of the Philharmonia Orchestra perform at St Andrew’s Church. This year was no exception. During the 60-minute recital, pupils listened to professional, world-class musicians live in concert, they learnt about the instruments being played, the pieces performed, and the musical journey of the performers. All of our pupils left the concert feeling inspired and enthused.

In addition to the above, the Spring Term is always busy with hundreds of children across the Trust preparing for a variety of upcoming events in the Summer Term.

Following a very successful concert last year, Sutton Music Trust will hold another Key Stage 1 Big Sing at St Andrew’s Church. This year ' s concert, titled ‘Sounds of the Sea’, will showcase KS1 pupils singing together with other Sutton schools Year 2 pupils from across LEO will be taking part in this event The children are thoroughly enjoying learning the songs and can’t wait to perform to their parents in May.

Sutton Music Trust also organises a similar event for Key Stage 2 pupils. The Key Stage 2 Big Sing is titled ‘Incredible You! The concert, which will be held in June, allows choirs from across the Trust to showcase their incredible talent.

F O R E S T S C H O O L

We're thrilled to share the latest adventures from Forest School with you! Over the past term, our children have been immersed in nature, learning and exploring the wonderful world around them

One exciting highlight has been our participation in the RSPB Big School Bird Watch The children have been busy crafting bird feeders and building nests using pegs as beaks. Our young naturalists have been soaking up knowledge about various bird species, listening intently to their calls, and learning how to identify them

In addition, our older children have been mastering valuable wilderness survival skills, from sawing wood and making wood cookies to using flint and steels to light mini-fires. We have been keeping warm while enjoying treats like popcorn and marshmallows on the open fire while telling stories and singing songs.

This report summarises the key findings from the Open University's case study on LEO Academy Trust's coaching culture implementation

Background

The Open University partnered with LEO Academy Trust to film a case study on the coaching culture initiative. The interviews and filming took place in January 2024 across two LEO schools: Shawley Community Primary and Cheam Park Farm Primary Roles from across LEO Academy Trust were represented in the film. These included: CEO, Executive Director, Director of HR, Assistant Director of Education, Principal, Vice Principals, Forest School Director, Teaching Assistant, Sports Coach, Sports Apprentice, Year Leader, Teacher, Catering Director and Caterer.

Key Findings

Shift from Performativity to Improvement: LEO moved away from a data-driven, target-oriented approach to focus on continuous improvement and individual development. This is achieved through the "Growing Great People" framework, emphasising coaching, ownership of learning, and personalised growth plans.

Distributed Leadership: Empowering staff to contribute to decision-making and take ownership of their development fosters a collaborative and innovative culture.

Coaching Culture: A core element of the "Growing Great People" framework. Every staff member receives coaching, focusing on reflection, setting goals, and improvement. The positive response demonstrates the power of peer support and distributed leadership through organic coaching partnerships

Technology Integration: Technology is actively used to enhance learning experiences, facilitate collaboration, and personalise instruction Staff have access to Chromebooks and training to utilise technology effectively.

People Strategy: Aligns with the Trust's overall strategies It emphasises staff wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and professional development through coaching and learning programmes

Key Challenges:

Implementing the strategy across diverse schools; Ensuring equitable access to development opportunities for all staff;

Balancing individual needs with the Academy's strategic objectives

Summary Evaluation

LEO uses the National Benchmarking platform Edurio to gain insights into staff support, general job satisfaction, workload, and career opportunities The 2024 survey takes place in March 2024 and will provide additional up to date data as to the benefits of the coaching culture. Additionally, coaching frequency and participation is monitored

Benefits of Coaching Culture:

Increased staff morale, engagement, and ownership of development

Greater adaptability and responsiveness to external challenges.

Enhanced pupil learning experiences and outcomes.

Promotes a growth mindset, encouraging innovation and change.

Increased staff accountability and self-reflection.

Creates a safe space for discussing challenges and receiving support

Professional and Personal Development:

Ownership of learning is emphasised

Coaching models include individual, group, peer, and instructional coaching.

Early Career Frameworks provide structured support for new teachers.

Collaboration and sharing best practices are encouraged through Network Learning Communities and professional development opportunities.

Practitioner enquiry encourages Early Career Teachers to reflect critically and experiment with new strategies.

Overall, the Open University's case study highlights the success of LEO Academy Trust's coaching culture initiative in fostering a positive and growth-oriented environment for staff and pupils

Don't miss out on a fun-filled Easter of multi-sports at Manor Park Primary Academy and Cheam Park Farm Primary Academy, and Gym, Dance and Cheerleading at Brookfield Primary Academy!

To register, click here before it’s too late!

Thank you for reading!

We hope you all have a wonderful Easter Break. We look forward to seeing you all for the start of the Summer Term!

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