Lionheart News - Issue #06 - March 2024

LI NHEARTNEWS

and

from Lionheart Educational Trust | Issue #06 | Mar 2024

Beauchamp City Sixth Form is outstanding

Following a visit from His Majesty’s Ofsted Inspectors in December, Beauchamp City was judged to be outstanding

This was the sixth form’s first full inspection since it was opened by Lionheart in September 2020, and Inspectors were hugely impressed with the unwavering commitment to drive both academic success and holistic development.

They praised the quality of teaching and the strength of the curriculum, noting that the education received

by students enables successful onwards progression.

“Leaders and teachers successfully provide the highest quality of education for their students and rightly focus closely on academic success and progression to higher education,” Inspectors commented in their report.

“All students achieve very highly, and around half secure top grades [and] successfully progress onto high quality destinations such as Russell Group universities or

“Leaders and staff are unwavering in their pursuit of academic excellence and holistic development for all their students.”

Key dates

prestigious degree apprenticeships with leading companies.”

The variety in the extracurricular offerings was also celebrated by the Inspectors, who noted that these initiatives prepare students for the transition to higher education and the working world.

They commented: “Leaders and staff ensure students are very well prepared for their futures…they provide a wealth of support and experiences, so students develop the academic, social and life skills they need to be successful.

“Students rightly value these opportunities that develop their confidence and give them an appreciation of different hobbies.”

We are incredibly proud that the fantastic work and dedication of staff, governors and students has been recognised through this judgement and thankful for the support of our parent/carer community.

You can read the full Ofsted report via the Beauchamp City website at www. beauchampcity.org.uk/ about-us/ofsted/ofsted

Welcome

As I reflect on the accomplishments of our learners – your children – over the past term, I would like to thank you once again for your support and encouragement. This newsletter celebrates a variety of opportunities and experiences fully embraced by pupils, and some remarkable achievements of both pupils and staff.

In this issue of Lionheart News, we shine a spotlight on our science curriculum, exploring the wonders of the world and the limitless possibilities that await our learners’ curious minds. In addition, we report on an aerospace careers event that ignited a passion for exploration and discovery among a number of our secondary school pupils.

One of the term’s highlights was receiving a glowing report from Beauchamp City Sixth Form’s very first Ofsted inspection, standing as a testament to the dedication of our staff, the resilience of our students, and the collaborative efforts of our parent community.

Equipping our young people with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of the modern world is a vital addition to the academic curriculum. Our most recent Global Issues lesson focused on social media and mental health and provided a platform for understanding, reflection, and engagement with this complex societal issue.

Inclusivity and diversity are always at the forefront of our endeavours and this term, our own Lionheart Disability Week served as a poignant reminder of our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported. The phrase ‘Abilities not Disabilities’ used throughout the week perfectly summed up the approach adopted by all in our school communities to celebrate our uniqueness and our talents.

Our pupils’ participation in the Duke of Edinburgh programme was highlighted at an award giving ceremony and exemplifies their dedication to personal development and volunteering in the community, which has undoubtedly left a positive impact on each of their school communities.

The spirit of competition and camaraderie was palpable during both the Inter-schools Battle of the Bands competition and our cricket kit design competition in partnership with Leicestershire County Cricket Club.

We are also excited to announce the recent launch of Lionheart Radio, providing our pupils with a platform to express themselves creatively and share their talents with listeners. As popularity of Lionheart Radio grows among pupils, and more content is produced, we look forward to sharing a schedule so you can tune in to hear particular items of interest.

As we end the spring term, we are – believe it or not – now over half

way through the academic year and many of our young people are fast heading towards exam season, whether that be key stage two SATs, GCSEs or A-Levels/BTECs.

The Easter break is an important time to undertake that all-important revision and we hope that the supportive resources we have shared are useful to signpost pupils to activities that support their exam preparation. It is also an important time to rest, recuperate and recharge, ready for what promises to be another busy, full and engaging summer term.

I would like to wish you and your family a wonderful break and I look forward to seeing your child/ ren in the summer term.

Kath Kelly CEO of Lionheart Educational Trust & Executive Principal of Beauchamp College

Students rock at Battle of the Bands

Sixty eight talented Lionheart musicians cranked up the volume in February, rocking up at the third annual Battle of the Bands competition, performing to a crowd of around 200 friends and family.

The evening event – which is the highlight of the year for many performing arts students – pits musical acts, from Lionheart’s eight

The results

secondary schools, against one another for the right to be crowned best band in the Trust.

Students were split into age categories before taking to the stage at a packed theatre in The Cedars Academy, to perform a song of their choice. From Adele to Green Day,

Juniors Seniors

Jess and Eden (The Newbridge School)

Ultraviolet (Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College)

and Bruno Mars to Måneskin, the differing genres meant there was something for everybody to enjoy.

A judging panel – made up of representatives from Leicester Community Radio and local band Midnight Angel – scored the acts on four categories; Music Ability, Band Cohesion, Stage Presence and Audience Participation.

Individual Outstanding Performance

Dylan (The Cedars Academy)

Revival

Well done to all the students who took part and congratulations to the worthy winners; we look forward to welcoming students and families back for next year’s event.

Leicestershire County Cricket Club partnership

In February, we re-launched our exclusive partnership with Leicestershire County Cricket Club (LCCC); providing your child/ren with an abundance of opportunities.

The centrepiece of the partnership this term was a kit design competition, where pupils from EYFS to sixth form were given the opportunity to design the club’s new T20 jersey for the 2025 season. This was an opportunity only afforded to pupils attending Lionheart schools and something never offered by the club before, so we felt privileged that our pupils had been given this fantastic chance to have their skills recognised in the UK sporting arena!

A collection of vibrant designs – all varying in style and colour – were submitted to the club in March, ready to be whittled down to a final 15. Soon, the designers of these entries will be invited to enter LCCC’s very own Dragon’s Den to ‘pitch’ their designs to representatives from both the club and Lionheart. Afterwards, a final shortlist comprising five entries will be compiled.

At the club’s exclusive ‘Lionheart Day’ – a T20 clash against

Lancashire Lightning on 14th June which Lionheart families are encouraged to attend – supporters will vote to select their favourite, with the winning design then heading to the production line.

Further to the kit competition, all pupils have this term received tailored membership packages, allowing them to access a collection of fantastic benefits; including FREE entry to ALL home County Championship fixtures and exclusive offers on

REMINDER

club merchandise and events taking place throughout 2024.

“Thanks to this partnership, and the distribution of over 10,000 memberships, pupils from EYFS to Year 13 will be able to embrace the game of cricket and other initiatives that take place at the ground,” explained Neil Lewis, Lionheart’s Head of Enterprise

“Every child matters within our Trust; so the magnitude of this partnership will allow them to all get involved.”

Parents/carers need to redeem their child’s LCCC membership before being able to access the fantastic out-of-school benefits such as free or discounted tickets. This can be done via e-mail, via the phone or by visiting the Uptonsteel County Ground.

Don’t forget that you too can take advantage of this synergy; by using the code ‘LIONHEARTTRUST20’ you can enjoy discounted tickets for ALL of the Leicestershire Foxes’ T20 fixtures.

Scan the QR code to buy now www.tixr.com/groups/leicestershire-ccc

Inspiring futures through national aeronautical engineering programme

At the start of March, we welcomed The Schools’ Aerospace Careers Programme to host a careers roadshow for 120 Year 10 and 12 students from Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College, Beauchamp College, Beauchamp City Sixth Form and Judgemeadow Community College. The event, which took place at Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College in Knighton, provided students with exposure to aeronautical engineering experts to pique their interest and encourage the pursuit of careers in this sector.

Dr Michael Smith – Chairman of the programme and military veteran with 20 years’ experience in the Royal Air Force – kick-started the day with a talk on careers in the aeronautical industry, explaining how careers in the field will likely develop in the future. He was followed by representatives from both GKN Aerospace and Babcock International who spoke about their personal experiences working in this sector, inspiring our students to consider following suit.

A particular highlight of the event was the Agile Mobile Robot – more

commonly known as Spot – who took a walk through the school hall. Spot has been designed to streamline the aeronautical industry by simplifying day-to-day tasks and students marvelled seeing it in action.

Students took the opportunity to visit ‘stations’ around the hall, which each focused on a different aspect of aeronautical engineering, enabling them to discover different aspects of the industry. Virtual Reality headsets proved popular, with students learning how other forms of VR technology can be used in aeronautical design.

A Careers Fair enabled students to speak to current apprentices working for a wide range of companies including ADS, Airborne, UK Space Agency and the Royal Aeronautical Society, giving them food for thought around their future pathways. Students came away from the event with useful contact details and a fresh perspective on their future plans; the event allowed them to explore careers they hadn’t even considered and ponder new opportunities that will emerge as the industry develops.

“We are so grateful to Michael and the entire team for providing our pupils at Lionheart the opportunity to learn about the aerospace industry,” said Rebecca Illston, Careers Lead at Beauchamp City Sixth Form and one of the organisers of the event.

“Their message that anything is possible and that no one should feel that being part of the aerospace industry is out of reach was very inspiring and we are excited to work with them on future events to ensure that even more of our pupils get the chance to learn more about careers in aeronautical engineering."

The program was a huge success; so much so that an event in March 2025 has been booked for Lionheart’s North schools and discussions are underway to make the event an annual occurrence.

We’re always looking to work with businesses to support our schools’ careers programmes. If you or your business can help, please get in contact via this form: https://forms.office. com/e/X00fc6D3D9

Leicester Tigers partnership proves to be a roaring success

The sports pitches at our schools have been a beacon of energy, tenacity and teamwork this term, with pupils participating in engaging rugby sessions as part of our newly forged partnership with the Leicester Tigers.

Multiple opportunities for all year groups have introduced pupils to the sport of rugby through enriching coaching sessions hosted by Hannah Faulds, Lionheart’s dedicated Rugby Development Officer.

Since January, Hannah has visited pupils at Judgemeadow Community College, The Castle Rock School, Martin High School, Riverside Primary School and The Pioneers’ Centre. Within their PE lessons, pupils have been educated about the core values of rugby – teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship – and have enjoyed taking part in sessions that reflect these qualities.

Pupils have enjoyed learning key elements of the game and as confidence increased, have participated in small-sided multidirectional games, before moving onto both Touch and Tag

Rugby. These sessions have not only provided a taster for those who wish to pursue full contact, but have also ensured it’s accessible for all.

“Introducing the sport of rugby to school groups has been so rewarding,” explained Hannah. “Seeing participants enjoy the activity sessions, smile, laugh and have fun has been great.

“Through the game, we provide challenges and problems to solve and in turn students

work together to develop tactics and find solutions.”

Hannah continued: “There has been a perceived attitude that the sport is aggressive, rough, an old man’s sport! Through the sessions I have led, though, pupils have seen that there is so much more to it.”

“If I can show that there are various formats to the game and that it is a game for all, then I have gone some way to achieving the objectives we have set out,” Hannah ended.

Lionheart shortlisted for two national awards

We’re proud to have been shortlisted for two awards already in 2024, by the Multi Academy Trust Association (MATA) and the MAT Excellence Awards – our industry’s equivalent to the Oscars and Grammies!

MATA acknowledged the fantastic work of Lionheart’s Executive Team, who lead teams that support our schools, both educationally and

operationally, enabling schools to focus on the day-to-day. Up against a strong shortlist of fellow multi academy trusts, 2024 wasn’t our year to take home the silverware,

Inspiring future pathways

Calling all Lionheart* alumni!

Remember, your journey doesn’t end when you leave our schools; we still need YOU to help us inspire the next generation.

Sharing your school experience and career pathway is hugely beneficial to our students. Hearing

how individuals – who once walked through the same corridors and sat in the same classrooms as them – have gone on to enjoy success, is the inspiration they need to work hard and aim high.

If you’re interested in joining our alumni network so we can share your

Disability Awareness Week "Ability rather than disability"

Led by Lionheart’s staff disability focus group, February 12th to 16th saw Lionheart schools engage in our first ever Trust-wide Disability Awareness Week, centred around education, discussion and celebration of abilities.

Personal Development lessons at all schools, for upper primary years through to sixth form, explored the Equality Act and society’s definition of disability. They learned about the

challenges those with disabilities can face, and discovered the many abilities which accompany disabilities.

As part of the lessons, students also learned British Sign Language for a poem named ‘Abilities’, they listened to an inspirational talk from Ian Hall of ADHD Solutions on the gifts and challenges of living with ADHD, and watched an uplifting video interview with Lionheart parent, Zheng Wang, who lost his arms as

however, we’re very proud to have been recognised in a national arena.

The development opportunities we create for employees at all levels and job roles across our schools and Trust have also been recognised by the MAT Excellence Awards, among a shortlist of seven other UK MATs. The winner for this award won’t be announced until later on in June, so watch this space!

story, please fill out our short survey.

https://forms.office. com/e/WYvGxax5xp

*Your former school must now be part of Lionheart but didn’t have to be when you attended.

a child and has shown tremendous resilience throughout his life.

Across our schools, libraries focused their recommended reads to reflect the week’s theme and posters in curriculum areas showcased experts in that subject area who also happen to have a disability.

The week was received with magnificent maturity by all students, who were suitably inspired by what they learned.

Listen now: Lionheart Radio

After months of pre-launch work behind the scenes, Lionheart Radio - our Trustwide 24/7 community station - began broadcasting at the beginning of February.

Alongside the latest chart hits, Lionheart Radio is the home of student-led content from all schools across our Trust, providing them with a platform to express their creativity and produce innovative and engaging shows.

“Some of our students have opted to record discussionbased programmes, naming their show 'Question of the Day' where they can share their opinions on a particular topic,” explained Music and Drama Technician Mr Davison, who is responsible for the Lionheart Radio project.

“Others are really enjoying talking about their own interests. We are recording a 'Hobby Show' where students get to talk about their

Shows currently broadcasting

Human Writes - students from The Cedars Academy reading their amazing poetry.

The Really Weird Animal Show - students from Martin High talk about the weirdest animals in the world.

The Castle Rock Podcasttalking about important issues that matter to young people.

Shrek Jr by the students of The Cedars Academythe full performance from their Tuesday night cast.

The Hobby Show - discover some of the amazing things our students get up to out of school!

Question of the Dayhypothetical questions and debate.

passions for music, sports and radio-controlled vehicles!

“We are also tapping into other extracurricular clubs. The Human Writes creative writing club at The Cedars Academy have already recorded some of their quite amazing work and I can't wait to share it with everyone,” he added.

Listen to Lionheart Radio here lionhearttrust. org.uk/community/ lionheart-radio/

Battle of the Bands 2024 – the full recording of the evening’s performances and interviews with bands, teachers and parents/carers.

These student-led shows begin broadcasting from 6pm every day.

Global Issues Curriculum: Social Media and Mental Health

Across our schools, we deliver a Global Issues Curriculum developed by Lionheart and everchanging according to the topical issues we feel are important for our young people to understand.

Taught in an age-appropriate manner, lessons allow our young people to develop an interest in issues beyond the school gate and put the headlines they see into context.

Having previously focused on the plight of Refugees, Climate Change, the Cost-of-Living Crisis and Women’s Rights, to name but a few, this term, pupils explored Social Media and its potential impact on Mental Health.

the time they spend online, or protect themselves.

DID YOU KNOW?

Over 12% of children aged 11 to 16 who used social media agreed with the statement “I have been bullied online.”

(Source: NHS Digital)

Now a significant part of our digitised world, social media is widely accessible for young learners and while it can be a useful tool for accessing information from trusted sources, it can also pose a threat if young people do not control

In light of the government’s new Online Safety Bill – legislation that holds social media companies responsible for the content they facilitate – and recent news stories that contain some very tragic consequences for young people specifically linked to social media use, we felt compelled to educate our pupils on this topic. Consequently, those from Year 5 upwards participated in a lesson which promoted the potentially harmful impact excessive social media can have on emotional wellbeing and shared ways they can not let it overwhelm them and how to keep themselves safe.

DID YOU KNOW?

Rates of anxiety and depression in young people have risen 70% in the past 25 years.

(Source: NHS Digital)

A key aspect of our Global Issues Curriculum is to provide pupils with an opportunity to engage in topicrelated social action, enabling them to understand how they can use their voices or actions to promote a positive change.

Therefore, from Saturday 16th to Monday 18th of March, we participated in a social media blackout across all school and Trust accounts, and encouraged our young people to consider their social media use and take a break or reduce their time online.

DID YOU KNOW?

83% of surveyed social media users were recommended self-harm content on their Instagram and TikTok feeds without searching for it.

(Source: Samaritans)

It was a practical and engaging way to highlight the importance of the issue and we hope our students will apply what they have learnt and #TakeControl of their own social media to ensure a positive wellbeing.

Students shine at Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards night

At an awards evening at the end of February, we were pleased to acknowledge just under 200 students who had recently completed a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE).

The event brought together families, school leaders and DofE representatives, who watched students from Year 9 through to 13 receive their Bronze and Silver awards from Mrs Henrietta Chubb JP, the High Sheriff of Leicestershire.

The DofE Award is offered to students at all Lionheart secondary schools and sixth forms, with the award presented on completion of four elements; carrying out voluntary work, completing a physical

activity, learning a new skill and undertaking an expedition.

Over the last year, students have chalked up over 1500 hours of volunteering through supporting charities and coaching at local sports clubs. They also broadened their horizons by learning new life skills – including fabric printing, cooking and how to play the violin – undertook various physical activities – such as cheerleading, karate and football – and enjoyed thrilling expeditions to Rutland and the Peak District.

Not fazed by the effort required to undertake the award in their spare time, a fantastic 90% of this pupil cohort completed the award; 30% higher than the national average most recently published by DofE.

“The awards programme supports the holistic development work of our schools and colleges,” said Ian Coward, Lionheart’s DofE Programme Manager.

“The Trust facilitates the award to allow students to discover new aspirations and qualities beyond the classroom.”

Students who achieved the prestigious Gold Award, meanwhile, can look forward to a lavish ceremony in the gardens of Buckingham Palace in May.

If you would like to find out more about the DofE scheme, and how you can support your child/ren, visitdukeofedinburgh. lionhearttrust.org.uk

Students receiving awards were from the following schools: Beauchamp City Sixth Form, Beauchamp College, The Castle Rock School, The Cedars Academy, Humphrey Perkins School, Judgemeadow Community College, Martin High School, The Newbridge School and Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College

Subject Spotlight Science

ADirector of Science, Jenny Shakespeare, explores Lionheart’s science curriculum, its practical application to students’ exploration of careers and how Lionheart learners may become the influential scientists of tomorrow.

t Lionheart, we see science education as an intellectual and practical pursuit from primary through to GCSE and beyond. Our learners work hard to ‘think like a scientist’ and tackle subject content using the scientific method. They can also be found practicing the skill of experimentation in lessons, using dedicated lab spaces to conduct practical science and collect results.

Little learners in our primary settings will be learning about science in real world situations whilst exploring nature, investigating different materials and their properties and experimenting with physical forces.

By now, Year 7s will have been introduced to a range of practical equipment and methods including microscopes, Newton meters and Bunsen burners. Meanwhile, A-level students are completing required practical activities and write-ups, referencing up-to-date scientific research and emerging

"The sheer sense of wonder when you realise that you've found a species that is totally unknown to the rest of the world's scientists and in fact everyone else on the planet, in many cases, is what makes life worth living...It's a huge boost."

Dr Martin Cheek, Senior Research Leader at Kew Gardens (source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-67930823)

ideas. Their ambitions for further education are in focus and they are learning to communicate in the language of professional science.

Where can the study of science take us?

As we scan the latest news headlines, we realise the answer to that question is almost limitless.

In January, the Royal Botanic

Gardens at Kew, announced that its scientists had discovered 74 new plants and 15 fungi species last year alone. An amazing advancement in our knowledge of the world around us, tempered by the statistic that three-quarters of these undescribed species are already threatened with extinction.

We want our students to feel that ‘huge boost’ as they discover new aspects of the world around them,

but we also want them to have the knowledge and skills needed in the future to resolve some of the world’s most complex issues. That’s why our students will be considering the mechanisms behind climate change as well as the impact of intensive farming, food inequality and loss of biodiversity as part of their GCSE science courses. It is by understanding advancement and the unforeseen consequences of it, that we truly can see how science can contribute to the solutions required.

From the ‘boost’ of discovering new plants and fungi we have also seen the launch of the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket ‘boosting’ four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS).

DID YOU KNOW?

schools consider their future destinations and engaging with activities that promote careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).

DID YOU KNOW?

The International Space Station is the length of a football field and is the largest human-made object in space.

The space station crew will be in space for six months completing more than 200 science experiments during the mission.

One of these experiments will involve growing artificial replica human organs; a likely area of interest for Lionheart students who seek to become physiologists, physicians or physicists. Where will these experiments take our understanding next? Our students, who today are dissecting hearts in school science lessons, may one day be using that knowledge to develop cardiology in low-gravity environments.

Inspiring careers in STEM

It is so encouraging to see students across Lionheart secondary

During National Careers Week, Mrs Patel arranged for BAE system to present a roadshow to Year 7 and 8 pupils at The Martin High School in Anstey. The show’s theme was electricity, linking closely to the KS3 and KS4 National curriculum in science. It was an interactive experience with student participation and learning around the uses and application of electricity and safety across many industries. The show included talks on engineering careers within RAF and Royal Navy and certainly gave the students a ‘boost’ towards STEM careers.

Applying learning foundations to the wider world

The humans involved in both making and getting The International Space Station into space began their science education at school, learning the core ideas of a carefully considered science curriculum.

Our science teachers are trained to allow time to listen to the ideas

students bring to lessons and challenge misconceptions and - in this way the Lionheart science curriculum ‘boosts’ the enrichment of our students thinking. We ask students to consider a broad range of socioscientific issues including climate change, theories of the origins of the universe, historical context of scientific thinking and the role science can play in improving the human condition.

As part of the GCSE science qualifications our students will study the disease mechanism for malaria and the science behind vaccination. The WHO estimates 600,000 people die of malaria in Africa each year, a figure which must be reduced.

DID YOU KNOW?

The world's first routine vaccine programme against malaria started in Cameroon in January and is expected to save thousands of children's lives across Africa.

Maybe our science students will be able to make a future contribution to public health across the globe one day themselves or maybe they will work in the NHS as health-care providers and researchers. Perhaps they will find themselves conducting experiments in space or discovering a yet unknown new species of fungi. Either way the ‘boost’ we give them in science lessons will hopefully stay with them as they explore our world and new worlds!

SCHOOL ROUNDUP

Beauchamp City Sixth Form

Paving legal pathways

Students delved deeper into the fascinating world of the British Legal System this term, having recently launched the sixth form’s own Law Society.

The budding barristers participated in a fictional criminal case for appeal, assigning counsel for both sides to prepare their cases before attending a mock trial at the University of Leicester’s Court Room.

Students worked in teams to conduct thorough research into

criminal law, consider the precedent and compile outstanding legal documentation. They gained advice from an ex-defence lawyer too, on their approach to the case and the logistics of speaking in court.

Beauchamp College

Soaring STEM workshop

The educational charity, Smallpeice Trust – who inspire young people around the country to pursue careers in science and engineering – tasked students from Year 7 to construct their own model aeroplane during a STEM workshop at Beauchamp College in March.

The event was a fantastic introduction to project work and allowed students to develop teamwork and hands-on investigative skills. Working in groups of six, students built their own planes and competed against one another to see which could fly the furthest.

Practically exploring the physics of flight, and learning about concepts such as aerodynamics and forces, students built models

On the day of their court case, they delivered passionate arguments which were convincing and well-rooted in legal evidence; consequently, Mr Justice McKenna narrowly ruled in favour of the appealant!

Such was the success of this initiative, students can look forward to comparable opportunities working with Uppingham School and De Montfort University during the Summer Term.

which were powered by a propeller mechanism, whilst the fuselage was made out of balsa wood.

After trialling and testing their final designs, the students then took part in a reflective written exercise where they evaluated their design journey and highlighted areas for improvement.

As a reward for their efforts and focused participation, all students will now receive the highly-acclaimed British Science Association Crest Award.

National acclaim for academic excellence

Staff and pupils were recognised for the outstanding quality of their academic achievements, this term, receiving national acclaim from The Rt Hon Damian Hinds MP – Minister for Schools.

In January, Mr Hinds wrote to the school, praising them for being among the top 200 performing schools in the country for the Multiplication Tables Check (MTC), which took place in 2023.

A statutory test of consisting of 25 questions, the MTC tests multiplication and division

achievement in Reading, Writing and Mathematics during last year’s Key Stage 2 assessments.

Published results revealed that 90% or more of pupils either reached or exceeded the expected standard in those core subjects. This put Brocks Hill in the top 2% of schools in the country!

Brocks Hill Primary School Sporting triumphs

PA second letter in February celebrated the high level of

This official confirmation demonstrated just how hard the pupils work and of course, recognised the dedication of staff who provide an outstanding education for all at Brocks Hill Primary. knowledge up to 12 x 12, with Brocks Hill pupils scoring a remarkable average of 24.7.

Broom Leys Primary School

upils have continued to shine on the sports field this term, excelling in both running and gymnastic competitions.

122 children recently took part in three North West Leicestershire Cross Country Races. From a combination of individual and team events, Broom Leys’ young runners collected a hoard of trophies and medals.

The Year 1 girls’ team picked up three individual accolades and

came away with a team trophy. Meanwhile, two children in Year 2 and Year 5 both won an individual gold medal; the former having finished first in all of her races.

As a result of their efforts, four pupils have been selected to represent North West Leicestershire at Prestwold Hall in Loughborough later in the year. Here, they will compete against runners from different counties around Leicestershire.

Pupils have also enjoyed similar success in gymnastics competitions, taking the top four individual places and the team award in a recent Level 1 competition; the Level 4 team also acquired bronze and gold medals alongside the team trophy.

Both of these teams will now represent North West Leicestershire in the County Finals in Rutland in March.

The Castle Rock School

Sporting success

Over 150 students regularly engage in a wide variety of sporting opportunities at Castle Rock, both during the school day and as extracurricular activities.

In February, a group of students took part in the first ever Lionheart Dodgeball Tournament, competing against other secondary schools from around the Trust. Showcasing admirable athleticism, focus and determination the Castle Rock boys’ squad swept all before them to claim gold in the Year 9/10 category.

The sporting buzz continued through the term as external coaches hosted boxfit and rugby sessions in school, with

The Cedars Academy

Students spearhead NHS mental health initiative

Mental health has been high on the agenda at The Cedars Academy this term, with pupils benefiting from a new NHS school programme supporting children struggling with their mental health.

Every Thursday, the school’s very own NHS Mental Health team work with both individuals and groups of pupils who are having a tough time to provide them with strategies to strengthen their mental wellbeing.

NHS representatives were incredibly impressed with pupils and heaped praise on the school’s Anti-Bullying, Wellbeing and Diversity Ambassadors who have shone in their respective roles.

participation enabling the school to forge purposeful relationships with the community and provide links to opportunities that students can enjoy outside of school too.

Meanwhile, the school’s Young Leaders also engaged with sporting initiatives beyond the classroom, having supported at local primary festivals and swimming galas.

Here’s to many more victories and the bright future ahead for the Castle Rock athletes.

Keen to publicise their programme to other schools, the NHS invited two groups of Cedars students onto the radio to speak about the work they had done in school around mental health and how

they had supported their peers.

The show was broadcast on Radio Erewash and then reshared on Lionheart Radio!

Hallam Fields Primary School Success in global computing competition

This term, 146 pupils – from Year 2 to Year 6 – took part in the annual Bebras Competition; a worldwide computational thinking initiative, that encourages children to think about how issues could be resolved by using a computer. As well as strengthening their digital skills, participation also taught pupils about problem solving and improved their application of the school’s values, the 6Rs.

The eagerly anticipated results were recently released, with all pupils –whether they worked individually,

Highcliffe Primary School

World Book Day

Highcliffe Primary School was awash with famous fictional characters in March as staff and pupils celebrated World Book Day.

Ditching their uniforms to parade a collection of vibrant costumes, the day began with a whole school assembly where the children enjoyed watching an animated version of the Dr. Seuss classic, The Lorax.

Showcasing their creativity, pupils participated in a unique competition which involved turning potatoes into iconic book characters. Entries were laid out and children were invited to vote for their favourite.

The winners were: Nevaeh in Year 5 who created a snowman-inspired model, Reception pupil Lily with

or as part of a team – achieving some fantastic scores. Pupils were awarded either a Pass, Merit or Distinction mark, with 35 children achieving the top classification.

One Year 6 pupil scored so well that they received a ‘Golden Ticket,’ earning them an invitation to the worldwide finals organised by Oxford University; an impressive feat and one that certainly sets the bar high for future computational thinkers!

her homage to Rapunzel and finally Amelia in Year 2, who decorated her potatoes in the style of characters from the classic Little Miss… series. They all received a World Book Day badge.

For the remainder of the day, children

had fun designing their own book covers and were even given the chance to create their own supervillain.

It was a magical occasion and one that certainly brought to life the joy of reading.

Humphrey Perkins School Students Shine in spectacular production

Inviting parents, carers and wider family members to “be their guest” for the evening, Humphrey Perkins students dazzled with a stunning three-night performance of Beauty and the Beast Jnr in February.

Five months in the making, 67 students from Year 7 to Year 11 worked tirelessly to learn lines and perfect dance routines, resulting in a highly polished performance. A further 10 students shone backstage, creating props and building a spectacular set that would have rivalled Curve Theatre.

The show was arranged as such that performers effortlessly glided from the main stage to the middle

of the main hall floor, with the audience stationed on either side.

This resulted in an immersive experience and ensured that the audience – which included pupils from Hall Orchard Primary School and some as young as three and four – were transported into the magical world of Belle, Beast and a host of talking characters.

All in attendance were left utterly spellbound by the quality of performance and Team HP were rightly applauded for their sensational efforts.

Judgemeadow Community College

The Winter Show

Highlighting the fantastic musical talent of pupils, Judgemeadow Community College were delighted to host their Winter Show at the end of February.

12 acts – comprising students from Year 7 to Year 11 – took to the stage and blew their audience away. There were strong vocal displays which were accompanied by a wide

variety of instruments – including guitars, drums, keyboards, pianos and dhols – all of which were played with fantastic skill and enthusiasm; it was clear just how much time and effort had gone into rehearsing.

Even the staff got involved, with Mr Claridge (bass), Mr Baines (drums), Mrs Fairbrother (vocals), Mr Skivington (guitar) and Mrs O’Hara (guitar) forming

their own band and performing ‘The Best of You’ by the Foo Fighters.

Inside the school’s auditorium, the audience, made up of parents, carers and friends, vocalised their support, cheering on all the acts. The event showcased the collective talent of the school’s performing arts faculty and emphasised the strong community spirit!

Martin High School

Empowering girls through football

TThe Football Association visited Martin High School in February, filming staff and learners to showcase in their 2024 campaign for the ‘Biggest Ever Football Session.’

The initiative - part of #LetGirlsPlay - aims to ensure girls in schools can enjoy equal opportunities to play football. Having taken part in the 2023 campaign, learners – both boys and girls – spoke about their experiences of participating and encouraged other schools to get involved in this year’s forthcoming event. Cameras then captured a mini football session in the Sports Hall hosted by the Girls’ Football Ambassadors and CNAT Sports Studies students.

Fast forward four weeks and, on International Women’s Day, a number of initiatives were introduced at Martin High School to mark this year’s ‘Biggest Ever Football Session.’

Throughout the day, which was led by three coaches from Barclay’s Game Changers, hundreds of

The Newbridge School

Inspiring futures

Bigger and better than ever, The Newbridge School hosted their second Careers Fair in February with 20 employers, colleges and establishments present.

The occasion enabled students from Year 7 to Year 10 to delve deeper and discover potential careers and educational opportunities to pursue in the future.

Stalls were set up around the Sports Hall encouraging students to walk around, ask questions, research different pathways, understand about professions and find out the qualifications they needed.

children laced up their football boots and took part in a variety of drills designed to promote a passion for ‘the beautiful game.’

This engaging event inspired and empowered all learners at Martin High, who are looking forward to next year’s event with enthusiasm.

Amongst the visitors, were Ibstock Brick, the Royal Air Force, Mander Cruickshanks Solicitors, The Castle Rock Sixth Form, Loughborough College and Leicestershire Police. Such was the variety on offer, one Year 7 student explored both a career in Hair and Beauty and the

possibility of working for NASA!

The event supported the careers topics that form part of Personal Development lessons and broadened students’ horizons by introducing them to a host of fantastic opportunities.

Riverside Primary School

Pupils engage in magnificent music day

Riverside Primary School was a vibrant hub of rhythm and music this term!

Pupils celebrated History of Music Day where each year group completed a fun activity that related to a decade, a band or a specific song. A phenomenal amount of effort was invested in creating costumes that reflected music across the years, with staff and pupils dressing up as iconic figures throughout chart history.

Mr Matjasz assumed the role of Quiz Master and organised a ‘Play Your

Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College

Students excel at high adventure

Nearly 100 Year 9 students enjoyed an exhilarating three days at the High Adventure Outdoor Education Centre before half term.

Having missed out on a previous opportunity due to the pandemic, this was the students’ first experience of a school residential trip and an important part of their holistic development. They had an exhilarating time taking part in activities such as climbing, abseiling, bouldering, spider’s web, labyrinth and low ropes.

Demonstrating incredible resilience, the students encouraged one another and worked together to overcome problem-solving challenges that were set by the instructors; they also proved very apt at making their own packed lunches! During their evening down time, students had fun

Songs Right’ competition, much to the delight of pupils.

In recognition of their fantastic efforts to promote a love of music across the school each year, alongside their innovative and engaging curriculum, Riverside were this term awarded the Bronze Award from Leicestershire Music. A fantastic accolade to receive, whilst knowing they are also well on their way to achieving Silver in the notso-distant future!

cutting shapes on Just Dance and blasting out vocals on karaoke.

At the end of the trip, High Adventure staff hosted an awards evening where they highlighted students’

achievements and celebrated those who had overcome their fears. Instructors commented on the respect, teamwork and maturity shown by students noting that they were a credit to the school.

MEDIA

‘Wonder Twins’ release debut single

Shanice and Andrea – Beauchamp College’s very own ‘Wonder Twins’ – hit our air waves once again this term, as they promoted the release of their debut single.

The duo – who achieved national stardom after winning The Voice Kids last year – gave interviews to ITV Central News, East Midlands Today, BBC Radio Leicester and even performed their new song, ‘Destiny,’ on CBBC Saturday Mash-Up.

During their ITV news interview, which took place at Beauchamp College in front of fellow students, they spoke about their experience

of winning the ITV singing competition, the inspiration for ‘Destiny’ and their ambitions for future superstardom.

YWatch their ITV interview here www.itv.com/news/ central/2024-01-16/twin-sisterswho-won-the-voice-kids-settheir-sights-on-pop-stardom

Humphrey Perkins School undertake 24-hour spin challenge fundraiser

ou may have heard some familiar voices on local airwaves this term, as Humphrey Perkins Associate Principal Della Bartram, and PE Lead Terri Black were interviewed live on BBC Radio Leicester.

Giving an interview to Chance Litchfield on the afternoon show, the pair spoke in depth about Team HP’s gruelling 24-hour Spin Challenge for Comic Relief. Having been divided into two teams – the Purple Panthers and the Silver Scorpions – 15 staff members and 200 students had to continuously pedal six spin bikes, in turn, for one whole day, competing to see who could cover the greatest distance.

In a remarkable demonstration of teamwork and resilience, the school succeeded in their challenge and raised over £1500 for Comic Relief. 21

TRUSTIMPROVEMENTS

We’re busy investing and improving...

To ensure all Lionheart students receive fantastic academic and holistic development opportunities, we continue to enhance the learning environment through both our facilities and IT systems. With planning underway for a busy summer term, projects undertaken by from January to Easter have included:

Buildings

Work is underway to install a 3G pitch at The Cedars Academy in Birstall. The new facility will be a welcome addition for PE lessons and provide further opportunities for extracurricular and community sports.

Planning work is nearing completion for a new onsite nursery building at Broom Leys Primary School. Scheduled to open in September 2024, the new facility will be run by an external company and provide childcare for preschool aged children.

IT and Technology

The Trust-wide cashless catering system has been refined and developed with new features incorporated and overall performance improved. It is now easier than ever for staff and students to purchase refreshments at break or lunchtimes.

To bring all of our schools in line with one another, extra digital signage has been installed at nine school sites. Stationed in the reception and canteen areas, these screens will display important information to students, parents and visitors; it will also broadcast the current and forthcoming food menus.

Pictured: Mo Khan, The Cedars Academy's longstanding PE Teacher, breaks the ground to mark the start of the 3G pitch project. Pictured with two of the school's football team captains.