LI NHEARTNEWS
News and updates from Lionheart Educational Trust | Issue #09 | April 2025
Leicester's all-girls college is outstanding in all areas
Following an Ofsted inspection in January, Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College was awarded ‘Outstanding’ across all four judgement categories: Quality of Education, Leadership and Management, Behaviour and Attitudes and Personal Development.
Inspectors celebrated the school’s exceptional educational offering, noting that “pupils thrive” and learn within “focused and ambitious classroom environments” where “staff help pupils to achieve excellent academic outcomes.”
Inspectors added: “[The school] want more than exceptional examination results for pupils and work hard
to support pupils who attend the school to become ‘good people’.”
They also praised the extracurricular offerings, commenting that “pupils have plenty of opportunities to develop their talents and interests.”
In the four years prior to this inspection, only 30% of ‘Outstanding’ schools nationally retained the highest grading upon reinspection, contextualising the scale of this achievement for Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College.
Associate Principal Helen ColesHennessy said: “This prestigious recognition reflects the unwavering dedication and exceptional efforts
of our entire school community over many years.
“We are committed to working with our school community towards continuously developing and improving our exemplary provision, ensuring that the young people in our school are inspired and empowered to make a difference.”
Welcome
Dear parents and carers,
As I reflect on the past term – which has taken us over the halfway point of the academic year – I am thrilled to share a range of updates and achievements from across our schools.
There's been a wide array of extracurricular initiatives for Lionheart’s young people this term, including a showcase of talented young musicians who dazzled at Battle of the Bands, and pupils’ Duke of Edinburgh Award completion was recognised at an award ceremony, where they received their bronze and silver awards following months of volunteering and learning new skills. Of course, there have also been lots of school trips – much to the delight of pupils – and a variety of visitors and speakers in school to enhance learning across a range of topics.
World Book Day was a popular event, as always, promoting a love of literature through innovative events – and many a dressing up costume - that united pupils and staff.
We welcomed several Members of Parliament into our schools, who were keen to see the fantastic work that takes place in our classrooms. They enjoyed meeting pupils, who were able to pose questions and gain a clearer understanding on how government decisions affect their lives.
Congratulations go to Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College, who were
Key dates
recognised as ‘Outstanding’ across all four Ofsted criteria following their January inspection. As Leicester’s only all-girls multi-faith state school, we’re proud of the unique, vibrant and engaging environment which the school has been recognised to offer.
As we approach the exam period, many of our pupils will be preparing for Key Stage 2 SATs, GCSEs, A-levels or BTECs. While the Easter holidays offer a crucial opportunity for revision, it’s equally important that pupils take some time to rest and recharge, ensuring they return refreshed and ready for the challenges ahead. Together with schools, we have provided useful resources to support their preparation,
including specific parent resources which you can find on page 4.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Together, we are providing an exceptional educational experience for all young people within our Trust.
I look forward to the exciting opportunities that the next term will bring.
With best wishes,
Kath Kelly CEO of Lionheart Educational Trust
World Book Day: A magical celebration of literature
The classrooms of Lionheart schools exploded with creativity, imagination and literary joy this term, as pupils – from primary through to sixth form – celebrated World Book Day, embracing the magic of reading.
Pupils and staff alike ditched their usual attire and instead donned elaborate and creative costumes, bringing their favourite books to life. Alice and co from Wonderland toured school corridors, while iconic Roald Dahl villains also enjoyed making mischief; there was even a special visit from the three inflatable pigs, who trotted around trying to source some straw, sticks and bricks.
It wasn’t all Harry Potter robes and Where’s Wally hats, though; pupils
also threw themselves into a wide variety of engaging initiatives. Some became detectives, solving literary mysteries as part of escape room challenges and scavenger hunts, while others took on reading marathons, poetry slams and design competitions, using wooden spoons and potatoes to carve their favourite book characters.
Libraries, meanwhile, buzzed with excitement, hosting book swaps and showcasing dazzling displays. Humphrey Perkins School even transformed their reading area into a coffee shop –appropriately named ‘Starbooks’ – handing out hot chocolates and literary-themed treats to enthusiastic young readers.
Elsewhere, authors and poets inspired young minds through live workshops and virtual sessions, while pupils also relished the opportunity to showcase their own story writing, taking on board advice from the professionals.
This year’s World Book Day activities emphasised our commitment to nurturing a lifelong love for reading, something that will aid pupils, not only throughout the remainder of their educational journey, but also as they transition into the world of work.
We can’t wait to see where our pupils’ literary journeys take them next!
Resources for Parents/Carers: GCSE Revision
We are always keen to work in partnership with you to maximise on your child’s potential. At this crucial stage for Year 11s, who will begin their GCSE exams in six weeks’ time, we’d like to suggest five steps that you can take as a family to reinforce the focused approach being undertaken by teachers in school time.
1 2 3 4 5
Data Snapshot
You will receive (w/c 7th April) your child’s latest snapshot (also available on Beehive) showing their grades based on their most recent test scores. It includes information on areas of focus for improvement. Please explore and discuss this with your child.
Family Reflection Activity (FRA)
The FRA is designed to help you engage in an initial conversation with your child about their performance; what they feel confident about and what needs improvement. Our activity template on the website will help guide you.
Personal Revision Timetable
Next, work with your child to devise a revision timetable focusing on the areas identified as priority. If they already have a revision timetable, now is the time to revisit this based on the latest areas of focus. There is a template on the website.
Revision Resources
Navigate through the Family Support for Revision webpage to explore lots of resources, such as the exams timetable, exam board specifications, past papers, help videos and parent guides. Explore the directory of pre-recorded expert revision lectures that can be watched in addition to attending onsite Easter revision sessions at school. This can all be used in addition to the range of information your child’s school will have already shared.
Build a structured routine
Develop a sensible routine that includes a proportionate mix of school, rest, play and revision through to the start of GCSE exams. Visit our Family Support for Revision webpage: www.lionhearttrust.org.uk/ revisionsupport
We’d like to extend our very best wishes to every Lionheart learner across our community and remind our exam group pupils that they that they have our full support as they embark on the busy examination season.
Every person is unique and capable of achieving great things.
Pupils relish the opportunity to quiz MPs!
We welcomed Members of Parliament (MPs) into six of our schools this term, which not only enabled the schools visited to highlight their successes and gain support, it also offered our young people an insight into the world of politics.
Representing a mixture of political perspectives – including Labour, Conservative and Independent –Samantha Niblett, Amanda Hack, Shockat Adam and Shivani Raja MP, together with school Senior Leadership Teams, identified ways to enhance collaboration and provide
further opportunities for pupils.
The real highlight, however, came when our eager young learners seized the opportunity to quiz their distinguished guests and delve deeper into the political sphere. Their questions sparked insightful discussions about government and its impact on everyday life. Amidst these conversations – which spanned local issues and national debate – the MPs offered candid insight and thoughtful advice. Samantha Niblett MP, for example, shared valuable guidance with Newhall Junior School’s newly established Pupil School Council,
encouraging them to listen actively and ensure every voice is heard.
At Judgemeadow Community College, meanwhile, Shivani Raja –the Conservative MP for Leicester East – made a special appearance on ‘In The Meadows,’ the school’s student-led podcast, sharing her journey from a Leicester school girl to election as an MP.
The visits left a lasting impression on our young people, with many keen to accept the MPs’ invitations to visit Parliament in the near future.
The schools visited were Mercia Academy, Newhall Junior School, Broom Leys Primary School, Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College, Beauchamp City Sixth Form and Judgemeadow Community College
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award success
There were cheers, applause and beaming smiles all around in March, as we celebrated the incredible achievements of our students who had completed the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme (DofE).
In front of proud families, school principals and DofE representatives, students from Year 9 and up stepped forward to receive their hardearned bronze and silver awards from Mr John Chatfeild-Roberts, the High Sheriff of Leicestershire.
A popular initiative in our secondary schools and sixth forms, the DofE
programme offers students the opportunity to discover new passions, challenge themselves and develop valuable life skills beyond the classroom. This year, we saw record-breaking participation, with an incredible 308 students embracing this enriching opportunity offered by Lionheart schools.
Earning a DofE award is no easy feat, with students required to complete four different elements: voluntary work, undertaking a physical activity, learning a new skill and embarking on an expedition.
Over the past year, participants have thrown themselves into a range of exciting activities. From mastering the art of cooking and coaching sports teams, to learning new languages and embarking on thrilling expeditions, they have shown dedication and perseverance every step of the way.
“Students completing their awards are unquestionably resourceful in planning and completing the four activities,” said Ian Coward, Lionheart’s DofE Programme Manager.
“They are now equipped with new experiences to enable success.”
Students receiving their awards were from the following schools: 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.
Young musicians rock the stage at Battle of the Bands
Sixty five musically talented secondary school students from across our schools competed at Lionheart’s fourth annual Battle of the Bands competition at The Cedars Academy theatre in January.
This event is the highlight of the year for many of our performing
The results
Seniors
In From The Rain (Beauchamp College)
Combvst (Humphrey Perkins School)
Ultraviolet (Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College)
arts students, providing a fantastic opportunity to pursue a passion outside of the classroom and showcasing their guitar, bass, keyboard, drums and vocal talents.
Amidst an electrifying atmosphere, our brilliant young musicians wowed the 240-strong crowd with a series
Juniors
Velvet Static (The Cedars Academy)
Innuendo (Humphrey Perkins School)
None Of The Above (Humphrey Perkins School)
of awe-inspiring performances, covering everything from Guns N' Roses to the Arctic Monkeys.
The energy and enthusiasm from all involved culminated in an outstanding event that celebrated our students’ musical abilities and highlighted their growth in confidence.
Outstanding Individual Performance
Saffy (Humphrey Perkins School)
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.
INTHEMEDIA
Local, regional and national media have regularly highlighted our pupils’ fantastic achievements this term.
Pupils star on BBC politics show
Creative young comedians from Broom Leys Primary School captured regional interest, showcasing their interactive walking trail – ‘The Completely Made-Up
The same fantastic story also captured the interest of BBC online,
Judgemeadow’s student podcast in national publication
As part of their ‘View from the Classroom’ feature, Alex Grainge, Associate Principal at Judgemeadow Community College, recently spoke to Education Today Magazine, lifting the lid on their brilliant studentled podcast, ‘In The Meadows.’ The magazine’s feature aims to share best practice with other schools and practitioners.
History of Coalville’ – on BBC One’s Politics East Midlands show.
Coalville Times and Coalville Community Voice.
Mercia spotlighted in local media
Jackie Cooper, Principal at Mercia Academy, and PE Teacher, Nathan Holmes, were invited to share the latest on the school’s new building and plans for community engagement, featuring both on Burton Radio and in local magazine, SwadStyle.
Broom Leys join Ady’s BBC Breakfast Club
Did you catch pupils from Broom Leys Primary School chatting about speedy fish, imaginative comedy and mind control magic on BBC Radio Leicester this term?
For a whole week, five pupils entertained listeners with fun segments on the popular feature ‘Ady’s Breakfast Club.’
TGirls’ England Football conference at Cedars Academy
he Barclays England Football ‘Let Girls Play’ Football Conference, hosted at The Cedars Academy, was showcased in the Leicester Mercury and Loughborough Echo. It highlighted how young female students left
the event equipped with the skills and knowledge to promote, deliver and officiate a wide variety of football activities in their own schools, with the aim of increasing participation.
Lionheart contribute to discussion on BBC radio
Alice King, Associate Principal at Beauchamp College, and Dilan Savjani, Lionheart’s Director of Personal Development, were invited to take part in a discussion live on BBC Radio Leicester about ‘Adolescence,’ the groundbreaking Netflix drama series.
With the show giving its portrayal of teenage challenges including social
media and mental health, Alice and Dilan shared how these themes are integrated into our Personal Development and Global Issues Curriculum, supporting students with gaining essential life skills.
Beauchamp sixth form students then took part in a follow-up feature, sharing their knowledge of emoji use, one of the key themes of the show.
MP visit featured in Leicester Mercury
Judgemeadow Community College in Evington welcomed Shivani Raja – the Member of Parliament (MP) for Leicester East – to their school in late February; a visit that saw her interviewed for the school podcast, which captured the interest of Leicester Mercury.
Lionheart shortlisted for national awards
We’re proud to have been shortlisted in two categories for this year’s MAT Excellence Awards, a scheme that celebrates the outstanding work of multiacademy trusts across the country.
Our 'green’ initiatives have been acknowledged in the Environmental Trust of the Year category, where judges have celebrated how, through our Global Issues Curriculum, we educate students about matters affecting the planet and give them a platform to engage in social action to promote positive change.
Following the Prime Minister's suggestion to show 'Adolescence' in schools, Dilan Sajvani took to the airways once more to give us his thoughts.
LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEWS HERE
We are also shortlisted for the Transformation and Impact Award, a testament to our commitment to removing barriers to learning and supporting Lionheart schools in improving their academic and holistic provision.
It is an honour to be recognised alongside other exceptional trusts who, like us, are committed to providing young learners with a rich and inspiring education. The winners won’t be announced until June, so watch this space!
Subject Spotlight
Modern Foreign Languages
“To learn another language is to have one more window from which to look at the world.” (Chinese proverb)
Learning a foreign language is a powerful way to broaden a young person’s horizons and open doors to a world of opportunities. Language learners develop highly sought-after transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication and adaptability; qualities valued by top universities and employers alike. It is our mission across Lionheart schools, to equip our pupils with skills they need to succeed beyond education. Therefore, we introduce Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) at primary school and encourage continuation of MFL study through to GCSE level and beyond.
From Year 7, an emphasis on phonics enables pupils to pronounce familiar and new vocabulary confidently, alongside building strong foundations in high frequency vocabulary and grammar structures. This ensures they progress to using past and future time frames in Year 8 and Year 9, increasing their confidence and range of language as they move into their GCSE years.
In Year 9, our pupils explore the topic of careers, learning to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different jobs, the qualities required for various professions,
and their potential pathways through education and training.
The French and Spanish GCSE courses studied in Years 10 and 11 are evolving, with new courses for exams in 2026 designed to be more accessible to a wider range of learners.
Our lessons reflect the diversity of the French and Spanish-speaking worlds, introducing students to cultures beyond Europe, including Senegal, Mali and Madagascar. Lessons also showcase a range of role models from target-language communities, reinforcing the global relevance of language learning.
(PERSIAN PROVERB) “
A new language is a new life”
THERE ARE FURTHER BENEFITS TO LEARNING ANOTHER LANGUAGE TOO...
Empathy and understanding of cultures
It has been shown that learning another language can make people more open-minded and empathetic. Across our curriculum, we give pupils an insight into other cultures through topics such as food and festivals, offering an understanding and appreciation of how diverse these are across the French and Spanish speaking world, as well as the opportunity to talk about pupils’ own preferences and traditions.
Linguistics benefits
Studying a foreign language also deepens pupils’ understanding of English, by highlighting linguistic similarities and differences, providing an opportunity to see the English language through fresh eyes. Becoming a linguist not only improves cognitive flexibility but also lays the groundwork for learning additional languages and new skills in the future.
Wider skills development
Our curriculum in French and Spanish builds pupils’ confidence and communication skills by reinforcing key vocabulary and grammar across the four skill areas of speaking, listening, reading and writing. Through engaging lessons that include interactive activities and games, pupils are active participants in their learning, helping knowledge to stick in their long-term memory.
Lionheart languages teachers are passionate about equipping pupils with the linguistic skills, cultural awareness and confidence to thrive in an interconnected world.
We passionately believe that learning a language is a new opportunity – and one that lasts a lifetime.
SCHOOL ROUNDUP
Beauchamp City Sixth Form
Preparing for the future
W
ork Experience Week saw over 350 Year 12 students gain invaluable insights on a wide variety of placement schemes. From pharmacies and hospitals to engineering plants, legal offices, schools and laboratories, enthusiastic learners embraced the opportunity to develop key skills and explore potential career paths.
Students on-site, meanwhile, competed work-related group projects with prestigious companies,
including IBM, KPMG and Cavendish Nuclear. Companies hosted a range of industry-related activities for students to participate in, with some
Beauchamp College
Discovering the Dorset coastline
Key Stage 5 students recently embarked on a trip to Swanage for A-level Geography Field Work, showcasing the school's commitment to providing transformative learning experiences.
The adventure in Dorset saw students explore the stunning coastal path from Durdle Door to
Lulworth Cove, scrambling up steep gullies and delving into the fascinating geology of the coastline.
The cohort enthusiastically engaged in a blend of physical and human geography primary data collection, laying the groundwork for their Non-Exam Assessment write-up. Students' dedication and
leading to participants securing summer placements and internships.
Mock interviews also took place with local employers, providing students with useful practice and constructive feedback.
All opportunities across the week equipped learners with the skills and experience needed for success beyond sixth form, with employers praising students’ professionalism and enthusiasm.
meticulous approach were evident throughout the trip, meaning they enjoyed a well-deserved visit to the local ice cream shop too!
Hard work, commitment and exemplary conduct ensured the trip was a resounding success, leaving students inspired and ready for future academic challenges.
Brocks Hill Primary School
A rainbow of colour for Children’s Mental Health Week
Brocks Hill Primary School was vibrant with colour in February as staff and pupils united to celebrate Children’s Mental Health Week.
Hosted by the charity Place2Be, this year’s theme – ‘Know Yourself, Grow Yourself’ – inspired pupils to embrace self-awareness and explore their unique identities.
To raise funds for this vital cause, pupils wore a dazzling array of imaginative and colourful costumes.
Broom Leys Primary School
Times table challenge triumph
Times table knowledge has soared to new heights this term, with Year 4 pupils achieving phenomenal results in February’s NSPCC Rocks competition.
Competing against over a quarter of a million children from other schools across England, Broom Leys stormed the leaderboard, with the whole year group finishing 19th nationally and claiming the top spot in Leicestershire.
One Year 4 class placed an impressive 115th in the country –within the top 1%! - while the other two classes ranked in the top 5%.
This incredible success is a testament to the pupils’
From Cubs outfits to football shirts and traditional gowns to comfy clothes, the school was a rainbow of colour, with pupils joyfully expressing their individuality and creativity through their attire.
The event was a resounding success, with children and their families enthusiastically participating to fundraise over £500 for Place2Be. This generous donation will support the charity’s ongoing efforts to help young people across the country.
A huge congratulations to all the Year 4 pupils for this outstanding achievement!
hard work at school, with many regularly practising on Times Table Rock Stars at home too.
The Castle Rock School
Student biologists in National Olympiad
Year 12 and 13 students recently put their scientific skills to the test in the prestigious British Biology Olympiad – an advanced problem-solving competition for A-level students – demonstrating their outstanding knowledge and passion for the subject.
Within the cohort, two students achieved Gold Awards, which places them among the top young biologists in the country.
Their success has also earned them the chance to represent Britain in the National Team, with an exciting opportunity to compete in the
The Cedars Academy
International Biology Olympiad in the Philippines later this year!
This outstanding achievement is attributed to students’ hard work and dedication, with each of them performing brilliantly and showcasing their enthusiasm for Biology.
Inspiring female leaders through football
TThe Cedars Academy proudly hosted this year’s local area Let Girls Play Football Activators Conference in early March.
The event, by Barclay’s England Football, brought together students from 13 schools across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland –including Cedars, Martin High School and Humphrey Perkins School from Lionheart – who had fun engaging in a variety of dynamic workshops designed to develop both their life and leadership skills.
The excitement spilled out onto the school’s stunning new 3G pitch, where, under the crisp Spring sunshine, students enjoyed
putting their newfound skills into practice, learning how to promote, deliver and officiate a wide range of football activities.
Guided by inspirational PE
teacher, Ella Rowley, Cedars Academy participants crafted an action plan to enhance girls’ football provision at the school, ensuring the game remains inclusive and accessible for all.
Hallam Fields Primary School Spectacular choral performance
Year 4 pupils took to the stage at De Montfort Hall for an unforgettable evening of music as part of 'Leics Sing' – A Choral Spectacular with Leicestershire Music.
Joining hundreds of young voices from primary, secondary and SEND schools across Leicester and Leicestershire, the children embraced the environmental theme and sang iconic songs including ‘I Am the Earth’ and ‘What a Wonderful World.’ Their powerful performance encouraged many adults in the audience to sing along too!
Preparation for this event spanned several weeks, with children practising their songs in music lessons and embracing the opportunity to rehearse at Holy Trinity Church in Leicester.
Highcliffe Primary School
A fond farewell
After an incredible 21 years of dedication, Mr Singh retired from his post as Premises Officer at Highcliffe in April, receiving a fond farewell from pupils and staff who gathered to say goodbye.
A true cornerstone of the school, he has worked tirelessly over the past two decades to ensure the site was safe, clean and welcoming for everybody. During his tenure, he also oversaw key developments, including the new Greengate Building.
But Mr Singh’s impact stretched far beyond his daily duties. He was the driving force behind the Mini
Following the show at De Montfort Hall, pupils were able to perform again during the school’s celebration assembly, sharing this incredible experience with the whole Hallam Fields School community!
in their school by litter-picking and keeping areas tidy. His kindness, patience and encouragement made him a very popular member of the Highcliffe family.
Adorned in red – a fitting tribute to his beloved Liverpool FC – the school
came together, alongside former colleagues, for a special assembly before half-term, to celebrate his remarkable contributions.
Mr Singh leaves behind an unforgettable legacy and will be missed by all!
Premises Team, inspiring pupils to take pride
Humphrey Perkins School
Audience wowed at school musical
Renowned for their annual performing arts shows, ‘Team HP’ wowed all in attendance with their recent musical production, this time putting their own unique and spellbinding twist on the classic film, Legally Blonde.
After months of rehearsing lines, perfecting songs and fine-tuning dance routines, the talented students – ranging from Year 7 to Year 10 – performed to over 400 audience members across a memorable three-night run. Highlighting the school’s keen links within the community, over 150
pupils from a local primary school also enjoyed watching the show.
Not only did onstage performers impress – showcasing sensational singing, amazing acting and dazzling dancing – but those working behind the scenes also played
their part, ensuring the lighting and sound flowed seamlessly.
This collective effort resulted in a highly professional and polished production, leaving audiences eagerly anticipating how the school will top their efforts next year!
Judgemeadow Community College
Students empowered at Young Ambassadors event
I n February, Judgemeadow Community College was one of only five Leicester and Leicestershire schools selected to attend an inspiring Young Ambassadors event hosted by Youth Sport Trust at Loughborough University Stadium.
A group of Year 10 students participated in absorbing workshops and activities, where they were given the platform to voice their concerns and collaborate on strategies to tackle issues such as bullying, mental health and inclusivity.
They worked together to develop essential skills in leadership and problem-solving, striving to make a positive impact within their school and beyond.
swimmer.
words further inspired students to implement the strategies and ideas they had developed, when they returned to school.
One of the day’s real highlights was listening to a fascinating talk by Kate Grey, an ambassador, television presenter and former Paralympic
Her
Martin High School
AI extravaganza with BAE Systems
During British Science Week, Year 7 learners were treated to an awe-inspiring show by BAE Systems, all about Artificial Intelligence (AI) highlighting its emergence and groundbreaking applications, as well as the allimportant topic of AI misuse.
Delivered by an enthusiastic team, the show seamlessly incorporated elements from wider subject areas – including maths, science, engineering and the Personal Development Curriculum – all of which enthralled
Mercia Academy
learners. The event also brilliantly promoted STEAM-B careers.
A standout highlight of the event was Lexi, a robotic dog, who captivated attendees with its unique ability to follow instructions and perform tasks. Students also had fun using AI software to create a song about cave diving, complete with the catchy, yet simple, chorus “I like diving!”
Organised by science teacher Mrs Patel, the event was a resounding success and left staff and students both inspired and impressed.
Careers focus at ‘employability day’
Y ear 8 students at Mercia Academy recently participated in an exhilarating employability day.
Collaborating with the Direct Education Business Partnership (DEBP) and ambassadors from Arcadis, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering,
learners were tasked with devising a plan to tackle flooding.
Demonstrating remarkable creativity, teamwork, problem solving and resilience, students rose to the occasion, impressing professional engineers from Arcadis with their STEM
knowledge and enthusiasm for tackling environmental issues and promoting sustainability.
On their departure from the event, representatives from the visiting companies remarked that Mercia is preparing the engineers of the future!
Newhall Junior School
Embracing adventure and making memories
Year 6 pupils embarked on an unforgettable residential trip to Lea Green Learning and Development Centre in March, participating in activities designed to test their physical abilities while encouraging teamwork, resilience and independence.
Up in the clouds, pupils soared on the thrilling high ropes – building trust and co-operation with their classmates – and conquered the low ropes course, navigating obstacles close to the floor.
Stream walking proved especially popular, with the cohort embracing the opportunity to explore
nature and work together to tackle challenging terrain.
Night walking, meanwhile, offered a unique opportunity to experience the outdoors in a different light – quite literally!
Rounding off their adventure, the children donned helmets and raced
The Newbridge School
around on buggies, concluding the trip with fun and excitement!
Throughout the trip, pupils grew both individually and as a team, with each child demonstrating the 6Rs and upholding a fantastic attitude!
Eco-friendly initiatives spark curiosity
The school has been abuzz with eco-friendly excitement this term, with students and staff participating in countless initiatives.
The school’s dedicated Eco Club has been busy planting an array of trees – including apple, cherry, plum and pear – which have been kindly donated by the Tree Council and supported by The Range. These colourful new additions marked the beginning of a new school orchard.
Elsewhere, the Science Club hosted an Eco Fair, showcasing innovative projects that focused on sustainability. The event highlighted the hard work and creativity of the students, through
a variety of inspiring presentations and investigative experiments. The winning entry featured an outstanding demonstration on water filtration.
Additionally, Project ‘Sweet Pea’ saw students germinating seeds
and planting sproutlings in repurposed bottles.
All these initiatives underscored the school’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the creativity of the students.
Riverside Primary School
Sipping success on Hot Chocolate Fridays
This term, pupils have embraced the opportunity to be the best they can be through hard work, with the relaunch of Beehive Points and House Tokens, that has stimulated a buzz of enthusiasm.
The introduction of a successful new initiative - Hot Chocolate Friday - has seen selected pupils meet with Head of School Mrs Roberts. Together they celebrate their achievements, enjoy playing games and building new friendships – all while enjoying
Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College
a well-earned cup of delicious hot chocolate!
The excitement of earning a place at Hot Chocolate Friday has brought an extra spark to learning and behaviour, with pupils actively promoting the 6Rs in class and encouraging their peers to do the same.
The children are well and truly rising to the challenge and their efforts are something to be proud of!
Celebrating International Women’s Day
On 8th March, International Women’s Day was celebrated globally, with Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College engaging in a week of exciting activities thereafter to also mark the occasion.
Each subject area focused on a different aspect of women’s achievement, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere throughout the school. In Humanities, for example, students each chose their own inspirational woman and wrote about why they inspired them. These pieces of work then formed part of a stunning display within school.
Maths students delved into the contributions of famous female mathematicians through research tasks, while science learners
prepared presentations on iconic female scientists, celebrating their current topics of study.
Adding to the celebration, Year 7 and 8 students learned Maya Angelou’s powerful poem Still
I Rise , before performing it as part of a special assembly. The performance was a fitting end to a week that highlighted the school's commitment to honouring women's achievements and inspiring the next generation.
The Pioneers’ Centre
A term of opportunity and achievement
This term has been brimming with exciting opportunities, inspiring visits and academic success at The Pioneers’ Centre.
Academically, Year 11 learners excelled in their second round of trial exams, showcasing excellent engagement and a fantastic attitude.
The centre also welcomed Year 9 pupils for a sevenweek placement. Benefiting from smaller class sizes, they improved their academic and social skills, boosting both their confidence and resilience, ready to return to their main school.
In the classroom, students served up a storm in science, honing their practical skills and applying their knowledge of density to create their very own rainbow in a test tube!
A highlight for many was the visit from Steve Walsh and Muzzy
The Meadows
A celebration of creativity
Students visiting The Meadows unleashed their creativity this term, producing an array of stunning artwork and handcrafted gifts.
To celebrate Mother’s Day and Easter, the budding young
Izzet, who met with students to discuss a wide range of exciting opportunities to engage in sport.
It’s been a term filled with growth, learning and unforgettable experiences.
artists designed cards, crafted personalised jewellery and mugs and experimented with tie-dye to create vibrant t-shirts; students also showcased their artistic flair through candle-making and other expressive projects.
These therapeutic initiatives, which take place within a safe and calming environment, support students’ emotional wellbeing enabling them to fulfil their academic potential back at their main school.
TRUSTIMPROVEMENTS
We’re busy investing and improving…
Our dedicated IT and Estates teams are continuously improving and refreshing the learning environments across our schools, ensuring our young people have access to the best resources and facilities.
Here's some of the projects completed during the Spring Term and over the Easter holidays:
IT and Technology
Teaching walls have been installed at The Castle Rock School, The Newbridge School and Martin High School, providing teachers with advanced tools to deliver interactive and engaging lessons.
Newhall Junior School and Highcliffe Primary School were given new iPads to support pupils' learning.
New laptops have been supplied to Sir Jonathan North Girls' College, Judgemeadow Community College and The Castle Rock School, for student use, providing learners with access to digital resources.
Smartcard balance checkers have been installed at most of our secondary schools, streamlining the process for students to manage their balance when making purchases.
Buildings
The bungalow at Highcliffe Primary School has been fully refurbished, creating additional capacity to support pupil development and wellbeing. Additionally, a new canopy was installed at the Elmfield building, providing extra covered outdoor space for younger pupils. Greengate Hall has also been redecorated with white rock panelling, creating a fresh and robust multi-purpose area.
Pupil toilets have been refurbished at The Castle Rock School, Broom Leys Primary, The Cedars Academy and Humphrey Perkins School.
A new outdoor cricket strip has been installed at Martin High School ahead of the cricket season.
Meetings with the Department for Education and the principal contractor have continued to develop exciting plans for the new school buildings at Mercia Academy and Newhall Junior School.
