Amessage from our Chief Executive
Dear NCLCommunity
You will find on these pages evidence of the extraordinary range of activities that our schools undertake. Of course we give a particular focus at this time to the outstanding results achieved by so many of our young people in their GCSEs. Our schools are places of enjoyment, learning, curiosity and personal development, but we are always aware of the importance for every one of our students of the grades which they achieve when they leave us.
This means a continuous reflection on how, at every stage in a young person's journey through their education, we can develop the quality of education they receive. I’m delighted this term to be taking part in School Improvement Boards in every school in theTrust, which is a model we have inherited from Leading LearningTrust: Headteachers, school leaders, Governors,Trustees, and members of the CentralTeam come together with the host school to review a selected area of the School Improvement Plan. The approach is both collegiate and rigorous. We build on one of the great strengths of ourTrust - the fact that as local schools, we can have real engagement with each other and a flow of ideas and discussion about how to achieve great learning.
On one of those recent visits it was such a pleasure to see some of our SCITTtrainees already looking at ease in the classroom. Offering this route into teaching for members of our local community is one of the ways we are working to ensure that we are - to borrow a phrase - not just for the community, but also of and by the community.
And we have a special occasion coming up shortly where we will be coming together as aTrust community, in our NCLLearning Day. Among the events taking place that day will be a chance to hear from Rachel Macfarlane, a successful school leader who is known for her commitment to achieving equity in schools, including looking closely at existing imbalances. I’m looking forward to hearing from her, and further dialogue across theTrust, on how we can support development opportunities for all staff.
Anthony Wilson, CEO of NCL
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Black History Month across our schools
Across all our schools, Black History Month has been a vibrant and enriching time of learning, reflection, and celebration.
At Rokeby School, we had the privilege of hosting Zita Holborne, who delivered powerful assemblies focused on reclaiming the narrative surrounding the Windrush Scandal and the Bristol Bus Boycott. Her talks encouraged students to reflect deeply on significant moments in British history and the ongoing struggle for racial justice.The sessions left a lasting impact on both students and staff.
At Lister Community School, Black History Month was marked by a shared national assembly, which students engaged with during period one.The assembly highlighted
the importance of recognising that celebrating Black History is celebrating British history, and that we are all part of a community that grows and thrives together.Throughout the month, students are learning about Black heroes, with a special display of Black authors and writers in the school library. Lister ensures that this celebration goes beyond just one month, as the school incorporates the diverse cultures of its community into learning all year round.
Eastlea Community School has also embraced Black History Month with a range of reflective and educational activities. Students have participated in assemblies highlighting the importance of Black British history and its influence on modern Britain, fostering a greater understanding and sense of unity across the school.
Meanwhile, Sarah Bonnell School students are involved in an exciting variety of activities.Year 7 will explore the Greenwich Maritime Museum, whileYear 8 will work with professional actors on the play *Barber Shop Chronicles*.Year 9 will participate in workshops onAfrican and Caribbean arts, including a special performance by George the Poet.Year 10
will engage in careers workshops led by DrAlison Heydari, focusing on anti-racism and social justice.Year 11 will revisit poems from the *Worlds and Lives* anthology as they prepare for their practice exams.
This month has been a powerful reminder that Black history is an integral part of British history, and our schools are committed to celebrating and learning from it throughout the year.
Minecraft Meets Computing: Engaging Portway
Primary Students with Sustainability
At Portway Primary School, a new initiative at our school is using Minecraft to teach students important computing skills while exploring sustainability.The project, led by one of our teachers, has four main goals:
● Show students the wide range of computing-related careers.
● Emphasise the importance of sustainability.
● Ignite a passion for computing.
● Teach new skills through hands-on Minecraft projects.
Students were thrilled to learn they would be using Minecraft, a platform many were already familiar with.Their excitement and confidence have made them eager to dive into the project.
The teacher hopes this experience will spark a lasting interest in computing and help students see how these skills can lead to future careers, especially in areas related to sustainability.
Using Minecraft not only engages students through a platform they love but also encourages them to think about complex topics like sustainability in a fun and relatable way.
Celebrating Our SCITT Trainees' First Milestone!
Amassive congratulations to all of our SCITTtrainees for successfully completing their first half term!You’ve navigated the challenges of the classroom with enthusiasm, determination, and resilience, and it's been wonderful to see your growth as educators already.
Your hard work, creativity, and commitment to making a difference in students' lives have not gone unnoticed. We're excited to watch you continue to develop your teaching skills and make a lasting impact as you move into the next phase of your training. Keep up the great work, and here's to a successful rest of the year!
This half term has been packed with exciting events, productive gatherings, and valuable learning experiences for both students and families at Eastlea Community School. Here's a recap of what we've been up to!
Year 10 and 11 Information Evening
This half term, we hosted two successful information evenings for ourYear 10 andYear 11 families, providing essential guidance and support as students embark on or continue their GCSE journey.
We welcomedYear 10 families into the school for a session focused on the start of their children’s GCSEs. Ms. Stapleton,Year 10 Achievement Leader, presented key information on how families can support their children at home.The presentation also covered assessment details for the core subjects — English, Maths, and Science — and encouraged meaningful conversations about the wide range of GCSE subjects available at Eastlea.
Year 11 Geography Field Trip
ForYear 11 families, the session, led by Ms. Bland, gave families valuable insight into the curriculum and tips on revision resources for the final year of GCSEs. Parents also had the chance to discuss their child's progress directly with staff, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the months ahead. Both events were a great success, and we look
Year 11 students took their learning beyond the classroom with an exciting Geography field
trip. Fifty students travelled to Southend to conduct fieldwork in the sunshine, measuring beach width, groyne height, and wind speed.The experience didn’t end there — they also returned to Stratford to survey and rank new developments at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. It was a fun and educational day that helped bring their studies to life.Abig thank you to Mr. Walker, Head of Humanities, for leading this hands-on experience!
Ofsted Inspection and Updates from Lister Community School
Lister Community School has been abuzz as we welcomed Ofsted for their recent inspection.As you know, Ofsted inspects and regulates services that care for children and young people, and this inspection is a chance for us to showcase the collective strengths of our school.The final report will be available in a few months, and we are proud of the hard work and dedication shown by both staff and students during this process.
Geography Field Trip –ALegendary Experience
Our recentYear 11 geography field trip rewrote the rule book on traditional fieldwork! Mr. Hussain, our Geography Curriculum Lead, has shared a thrilling account of the trip, where students embarked on an adventure through shimmering rivers, lush forests, and ancient geological formations.The students waded through pristine waters, gathered groundbreaking data, and connected deeply with the natural environment.This was not your typical field trip — every moment felt like an exploration of the Earth’s very heartbeat.
Careers Programme Update
Our careers programme has been in full swing this term, with a particular focus on supporting ourYear 11 students. Weekly careers assemblies have provided valuable insights into career paths, apprenticeships, and further education opportunities, helping students prepare for important decisions.Additionally, we’ve started 1:1 careers meetings withYear 11s to offer personalised guidance on achieving their aspirations.
Looking ahead,Year
10 students will soon participate in the Post-16 Pathways Assembly, an exciting event that introduces them to post-secondary options such as sixth form, college, apprenticeships, and vocational courses.
Our partnership with IntoUniversity is also in full swing, offering students across all year groups the chance to attend workshops and university visits.Year 11 students recently participated in their first workshop of the year, exploring post-16 options and developing key skills for their future.
Year 6 visits The National Gallery
Year 6 enjoyed an exciting trip toThe National Gallery, a day packed with discovery and wonder. The students were full of enthusiasm as they explored the gallery’s impressive collection, including famous works by the renowned artist Rembrandt.Through their exploration, they gained a deeper understanding of the rich stories behind each painting, developing a greater appreciation for the art.The day was topped off with a fun lunch atTrafalgar Square, where the lively pigeons added a bit of extra excitement, trying to share in their meals!
Gardening at Portway
This term,Year 1 ventured into the gardening areas as part of their Science topic on Seasonal Changes.The children explored the space, searching for plants and minibeasts, and observing the current weather conditions.
Year 5 recently held a geography debate on whether refugees should be allowed into Greece via the River Evros fromTurkey.The students presented opposing viewpoints, with some having to argue for a position they didn’t personally agree with, which made the debate even more challenging.Their goal was to persuade Ms. Monika, who took on the role of the president of Greece, to either allow or deny refugee entry. After hearing both sides, Ms. Monika determined that the arguments from the pro-refugee group were the most coherent and compassionate, ultimately deciding to allow the refugees in.
Year 11 Future Pathways Day
Year 11 students participated in their first Future Pathways Day, which offered them valuable insights into life beyond Key Stage 4. Colleges, sixth forms, and other educational providers delivered informative workshops, helping students understand the application process and explore various post-16 options. Students had the opportunity to visit Building Craft College and hear directly from current students about their experiences.
Abig thank you to the many providers who contributed, including Monoux, Newham College, Capital City, Inspire, NewVIc, BCC, The Money Charity, and others.Their support was instrumental in helping our students make informed decisions about their futures.
French Pen Pals
We have a new partnership with a school in France! OurYear 10 French students have been busy preparing presentations to send to Collège Guy Mollet in Lille, Northern France. We hope to visit the students in Lille this coming February.
Year 8 Valencia Trip
OurYear 8 students are currently in Valencia, immersing themselves in both the language and the local culture.Today, they had the chance to learn how to prepare paella, a traditional rice dish originating from Valencia and considered one of the region's cultural icons. Paella is also one of the most renowned dishes in Spanish cuisine, and our boys enjoyed the hands-on experience of cooking it during their visit.
Bertha Earth Launch Day
On 23rd October, we were proud to launch the Bertha EarthAmbassador Programme for ourYear 7 students.This exciting initiative aims to inspire the next generation of climate activists to take environmental action.The launch day was filled with informative sessions that encouraged students to think critically about sustainability and their role in protecting the planet.
Year 10 Leadership Trip to Derbyshire
Thirty of ourYear 10 students had the fantastic opportunity to travel to Derbyshire for a stay at a Youth Hostel, where they participated in a range of outdoor activities.The focus of the trip was to develop leadership skills, with students taking part in team-building exercises, hiking, and other adventurous activities. It was a wonderful experience that allowed them to grow in confidence and leadership, which they will bring back to the school community.
GCSE Drama and Music Trips
Our GCSE Drama students enjoyed an exciting theatre trip to see the gripping production of Witness for the Prosecution, giving them an enriching cultural experience while also supporting their studies.
Meanwhile, GCSE Music students attended a virtual performance by the legendary pop band ABBA, which was both entertaining and educational.These trips provided students with valuable insight into the world of performing arts and music, helping them to develop their own skills and understanding. We are eager to see how ourYear 7 students embrace this program and become leaders in environmental activism
Classroom Focus: Developing Independent Learning Skills
This week, teachers have been trying out new approaches to foster independent learning skills among students.These strategies aim to empower students to take greater responsibility for their learning, preparing them for the challenges of GCSEs and beyond.
As always, our students have risen to the challenge, engaging enthusiastically with these new methods.
Selwyn’s Head children
In September, children inY6 had the opportunity to apply for the role of a Head child. We received a record amount of applications this year and were very impressed with the standards of the letter written by every child.The shortlisted children then presented their manifestos to KS2.Again, we were extremely impressed as each child demonstrated great confidence, charisma and presented their ideas clearly with an added sparkle of humour! KS2 children had the opportunity to cast their votes and we are delighted to introduce this year’s Head Children: Isa, Parishi, Zayan and Sumayyah.
Starting School
The children in both our nursery & Reception classes have made an excellent start to the school year.They have settled well into their new routines and have already learnt so many new facts and skills. We are looking forward to being on their Selwyn journey with them and can’t wait to see how they progress and grow.
Y3 - Lessons in Loaf
Children inY3 had a wonderful time participating in our annual ‘Bread making day’. This session is run by our resident gardenerCassie - alongside real-life bakers!
The children work through each step of the bread making process from making flour to tasting their very own loaves at the end of the day.They also make a few extra loaves for the leadership team - yummy!
Trust Newsletter ResultsDay
With a belted wrap-up of GCSE grades, a huge congratulations to all students and teachers across NCL’s four secondary schools for their outstanding performance in this year's GCSE results!After months of dedication, resilience, and hard work, the results are in — and what an impressive achievement it has been!
From record-breaking individual performances to a solid overall improvement across the board, these results reflect the hard work that everyone has put in. Whether it's the students who achieved top marks, or those who overcame personal obstacles to reach their goals, each and every one of them deserves to be proud.
Aspecial shout-out goes to the teachers, support staff, and families, whose dedication, passion, and care have been instrumental in guiding students through this crucial stage of their education. It’s a reminder that success is truly a team effort, and together we have shown what can be achieved.
We are delighted to share that the progress of our students, here at Eastlea Community School, has continued to improve. We are incredibly proud of the hard work of all of our students and their achievements. They were a truly remarkable year group, who overcame much upheaval during their secondary schooling through covid and numerous national lockdowns. They have smashed it with excellent progress and outstanding results. It is always a pleasure to see our students on results day, after a long summer break, and to Their determination and perseverance embody the spirit of Eastlea’s continued growth and success.
were wonderful role models to younger year groups: they demonstrated resilience; the importance of effort and most importantly kindness and a sense of community.Their accomplishments demonstrate the strength and resilience that define Eastlea. Whether they are continuing their education or embarking on new paths, we are confident that they will continue to thrive and achieve great things.The future is bright at Eastlea Community School.
“As ever, I am proud of the efforts of our students and the progress they have made, they deserve every success in the future. It's wonderful to see them receiving their results and taking their next steps. I am sure they would agree that we are grateful to the support that they received from their parents and staff”
Sarah Morgan, Headteacher of Eastlea.
Lister School is delighted to share the results of our students in the recent GCSE examinations.This year’s achievements truly reflect our dedication to fostering academic excellence and empowering our students to achieve their best. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the students, and deep gratitude to the staff and parents for their unwavering
Our teachers have been instrumental in this success, providing not just guidance but also continuous encouragement and support throughout the year. Their passion for teaching is evident in the remarkable outcomes we celebrate today.
We are particularly proud of those who have achieved top grades - your achievements are not only inspiring but also a powerful demonstration of what can be accomplished through determination and effort.
Rokeby School is delighted to celebrate the continued success of our students in their GCSE exams.They have once again demonstrated exceptional academic abilities and a strong commitment to excellence, always daring to be the best.The results are a true reflection of the hard work, dedication and resilience shown by everyone. We are incredibly proud of each and every student and their achievements across our ambitious curriculum.
We’re confident that the leavers will continue to live by our shared values - Respect, Success, Passion for Learning, Personal Challenge and Harmony. Whether they are moving on to further education or starting new paths, we wish them all the best.
Be proud, be creative, be adventurous, be confident, be kind and be the best version to yourself.
Our dedicated staff have been instrumental in guiding and supporting our students throughout their school journey.Their commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering a nurturing learning environment has been crucial in achieving these outstanding results.Together with the amazing support of our students families and the community as a whole, we have shown that nothing is impossible as long as you “Dare To Be The Best”.
Sarah Bonnell School is thrilled to announce the outstanding results of our students in this year’s GCSE examinations. Our students have demonstrated remarkable dedication, hard work, and academic excellence, achieving impressive results across a wide range of subjects.Their achievements are a testament to their hard work and the high-quality education provided by our dedicated and passionate staff. We are particularly proud of our top achievers who have set new school records and those who have made significant progress.Your accomplishments are truly inspiring and reflect your determination and perseverance. To our students, your results are a reflection of your dedication and hard work, and we are confident that you will continue to achieve great things in your future endeavours. Thank you to our staff for their relentless efforts and to the parents and guardians for their continued support.Together, we celebrate these remarkable achievements and look forward to many more successes in the future.
AUTUMN TERM KEYDATES
School
Eastlea The Big Sing (Y11) 13/11/2024 3.30-4.30pm
Eastlea Winter Music Concert 27/11/2024 4-6pm
Lister Winter Music Concert 05/12/2024
Portway Winter concert 10/12/2024
Contact
sandra.corbyn@eastlea.ncltrust.net
Sandra Corbyn Head’s PA
sandra.corbyn@eastlea.ncltrust.net
Sandra Corbyn Head’s PA
heads.pa@lister.ncltrust.net
Melissa Brown, Head’s PA
info@portway.ncltrust.net
Portway Winter concert 17/12/2024 info@portway.ncltrust.net
Rokeby Year 11Awards Evening 21/12/2024
Sarah Bonnell School Black History Celebration Evening 06/11/2024 6-7.30pm
Sarah Bonnell School Year 11 Parent Event 06/11/2024 4:30pm-6pm
Sarah Bonnell School School Production Performance 12/12/2024 6-9pm
rachael.wiley@rokeby.ncltrust.net
Rachael Wiley, Head’s PA
rebecca.clark@sarahbonnell.ncltrust.net
info@eastlea.ncltrust.net
johnny.slater@sarahbonnell.ncltrust.net Jonny Slater All schools NCLLearning Day 15/11/2024 8.15-3pm ceo.pa@ncltrust.net