FEATURED IN THIS ISSUE
STAR NEWS
Celebrating a year of excellence
STAR SPOTLIGHT
Star Awards 2025 winners
STAR FUTURES
Forging pioneering partnerships
STAR COMMUNITY
Shining a light on schools’ successes
NURTURING TODAY’S YOUNG PEOPLE, INSPIRING TOMORROW’S LEADERS
Welcome to the summer 2025 edition of Starlight magazine. As another academic year comes to a close, we are delighted to share the inspiring stories, successes, and moments of growth that have shaped our school community over the past twelve months. Inside, you’ll find a celebration of the dedication, creativity, and achievements of both our pupils and staff who continue to make this a truly exceptional place to learn and thrive.
The 2024-25 academic year has seen the Star family continue to grow, with Star Radcliffe Academy and The Olive School, Manchester enjoying a year full of learning since opening their doors to pupils in September, whilst November saw Star King Solomon Academy become the trust’s 36th school.
Six Star secondary schools earned national recognition when they were named amongst the top 50 schools in the country in the Fairer Schools Index. This followed individual acclaim for Tauheedul Islam Girls’ High School and Sixth Form College which was named as The Sunday Times’ State Faith Secondary School of the Year 2025 in its prestigious Parent Power league tables.
Further celebrations have taken place across many of our schools following highly positive Ofsted inspections that have highlighted continued outstanding practice or improvements upon previous inspection grades. Setting these exceptional standards would not be possible without the ceaseless dedication and unwavering passion of our leaders, teachers and support staff.
Star Academies continues to fulfil its aim of elevating the life chances of young people in areas of social and economic deprivation by launching a national inquiry designed to tackle the underachievement of pupils from white working-class families, centring on the key voices of pupils, parents and teachers. Young learners looking to succeed in the highest echelons of education have also benefited from the trust’s ambitions as students from Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School and Tauheedul Islam Girls’ High School and Sixth Form College participated in the ‘Cambition’ programme in partnership with the University of Cambridge’s Murray Edwards College.
Earlier this year, the Star Future Engineers Academy shifted into gear, kickstarting a pioneering partnership between Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team and four Star schools in Birmingham. Olympian Rebecca Adlington
OBE inspired guests at the Star Awards where we honoured our most inspirational people, while the Star Athletics Championship showed how sport can connect communities. Pupils rose to the challenge of protecting our oceans through the Star Innovators Challenge, and showed incredible generosity through the trust’s Winter Gift Programme, donating over 5,000 gifts and toys, and more than 10,000 food items to support those most in need.
I wish to extend my sincerest gratitude to the pupils, teachers, support staff, governors and parents that have made this year such a success. I hope that you enjoy a restful summer break in preparation for achieving even greater things next year.
Together we are strong. We are Star.
SIR MUFTI HAMID PATEL CBE Chief Executive, Star Academies
Building on its national network, Star Academies continued to grow by welcoming three new schools to its family this year.
The Olive School, Manchester and Star Radcliffe Academy opened their doors to their very first pupils in September and Star King Solomon Academy became the trust’s 36th school when it joined Star Academies in November.
Located in Cheetham Hill, The Olive School, Manchester welcomed its first 2-form Reception cohort in September. The 420-place primary school for 4 to 11-year-olds will admit a new intake of Reception pupils each year until it reaches full capacity in 2030.
After opening in temporary facilities, pupils and staff proudly cut the ribbon on the school’s state-of-the-art, purpose-built site in December. Boasting modern, flexible classrooms, expansive grounds and versatile sports facilities, the new building will provide the perfect foundation for the school to grow and offer first-class education for years to come.
The opening of Star Radcliffe Academy in September was eagerly welcomed by the local community as Radcliffe had been without its own secondary school since 2014. After welcoming its first cohort of 150 Year 7 pupils, Star Radcliffe Academy will admit a new 5-form Year 7 intake each year until the school reaches its full capacity of 750 pupils in 2028.
To enable the school to open at the earliest opportunity, pupils have taken advantage of fully equipped temporary
accommodation located on the school grounds while construction of the cutting-edge, permanent building is completed. In May, a group of pupils had the unique opportunity to witness the heart of their school being built. During a visit to Leach Structural Steelwork’s factory in Preston, pupils quite literally wrote their names into the school’s history by signing a steel beam that was soon to be installed in the roof of Star Radcliffe Academy’s new building.
Star Academies welcomed its first Christian faith school in November when Star King Solomon Academy joined the trust. Based in central Birmingham, the 1,050-place all-through school for 4 to 16-year-olds will benefit from Star’s long trackrecord of running high-achieving schools that secure the very best outcomes for pupils.
The school has quickly become an active and enthusiastic member of the Star family, participating in trust-wide initiatives and events that promote leadership, enrichment and collaboration. Most notably, the Star King Solomon Academy choir gave a powerful and uplifting performance at the Star Awards, leaving a lasting impression on staff, pupils and guests alike. Their performance highlighted the school's commitment to creativity, community and the shared values that unite all Star schools.
Six Star schools have been ranked amongst the top 50 secondary schools nationally in the Fairer Schools Index.
The Northern Powerhouse Partnership has published the third edition of its Fairer Schools Index, a vital tool that evaluates secondary school performance beyond Progress 8 data to reflect wider contextual challenges –
including pupil demographics, ethnicity and deprivation –to provide a broader measure of the impact schools are making.
Researchers have measured every school in England against a series of additional performance metrics, such as free school meals, language, ethnic group, gender and special educational needs, to reveal the best 50 schools in England.
SIX SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN THE STAR FAMILY HAVE BEEN RANKED IN THE INDEX’S TOP 50 HIGHEST PERFORMING SCHOOLS:
EDEN GIRLS' LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, MANCHESTER TAUHEEDUL ISLAM BOYS' HIGH SCHOOL
EDEN GIRLS' SCHOOL, COVENTRY
TAUHEEDUL ISLAM GIRLS' HIGH SCHOOL & SIXTH FORM COLLEGE
EDEN GIRLS' LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, BIRMINGHAM
EDEN BOYS' SCHOOL, BIRMINGHAM
Sir Mufti Hamid Patel CBE, Chief Executive of Star Academies, said:
With six Star secondary schools ranking in the top 50 nationally - including three in the top 10 - the Fairer Schools Index validates our innate commitment to elevating the life chances of young people in areas of social and economic deprivation. The academic attainment and progress secured by our pupils, regardless of their background, truly demonstrates the transformative power of education.”
Celebrations took place across the trust as several Star schools experienced highly positive Ofsted visits. From first-time inspections to follow-up reviews for consistently high-performing schools, inspectors repeatedly alluded to Star’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, character development and inclusive, values-driven school communities.
Eden Boys’ School, Birmingham was commended for maintaining the exceptional standards previously recognised in its last Ofsted inspection, when the school was judged to be ‘Outstanding’ in all areas. The ungraded inspection took place in December 2024 and the report highlights the school's dedication to academic excellence, noting that ‘the school holds very high ambition for its pupils and succeeds in helping them achieve superbly.’
Inspectors observed that ‘Pupils thrive in a culture of high expectation and achievement’ supported by staff who ‘create an ethos in which pupils are enabled to reach their academic and personal potential, regardless of their starting points.’
Also celebrating a successful ungraded inspection in December were pupils and staff at The Olive School,
Preston. Inspectors praised the school for sustaining the ‘Outstanding’ quality of education and care witnessed during its previous inspection, saying ‘Pupils thrive at this exceptional school. They live up to the school’s extremely high expectations for their achievements and behaviour. Pupils, their parents and carers, and staff are hugely proud to be part of this warm and welcoming community.’ The exemplary report praises pupils for producing ‘work of an incredibly high standard’, noting that ‘excellent outcomes in national assessments for pupils reflect the school’s determination to help every pupil reach their potential.’
In its first Ofsted inspection since joining Star, Oulder Hill Leadership Academy was graded ‘Good’ in each of the four areas of the inspection framework in January 2025. Prior to converting to Star Academies, the predecessor school was judged ‘Inadequate’ at its last inspection in 2020. The report acknowledges improvements to the quality of teaching and learning, with inspectors commenting that ‘since the school joined the trust, it has taken effective action to improve the quality of education that it provides.’ On teaching, the report states that ‘teachers have strong subject knowledge. They use this to explain new concepts clearly and to enthuse pupils about their subjects.’ It also praises pupils’ conduct and behaviour, highlighting the school’s ‘harmonious and welcoming school community’ and that ‘pupils are considerate and kind to each other.’
In February, The Olive School, Birmingham and The Olive School, Bolton underwent ungraded inspections and were commended for upholding the high standards of academic excellence, teaching, character development and behaviour that earned them both ‘Outstanding’ judgements in 2019. The report from The Olive School, Birmingham praised the ‘STAR values of service, teamwork, ambition and respect’ that ‘underpin and thread through everything you hear, see and feel at this happy school.’ It states that ‘pupils are proud of their school’ and are ‘diligent learners who strive to improve and excel. They produce work of high quality across the curriculum and achieve exceptionally well.’
The Olive School, Bolton received praise in equal abundance, with inspectors describing the school as ‘a unique and special place where pupils learn and grow’, with children receiving ‘a warm, uplifting welcome from the minute that they arrive.’ Inspectors recognised that ‘pupils rise to the very high ambitions that the school has for their learning’ and ‘achieve well across the curriculum’, consistently achieving ‘well above the national average’ in national tests.
Pupils and staff at The Olive School, Blackburn celebrated after the school was judged ‘Outstanding’ in all areas in March. The laudable report stated that ‘Pupils thrive at The Olive School because of the exceptional academic education, strong pastoral support and rich, broad opportunities that they receive.’ Inspectors were highly impressed with the school, noting that ‘Pupils of all
ages strive to meet the exceedingly high expectations that the school has for their attainment and effort. The school’s personal development programme was recognised as the ‘heartbeat of the school’, with inspectors noting that ‘The school carefully crafts its offer to ensure that pupils leave the school as active community citizens’ and commending the ‘impressive array of extra-curricular activities’ and ‘tremendous range of enrichment opportunities’ available to pupils.
The Olive School, Hackney joined the celebrations in May following an exceptional Ofsted inspection, where the school was also judged as ‘Outstanding’ across all five areas of the framework. The report commended the school’s high academic standards, noting that ‘The school is exceptionally ambitious for all aspects of pupils’ education. Pupils understand and meet these high expectations.’ Inspectors praised pupils for their impeccable behaviour and deep respect for one another, highlighting that ‘Pupils delight in being part of The Olive School, Hackney community’ and are ‘exceptionally proud ambassadors for their school.’ The school’s ambitious curriculum and expert teaching were applauded, with inspectors stating that teachers are ‘absolute experts in the classroom’ and that leaders ‘have a sharp focus on ensuring all pupils meet and exceed their full potential.’
The trust’s Winter Gift Programme saw all 36 Star schools unite in a mission to spread seasonal goodwill to thousands of individuals and families living in their local neighbourhoods. Across the country, pupils and colleagues participated in a broad range of charitable giving, acts of kindness and volunteering; all with one simple aim – to make sure no one faced the challenges of winter alone.
Civic leadership and philanthropy are fundamental to Star’s vision to nurture and inspire young people to become future leaders. Through direct participation, the Winter Gift Programme gives pupils of all ages valuable opportunities to develop their leadership skills by organising and actively contributing to impactful charitable activities –experiencing first-hand the deep sense of pride and fulfilment that comes from helping others.
Through a momentous culmination of acts of selflessness and kindness across the whole Star family, the Winter Gift Programme provided a seasonal boost to thousands of people. Collectively, Star’s inspiring pupils and staff donated and distributed:
5,000+ gifts, gift hampers and toys to children, elderly and vulnerable adults, in hospitals and in care
£3,500+ to charity 1,500+ cards to vulnerable people, local residents and community partners
10,000+ items of food to foodbanks and community groups
1,500+ hot meals for those in need
Murray Edwards College welcomed over 50 potential Cambridge University applicants at the launch of its Cambition programme, a partnership between Star Academies and the prestigious College.
Staff and student ambassadors from Murray Edwards shared information and insights with high-achieving young women in Years 10, 11 and 12 at their ‘Explore’ event in Blackburn, Lancashire, to open the programme. A total of 57 students from Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School and Tauheedul Islam Girls’ High School and Sixth Form College attended the event, which was designed to give talented female students the opportunity to think about future study options, including at the University of Cambridge.
The day began with an opening talk by Murray Edwards Senior Tutor Dr Victoria Harvey, who inspired the young women to set themselves ambitious goals for their futures. Students spent the afternoon taking part in workshop sessions alongside student ambassadors from the College, who shared their experiences and answered questions.
Many of the Star students noted how much they enjoyed taking part in the sessions and having the chance to meet current students and staff from the college.
"I found the day very inspirational and loved being able to ask questions to people who were once in my position and have been through the experience before”, said Elizabeth, a Year 11 student at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School.
Fatima, a Year 12 student at TIGHS, reflected on an inspiring day: “It was a very eye-opening and informative event which was very helpful. The student ambassadors were willing to answer all of our questions to help us understand more about all of the different courses on offer. I now feel even more inspired to apply to Cambridge.”
Year 12 students have since taken part in a Medicine Taster Day as part of the programme’s series of ‘Discover More’ sessions, designed to help students to explore the opportunities on offer for them at the University of Cambridge in greater detail, as well as giving them the chance to visit Murray Edwards College and experience life on the campus.
Pupils swapped their favourite stories and donned creative costumes to mark World Book Day’s annual celebration of reading.
Whether curling up in a cosy corner to escape into a new world or delving into a rapturous read with a group of friends, World Book Day 2025 celebrated the variety of ways that people can fall in love with reading with its theme, ‘Read Your Way’.
Schools across Star Academies took that theme well and truly to heart as pupils participated in a host of activities to help reframe their opinion of books and reinvigorate their passion for reading.
Barkerend Primary Leadership Academy and Eden Girls' Leadership Academy, Birmingham invited pupils to enjoy shared reading sessions in relaxing Reading Cafés. Eden Girls' pupils also showcased their creativity by giving classroom doors a vibrant makeover in the style of iconic book covers, ranging from ‘Alice in Wonderland’ to ‘How to Train Your Dragon’.
Pupils at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School put their artistic skills to the test by turning ordinary potatoes into a colourful collection of ‘Charac-taters’, including ‘Hercule Poirtato’, ‘Spudlock Holmes’, ‘Cruella de Peel’ and ‘Spuder-Man’. Teachers at High Crags Primary Leadership Academy explored their love of reading through drama, treating pupils to a comedic performance of Kathy Parkinson’s ‘The Enormous Turnip’.
Readers revelled at Tauheedul Islam Boys’ High School as they garnered new understanding from their favourite books by turning pages of noteworthy novels into blackout poetry - a form of ‘found poetry’ that derives new meaning from a text by highlighting select words and phrases on the page.
Colourful concoctions were on the menu at The Olive School, Blackburn as pupils used ‘ingredients’ inspired by dragon blood, mermaid scales and goblin eyeballs to cook up a host of magical, medicinal potions - all as part of a fun, story-inspired activity based on Julia Donaldson’s ‘Zog and the Flying Doctors’. Meanwhile, the catering staff at The Olive School, Manchester served up a feast for the eyes and hungry tummies with a creative World Book Day lunch, complete with mouthwatering dishes inspired by bestselling books, including a delectable cucumber and tomato manifestation of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’.
Star schools across the country also welcomed inspirational authors who encouraged aspiring writers to craft their own stories. Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham East saw M. Ashan Al-Haadee give an empowering talk to attentive pupils. Eden Girls’ School, Slough played host to the awardwinning author of the ‘River of Ink’ series, Helen Dennis, while Thornbury Primary Leadership Academy invited author and illustrator Stephen Waterhouse to share his artistic talents.
The odds were in pupils’ favour at Eden Boys’ School, Bolton as the school marked World Book Day with a host of activities inspired by ‘The Hunger Games’ series. Elsewhere, explorers at Eden Boys’ School, Preston ventured outside the classroom as they embarked on a brain-busting book-themed scavenger hunt.
One of the best ways to spark a newfound love of reading in others is to share your own passion for books and this ethos was truly on display across several schools where pupils swapped their favourite stories or recommended beloved books to peers. Aspiring book critics at The Olive School, Preston penned reviews of their most cherished novels and Oulder Hill Leadership Academy’s Reading Squad paid a visit to a local primary school to ignite a passion for reading among a new generation.
Of course, it wouldn’t have been World Book Day without classrooms being awash with cascades of colour as pupils and staff embraced their creativity by donning costumes to portray their favourite literary characters.
Starbank School welcomed classic characters such as Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf as well as comic book creations, Spider-Man and Batman. Pupils at Highfield Leadership Academy found themselves being taught by the cast of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ as staff dressed up as Dorothy and her cadre of companions.
Young readers at The Olive School, Bolton took a different approach to dressing up for the occasion, arriving at school in their pyjamas - the perfect attire for getting comfy before delving into the pages of an engrossing story.
Star Salford Academy embraced the magic of World Book Day as the school held a ‘Harry Potter’-themed celebration while staff at Star Radcliffe Academy had pupils under their spell as teachers also dressed up as characters from the Wizarding World.
The wide array of World Book Day activities on display across all Star schools showed that a new generation of passionate page-turners is well and truly flourishing and embracing reading in their own way.
Each Star school marked Black History Month by engaging pupils in activities designed to deepen their understanding of African and Caribbean heritage, and highlight the significant contributions of Black individuals that have shaped UK culture, history and economic development.
Star Salford Academy, Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham and Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham East launched Black History Month (BHM) with assemblies and presentations focused on the themes of ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ and ‘Celebrating Changemakers’, bringing to light the stories of trailblazing Black historical figures who have made lasting contributions across history.
Eden Girls' School, Slough and The Olive School, Small Heath celebrated changemakers such as Lilian Bader – who made history as one of the first Black women to serve in the British Armed Forces – and Sir Mo Farah, whose resilience and commitment set him on a journey to become one of Britain’s most celebrated athletes. Inspired by the words of Barack Obama – “We are the ones we’ve been waiting for; we are the change that we seek.” – pupils from Rainbow Primary Leadership Academy explored stories of Black leaders and influential figures who have helped to shape history.
Pupils from Highfield Leadership Academy learned about influential figures like poet, playwright and activist Aimé Césaire, young maths prodigy Chika Ofili, and Diallo Rokhaya, a powerful voice for equality and social justice.
Reflecting mindfully on the themes of BHM, pupils at Eden Boys' School, Preston participated in discussions that challenged misconceptions about Black history, reinforcing the importance of understanding and celebrating a broad spectrum of historical experiences.
Year 7 and 8 pupils from Small Heath Leadership Academy took part in the ‘Black History Month Great Big Live Assembly’ featuring inspirational stories of Black heroes including Jamaican-born nurse and heroine of the Crimean War Mary Seacole, and American civil rights activist Ruby Bridges.
At Starbank School, a pupil leader presented an assembly focused on the theme of ‘Reclaiming Narratives’, celebrating Black pioneers of engineering, science and healthcare. The presentation highlighted figures like Elijah McCoy, whose engineering genius gave rise to the term ‘the real McCoy’, and Daphne Steele, who pushed boundaries and broke barriers as the NHS's first Black matron.
Eden Girls’ School, Waltham Forest and Eden Boys' Leadership Academy, Bradford brought the rhythms and beats of African culture to life through hands-on drumming and art workshops. Also celebrating through music were Year 8 pupils at Bay Leadership Academy who took part in an exciting drumming workshop, while Year 10 and 11 pupils collaborated with antiracism education organisation ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ to discuss the opportunities and challenges in multicultural Britain.
Oulder Hill Leadership Academy’s library was transformed with creative displays showcasing books by Black authors and highlighting famous figures including Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr. and Muhammad Ali. Thornbury Primary Leadership Academy celebrated the literary contributions of Black authors as pupils confidently recited poetry to an audience of proud parents and family members.
Pupils across Star ended the month with a newfound knowledge of Black heritage, inspiring them to contribute positively to their communities and to carry forward the legacies and stories of those who have paved the way for future generations.
Star Academies, in collaboration with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, has launched the Future Engineers Academy, an experiential enrichment programme to inspire and equip young people with the skills and confidence to pursue careers in engineering and motorsport.
Providing an exciting and immersive learning experience for pupils at four Star schools in Birmingham, the Future Engineers Academy has been designed to spark curiosity, develop key STEM skills and inspire the engineers of tomorrow through hands-on engineering projects, interactive workshops, and enrichment activities.
With a focus on increasing diversity and inclusion in the engineering and motorsport industries, the programme has given pupils from Small Heath Leadership Academy, Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham, Star King Solomon Academy and Starbank School the opportunity to enjoy a range of dynamic, engaging experiences inspired by the formidable success of eight-time Formula One World Constructors’ Champions, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.
Activities have ranged from building and racing gokarts and coding challenges to competitions to design a future Formula One car, with a host of prizes on offer for participating pupils, including a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 factory in Brackley and meet the people behind one of the most successful teams in the history of motorsport.
To shift the Future Engineers Academy into gear, members of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team visited the participating schools to deliver a series of exciting launch assemblies, including exclusive video messages from the team’s drivers, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, who encouraged pupils to seize the unique opportunities ahead and make the most of the innovative programme.
During the assemblies, pupils heard from a host of esteemed guest speakers from the world of motorsport who shared their unique journey into their respective career, highlighting the power of perseverance and resilience in overcoming challenges - encouraging pupils to chase their ambitions, no matter the obstacles.
After giving pupils an insight into her role in Formula One, Anca Raines, Chief People Officer at MercedesAMG PETRONAS F1 Team said:
It was a pleasure to visit Small Heath and Eden Girls and be part of the launch assemblies for the Future Engineers Academy. At the heart of this programme is the desire to capture the imagination of young students and I look forward to hearing how they take hold of this opportunity.”
Sir Mufti Hamid Patel CBE, Chief Executive of Star Academies, said:
Star Academies is thrilled to have the support of Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, a world-class team whose dedication to innovation, education, and outreach will help us provide life-changing opportunities for our pupils through the Future Engineers Academy. Together, we hope to expand horizons, fuel ambition, and engineer a brighter future for the next generation."
With powerful insights from leading motorsport professionals and encouragement from F1 stars, the Future Engineers Academy has given pupils the drive to push beyond barriers and accelerate their ambitions. The race to engineering excellence has begun!
TOGETHER, WE HOPE TO EXPAND HORIZONS, FUEL AMBITION, AND ENGINEER A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION."
Sir Mufti Hamid Patel CBE, Chief Executive of Star Academies
Star Academies has launched a bold and ambitious national inquiry to tackle one of the country’s most persistent education challenges: the underachievement of white pupils from working-class backgrounds.
Despite decades of research, analysis and educational reform, white working-class children remain the lowest-performing demographic across many key educational measures. The inquiry aims to understand why – and, crucially, what can be done to change this. At the heart of this work is a simple belief: every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.
Led in partnership with research specialists Public First and funded by The Christopher and Henry Oldfield Trust, the inquiry will explore which school practices most effectively support white workingclass pupils to achieve highly, which are ineffective, and why. The inquiry is being advised by a panel of 15 education experts, including former secretaries of state for education, current headteachers and education leaders from white working-class communities.
At the centre of the inquiry will be the voices and views of the people who matter most: pupils, parents, teachers, and communities. Through polling, focus groups and interviews, the inquiry will seek to understand their views on the barriers white working-class pupils face - and the solutions that can unlock their potential. Alongside this, the inquiry will work with schools from across the country to understand the approaches that have been successful in improving outcomes for pupils.
The inquiry reflects Star’s belief that schools must act as civic institutions, using their influence to tackle inequalities and ensure every young person can fulfil their potential. The trust’s Chief Executive, Sir Mufti Hamid Patel CBE, is co-chairing the inquiry alongside former secretary of state Baroness Estelle Morris.
By listening to those most affected and learning from what works, the inquiry aims to drive lasting change and ensure that no child is left behind.
STAR ACADEMIES HAS LAUNCHED THIS INQUIRY TO CONFRONT THE PERSISTENT UNDERACHIEVEMENT OF WHITE WORKING-CLASS PUPILS - AN ISSUE THAT DIRECTLY AFFECTS MANY OF THE SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES IT SERVES.
This inquiry is not just about research – it’s about action. Once the findings are published next year, Star will lead a second phase of work to ensure that insights are translated into real change in schools. The goal is to develop practical recommendations that can be adopted at school, trust, and national levels.
Across the country, National Thank a Teacher Day offers a heartfelt opportunity to celebrate the remarkable individuals working across education – whose influence not only shapes lives and strengthens communities, but reaches far beyond the classroom and deep into the hearts of school communities.
The Star family is proud to count more than two thousand exceptional individuals who go above and beyond each day to enrich the lives of children and young people – not only through academic excellence, but by nurturing their personal growth and building strong foundations for their futures.
Whilst colleagues are celebrated and valued throughout the year, Thank a Teacher Day is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact made by those working across Star schools, and a chance to publicly say thank you for the energy, care and commitment that help shape the lives of over 23,000 young people across the Star community.
Proudly representing their peers up and down the country, pupils from The Olive School, Bolton and Star Salford Academy took starring roles in a special video from Star Academies to celebrate the profound impact of teachers and school staff nationwide. Both schools welcomed a film crew to capture the creativity, gratitude and
admiration their pupils have for those who inspire and illuminate them every day.
Across Star, Thank a Teacher Day serves as a heartfelt tribute from Star pupils across the country to the teachers and school staff who make a lasting difference every day. Throughout the day, pupils delivered personal messages of gratitude – revealing the deep affection and respect pupils have for the teachers and staff who support them – and celebratory events took place to thank and reward colleagues.
This celebration is also about the pupils themselves –young heroes who bring energy, creativity, and hope into their classrooms, inspiring those around them as much as they are inspired. More than a thank you, the annual event is a celebration of the everyday magic that happens when dedicated staff and engaged pupils come together. It’s a powerful reminder of what lies at the heart of every great school: connection, community, and gratitude.
View Star’s Thank a Teacher Day video
The sun shone brightly over Marl Pits Stadium in Rawtenstall as Star Academies’ young athletes gathered for a day of spirited competition and friendly rivalry at the eagerly anticipated Star Athletics Championships 2025.
The event brought together representatives from nine schools across the trust – Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School; Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Bradford; Laisterdyke Leadership Academy; Oulder Hill Leadership Academy; Small Heath Leadership Academy; Star King Solomon Academy; Star Radcliffe Academy; The Valley Leadership Academy and Tong Leadership Academy – to participate in an exciting inter-school competition celebrating sporting excellence and character.
Pupils from Years 7 to 10 competed in a packed athletics programme, showcasing their sporting prowess with a range of events. Pupils’ speed and stamina were put to the test during the track events, including 100m sprints, endurance-testing 1500m races and high-energy relays. Out on the field, competitors demonstrated power and precision in long jump, high jump, javelin and shot put events. Morning qualifying heats set the stage for a thrilling afternoon of finals, where gold, silver and bronze medals were awarded to the top three performers in each event.
Reflecting on the success of the day, event organiser Simon Mayoh from The Valley Leadership Academy said:
It was great to see the effort and determination displayed by the pupils who took part. All of the athletes were a real credit to their school and the trust, particularly with the positivity they showed towards their teammates and fellow competitors. There was a great atmosphere and a real buzz around the site, and it was lovely to see pupils from different schools forming new friendships.”
Nicole Boustouller, Year 9 student at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, said:
The Star Athletics Championships was an amazing experience. I competed in the 200m and relay, and it felt incredible to represent BRGS and win gold. The support from my teammates and the energy from the crowd made it a day to remember. I’m really proud of what we achieved together.”
Alongside the main athletics schedule, a dedicated enrichment programme ran concurrently for a group of Year 7 and Year 8 pupils. They took part in a five-a-side football competition and golf experience that included a round of adventure golf and a driving range session led by a PGA Tour professional. Each participant received a medal in recognition of their enthusiasm and involvement, helping to create a truly inclusive sporting atmosphere that celebrated the potential of every pupil.
Delivered in partnership with Ocean Generation, this year’s Star Innovators Challenge aimed to inspire and empower pupils to become active participants and future leaders in Ocean conservation. Linking with British Science Week’s 2025 theme of ‘Change and Adapt’, Star pupils tackled age-appropriate scientific challenges focused on protecting the planet’s life support system, with oceanic themes sparking imagination and innovation across the Trust.
Reception and Key Stage 1 pupils were tasked with diving ‘Under the Sea’ to discover fascinating Ocean creatures and habitats before designing their own imaginative seascapes.
Key Stage 2 pupils stepped up as ‘Ocean Guardians’, developing innovative ideas to stop plastic from reaching our seas.
With hundreds of entries received from Star schools across the country, the judging panel – which included representatives from Ocean Generation – were overwhelmed by the breadth of talent, knowledge and creativity on display.
After much consideration, the judges selected a winner and three runners-up in each age category.
Taking home first prize in the Key Stage 1 ‘Under The Sea’ challenge was Aaishah Mohammed Desai from The Olive School, Hackney. Her vibrant rainbow seascape featured a dazzling array of marine life—from seals, crabs and turtles to kelp, corals and seaweed. Aaishah brought her underwater world to life in vivid detail, expressing her creativity with a mixture of models and drawings.
Purnendu Chatterjee from Rainbow Primary Leadership Academy was named the winner of the ‘Ocean Guardians’ Key Stage 2 challenge for his imaginative and impactful ideas to stop plastic from reaching the Ocean. Among his innovative solutions were ‘Plastic Interceptors’ designed to capture waste in rivers before it reaches the sea, and the ‘Garbage Patch’ – a machine-operated zone that collects and removes accumulated plastic from the water. To showcase his ideas, Purnendu built a detailed 3D model and produced a short video that clearly explained his concepts.
Key Stage 3 and 4 pupils were challenged to envision a ‘Plastic-Free Future’ by redesigning everyday plastic products and replacing them with sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives to protect our Ocean from pollution.
In Key Stage 3, the winner of the ‘Plastic-Free Future’ challenge was Eliza Rehman from Laisterdyke Leadership Academy, who impressed the judges with her creative invention: the ‘Ocean Plastic Hoover’. Designed to resemble a shark, this clever device detects and collects plastic waste from the Ocean, helping to reduce pollution while blending seamlessly into the marine environment. Eliza’s entry demonstrated a thoughtful and well-researched approach to sustainability, understanding that although plastic may remain part of our lives for many years to come, we can innovate to minimise its impact on our planet.
Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham East pupil, Adam Haris-Sultan took first place in the Key Stage 4 ‘Plastic-Free Future’ challenge. He submitted a wellresearched proposal and practical experimentation for a plastic replacement made from banana peels. He provided thorough explanations of how his banana peel bioplastic would be sourced and produced, while considering the shelf-life, reusability, disposal methods, environmental
PRIMARY KEY STAGE 1 WINNERS UNDER THE SEA:
• 1ST PRIZE - Aaishah Mohammed Desai, Year 1 - The Olive School, Hackney
• 2ND PRIZE - Rida-Zahraa Kazi, Year 1 - The Olive School, Preston
• 3RD PRIZE - Anaya Azeem, Year 2 - The Olive School, Bolton
• 4TH PRIZE - Maryam Khan, Year 2 - Thornbury Primary Leadership Academy
PRIMARY KEY STAGE 2 WINNERS OCEAN GUARDIANS:
• 1ST PRIZE - Purnendu Chatterjee, Year 3 - Rainbow Primary Leadership Academy
• 2ND PRIZE (JOINT) - Muhammad Ibraheem Ali, Year 4 - The Olive School, Blackburn
• 2ND PRIZE (JOINT) - Maya Akram, Year 5 - Starbank School
• 3RD PRIZE - Haaris Khan, Year 5 - The Olive School, Small Heath
• 4TH PRIZE - Yousif Hamdan, Year 6 - The Olive School, Birmingham
SECONDARY KEY STAGE 3 WINNERS PLASTIC-FREE FUTURE:
• 1ST PRIZE - Eliza Rehman, Year 7 - Laisterdyke Leadership Academy
• 2ND PRIZE - Marwa Amjad, Year 7 - Eden Girls’ School, Waltham Forest
• 3RD PRIZE - Layyinah Patel, Year 8 - Eden Girls’ School, Coventry)
• 4TH PRIZE - Alice Dawson, Year 7 - Bay Leadership Academy
SECONDARY
KEY STAGE 4 WINNERS PLASTIC-FREE FUTURE:
• 1ST PRIZE - Adam Haris-Sultan, Year 10 - Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham East
• 2ND PRIZE - Manha Shahbaz, Year 9 - Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham
• 3RD PRIZE - Maryam Wehbeh, Year 10 - Eden Girls’ School, Coventry
• 4TH PRIZE - Asma Pirbhai, Year 10 - Eden Girls’ School, Waltham Forest
Nicky Crum, Science Improvement Lead at Star Academies, said: It is incredibly encouraging to see so many of our pupils channel their passion for science and the environment into such thoughtful and innovative projects. The time and care they’ve shown in developing their ideas reflect a genuine commitment to making a difference.
Thank you to our teachers, parents and Ocean Generation for supporting this incredible learning experience. I’m excited to see how our young changemakers continue to grow and lead the way in building a more sustainable future.”
Children’s Mental Health Week 2025 was celebrated across Star Academies, with schools embracing the theme ‘Know Yourself, Grow Yourself’ – inspired by Disney Pixar’s film ‘Inside Out’. Through a variety of thought-provoking and meaningful activities, spanning assemblies and artistic expression to gardening and games, each school contributed to the development of pupils’ emotional awareness and wellbeing.
The Olive School, Manchester hosted an engaging assembly using Place2Be resources to inspire conversations about mental health. Pupils painted self-portraits from mirror reflections and crafted expressive faces to explore feelings, and read books that explored resilience and finding joy in tough times. Nature walks, yoga sessions and tree planting encouraged reflection and symbolised personal growth.
Also taking the ‘Know Yourself, Grow Yourself’ theme to heart, staff at Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Bradford planted seeds in mini plant pots which they will nurture as they grow – a lasting reminder that, just as plants flourish with care and patience, so do pupils when supported by dedicated teachers.
At High Crags Primary Leadership Academy, younger pupils found comfort in creativity by making their own worry dolls, opening up conversations about feelings and emotions and helping pupils to understand how to share their concerns and worries with others who can support them. At The Olive School, Preston, pupils created colourful ‘happy memory’ boxes and sewed mood
monster puppets to help them to express their emotions. As a surprise treat, they enjoyed a pizza and cupcake feast with their peers, proving that good food and friends are key ingredients for a happy heart.
Pupils from Star Radcliffe Academy took part in a wide range of activities throughout the week focused on selfawareness and personal growth. A particularly valuable exercise was the ‘I can and I’d like to learn to…’ reflection activity, which encouraged pupils to recognise their strengths and set goals for self-improvement. At Highfield Leadership Academy, reflective tutor sessions encouraged pupils to discuss how they can look after and improve their mental health, as well as identifying sources of support. PE lessons promoted exercise for wellbeing through teambuilding, resilience and leadership activities.
Marking Children’s Mental Health Week with thought-provoking assemblies and presentations on mental health and resilience, pupils from Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham and Eden Girls’ School, Waltham Forest
explored ways to create a supportive environment where every young person feels heard and valued. The community spirit was also strong at Eden Girls’ School, Coventry, where pupil mental health ambassadors held a charity bake sale to raise vital funds for local mental health initiatives
Pupils at Small Heath Leadership Academy introduced beautifully designed wellbeing suggestion boxes, giving all pupils a space to express their thoughts and feelings. The initiative reinforced the idea that every voice matters and that talking about and sharing emotions is the first step to understanding them.
Also learning how to express their feelings were EYFS pupils at The Olive School, Bolton. During circle time, they shared what brings them joy, what makes them sad and what they excel at, proudly recording their thoughts in doodle books. Meanwhile, Year 6 pupils enjoyed a relaxing gaming session, with the aim of strengthening friendships and spreading positivity – because nothing boosts mental wellbeing quite like laughter, connection and a little fun!
With the arrival of the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah, Star Academies’ faith schools embraced the opportunity to celebrate one of the most profound events in the Muslim calendar - Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah. This annual observance, which culminates in the festival of Eid al-Adha, is a time of spiritual reflection, sacrifice and unity for Muslims around the world.
Across Star’s Muslim faith schools, pupils and staff engaged in a rich tapestry of activities designed to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Hajj. These celebrations were not only educational but also deeply meaningful, helping to foster a sense of connection to a global community linked by their shared faith.
Pupils from many of the trust’s schools participated in immersive exhibitions and creative classroom projects to bring the pilgrimage to life. Young learners at The Olive School, Blackburn dressed in ihram garments and reenacted the global pilgrimage, turning their school corridors into an airport terminal, before journeying through the symbolic rites of Hajj - from Tawaf around a model Kaaba to reenacting the Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
Reception pupils at The Olive School, Manchester - the trust’s newest faith school - followed suit by taking part in a Hajj Super Learning Day, engaging in a variety of interactive experiences to further their understanding of Hajj’s significance and internalise the values of patience, humility and devotion that the pilgrimage embodies.
Art and creativity were also central to the celebrations. Pupils crafted thoughtful cards, built intricate models, performed inspiring nasheeds and contributed to vibrant displays that adorned school halls. These poignant expressions of faith and learning showcased the enthusiasm and reverence with which Star’s pupils approached this sacred time.
The activities culminated in joyous Eid al-Adha celebrations, where the spirit of sacrifice and generosity was highlighted. Schools hosted assemblies, enjoyed festive meals together, and encouraged charitable giving, reinforcing the values of compassion and community.
Despite Eid al-Adha taking place during a busy exam period for Year 11 pupils, Eden Girls’ School, Waltham Forest ensured its faithful learners could still celebrate the important occasion by serving up a delicious Eid breakfast and buffet lunch, providing pupils with nutritious fuel to help them succeed in their exams.
Pupils at Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Bradford were delighted to welcome fellow learners from Bradford Christian School as they forged connections by sharing their traditions as they joined together for a celebratory meal. To honour the Islamic tradition of hospitality, four Year 7 pupils gave an informative presentation explaining the rites of Hajj and the significance of Eid al-Adha, before presenting their guests with a sweet hamper as a gesture of kindness and appreciation.
The celebrations not only enriched the spiritual lives of the trust’s Muslim pupils but also offered valuable insights to the wider school community, fostering mutual respect and understanding between those within Star’s diverse family of schools and beyond.
Star Academies hosted its highly anticipated biennial Star Awards ceremony, celebrating the exceptional people and teams that make Star such a remarkable place to learn, work and grow. The prestigious event welcomed over 450 guests, including pupils, staff, governors, trustees and members of the Star family, who gathered in Blackburn – the birthplace of Star – for an unforgettable afternoon to honour those who make a real difference to the trust, its schools and its communities.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from Pupil MCs Istar Osman, from Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham, and Ethan Ross, from The Valley Leadership Academy, who thanked guests for taking the time out from their busy schedules to attend. Their opening words captured the essence of the day, and their confidence and eloquence set the stage for what would be an uplifting celebration of the Star family’s achievements. They went on to introduce the trust Chairman, Kam Kothia OBE DL, who took to the stage to deliver an inspiring opening address.
Star was honoured to welcome Olympic champion swimmer Rebecca Adlington OBE as keynote speaker and VIP guest. The Olympian captivated the audience with her powerful speech on the highs and lows of her awe-inspiring career. A history-making athlete, she won double gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics – becoming the first British woman to claim Olympic swimming gold in over 40 years – adding two bronze medals at London 2012. As well as recounting her many successes in elite sport and as an advocate for youth swim programmes, Rebecca spoke candidly about resilience, overcoming setbacks, and the importance of mental wellbeing.
The awards ceremony was expertly hosted by Kieran Larkin, Executive Director: Education, who extended heartfelt thanks to the event sponsors for their generosity and support. The atmosphere was electric as the finalists and winners for all 20 award categories were announced, recognising pupils, teachers, support staff and governors for their exceptional achievements. The excitement and pride in the room were palpable as each winner took to the stage to collect their awards, their contributions and accomplishments applauded by their peers, colleagues and members of the Star family.
Throughout the afternoon, guests were treated to incredible performances from talented pupils. Young musicians from Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School’s Concert Band cast a spell on the audience with an enchanting medley from the popular musical and movie ‘Wicked’, while children from The Olive School, Bolton brought words to life with 'Voices in Verse' – a
selection of witty and entertaining poems showcasing our pupils' passion for performance. To wrap up the event, sensational singers from Star King Solomon Academy’s choir wowed guests with a beautiful rendition of ‘I Believe’ by Yolanda Adams – a song that embodies the spirit of perseverance, hope and self-belief.
Star Academies would like to thank its generous sponsors for their support of the event: AHR, Arena Group, Aspire People, British Army, Justteachers, Kier Construction, Krol Corlett Construction, Lyreco, Mellors Catering Services, Mott MacDonald, Moving PEOPLE, PLMR Group, Reed Specialist Recruitment, Teaching Personnel, Wates Construction and Whittakers Schoolwear.
The trust also wishes to express gratitude to the following supporters: CDS, Steplab, Arcadis, Linton DMC and Browns Books.
SIR MUFTI HAMID PATEL CBE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF STAR ACADEMIES, SAID:
Celebrating our pupils’ achievements fills me with immense pride. Hearing the stories of our young people who have excelled academically, overcome challenges and made a meaningful impact in their communities has been truly uplifting and inspiring. All of our nominees, finalists and winners are the embodiment of our STAR values of Service, Teamwork, Ambition and Respect, and they should be deeply proud of themselves for all they have accomplished.”
GROUP AWARDS
TRANSFORMATION OF THE YEAR AWARD
EDUCATION SUPPORT STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD
• Katie Spink - Thornbury Primary Leadership Academy
Sponsored by Mott MacDonald
• The Inspiration Centre - Bay Leadership Academy
COMMUNITY INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Krol Corlett Construction
• The Charity Prefect Team - Eden Girls’ School, Coventry
GOVERNOR AWARD
OUTSTANDING GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Kier Construction
• Ricky Joseph - Small Heath Leadership Academy
EMPLOYEE AWARDS
EARLY CAREER TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Aspire People
Lois Royle - Bay Leadership Academy
OPERATIONS SUPPORT STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR AWARD
• David Tobin - Tong Leadership Academy
PRIMARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Moving PEOPLE
• Mahfuzur Chowdhury - The Olive School, Hackney
SECONDARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Justteachers
• Eirini Ioannidou - Eden Girls’ School, Slough
MIDDLE LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD
• Shahida Boksh - The Olive School, Small Heath
SENIOR LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Teaching Personnel
• Meryl Bowdell - Oulder Hill Leadership Academy
PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Reed Specialist Recruitment
• Majid Ditta - Tauheedul Islam Boys’ High School
PUPIL AWARDS
SPORTS LEADERSHIP AWARD
Sponsored by British Army
• Dominic Emery - Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School
ARTS LEADERSHIP AWARD
• Aabay Ali - Oulder Hill Leadership Academy
SOCIAL ACTION LEADERSHIP AWARD
Sponsored by Wates Construction
• Inaaya Shahab - Eden Girls’ School, Slough
INSPIRATIONAL LEARNER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Lyreco
• Jamal Abson-Khan - High Crags Primary Leadership Academy
• Isla Flockhart - The Valley Leadership Academy
• Shahab Ahmed - Starbank School
• Isaac Altaf - Starbank School
• Agatha Midgley - Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School
• Khadijah Chaudhry - Eden Girls’ School, Waltham Forest
• Subhan Faheem - Eden Boys' Leadership Academy, Manchester
• Kayla Hansel - Star King Solomon Academy
• Finley Stewart-Hart - High Crags
Primary Leadership Academy
• Humaid Khan - Eden Boys’ School, Preston
• Alaina Safa Khan - Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Manchester
• Will Lord - Oulder Hill Leadership Academy
• Humzah Malek - Eden Boys’ School, Birmingham
• Ayaana Najib - The Olive School, Small Heath
• Elliot Martin – Star Radcliffe Academy
• Ahmad Seedat - The Olive School, Bolton
• Muhammad Tausifhusen Patel - The Olive School, Preston
• Evie Williams-Morris - Star Salford Academy
• Harisa Al Yousef - Eden Girls’ School, Coventry
• Mohammed Fahim Yusuf - Tauheedul Islam Boys’ High School
• Arslan Ahmed - Laisterdyke Leadership Academy
• Mohammed Zakariya Majid - Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Bradford
• David Kayode - Star King Solomon Academy
• Matthew Keck - Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School
• Aishah Ilyas - Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham
PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPIL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by AHR
• Deekshita Srinivasan - Rainbow Primary Leadership Academy
SECONDARY SCHOOL PUPIL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Arena Group
• Erin Allsopp - Tong Leadership Academy
SPECIAL AWARDS
PRIMARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by PLMR Group
• The Olive School, Small Heath
SECONDARY SCHOOL OF THE YEAR AWARD
Sponsored by Whittakers Schoolwear
• Tauheedul Islam Girls' High School and Sixth Form College
SPIRIT OF STAR AWARD
Sponsored by Mellors
Catering Services
• Harry Devonport
BARKEREND PRIMARY LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Two siblings from Barkerend Primary Leadership Academy were invited to share their journey to school with a team from the popular BBC programme, Newsround.
The children's news programme has run continually since 1972, covering stories from around the world for young people, and broadcast a special segment in celebration of International Walk to School Month.
The feature, 'From city life to countryside walks', shines a spotlight on different school journeys across the UK and hears from pupils in Inverness, Wales and Bradford's own Barkerend pupils, sisters Jenika and Jenny-Beth.
Sharing their walk to school with the Newsround cameras, the siblings discuss the different routes they take, the importance of road safety and their awareness of pedestrian crossing lights, explaining how they "definitely wait for the green man".
While other schoolchildren in the segment speak of beaches and views of the Scottish Highlands, the sisters are keen to share the nature they experience on their city stroll through Bradford and the various wildlife and birds they have encountered.
Proving that every step counts, Jenika and Jenny-Beth proudly show off the Travel Tracker badges they collect for walking to school three times a week and their infectious enthusiasm reminds viewers that every walk is an adventure waiting to be discovered.
Discussing the sibling's big impact on the small screen, Claire Grace, Assistant Principal at Barkerend Primary Leadership Academy, said:
We’re thrilled to see Jenika and Jenny-Beth represent our school on such a prominent platform. They perfectly embody the spirit of our community, and their passion for walking to school not only promotes healthy habits but also inspires their peers. We hope their story encourages even more pupils to appreciate the journey to school and the world around them.”
EDEN BOYS’ LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, BRADFORD
On a 100-acre site in the Northamptonshire countryside, pupils from Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Bradford geared up for a day at the historic Whilton Mill Karting Centre - one of the UK’s premier outdoor circuits - as part of the school's STEM Club activities.
The visit marked pupils' first time at the Daventry track and formed part of STEM on Track, a nationwide programme by Espire Education. The project invites schools to take part in a year-long initiative that empowers pupils to build their own racing kart while applying STEM theory in a real-world setting.
Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy was the only Bradfordbased participant, joining more than 40 schools across the country in the immersive educational challenge.
Alongside the school’s regular STEM Club, Year 8 and 9 pupils took the driver’s seat in their own learning journey, engaging with the project’s three core components: Build, Learn and Race. Following step-by-step guidance through STEM on Track’s online platform and instructional videos, the aspiring STEM stars collaborated over several months to construct a fully functional kart - developing their understanding of physics, engineering and mathematics along the way.
The visit to Whilton Mill marked a significant milestone in the project, providing pupils with the opportunity to experience the environment of a professional racing
circuit during a dedicated test day. Before it could be driven on the track, the pupils watched as race engineers made final safety adjustments to their kart. This enabled the pupils to engage directly with real-world engineering challenges - investigating issues, making technical assessments, and planning tweaks to optimise performance and safety.
Pupils also took part in kart scrutineering, explored a bustling STEM fair, tested their reactions on racing simulators and participated in a walkabout of the circuit to gain a comprehensive understanding of the track environment. These activities deepened their appreciation of the scientific and engineering principles involved in motorsport - from aerodynamics and braking systems to fuel chemistry and hydraulics - while emphasising the value of precision, teamwork and iterative problem-solving in STEM education.
With their engines primed and knowledge finely tuned, the aspiring STEM stars at Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy are ready to accelerate into the next phase of the project - confident that their skills and teamwork will put them firmly in the racing fast lane.
OULDER HILL LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Oulder Hill Leadership Academy welcomed pupils and civic leaders from across the borough as it hosted the inaugural meeting of the Lord Lieutenant’s Youth District Committee - a pioneering initiative designed to place youth voices at the heart of community recognition and public service.
The event brought together Year 10 pupil representatives from ten local secondary schools, each nominated to attend based on their emerging leadership qualities. The meeting was also attended by esteemed guest Cllr Rachel Massey, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services and Education at Rochdale Borough Council.
The initiative was led by Rebecca Tarran DL, Director of Learning for Humanities at Oulder Hill and recently appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, in collaboration with fellow Rochdale-based Deputy Lieutenants Louise Scott DL and Asrar Ul-Haq OBE DL. The project aims to raise awareness of the role and responsibilities of the Lieutenancy, and to engage young people in discussions about public service, civic recognition and community values.
Pupils were introduced to the Lieutenancy of Greater Manchester – composed of individuals who have made significant contributions to public life. They learned about the role of the Lord-Lieutenant – the King’s representative in the region - and the duties undertaken by the Vice Lord-Lieutenant and Deputy Lieutenants, including organising royal visits, presenting medals and awards on behalf of the Sovereign, maintaining links between the monarchy and the local community, and supporting civic, military and voluntary sector initiatives.
A key focus of the session was to raise awareness among young people about the national honours system, including the King’s Award for Enterprise, the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, and personal honours such as MBEs, OBEs, and CBEs. Pupils were encouraged to consider how members of their communitiesindividuals, groups, businesses and organisations - could
be nominated for such awards. It was noted that the North of England has historically received fewer honours than the South, and that young people can help to change this by identifying and celebrating those making a positive impact in their local area.
Pupils engaged fully in the discussion and offered several thoughtful suggestions, which the Deputy Lieutenants are now exploring. The intention is for pupils to take these ideas back to their schools and discuss them further through student councils and leadership groups. The group will meet again in the autumn term, when they will have the exciting opportunity to put forward nominations for the 2026 Royal Garden Party.
Reflecting on the success of the event, Rebecca Tarran DL said:
We were delighted to hold the inaugural Lord Lieutenant's Youth District Committee meeting at Oulder Hill Leadership Academy. It is so important to listen to the contributions of our young people as they will be the leaders of tomorrow."
As the first initiative of its kind, the Lord Lieutenant’s Youth District Committee could serve as a blueprint for similar programmes across Greater Manchester and beyond. Oulder Hill Leadership Academy is proud to be a part of this important work and remains committed to developing the leadership skills, civic awareness and social responsibility of its pupils.
British international rower and Olympic medallist Emily Ford paid a visit to The Olive School, Blackburn for a day of inspiration, interaction, and invigorating exercise.
Putting pupils through their paces, the bronze medallist led a high-energy sponsored fitness circuit around the school grounds, with star jumps, press-ups and plenty of positive encouragement.
Pupils threw themselves into the challenge with incredible enthusiasm, raising an impressive £1,126 through sponsorship for their fitness efforts. The funds will be invested in expanding the school’s sports provision and supporting the Great Athletes initiative, a programme dedicated to inspiring young people to lead active and healthy lifestyles.
After getting hearts pumping, pupils swapped movement for motivation as they listened intently to Emily’s inspiring Olympic journey - a story of dedication, discipline and dreams realised. From growing up on a farm in the English countryside to winning a medal at the Olympic Games, Emily’s path to the podium was
not without obstacles. Having missed out on a medal at the Tokyo Olympics due to injury after qualifying, she overcame the setback to win a bronze medal as part of Great Britain’s rowing team in the women’s eight at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
The Olympian spoke with pupils about the highs and lows of elite sport, the importance of perseverance, and the value of maintaining a positive mindset. She encouraged them to dream big, work hard and stay resilient - whether in sport, school, or life.
Staff at The Olive School, Blackburn praised Emily’s visit as both uplifting and empowering, with many pupils leaving the session feeling inspired and energised. The event was part of the school’s ongoing commitment to promoting physical health, wellbeing and character education.
A visit to Eton College for a hands-on robotics and coding workshop inspired pupils from Eden Girls’ School, Slough to continue their learning - leading to the creation of a thriving new Coding Club.
The two-day Let’s Bot! workshop, attended by a large group of Year 7 pupils, introduced them to core concepts in robotics and coding, with a strong focus on STEM careers and the role of technology in shaping the future. Although many had no prior experience, their confidence and enthusiasm grew rapidly as they tackled practical programming challenges.
Let’s Bot! is a socially-inclusive initiative designed to break down barriers and demonstrate that robotics and coding are accessible to all. The programme promotes equal opportunities by helping girls discover talents in fields where they have been historically underrepresented. Eden Girls’ participants embraced every challenge, gaining not only new skills but also a strong sense of achievement and possibility.
The workshop left a lasting impression on both pupils and staff who, inspired by their experience at Eton, quickly worked to establish a similar programme at their school.
The result is a weekly lunchtime Coding Club, giving pupils the chance to deepen their interest in coding and technology in a collaborative, creative environment. The club has become one of the school’s most popular enrichment offerings, with high demand and enthusiastic support from staff.
What began as a two-day workshop has since grown into a lasting enrichment programme - one that builds coding skills while nurturing curiosity, confidence and ambition for the future.
Highfield Leadership Academy is making waves in the local community as a proud participant in the national Blue Influencers Scheme – an environmental programme designed to empower young people living in coastal, river and estuary areas to engage in meaningful social action.
The three-year programme aims to help young people form connections with the marine environment, develop vital skills, and foster a sense of pride and responsibility for their natural surroundings. It specifically targets regions that are disproportionately affected by climate change, including rising sea levels, increased flooding, and the erosion of natural and human habitats.
In partnership with local host organisation, Lancashire Wildlife Trust, and guided by dedicated Blue Mentors, Highfield pupils are stepping up to become the next generation of changemakers in Blackpool by connecting to their coastal heritage and addressing the urgent environmental issues facing the Fylde Coast.
Beginning their journey as Blue Influencers, pupils enjoyed a coastal exploration day at St Annes beach with a Blue Mentor, where they discovered the rich biodiversity of their local coastline, identified marine species and examined how coastal wildlife has adapted to its everchanging habitat. This outdoor experience marked the beginning of a broader learning journey, as pupils begin to understand not only the environmental importance of their region but also the role they can play in shaping its future.
Highfield pupils are now participating in a structured programme of in-school workshops and field visits led by Blue Mentor, Rachel Glascott, who is working closely with the cohort to guide their learning and support
their development. Through these sessions, pupils gain experience in practical conservation techniques, species identification, environmental surveying, public engagement, and a greater understanding of climate change and pollution. They will also be challenged to take the lead in designing and delivering their own environmental social action projects – initiatives powered by their own passions and ideas – supported by an project grant of £5,000.
Speaking of her experience as a Blue Influencer, Year 8 pupil Caitlyn said:
I love being part of something that’s helping our community and the planet. It makes me feel like I’m making a real difference and now I want to help raise awareness and get more people involved in looking after our beaches."
Year 8 pupil Jonah also praised the scheme, saying:
Working with Blue Influencers has really changed our perspective. After our visit to St Annes, I understand how special our coastline is and how we all have a role to play in keeping it clean and safe for future generations.”
Six pupils from Eden Boys’ School, Preston took their first steps towards a career in football by undertaking the FA Referee Course.
The pupils, from Years 10 and 11, earned their Level 1 FA Referee badge for successfully completing the course, which was held over two days at Bolton United, a local community football club accredited by England Football.
This fantastic opportunity arose following the visit of former Premier League referee Chris Foy to the school last academic year, who gave an inspiring personal development talk on his career in professional football.
Through sessions led by Championship-level referees, day one of the course saw the pupils study the theoretical side of refereeing,
Speaking about the course, Mohsin Patel, Assistant Principal at Eden Boys’ School, Preston, said:
We are committed to providing our pupils with opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. The FA Referee Course taken by some of our KS4 pupils is a wonderful example of this commitment.
The following day saw the aspiring referees take part in a practical session to put theory into practice. By taking charge of several gamebased scenarios, the pupils honed their skills including communicating decisions, learning how to position themselves on the pitch and using the correct technique to show yellow and red cards to offending players.
The course not only equips our young scholars with a deeper understanding of our national sport but also teaches key skills such as leadership, decision-making, and teamwork. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our pupils growing in various ways and this initiative reflects our dedication to their holistic development.”
Pupils from High Crags Primary Leadership Academy put their poetry skills to the test in an ambitious world record attempt and emerged as Guinness World Record holders.
To celebrate National Poetry Day 2024, poet and author Laura Mucha led an attempt to set the Guinness World Record for giving the world’s largest poetry lesson (multi-venue).
More than 200,000 pupils aged 7-12 from 1,200 schools across the UK and beyond signed up to play their part in the world record attempt, including 128 pupils from Years 3-6 at High Crags Primary Leadership Academy.
The lesson took place virtually as Laura Mucha shared her poetry expertise via video link before giving the assembled pupils the chance to collaborate through an online vote to craft a new poem to be displayed on billboards across the country.
The school’s Principal, Helen Ray, was tasked with keeping a diligent record of the event and the number of pupils in attendance, including video and photographic evidence, so that the attempt could be officially verified by Guinness World Records.
Pupils and staff involved in the world record attempt had to wait for almost four months to find out if their efforts had been successful, before news filtered through that the record had been secured. A grand total of 43,516 pupils from around 500 schools – including those from High Crags Primary Leadership Academy – participated in the record-breaking lesson.
High Crags Primary Leadership Academy has been identified as a ‘Beacon School’ for the National Literacy Trust – one of the charities involved in the world record attempt – which has seen the school work alongside the trust to assist with conducting research and organising events.
Speaking about the school’s role in the world record attempt, Principal at High Crags Primary Leadership Academy, Helen Ray, said:
I am incredibly proud of our pupils for their participation in such an exciting opportunity. The children thoroughly enjoyed how interactive the lesson was and we are all delighted to learn that we – and the other participating schools – have played a part in successfully setting a new world record.”
Year 2 pupils at The Olive School, Preston spent a revelatory day at Ribchester Roman Museum, where hands-on experiences and expert insights helped deepen their understanding of life in Roman Britain.
Located in a picturesque village on the banks of the River Ribble that was once the Roman cavalry fort and settlement of Bremetenacum Veteranorum, Ribchester Roman Museum is Lancashire’s only museum dedicated entirely to Roman antiquities.
During the visit, pupils explored the museum’s extensive displays and asked thoughtful questions that reflected their growing curiosity and understanding of Roman life. They then took part in a hands-on workshop led by a knowledgeable guide, before getting the opportunity to closely examine and handle Roman artefactsdiscussing their purpose, historical significance, and imagining them used in real-life settings.
The day continued with a short walk through the village to the remains of the Roman baths, where pupils reflected on how these communal spaces might have been used and what they reveal about daily routines in Roman Britain.
The immersive experience not only brought classroom learning to life, but also encouraged pupils to connect the past with the present and develop a deeper appreciation for history.
Two pupils from Tauheedul Islam Boys’ High School were invited to join educators, policymakers, and peers in a vital conversation about youth mental health at one of the UK’s most iconic buildings - the House of Commons.
Representing the school, Zakee Hafiz and Muhammad Yusuf Jassat from Year 9 took part in the gathering that marked the launch of the Coalition for Youth Mental Health in Schools’ report, Green Shoots and Grass Roots, which draws on a nationwide survey of 11 to 18-year-olds.
The report highlights the challenges young people face and emphasises the importance of listening to their voices when shaping mental health support in schools. It reveals persistent barriers such as stigma and lack of trust that prevent open discussions, while calling for more accessible and consistent provisions. It also identifies everyday pressures - such as academic stress and social media - that affect wellbeing, underlining the crucial role schools play in addressing these issues. To respond effectively, schools are urged to involve young people directly in shaping services and to foster safe, stigma-free environments for open dialogue.
As part of a coalition of over 90 schools committed to improving mental health provision, TIBHS was proud to be represented at the launch, with pupils contributing to meaningful discussions and helping bring youth voices into the national conversation.
The day carried extra significance as it coincided with the third reading of the Mental Health Bill in the House of Lords - a key milestone in the UK’s broader efforts to improve mental health services.
Reflecting on the importance of the occasion, Principal of TIBHS, Majid Ditta, said:
Mental health has always been a priority for our school community. We are committed to creating an environment where pupils feel safe, supported, and empowered to speak openly about their wellbeing.
Our pupils’ involvement in this national conversation is a powerful reminder of why their voices must be heard when shaping mental health support. We’re incredibly proud of their role in helping to shape a better future for young people’s mental health.”
Whilst the primary purpose of the visit was to engage in vital discussions on mental health, the pupils also had the chance to soak up some of London’s historic landmarks, unique attractions, and bustling streets. During their brief stay in the capital, they visited key sites such as the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Covent Garden, the Palace of Westminster, Leicester Square, and the London Dungeon — a welcome opportunity to unwind, reflect, and experience first-hand the value of balance and wellbeing beyond the classroom.
STAR KING SOLOMON ACADEMY (SECONDARY)
In the setting of one of the West Midlands’ leading cultural venues, the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, pupils from Star King Solomon Academy were thrilled to meet Olivier Award-winning West End star and best-selling soul singer Beverley Knight.
The Wolverhampton-born singing sensation is currently starring in a production of Marie & Rosetta - a play by George Brant that delves into the early collaboration between gospel music pioneers Sister Rosetta Tharpe and her protégé, Marie Knight.
Having last performed on the Wolverhampton Grand stage four decades ago, Knight celebrated her homecoming by inviting two schools to experience the power and passion of the production. In an online video posted ahead of the performance, Knight expressed her excitement at having so many young, special guests in the audience, saying: “I so believe in kids being encouraged to go to the theatre, and I'm just glad that I can be part of their theatre journey.”
After the curtain fell on the marvellous matinee, pupils from Star King Solomon Academy were thrilled at the opportunity to meet the star in person and spent time speaking with her about her journey in the performing arts. Knight answered their questions with warmth and honesty, offering inspiring insights into her career and encouraging them to pursue their own passions with confidence and purpose. She reminded them that “who you are as a person is just as important as your experience”, leaving a lasting impression on the starstruck school group.
EDEN BOYS’ SCHOOL, BOLTON
A familiar feature in classrooms and living rooms for decades, LEGO® is being put to new use at Eden Boys’ School, Bolton - not for play, but for programming.
As part of the school’s weekly Robotics Club, pupils are using LEGO® SPIKE Prime kits to design, build and code functional robots, applying their knowledge of computing, engineering and problem-solving in a practical, hands-on environment. Centred around STEAM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics), LEGO® Education’s platform encourages pupils to experiment with sensors, motors and a programmable hub to bring their designs to life.
Each project is a unique response to a challenge the pupils set for themselves - whether it’s a robot that sorts recyclables, a machine that draws geometric patterns, or a rover that navigates a maze. The focus is not only on the finished product, but on the thinking, experimentation and collaboration that brings it to life.
Mustafa, a Year 9 pupil, said:
We get to decide what kind of robot we want to make and what we want it to do. It’s not just following instructions - it’s inventing something new.”
The software caters to a range of skill levels - offering an intuitive drag-and-drop interface for beginners, while enabling more advanced users to code in Python, further developing their programming expertise.
While the outcomes are often impressive, it’s the process that leaves a lasting impact. Pupils develop confidence, creativity and a deeper understanding of STEM as they move from concept to execution — experimenting, adapting and problem-solving at every stage.
We learn more from what doesn’t work than what does,” says club member Ayaan. “It’s all about trying again and making it better.”
For many, the club is also a launchpad. Skills developed as part of the school’s enrichment programme are applied in science fairs, classroom projects and wider academic work. Above all, pupils value the experience of building something functional - and the sense of achievement that comes with making it their own.
The Valley Leadership Academy hosted a poignant and joyful community celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day – honouring the resilience, sacrifice and unity of a generation that shaped the world we live in today.
The event, led by the school’s passionate pupil leaders, brought together a vibrant cross-section of the community. Among the honoured guests were cadets, local veterans, community police officers and representatives from Stacksteads Countryside Park Group, each representing the spirit of service in their own way.
Year 11 pupil Robert Saxon excelled in his role as Master of Ceremonies, commencing proceedings by welcoming guests to the celebration. He then invited Army Cadets Millie Andrew, Harry Cropper, Amy Haworth and Beau Keogh Killeen to lead a heartfelt two-minute silence to honour the bravery and selflessness of those who fought for peace.
Reflections continued as pupils Harriet Dixon, Charlotte Dodgon and Sienna Ford Miah took to the stage to share their thoughts on the significance of VE Day and its enduring lessons for today's generation.
The celebration was uplifted by a series of stunning performances from the Valley Voices, showcasing the school’s rich musical talent. Ava Johnson charmed guests with the classic Dean Martin song ‘Everybody Loves Somebody’, while Shannon Billing enchanted the audience with her rendition of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’. In a touching and memorable moment, Ruby Byrne and Elizabeth Chapman led a sing-along of ‘We’ll Meet Again’ – the enduring wartime anthem made famous by Forces’ Sweetheart, Dame Vera Lynn.
To conclude the celebrations, members of the Stacksteads Countryside Park Group helped pupils to plant an apple tree as a symbolic gesture to recognise VE Day 80. Guests were treated to a traditional afternoon tea and enjoyed a VE Day themed quiz created by pupils to round off the day.
Irene Hughes, Chair of Stacksteads Countryside Park Group, praised the event, saying:
We were delighted to take part in The Valley Leadership Academy’s VE Day celebrations. The pupils had gone to a lot of trouble to make us feel welcome and the food was amazing. The children worked really hard to decorate the area and lead the singing. The school has already supported us at several events we have organised and we're really looking forward to working together on future projects in Stacksteads.”
A team of Year 10 pupils from Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Manchester has been working together to create their own 'Garden of Eden' in the school grounds.
Digging deep and dreaming big, the group of aspiring gardeners cultivated and created as part of special project led by the school's Head of Maths, Jeremy Balcombe.
After identifying a suitable space, the school’s Gardening Club set about excavating turf and putting in pathways, with each member taking responsibility for a specific section. A visit from the school's Head of Kitchen Staff planted the seed of an idea that led the group to dedicate one area of the garden to growing herbs.
Taking a break from the physical work, the group also exercised their minds with a trip to the school's library to read up on plant compatibility, planting techniques and the importance of soil quality.
Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5
After several days of hard work - and a vote to decide which tree would take centre stage in their garden design - the green-fingered Eden Girls were able to admire the space they had created and the bountiful opportunities it would provide.
The finished garden - complete with a fig tree centrepiece - was unveiled at a grand opening for school staff and VIP guests, with the Gardening Club girls proudly explaining how the process led to the end result. As a special treat, each guest enjoyed a glass of lemon water garnished with a fresh mint leaf picked from the garden.
Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Manchester's Head of Maths, Jeremy Balcombe, who developed the project, said:
Watching the group come together to create something truly special has been inspiring. Through this project they’ve learned valuable skills including budgeting, project management and teamwork, and it's been wonderful to see them grow together. This garden stands as a testament to their hard work, dedication and creativity, and as a group, we have not only planted seeds but also grown leaders."
A pair of standout students from Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School Sixth Form have been accepted onto the Lucy Cavendish Programme with Cambridge University.
Developed by the renowned university's Lucy Cavendish College, the Academic Attainment Programme supports high-achieving students in reaching their full potential and provides participants with opportunities to develop key academic skills, gain insight into university-level study, and receive advice and guidance for making competitive applications to highly selective universities.
After securing places on the highly sought after group, Ayesha Malik and Eva Carter, both in Year 12, joined the flagship virtual outreach programme alongside around 1,000 other high-achieving state school students.
next steps. Developed to offer an increased degree of academic support, the prestigious outreach programme aims to raise students’ academic attainment and ensure they feel confident in making competitive university applications.
As the most diverse college in Cambridge, Lucy Cavendish College is dedicated to supporting students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds to apply to Cambridge and other Russell Group
Excited to begin the two year programme, Ayesha Malik said:
Being accepted onto the Lucy Cavendish Programme is a huge step forward in reaching my goals. It’s amazing to be part of a programme that opens up so many new opportunities and gives me insights into studying at a Russell Group university like Cambridge. Having access to mentors, workshops, and support through this programme will really help me understand what top universities are looking for and how I can prepare for that level of study.”
Eva Carter added:
It’s an incredible chance to push myself, gain new skills, and build my confidence for applying to top universities in the future."
James Johnstone, Principal at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, said:
This is a fantastic opportunity for Ayesha and Eva to broaden their academic horizons and gain firsthand experience of what studying at a Russell Group university entails. Programmes like these open doors, inspire ambition, and equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their goals at some of the UK’s most prestigious institutions. We look forward to seeing them thrive and achieve great things through this remarkable experience.”
EDEN GIRLS’ LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, BIRMINGHAM
Year 10 pupils from Eden Girls’ Leadership Academy, Birmingham embarked on an unforgettable educational voyage aboard the Royal Navy’s Fleet Flagship, HMS Queen Elizabeth at Portsmouth harbour. The trip, organised in partnership with Eden Boys’ School, Birmingham, offered pupils a first-hand look at life aboard one of the most powerful surface warships ever constructed in the UK.
Packed with activities designed to inspire pupils and broaden their understanding of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the day saw pupils embark on a detailed tour where they gained insights into various aspects of naval life and the daily routines of Royal Marines. From visiting the on-board gym to seeing the chapel and medical centre, pupils were left in awe of the ship’s diverse facilities.
One of the highlights of the day was a visit to the flight deck, where the pupils were amazed to learn that four jets can be moved from the hangar to the deck in just one minute – a demonstration of the ship’s impressive capabilities. Pupils also got a glimpse of the immense power driving the ship – its two colossal propellers, each weighing a hefty 33 tonnes. Together, they generate enough energy to power 1,000 family cars.
Pupils were equally impressed by the dedication and expertise of the Royal Marines, particularly their exceptional fitness, strength and discipline, all of which are vital for life on the ship. They even got a crash course in fire safety, observing how marines would respond in the event of a fire on deck.
Their day aboard HMS Queen Elizabeth left a lasting impression on the pupils, not only broadening their understanding of naval life but also opening up a world of possibilities.
STARBANK SCHOOL – PRIMARY
Year 5 pupils from Starbank School embarked on an exciting trip to Wolverhampton Art Gallery as part of their studies into the iconic pop artist, Andy Warhol. Having spent time exploring Warhol's vibrant works and his innovative and revolutionary approach to art during the 1960s, the group were thrilled to see his bold, colourful pieces up close.
During lessons, pupils learned about the popular culture that inspired Warhol and how he used print designs to capture the essence of the times. They also studied the colour wheel, discovering how to use complementary colours and apply these skills to their own art – just as Warhol did in his famous works.
The gallery visit gave pupils the unique chance to see some of Warhol’s pieces in person, an experience that brought their classroom lessons to life. They also explored a range of Modern and Victorian art exhibits during a guided tour, gaining a broader understanding of different artistic periods and styles.
The highlight of the day was a hands-on printing workshop led by the gallery’s expert curators. Inspired by Warhol’s screen-printing techniques, the children used paint rollers and tiles to create their own pop art designs. This interactive experience deepened their understanding of Warhol's style and allowed them to transform their creative ideas into reality.
Pupils left the gallery buzzing with excitement, proud of their new skills and eager to show off their pop art creations – carrying with them a sense of accomplishment and a newfound enthusiasm for exploring art in all its vibrant forms.
Tauheedul Islam Girls’ High School and Sixth Form College (TIGHS) has been selected by The Sunday Times as its State Faith Secondary School of the Year 2025.
The Parent Power secondary school league tables ranked TIGHS as the highest-performing nonselective comprehensive school in England. The school secured joint 6th place of all state grammar and comprehensive schools in the North West of England, which includes selective schools.
TIGHS’ State Faith Secondary School of the Year 2025 award follows another year of exceptional GCSE and A levels results for its pupils.
61.2% of GCSEs taken by pupils were awarded the highest grades 9-7 and 82.7% of exams at A-level achieved grades A*-B – the fourth highest in the region. This prestigious accolade demonstrates the school’s commitment to developing wellrounded pupils who not only excel academically, but also grow into compassionate, principled individuals.
TIGHS, which is Star Academies’ founding school, has previously been
Sir Mufti Hamid Patel CBE, Chief Executive of Star Academies, said:
recognised in The Sunday Times school league tables when it was named North West State Secondary School of the Year 2020.
Now in its 32nd edition, The Sunday Times’ annual schools guide – Parent Power – identifies the highestachieving primary and secondary state and independent schools in the UK.
Credit: Data taken from The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2025
It is a profound honour that Tauheedul Islam Girls’ High School and Sixth Form College (TIGHS) has been recognised as the State Faith Secondary School of the Year 2025. This award is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our remarkable pupils, who consistently strive for excellence, supported by their devoted families and our exceptional teachers and support staff.
While TIGHS has long been celebrated as one of the country’s top-performing schools, our mission extends far beyond academic success. This recognition affirms our commitment to nurturing and empowering young people of strong character, guided by their faith and values, and helping them to thrive and make meaningful contributions to society."
Pupils take the law into their own hands in memorable mock trials
Taking on the roles of magistrates, lawyers and witnesses, 13 pupils from Years 8 and 9 put forward their case for a future career in law by participating in a mock magistrates’ court trial.
Held at the Queen Elizabeth II Law Courts in Birmingham, the enlightening event served as part of the Young Citizens Mock Trial Competition which pits pupils against their peers in courthouses across the country, providing the opportunity to put their powers of public speaking and persuasion to the test.
Before approaching the bench to plead their cases, pupils first toured the hallowed halls of the courthouse, eagerly listened to a speech on the intriguing intricacies of the British legal system by the mock trial’s organiser, David Warner, and were also invited to meet Douglas Wright, the High Sheriff of the West Midlands, who offered some last-minute words of wisdom and encouragement to the pupils before their own mock trials began.
Competing against four other local schools, the aspiring custodians of the law argued for and against the prosecution of one Skye Davidson, who stood accused of a fictional crime. Participating schools were ranked
on their persuasiveness and adaptability at having to contend with uncooperative witnesses and dramatic curveballs, as the opposing side’s lawyers began their cross-examination and uncovered new layers to the confounding case.
With justice finally served and the case closed, Eden Boys’ School, Birmingham’s team placed second out of the five competing schools. Year 9 pupil Ayoob Adeed won a personal accolade as he was awarded the Best Prosecutor Award for his powers of persuasion during the mock trials.
Beyond coming away from the event with silver badges for their inspired efforts, the experience of presenting their cases in a real court of law is one that will provide lifelong memories for the participating pupils and may prove to be the first step on the path to a career in the world of law.
Pupils from Rainbow Primary Leadership Academy enjoyed a royally momentous day meeting His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty Queen Camilla, who were in Bradford to celebrate the city’s designation as UK City of Culture 2025.
One of only two local schools invited to attend by Bradford City Council, Rainbow Primary Leadership Academy was delighted to bring over 180 pupils to welcome the King and Queen to their school’s city and be part of this historic moment for the wider community.
Pupils from Reception through to Year 3 patiently waited to meet the monarchs and proudly displayed their artistic work – including banners, flags and their own replica crowns. Their anticipation turned to royal revelation as the King and Queen stopped to admire their colourful displays, taking time to learn more about the school and asking pupils their names, favourite subjects and what they enjoy most about Bradford.
In a brief bout of courteous confusion, one young pupil opted for a fist bump instead of the traditional handshake, much to the King’s amusement, who happily returned the gesture. Prompting amused smiles and laughter all around, the unexpected exchange turned into a memorable moment that the boy – and King Charles – won’t soon forget!
Reflecting on the day’s events, Rainbow Primary Leadership Academy Principal, Jonathan Harris, said:
It was an honour for our pupils to be given the opportunity to participate in such an historic event for our city. They were thrilled to meet the King and Queen and showed great respect and enthusiasm throughout the day.
We received many compliments from members of the public about our pupils’ outstanding behaviour and warm enthusiasm. It’s wonderful to see our young ambassadors showing such genuine love for Bradford and their community.”
The Olive School, Manchester officially opened the doors to its new permanent, purpose-built facilities, marking an exciting new chapter for pupils, staff and the Cheetham Hill community.
The new site – which is located on Heywood Street – boasts modern, flexible classrooms tailored to meet the needs of its inaugural cohort of reception pupils, with ample space for one-to-one reading sessions, sensory breaks and additional learning opportunities. The school’s large, multi-purpose hall serves as a dynamic space for assemblies, performances and dining.
The school also benefits from a dedicated science and design technology classroom, providing opportunities for creative play and developing practical skills such as cooking and baking. This space is set to become a future hub for community projects and workshops, further strengthening ties between the school and local community.
Nestled in a peaceful residential area, the expansive grounds are surrounded by established trees and green spaces. Outdoor play areas invite children to explore and engage their imaginations, while sports enthusiasts benefit from a cricket compound, football pitch and a versatile all-weather MUGA (multiuse games area), supporting a variety of physical activities. With dedicated woodland areas and outdoor learning spaces in abundance, teachers plan to set up a Forest School programme that uses nature to enrich the curriculum.
Hafsha Hafeji, Principal of The Olive School, Manchester, expressed her delight about the opening of the new school site, saying:
The move marks a significant milestone for our pupils, providing them with a vibrant and well-equipped environment that is designed to support their learning, growth and development. It’s a place where they can feel inspired, safe and empowered to achieve their full potential.”
Star King Solomon Academy was delighted to receive an email from West Midlands Police praising the swift and selfless actions of the school’s pupils in response to an incident in Birmingham city centre.
During their journey home from school, five pupils from Star King Solomon Academy - from both the primary and secondary phases - encountered a vulnerable member of the public who was unwell. Without hesitation, the group stepped in to offer support and call an ambulance, ensuring the person was safe and comfortable until help arrived.
The attending officer, PC Stevens of West Midlands Police, praised the pupils for their compassion, maturity, and presence of mind - qualities well beyond their years. In her message to the school, PC Stevens - who took the time to share her praise personally - described their actions as a credit to themselves, their families and the wider school community, writing:
"Their willingness to assist someone in need reflects their strong home values and the positive influence I believe your school has had on them.”
PC Stevens, who deals with young people in a variety of situations as part of her role in the city centre, said it was ‘refreshing’ to witness such kindness and responsibility and felt the pupils' behaviour deserved recognition.
The five pupils - Sara Plescan, Avarni Gallimore, Sefora Plescan, Edijah Powell and Asharah Morgan - were humbled and delighted to receive personal praise from the police.
Reflecting on the incident, Year 6 pupil, Sara Plescan, said:
It made me feel happy and proud to help someone in need and I was so happy when the police said we did a good job.”
Expressing great pride in the pupils’ actions, Star King Solomon Academy’s Primary Principal, Michelle Grannell, said:
We are incredibly inspired by these young people for their quick thinking and care for others. They embody the values we strive to instil in all our pupils - empathy, responsibility and courage in action.”
Year 8 pupils from Star Salford Academy swapped classrooms for computer labs during a thrilling CyberFirst day at the Home of Science and Technology (HOST) in Salford, to crack the code on the basics of cyber security.
The event – hosted by IN4 Group and designed to ignite interest in tech careers – saw 30 excited pupils step into HOST’s state-of-the-art facilities for an electrifying day of learning and digital discovery through workshops and hands-on experiences.
The day began with a cyber security workshop, where pupils learned how to protect their online presenceinvaluable knowledge in an increasingly tech-driven world. Guided through real-world scenarios, they explored ways to secure their social media and personal data, and got to grips with how to safeguard themselves from cyber threats and maintain their privacy online.
Later in the day, pupils had the chance to explore HOST’s impressive gaming facilities, which were packed with the latest consoles and high-performance PCs. These cutting-edge spaces showcased a variety of top-of-theline systems, offering pupils a first-hand look at the technology shaping the future of gaming. In
the games and consoles themselves, gaining a deeper understanding of the technology behind the games they love. Pupils also had the opportunity to level up their skills by creating AI-generated images, blending coding with creativity to create their own interpretations of their favourite characters.
The highlight of the day was a motivational talk by Mo Isap, CEO of IN4 Group, Vice Chair of Star Academies and Chair of Governors at Star Salford Academy. Mo shared his personal journey from promising pupil to tech CEO, inspiring pupils to dream big and seize every opportunity. His words sparked enthusiasm among pupils, demonstrating that with passion, hard work and determination, they too could forge their own paths in the tech industry.
After a hugely successful visit, Star Salford Academy is looking forward to future collaborations with HOST and IN4 Group – opening doors to the bright digital futures
The Olive School, Birmingham has been awarded the prestigious HSBC Smart Money Award, recognising pupils’ outstanding commitment to developing their financial literacy.
The award, presented by HSBC UK, celebrates schools where pupils have actively engaged with its financial education programme, demonstrating commitment to building money management skills and financial confidence.
Throughout the academic year, pupils at The Olive School, Birmingham have taken part in a range of interactive sessions focused on key aspects of financial education, including budgeting, saving and becoming discerning consumers. These sessions are part of HSBC’s nationwide initiative to ensure young people have access to vital financial knowledge in school, at home and in the wider community.
One of the highlights of the programme was the Super Supper Challenge, which encouraged pupils to plan nutritious meals while staying within a set budget. The challenge helped them explore the impact of everyday financial decisions, the importance of healthy choices and how to maximise value without compromising on quality.
Humaira Begum, Assistant Principal at The Olive School, Birmingham, said:
Throughout the year, our pupils have shown remarkable engagement with financial education.
Financial literacy is an essential life skill, and this award highlights the progress our pupils have made in understanding and managing money responsibly.”
THORNBURY PRIMARY LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Following a highly successful performing arts project, Thornbury Primary Leadership Academy made history as part of Bradford Sing, Dance, Leap –performing alongside hundreds of pupils in front of an audience of more than 2,000 children from participating schools.
Taking place at the newly opened Bradford Live venue, the performance marked a major cultural milestone for the city and formed part of the Bradford 2025: City of Culture celebrations.
Led by the Royal Ballet and Opera (RBO), Opera North and Northern Ballet, Sing, Dance, Leap gave pupils the chance to share the stage with professional artists in a new ballet and opera piece shaped by the hopes and dreams of children from across Bradford.
The project is part of the wider Chance to Dance initiative, which aims to broaden access to ballet and create new opportunities for young people to get involved in the performing arts.
Thornbury pupils across key stage 2 began their journey in October, taking part in a ‘Dream Catching Workshop’
Chris Young, Principal at
Thornbury
to share their ambitions and help inform the creative direction of the final piece. Throughout the year, teachers received CPD from the Royal Ballet to support them in teaching the music and choreography to their classes.
After a round of auditions, a group of Year 5 Thornbury pupils were selected to work directly with professional choreographers from the Royal Ballet, learning a piece they would go on to perform live on stage alongside the professional dancers.
The rest of the Year 5 cohort joined in the massparticipation finale, performing the song and choreography they had learned together with pupils from across the city.
The performance was a celebration of creativity, ambition and collaboration – a chance for Thornbury pupils to shine and to be part of a defining cultural moment.
Primary Leadership Academy, said:
This has been an incredible opportunity for our pupils - not only to work with world-class partners like the Royal Ballet, Opera North and Northern Ballet, but to contribute to something as exciting and meaningful as Bradford’s City of Culture celebrations. It’s an experience they’ll remember for a long time, and their commitment and creativity have truly been inspiring.”
As part of their GCSE Citizenship Studies course, Year 10 pupils at Eden Girls' School, Waltham Forest had the unique opportunity to step beyond their textbooks and experience the pinnacle of the British judiciary first-hand.
Organised as part of their unit on the Judicial Systems in the UK, the trip to the Supreme Court offered an unforgettable insight into the workings of the nation’s highest court of appeal for both civil and criminal cases.
From the moment they walked through the grand arched stone doorway, pupils were immediately immersed in the fascinating world of law and justice. Upon arrival, they were welcomed with a bespoke guided tour and an engaging introductory talk by one of the Court’s knowledgeable Information Officers.
During their visit, pupils explored the role and significance of the Supreme Court, learning how it hears cases of profound public and constitutional importance that help shape and develop UK law. They were introduced to some landmark cases, including the high-profile 2021 Uber case involving the employment rights of drivers working for app-based companies.
The group was fortunate to visit all three majestic courtrooms, each steeped in tradition yet actively engaged in tackling the legal challenges of modern society. Pupils also had the opportunity to explore the educational exhibit area, which provided insights into the work and history of the Supreme Court, as well as a history of the building.
A particular highlight of the day was the re-enactment of a real appeal hearing from 2011, giving pupils a unique, hands-on experience of the judicial process that brought to life everything they had been learning.
Year 10 pupil Zarah Zain said:
This trip enabled me to learn more about the highest court of appeal in the UK and it was fun to learn about the history behind the Supreme Court.”
Mr Is'Haaq Jasat, Lead Teacher of Religious Education and Civic & Community Leadership Coordinator, said:
The trip to the Supreme Court was an excellent opportunity to inspire pupils and provide them with unique insight into potential careers and academic aspirations within the legal system.”
As construction work on the permanent home of Star Radcliffe Academy progresses at pace, a group of pupils experienced a memorable opportunity to witness the heart of their future school being built.
Thanks to Morgan Sindall Construction – the contractor delivering the new state-of-the-art secondary school – the pupils were invited to visit Leach Structural Steelwork’s factory in Preston. Leach is responsible for fabricating the steel that will form the foundation of Star Radcliffe Academy’s new home – a three-storey, 6,000m² building equipped with modern classrooms, cuttingedge technology, and first-class sports and recreational facilities. The visit was part of an ongoing programme to involve pupils in every stage of the school's development, turning the construction of their new learning environment into an educational experience in itself.
The visit began with an engaging and informative presentation, introducing pupils to the world of structural steelwork. They learnt about the various types of steel produced at the factory and gained insight into the processes involved in transforming raw materials into vital building components. The session also introduced them to advanced industry tools like Tekla Modelling and CAD detailing, offering a glimpse into the technical side of modern construction. Pupils enjoyed taking part in
interactive hands-on activities and a mini quiz, followed by a Q&A session that sparked great curiosity about careers in engineering and construction.
The highlight of the day was a guided tour of the factory which saw pupils explore the fittings shop and the main production facility, before discovering first-hand how steel columns and beams are fabricated. They also visited the painting shop and dispatch area, where each pupil was invited to sign a steel beam that will soon be installed in the roof of their new school building. With this symbolic gesture, a little piece of each pupil will forever be part of Star Radcliffe Academy’s foundation.
To help them visualise the impact of their visit, pupils were shown architectural drawings and pinpointed to the exact place where their steel will sit in the final structure. The experience brought the entire project to life, giving them a real sense of connection to their new school building.
Members of The Olive School, Bolton's Pupil Council have launched a project designed to give back to the local community and provide support amid the costof-living crisis.
Offering a lifeline for local families, the 'Help Yourself Hub' will provide pre-loved items, including books and revision guides, school uniform, stationery and school bags. Housed in a private space near the school's reception area, the hub is a support station where parents and guardians can collect items free of charge at selected times during the school day.
Launched in November to provide a discreet helping hand, the hub serves those facing difficult times, while also fostering a sense of community support and solidarity.
The school's Pupil Council worked together to spread the word, reaching out to parents and guardians to provide details of the 'Help Yourself Hub' and to invite donations from those able to contribute.
Reflecting on the motivations behind the hub, one member of the Pupil Council said:
We just want to help people who might not have everything they need. If we can make even one family feel happier or less worried, then it’s worth it. It’s nice knowing that something small can make a big difference."
Aisha Dakri, Assistant Principal at The Olive School, Bolton, said:
Our pupils’ selflessness and compassion show how much they care about making a difference. They have come together to create something meaningful for families in need, and it’s inspiring to see them leading this effort with such kindness and empathy. They are setting a wonderful example."
A group of goal-driven go-getters embarked on a high-flying journey of creativity and challenge as they participated in the Future Airline Challenge, sponsored by British Airways.
Facilitated by the National Careers Challenge (NCC), Year 8 pupils from Eden Girls’ School, Coventry took part in a nationwide careers-related enterprise challenge exploring the dynamic world of international travel. Pupils were presented with the exciting task of creating a new subsidiary airline for British Airways, thoughtfully designing every detail - from the airline’s name and unique features to a compelling marketing plan. The budding entrepreneurs also considered their target market, customer profiles, flight routes, and service quality, all while ensuring their airline remained sustainable and commercially viable.
Over 120 Year 8 pupils from Eden Girls’ School, Coventry, rose to the one-day challenge, demonstrating teamwork, creativity and sharp problem-solving skills as they competed to design the airline of the future. On challenge day, pupils were divided into teams of six, with each squad competing head-to-head to pitch their airline concepts. Judges from both the school and the NCC carefully evaluated the proposals before selecting an overall winner.
The school’s winning team will now advance to the National Careers Challenge Grand Finals at the Barbican Centre in London, where they will compete against other top teams from across the country. With their innovative designs ready for departure, these young entrepreneurs are jet-setting toward success.
Zubair Khalifa, Assistant Principal at Eden Girls’ School, Coventry, said:
This is the first time we have taken part in the Future Airline Challenge, but the National Careers Challenge has been inspiring young people nationwide for many years. It’s fantastic to see our Year 8 pupils engage so enthusiastically, developing vital skills like teamwork, creativity and problem-solving that will serve them well in their futures.”
From September, Year 7 pupils joining Bay Leadership Academy will benefit from an exclusive music programme thanks to a partnership with the Music in Secondary Schools Trust (MiSST).
Endorsed by Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber – the creator of hit musicals including Cats and Phantom of the Opera - the programme will see pupils receive a classical musical instrument on loan and music tuition for the duration of their time in Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) at no cost to parents.
Bay Leadership Academy is one of just 30 schools across the country to partner with MiSST and the first in Lancashire to offer the Andrew Lloyd Webber Programme. Pupils will have the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument both as a soloist and in an ensemble, improvise and compose their own pieces, and learn about multiple musicians and genres.
Speaking about the benefits of offering music tuition in schools, Lord Lloyd Webber said:
Engagement in the arts changes lives. The positive impact of the arts on health, social mobility and well-being are now irrefutable. I passionately believe that everyone in this country particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds should be able to participate and I am thrilled MiSST’s music programme will make a difference for these young people.”
As well as receiving expert music tuition at school, gifted musicians participating in the programme will have the opportunity to perform alongside pupils from other MiSST schools in national orchestras and choirs such as the MiSST Symphony Orchestra and MiSST Voices Choir.
Lee Waring, Principal at Bay Leadership Academy, said:
We are thrilled to be offering our pupils the opportunity to unlock their passion for music through our partnership with MiSST and the Andrew Lloyd Webber Programme. I am delighted to reaffirm our commitment to empowering young people to express themselves through the arts and look forward to seeing our pupils embrace such an exciting opportunity.”
Founded in 2013, MiSST was developed at an innercity London school and has since served over 22,000 children, providing them with classical instruments, expert tuition and the opportunity to perform in order to ignite a love of music and improve their educational and social outcomes.
Rachel Landon, CEO of MiSST, said:
MiSST are thrilled to be partnering with Bay Leadership Academy from September 2025, the school like us are dedicated to bringing opportunities to children who may not have been able to afford this provision and understand the positive impact that a highquality music programme can have on children and are committed to bringing this entitlement to them.”
Secondary pupils from Starbank School enjoyed hearing from industry experts as part of a special event designed to give an insight into careers available in the creative field.
720 future-focused pupils from Years 7 to 10 welcomed four guest speakers who detailed their career paths and journeys while giving a fascinating insight into their day-to-day working lives.
Megan Coutts, Senior Producer at Gymshark, spoke about life at the British-based multinational athletic apparel retailer whose origins began in a Birmingham garage in 2012. Now boasting customers in over 230 countries across 14 online stores, Gymshark's rise is nothing short of remarkable and has grown to be a family of 900 employees across offices in five regions, including Solihull and Denver, Colorado. Hearing about Megan's journey - and the journey of Gymshark itself - pupils were reminded that humble beginnings can yield extraordinary futures when passion meets perseverance.
Starbank School was also treated to two talks from BBC representatives - production co-ordinator Nikita Berry and Jasmine Takhar, host of BBC Introducing and the Official British Asian Music Chart on the BBC Asian Network.
Adding further artistic flair to proceedings was comic artist and illustrator Laura Howell, whose talents have seen her become the first female artist to produce a regular strip in The Beano in its 80+ year history.
Following talks from each inspirational speaker, pupils engaged in a Q&A session where they had the opportunity to discover more about where their own passions could take them.
Reflecting on the successful event, Emily Davies, Assistant Principal at Starbank School, said:
Hosting our first BBC Bitesize Careers Event has been an incredible experience for our pupils. Hearing from industry professionals has not only inspired them but also broadened their understanding of the exciting opportunities within the creative sector. Events like this play a vital role in showing our pupils how their passions and talents can shape their futures."
Pupils from Eden Boys' Leadership Academy, Birmingham East brought music, meaning and community spirit to two of Birmingham’s major hospitals through heartfelt performances as part of a charitable initiative.
The school's nasheed choir visited Birmingham's Heartlands Hospital to support the University Hospitals Birmingham Charity appeal, with pupils performing for visitors, patients and staff. The choir, comprising pupils from Year 7 to Year 10, has been rehearsing regularly at the school’s nasheed club, where they learn and practise spiritually reflective pieces.
Accompanied by their music teacher, the pupils shared a range of nasheeds that created a calm and reflective atmosphere and were warmly received by members of the local community. The boys thoroughly enjoyed the
opportunity to showcase what they had learned and were proud to use their voices for a meaningful cause.
Following their successful Heartlands performance, the choir was invited to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where they sang in the hospital lobby to staff, patients and passersby, earning widespread praise.
Over the course of both visits, the pupils raised over £550 for the Hospital Charity Trust - a fantastic achievement that reflects both their talent and their commitment to serving others.
Pupils and staff at Small Heath Leadership Academy were honoured to host Alison McGovern MP, Minister of State at the Department for Work and Pensions, and representatives from Save the Children to discuss the impact of child poverty on young people in Birmingham.
The visit, arranged by Save the Children as part of its work to inform the work of the Government’s Child Poverty Taskforce, was featured on ITV News. Several pupils were interviewed by an ITV reporter about their observations of the impact of child poverty in their communities.
The West Midlands has the highest rate of child poverty in the country at 38%, with Birmingham ranking second highest among all local authorities at 46.4%.
In the summer of 2024, the UK Government announced a Child Poverty Taskforce, co-chaired by Liz Kendall MP, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, and Bridget Phillipson, Secretary of State for Education to develop a UK-wide Child Poverty Strategy.
After speaking with teachers and pastoral care staff at Small Heath Leadership Academy who support pupils facing financial hardship, Minister McGovern and representatives from Save the Children also heard directly from pupils about their experiences.
Pupils spent the morning sharing how the national crisis of child poverty affects their own community and welcomed the opportunity to provide the Government with a local perspective on a nationwide challenge.
Reflecting on the challenges of poverty in the local area, one pupils told ITV News:
I see it a lot, especially in my community, and it’s really heartbreaking to see children my age unable to experience the same as others.”
Another pupil added:
A lot of parents come from different countries and don’t have the same access to high-paying jobs.”
Addressing the Child Poverty Strategy’s focus on employment opportunities, Minister McGovern said:
I want to be sure that people looking for work are getting really good opportunities, so we're changing our Job Centres to help people access quality jobs. If we can support single parents with better childcare, it gives them more options for work and financial stability.”
EDEN BOYS’ LEADERSHIP ACADEMY, MANCHESTER
Twenty-six pupils from Eden Boys’ Leadership Academy, Manchester experienced the journey of a lifetime as they embarked on a four-day trip to New York City.
Stepping out onto the streets of Manhattan, adventurous pupils from Years 8 to 10 were greeted by the sights and sounds of the bustling city, ready to experience the unique culture of the Big Apple.
The world-famous Rockefeller Center was the first stop on the pupils’ adventure, where they marvelled at their iconic surroundings and got their first aerial views of the New York skyline from the Top of the Rock observation deck.
Day two of the trip saw pupils and staff explore New York from every angle as they began the day with an open top bus tour along the city’s famous streets.
The group then tested their nerve as they ventured to Edge, the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, located 100 stories up and offering mesmerising views of the city below for those brave enough to conquer their fear of heights.
Back on solid ground, the group paid a star-studded visit to New York’s Madame Tussauds, where they came face to face with waxwork doubles of legendary movie actors, musicians and world leaders.
New York is home to countless landmarks that are known to millions around the world and the third day of the trip allowed the group to see some of these iconic sites up close. Pupils scaled the dizzying heights of the Empire State Building, stopped by the Statue of Liberty and took an evening stroll through Times Square, looking on in awe at the dazzling billboards, energetic street performers and bustling crowds of ‘The City That Never Sleeps’.
Leaving Manhattan behind, the group surfed New York’s subway to the neighbouring borough of Brooklyn where they visited Brooklyn Masjid and got to experience a part of New York’s vibrant Muslim culture, learning about the history of the mosque and the role it plays in its community.
After making memories to last a lifetime, Year 8 pupil Yusuf said:
The entire trip was a real adventure. Seeing the landmarks and buildings that I had only seen on films and TV was amazing. The open top bus tour where we learnt about New York’s past was fascinating.”
LAISTERDYKE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
The University of Oxford’s Worcester College played host to a group of promising pupils from Laisterdyke Leadership Academy for a visit aimed at broadening horizons, raising aspirations and nurturing academic ambition.
Founded in 1714, but tracing its roots back to a much older educational community established by Benedictine monks in the 13th century, Worcester College is known for its commitment to academic excellence, beautiful buildings and 26 acres of peaceful gardens – widely considered to be the finest in Oxford.
Twenty five pupils from Years 9 and 10 visited the historic grounds to enjoy a tour of the campus and discover more about life at one of the world’s most prestigious and inspiring universities.
Pupils explored the college’s library, enjoyed a visit to its on-site art gallery, and experienced dining in the historic hall. They also had the opportunity to speak with a current student ambassador, gaining valuable insight into university life.
After exploring the college, pupils took a walk through the city, taking in key Oxford landmarks, before rounding off with an engaging afternoon at the History of Science Museum.
Shohab Ali, Assistant Principal at Laisterdyke Leadership Academy, said:
We are thrilled to offer our pupils the chance to experience life at one of the world’s leading universities. Visits like this not only broaden their horizons but also ignite the ambition and confidence needed to pursue higher education and achieve their full potential."
Displaying their vocal talents in front of an audience of 5,000 people, The Olive School, Hackney's Star Voices Children's Choir captivated crowds as part of The Global Peace & Unity Festival's Big Sing Up.
Taking to the stage at London's ExCeL Centre, pupils from Years 3 to 6 joined forces with two other London schools to form a 60-strong choir and journey through a set list of inspiring songs, including 'Peace Train' by Cat Stevens and The Olive School, Hackney's version of ‘Believe’ by Lin Marsh. The vibrant vocalists were also joined on stage by an international artist - Egyptian-American singer Raef - who performed with the choir.
Reflecting on the choir’s outstanding performance, The Olive School, Hackney's Principal, Babar Mirza - who also hosted the event - said:
The incredible hard work and determination shown by our pupils over the past few months has been nothing short of remarkable. They have willingly given up their weekends to rehearse, all with the goal of delivering something truly special and watching them perform in front of nearly 5,000 people was a moment of pure pride. It was a privilege to host such an inspiring event and share the stage with our shining stars."
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
After being selected to join the Pears Youth Fund panel, Emmanuel and Iga from Tong Leadership Academy participated in an intensive three-week selection process with their peers to shortlist 32 diverse funding applications.
The Pears Youth Fund – a collaboration between Give Bradford, Leeds Community Foundation and the Pears Foundation – supports youth organisations in Leeds and Bradford. By doing this, the Fund helps to give young people a voice in society through youth work, empowerment and engagement.
The Youth Panel initially narrowed the field to eight worthy candidates during an online panel. After thorough discussions and final deliberations, the panel met in person at Highcroft Youth Centre, where Tong pupils Emmanuel (Year 10) and Iga (Year 9) played a key role in selecting the final four grant recipients. During this process, they showcased their ability to confidently articulate the merits of each proposal and provide constructive feedback for those not selected.
Emmanuel and Iga’s journey to the panel began with Samantha Siddique, a dedicated Youth Worker from Bradford’s ‘Breaking the Cycle’ initiative. Last year, Samantha worked closely with a cohort of pupils from Tong Leadership Academy who were facing challenges affecting their school attendance. Through her guidance and support, Emmanuel and Iga experienced significant
improvements in their engagement with school, building stronger relationships that ultimately led to their selection for the Pears Youth Fund panel.
Samantha Siddique said:
It has been a privilege to continue working with Emmanuel and Iga and to see them thrive as part of the Pears Youth Fund Panel. The feedback from their parents has been overwhelmingly positive and it's wonderful to be able to offer these young people such a valuable experience outside of school.
They’ve represented the young people of Bradford brilliantly, and their contributions will have a lasting impact on the opportunities available to youth in the community over the next two years."
The grants awarded by the youth panel – totalling £80,000 – will benefit third sector organisations throughout Bradford, including vital initiatives local to Tong Leadership Academy. This achievement not only highlights Emmanuel and Iga’s individual success, but also strengthens Tong Leadership Academy’s mission to nurture leadership and promote civic engagement among its pupils.
Stepping back in time for a day of epic explorations, Year 3 pupils from The Olive School, Small Heath enjoyed a special workshop on Athenians and Spartan Greeks.
Linking to the children’s learning about Ancient Greece, the workshop also complemented their English writing unit on Myths and Legends and saw pupils journey through the era's origins, mythology, and culture.
Year 3's Greek-focused group navigated the complexities of life as Athenians and Spartans and discovered the vast differences between two of the most powerful and influential societies of the time. While Spartans were required to join the army, Athenian options were broader and included access to education. After an eye-opening look at life in Ancient Greece, pupils explored the lasting legacies and epic tales of the Greek gods, engaging in dramatic reenactments to embody deities such as Athena, Zeus, Hermes, Poseidon and more.
Building on their exploration of Greek mythology, pupils then turned their attention to one of the most famous traditions to emerge from Ancient Greece - the Olympic Games. With roots in religious festivals held in honour of Zeus, the Olympics were a celebration of athleticism, competition and unity that continue to influence the world.
A significant part of Greek culture and a testament to physical prowess, the Olympic spirit was brought to life as pupils staged their own Ancient Greek games. The highlight was a fierce jumping competition, where two winners from each class battled in a final jump-off to secure extra playtime for their teams.
The immersive sessions of the day brought history to life – sparking curiosity and creativity while reinforcing key learning from the classroom. Pupils left the workshop inspired and eager to continue their Ancient Greece adventure through reading, writing, and further discoveries.