BOA Digital Technologies - Summer Newsletter 2025

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NEWSLETTER

As we wrap up the school year and head into the six weeks summer holiday, this marks our final newsletter of the term. It’s a perfect opportunity to catch up on what our pupils have been working on, take a glimpse into daily life at school, discover some fun highlights, and stay updated.

We hope you enjoy reading and celebrating all that’s been achieved this term!

NEWSLETTER

WELCOME MESSAGE

Dear Parents, Carers and friends of BOA Digital,

As we reach the end of a vibrant and inspiring summer term, I want to take a moment to reflect on the achievements, creativity, and progress our students have shown over the past few months. It has been a real privilege to lead BOA Digital as Interim Headteacher during this exciting chapter, and I continue to be inspired by the energy and ambition of our school community.

This newsletter gives just a glimpse into the incredible work our learners have produced - from thought-provoking digital projects and real-world problem solving, to artistic showcases, STEM experiences, and success on the sports field. Every page celebrates the talent, curiosity and resilience of our students, and I could not be prouder of all they have accomplished.

A special thank you to our dedicated staff team and supportive families for everything you’ve done to help make this term a success. Your partnership is vital to the continued growth and wellbeing of our students.

To our new Year 7's joining us in September - it was a pleasure to meet many of you during Transition Day, and we can’t wait to welcome you fully into our community And to all our students and families - I wish you a safe, restful and enjoyable summer break.

It has been a genuine pleasure to serve as Interim Headteacher this term, and I am certain that everyone in the BOA Digital community will go on to do amazing things. Hopefully, our paths will cross again in the future.

Kind Regards,

NEWSLETTER

FUNFACT

The first computer virus was created in 1986 it was called “Brain” and was made to protect software from piracy!

SCHOOL LIFE

A big thank you to all the students who joined us for today's Transition Day at BOA Digital! It was fantastic to meet so many excited future Year 7s we can't wait to welcome you properly in September

In the next few weeks, parents and guardians will receive a Welcome Handbook packed with everything you need to know before the new school year begins

If you have any questions in the meantime, head over to our website for more information.

The countdown to September is on… and we can’t wait to get started!

TRANSITION DAY 2025

We’re thrilled to share the fantastic result from yesterday’s home basketball fixture, where our Boys Basketball Team made up of students from Years 7, 8 and 9 faced off against Priory School and came away with an outstanding win: 54 – 8!

It was an incredible display of teamwork, determination and talent. Huge congratulations to our players: Aaron, Scott, Gabriel, Elim, Taelon, Sirius, Mike, Eli and Israel you made us all proud!

SLAM DUNK!

SCHOOL LIFE

We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all parents and carers who joined us for our Year 7 and 8 Parents' Evening this term.

Your support and engagement play a vital role in your child’s progress, and it was a pleasure to discuss how we can continue working together to support their success

We appreciate your time and look forward to building on these conversations in the 25/26 terms

REAL-WORLD PROBLEMS, CREATIVE DIGITAL SOLUTIONS!

In May, our talented students took to the stage to present their incredible project work to a live audience Each group was challenged to identify a problem and design an innovative digital solution and they absolutely delivered!

From tackling fast fashion waste and improving accessibility in gaming, to enhancing the speed and accuracy of VAR in football, their ideas were bold, thoughtful, and future-focused

We’re so proud of the creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking on display The future of digital innovation looks bright at BOA Digital!

A huge well done to our amazing Year 9 students!

Yesterday, they completed the Golfway Leaders Course and put their new skills into action by leading a brilliant primary school golf festival.

From planning to delivering inclusive, engaging activities, they showed fantastic leadership, communication, and teamwork throughout. Their professionalism, enthusiasm, and maturity truly shone as they inspired the next generation of young golfers.

We couldn’t be prouder – well done to everyone involved!

TERM DATES 2025/26

NEWSLETTER

RETURN TO SCHOOL IN SEPTEMBER

We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone back in September!

Year 7 and Year 10 will return on Tuesday 3 September rd

Year 8 and Year 9 will return on Wednesday 4 September th

Across both days, students will take part in lineups, assemblies, form time and timetabled lessons.

This staggered start allows us to set clear expectations for our new Year 7s, outline important GCSE expectations for Year 10, and give our new staff a chance to meet their teams and get a feel for the day-to-day running of the school It also gives us time to update student photos and biometrics for our school systems

We can’t wait to get started!

STAFF FAREWELLS

SCHOOL LIFE

PUPILS

SCHOOL LIFE

As we reach the end of the school year, we say goodbye to some valued members of the BOA Digital team.

A heartfelt thank you to Mr Averis, our Principal, who played a key role in the launch of BOA Digital Technologies and has led the academy with dedication and passion We wish him all the very best as he heads off on his next adventure

We also say goodbye to:

Miss Florea (Spanish)

Miss Benwell (English)

Miss Babalola (Music)

Each of them has made a meaningful contribution to our school community, and they will be greatly missed

We thank them for their hard work and commitment, and wish them every success for the future.

As we prepare for the new school year, please make sure you return in September fully equipped and ready to learn

All students should come to school with the correct stationery, including pens, pencils, a ruler and any other essential equipment for lessons

Being prepared helps everyone start the year with confidence and focus.

NEWSLETTER

END OF SUMMER TERM AWARDS

On the final day of term, we held a special Awards Ceremony to celebrate students from each year group who have shown outstanding effort, commitment, and achievement across their subjects It was a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the hard work and progress made this term, and to recognise those who have truly gone above and beyond.

A big thank you to Scott and Jayden in Year 9 for their fantastic piano performance at the start of our assembly. A brilliant way to set the tone and get us off to a great start!

A huge congratulations to all of our award winners your dedication and positive attitude have not gone unnoticed! Our full list of winners are below:

ENGLISH AWARDS

Audrey A, Isa F & Bobby C

MATHS AWARDS

Ahmed E, Jacob D & Abduladheem A

SCIENCE AWARDS

Liz J, Ishaq A & Eddie F

HUMANITIES AWARDS

Daina B, Evan M & Ava J

ART AWARDS

Ana M, Leo L & Keval D

MRS DYSON’S AWARD

Flo M

AP - MR O’BRIEN’S AWARD

Ali E

TECHNOLOGY PROJECT AWARDS

Bobbie-Beau O, Kymani O & Oliver S

COMPUTER SCIENCE AWARDS

S’riyah M, Oday A & Mohammed A

SPANISH AWARDS

Nevaeh B, Flo M & Ali E

MUSIC AWARDS

Salah A, Tianna B & Scott S

PE AWARDS

Jacob P, Sirius F & Sara A

MISS RUSSON’S AWARD

Tesharn M

AP - MISS HART’S AWARD

Michaela T

AN EXCEPTIONAL DIGITAL LEARNER AWARD

Amaru A

Rio T Sapphire S

May - July 2025

NEWSLETTER

STUDENT LIFE

PRAISE POINT WINNERS ENJOY COOKIES & MILKSHAKES IN THE SUN!

Over the past term, selected students at BOA Digital Technologies were rewarded for their outstanding effort and positive attitude with a special treat at the end of the day during P6. As part of our Praise Point celebration, these students were invited to enjoy cookies and milkshakes outside in the sunshine – a well-deserved break to recognise their hard work!

Our interim Headteacher, Mr McDaid-Jones, joined the celebration on both days to personally thank the students for their contributions and encourage them to keep up the fantastic work A huge well done to all our winners:

Sidoney, Raia, Audrey, Ivy-Leigh, Tariq, Dylan, Jacob, Alan, Nadia, Laziah, N Alexander, Izaan, Kaejah, Nathaniel, Jeremie, Kiara, Aryana-Amor and Shay

We’re incredibly proud of your efforts – keep striving for excellence!

At BOA Digital, we love celebrating our students' achievements in and out of school! Whether it’s a competition win, exciting project, industry experience, or something amazing outside the classroom, we want to hear about it. Share their story with us at marketing@boa-group.co.uk.

FUNFACT

The first webcam was invented to watch a coffee pot so scientists didn’t miss their coffee break!

ART SHOWCASE 2025!

On Wednesday 9 July, we proudly hosted our annual Art Showcase – an evening packed with creativity, talent and celebration.

Guests were treated to an impressive lineup of musical performances and digital work in the Main Hall, showcasing the skills and originality our students have been developing throughout the year. From original compositions to immersive digital media pieces, the level of professionalism and passion was clear to see.

Meanwhile, the Dance Studio was transformed into a vibrant art exhibition, featuring a wide range of visual work From bold paintings to intricate designs, each piece reflected our students’ unique voices and creative journeys

TECH PROJECTS

The evening was a fantastic success, and we couldn’t be prouder of the hard work, dedication and imagination our learners have poured into their projects Thank you to everyone who came along to support – your presence made the night even more special

This term, Year 7 and 8 explored how AI can enhance learning They learnt to write effective prompts and use AI tools to solve problems while developing a new snack brand The project also built creativity, teamwork, and communication skills

Year 9 are working towards iDEA and IBM Skills Build badges through mini digital projects These help them gain industry-recognised certificates in areas like Cyber Security, AI, Robotics, Data, Web Design, Python, and Game Development

SCI-ENGENIEERING EVENT

In June, 21 of our Year 7 learners headed to the SciEngineering Event at Millennium Point for a hands-on day of STEM discovery!

From designing ship sails with the @1851Trust to exploring 3D printing with Aston University, creating badges with ElevationX, and cracking cyber security challenges with the West Midlands Cyber Security Unit it was a day packed with innovation and inspiration

Students also had the chance to speak with local companies, colleges and universities about future careers and study in tech and STEM fields A brilliant day for our future innovators!

In June, our Year 7 students virtually travelled to the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City all through the power of VR!

In Art, they explored the fascinating world of Fresco painting, learning how even Michelangelo traced his images before painting

Using VR headsets, pupils had a safe, 60-second immersive tour of the Chapel, then traced their own portrait Frescos ready to build on in their next lesson

Blending traditional art techniques with modern technology the BOA Digital way!

THE POWER OF VR

THE BIG BANG FAIR 2025

In June, our students had an incredible time at The Big Bang Fair at the NEC Birmingham!

From hands-on experiments to exciting demonstrations, they explored the amazing world of science, technology, engineering, and maths in fun and interactive ways It was a brilliant opportunity to see how science shapes the world around us and even inspires future careers!

All of our students represented BOA Digital brilliantly throughout the day Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and excellent behaviour made them a real credit to the academy

I HAVE A DREAM

This term, we had the incredible honour of welcoming Sampad Arts into the Academy to launch their powerful new book I Have A Dream a moving collection of writing by young people from schools in both India and Birmingham

Spanning 4,000 miles but united in purpose, I Have A Dream is a beautiful testament to the voices of the younger generation, advocating for peace, love, equality, and a brighter future for all We were joined by the Sampad team including their Director Piali Ray OBE

A huge congratulations and thank you to our talented students who took part: Kenzie, Omar, Lannaya, Zaime, David, Gabriel, Oliver, Isabelle, Regan, Scarlett, Amber, Matilda, Holly-Mae, Milda, Casper, Nell and Daniel – your words and creativity are truly something to be proud of

Special shout-out to Nell and Daniel who confidently shared their poems aloud with the class – such powerful performances!

We’re so proud to be part of a project that celebrates unity through creativity.

A huge well done to all of our students for their hard work and dedication during their summer assessments. You've shown great focus, resilience, and commitment congratulations on all your efforts!

The very first YouTube video was uploaded in April 2005 and is just 18 seconds long! It’s called “Me at the zoo” and features one of the site’s founders standing in front of elephants, talking about their trunks

NEWSLETTER

E-COMMERCE PROJECT AWARDS

We celebrated the incredible creativity and hard work of our learners in a special awards presentation assembly!

Led by one of our Governors, Mr Brady, the E-Commerce project challenged learners to design, build, and launch their own online T-shirt business from sourcing and pricing to branding and promotion

Our learners worked through 5 key stages: Product Sourcing

Product Content

Pricing

Website Build & Launch

Post-Launch Promotion

After pitching their websites, designs and campaigns, finalists were selected from Year 7 and Year 8 and we’re thrilled to announce the winners: YOUNG STARS (Y7) and LOCKD (Y8).

Their T-shirts will now go on sale to friends and family via their own live e-commerce sites!

Well done to everyone involved – what an incredible achievement.

SPORTS ROUND UP

A spirited performance from our BOA Digital Technologies team in a challenging fixture against a strong Moseley side.

Despite a 4 – 0 defeat, there was no shortage of determination, effort, and teamwork on display Moseley took early chances in both halves, but we continued to press, challenge, and show real moments of quality throughout the match

It was a tough test, but one that showed our team’s character and potential Plenty of positives to take forward as we continue to grow and develop on and off the pitch

Follow Wake Up Wednesday on social media.

They post the world’s most comprehensive collection of guides for educators, parents and children from The National College.

They cover important topics such as online safety, mental health, wellbeing and climate change.

You may have saw some guides in our weekly newsletter

CELEBRATING MATHS STARS!

120 of our talented Year 7 and 8 students took part in the Junior Mathematical Challenge, competing against thousands of schools across the country and 31 students earned awards for their incredible effort and problem-solving skills!

A huge congratulations to Shay C [Year 7] and Noah C [Year 8] who achieved Gold certificates –an outstanding achievement!

The challenge promotes mathematical reasoning, precision of thought and fluency encouraging students to think creatively and logically We’re so proud of everyone who took part!

ANIMATION FUN!

Our pupils recently had the fantastic opportunity to work with illustrator and animator Waheeda Rahman-Mair from The Treehouse, an animation studio based in Birmingham and London.

This term was all about getting to grips with digital drawing tablets and software - and our learners rose to the challenge brilliantly!

They’ve already started developing their digital illustration skills, and we can’t wait to see how their creativity continues to grow

GETTING CREATIVE IN ART

Year 9 got creative in Art with Mr Gilbert this term and the imagination has been flowing flowing!

Pupils explored character design by turning randomly cut paper shapes into quick-fire concept sketches This playful, hands-on task is part of a wider project focused on learning the stages of character creation and development

From spontaneous shapes to fully realised characters, we can’t wait to see where their ideas take them!

A MESSAGE FROM OUR NEW PRINICPAL

My name is Dr Morris, and I will be the Principal here at BOA Digital from September onwards

BOA Digital is no ordinary school. We believe in the power of innovation of using your creativity, curiosity, and ideas to shape what comes next. As the computer scientist Alan Kay, once said, “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” That’s exactly what we’ll help you do here. Whether it’s designing a game, coding an app, producing digital media, or solving real-world problems with technology, you won’t just learn about the future you’ll be empowered to create it.

You’ll learn using the very latest technologies, guided by expert staff who understand the digital landscape inside and out. From creative software to specialist tools, you’ll gain hands-on experience that brings your learning to life. You’ll take on exciting projects from designing apps and building games to creating digital media and solving real-world challenges. Along the way, you’ll build creative confidence, develop critical thinking, and master the skills you need to thrive in a fast-changing world where innovation never stands still.

At BOA Digital, we also believe that success isn’t just about talent it’s about effort, resilience, and attitude. We have high expectations of every student, because we know what you're capable of. We’ll encourage you to work hard, stay curious, and most importantly, to persevere when things get tough. Whether you're solving a tricky coding challenge or presenting your ideas to others, we’ll support you every step of the way but we’ll also challenge you to aim high and never give up That’s how real growth happens

More than anything, BOA Digital is about people You’ll find a supportive, inclusive community where everyone belongs, and every voice is valued We’ll help you grow not just as a learner, but as a person confident, creative, and ready for whatever comes next

So, get ready to be challenged, inspired, and celebrated

Dr J Morris Principal

SPORTS ROUND UP

BOA Digital Technologies 1 – 1 Ark St Alban's Academy

We saw a brilliant performance from our Year 8 Football team, holding the cup and league champions to a well-deserved draw!

We took the lead with a great team goal and matched Ark in every area of the pitch. A strong defensive display, composed passing, and real determination throughout.

Man of the Match honours went to Mekhi, whose energy, composure, and determination epitomised our performance. He was everywhere breaking up play, driving forward, and setting the tone for a fearless display.

Proud of the effort, attitude, and team spirit on show. Well done boys!

If you are studying Fine Art or Photography, get GCSE ready by exploring the BBC Bitesize Art and Design pages.

Visit www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize.

Don’t forget to complete one of the summer assignments given our in classes this week!

SPANISH

WELCOMING OUR NEW TEACHERS

The Science department has welcomed several numbers of staff into the department; Mr O’Brien, Miss Islam and Miss Asiedu, our Science technician.

NEW EQUIPMENT

We’ve taken delivery of lots of new practical equipment which students have been enjoying using. Incorporating practical work into lessons has made them much more enjoyable, for students and staff, and have brought the curriculum to life. Students have participated in practicals such as looking at how potatoes absorb water, how tea dissolves and how static electricity bends water. Many have appeared on our social media channels so look out for more next year.

Remember your themes: GCSE Fine Art - Culture and Heritage GCSE Photography - Gather and Place

BUILDING CONFIDENCE & FLUENCY

At KS3, our Spanish curriculum blends textbooks with listening and speaking tasks, as well as interactive quizzes for revision. This means your child benefits from a structured, engaging, and research-informed approach to language learning.

✔ Focus on high-frequency language for real-life use

✔ Strong emphasis on listening, reading, speaking, and writing

✔ Cultural knowledge from Spain and Latin America

✔ Confident progress towards GCSE

Our aim is to help students enjoy language learning, communicate clearly, and develop skills that open doors for the future

DIGITAL

DIGITAL INNOVATORS WORKSHOPS

In May, our students have dove into the world of innovation with Digital Innovators Workshops and what a week it was!

Led by the inspiring team at Digital Innovators, this hands-on programme is all about learning by doing Through real-world challenges and practical sessions, our students have been building essential skills in: Creativity, Critical Thinking, Communication and Collaboration

They’re also developed the 4 A’s that make all the difference in the workplace: Attitude, Aptitude, Ambition and Application

LOUDMOUTH VISIT

From pitching ideas to tackling tech challenges, our learners are gaining the confidence, experience, and edge they need for the future of digital careers

BOA Digital 5 - 7 Moseley School

This term, we welcomed Loudmouth Education for their impactful performance, Bully 4 U. Each year group took part in a scenario-based session exploring different types of bullying, encouraging important conversations around behaviour, empathy, and respect.

Students also engaged in a reflective Q&A, asking thoughtful questions and sharing their views. Thank you Loudmouth for helping our students build awareness and understanding

MATCH REPORT

A thrilling end-of-season game saw our Year 7's show incredible heart! After a tough first half, the boys came out firing in the second, scoring 5 superb goals and dominating the play.

Despite a narrow loss, their resilience, spirit, and teamwork were on full display

SPORT

The first video game ever made was created in 1958 it was a simple tennis game called Pong, and it could only be played on an oscilloscope!

SPOTLIGHT ON HUMANITIES THIS TERM

Students across all year groups have made fantastic progress in Humanities this year not only in their subject knowledge, but also in the way they think critically about the world around them.

Year 7 have shown real curiosity and enthusiasm while exploring the Industrial Revolution. Their thoughtful discussions around child labour, urbanisation, and innovation demonstrated maturity and a growing sense of empathy.

Year 8 particularly impressed with their engagement in studying Elizabethan society. They asked insightful questions about power, religion, and daily life in Tudor England, and produced creative, well-researched projects that brought the period vividly to life.

Year 9 approached exam week with focus and resilience, showing they are well on their way to being GCSE-ready In History, they demonstrated strong analysis while studying Weimar and Nazi Germany, and in Geography, they confidently tackled complex physical processes such as coasts and glaciation

Across the board, students have continued to develop vital skills critical thinking, evaluation, and extended writing that will support their success in school and far beyond

CYBERFIRST BRONZE SCHOOL

We have been recognised by the National Cyber Security Centre with a CyberFirst Bronze Award - a national recognition of our commitment to highquality cyber education and inspiring the next generation of digital talent.

A massive thank you to our Head of Digital, Ms. McKenzie-Pusey, for leading this achievement, and our incredible staff, SLT team, Governors, and industry partners for their support throughout the application process.

As we prepare for our first GCSE cohort this September, this award reflects our efforts to embed cyber computing into the curriculum and empower young people with real-world digital skills - helping shape the future of the tech industry in our region. This is just the beginning!

MATHS

NEWSLETTER

UPDATES FROM THE DEPARTMENT

Our Maths digital platform EEDI is available over the summer to all Year 7 and Year 9 pupils - please access this to work on your Maths skills and keep your recall of key knowledge up over the six weeks!

Pupils can speak to Miss Chapman before the break for a reminder of their username and password

Desmos & Transum

Pupils in all year groups can use Desmos and Transum to access Maths work and practise their skills over summer! Desmos now requires students to select 'Log in via amplify' so please get them using their school email and password that they have already set.

Transum does not need any log in, and students can check their answers and use the videos and examples to help with their skills.

Maths Challenge: Diary Dates

Thursday 25 September 2025 - Maths Olympiad for Girls th 4 students will be able to take part in this brand new competition - in September you will be able to apply for this opportunity to be selected to represent the school

Wednesday 28 January 2026 - Intermediate Maths Challenge (Year 9 and 10 D and I groups) th

Wednesday 29 April 2026 - Junior Maths Challenge (Year 7 and 8 D and I groups) th

TERMLY REPORTS FOR STUDENTS

NEWS

Year 7 written reports will be available on MCAS for parents to access from Friday 18 July. th

Year 7, 8 and 9 Termly reports will also be available to give information about attitudes to learning and general attainment.

Did you know the first ever email was sent all the way back in 1971?

It was created by engineer Ray Tomlinson, who was experimenting with ways for computers to communicate.

He also made a major decision we still use today choosing the “@” symbol to separate the username from the computer address At the time, the message was just a test and not meant to be saved, but it marked the beginning of how we all communicate digitally today!

NEWSLETTER

THINGS TO DO OVER THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS THINGS TO DO OVER THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS

VISIT THE NEW ART TRAIL IN THE CITY

A new art trail is coming to Birmingham for summer 2025 - and this year's theme is our iconic bull

The trail will feature a 'stampede' of 40 larger-than-life bull sculptures which will be dotted around key landmarks in the city.

It's all in aid of Birmingham Hospice and is sponsored by the University of Birmingham to help mark the institution's 125th anniversary

GO TO THE NEW VINTAGE FAIRGROUND

A Vintage Fairground Museum has opened near Brum and it’s full of working rides

VISIT THE SEALIFE CENTRE

Explore the underwater world at the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham

Kids will go wild for playful penguins, toothy sharks, graceful sea turtles and a kaleidoscope of colourful fish

It's at Statfold Country Park where you can get a Steam into Summer Pass for a whole summer of unlimited fun for kids from just £20

Tired of hearing "I'm bored" on repeat? Go Ape in Cannock offers the ultimate remedy

Teens can soar to new heights as they swing and climb through trees on an exhilarating high ropes course, embracing the challenge and excitement of the outdoors

GO APE CANNOCK

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN HISTORY AT THE BCLM

Immerse yourself in history this summer at the Black Country Living Museum. Explore over 50 authentic shops, houses and works showcasing the area's industrial heritage

Special summer events include a 1940s Evening on 12th July 2025 and Summer Lates every Friday evening in August from 4pm onwards Enjoy retro drinks, traditional Black Country food, live music and fairground rides for a truly immersive experience.

Top tip: Travel by train and get discounted entry to top attractions including BCLM. (Nearest station: Tipton)

Birmingham’s closest beach is now open for the summer This Blue Flag lakeside beach is close enough for a day trip from Birmingham and you can be home in time for tea! It’s just in Rutland and has a playground with water features, towers and bridges

Set upon a picturesque lake, ideal for swimming and paddling, there's a beautiful sandy beach with plenty of space to play

for taking the time to read through our last newsletter of the Summer Term.

We send one out at the end of every term so you can keep up to date with everything going on at the school.

If you have any questions for the team, or would like something to be included in our next letter please email info@boa-digital.co.uk

We will see you again when we return to school in September!

Year 7 & 10 start on Wednesday 3 September 2025 rd Year 8 & 9 start on Thursday 4 September 2025 th

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