Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26
At Cheslyn Hay Academy, we believe that education extends far beyond the classroom. Academic success is important, but we are equally committed to developing confident, compassionate and ambitious young people who are ready to make a positive difference in the world. Through our commitment to Personal Potential, we strive to provide every student with opportunities to discover new passions, develop lifelong skills and create memories that will shape their future. Throughout this academic year, our students have embraced an extraordinary range of enrichment experiences. From international visits to Peru, New York, Italy and Spain, to leadership programmes, performances, sporting competitions, university visits, careers events, community projects and cultural experiences, our students have continually challenged themselves to step outside their comfort zones. Every opportunity has been designed to broaden horizons, build confidence, strengthen resilience and inspire ambition. These experiences are about far more than the destination or the activity itself. They develop teamwork, leadership, curiosity, creativity, independence and empathy, enabling our young people to grow into well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. This publication celebrates just some of the remarkable experiences that have taken place during 2025–26. It showcases the enthusiasm, commitment and talent of our students, as well as the dedication of our staff who work tirelessly to create these opportunities. To every student who has participated this year, thank you. Whether you represented the academy on the sports field, performed on stage, visited a university, volunteered in the community, travelled abroad or simply embraced a new experience, you have demonstrated the courage to grow and the determination to achieve your personal best. We are immensely proud of everything you have accomplished. Finally, we would like to express our sincere thanks to our parents and carers. Your encouragement, trust and continued support make these opportunities possible. By working together, we continue to provide experiences that enrich learning, create lasting memories and ensure every student has the opportunity to fulfil their personal potential. We hope you enjoy looking back on another exceptional year at Cheslyn Hay Academy.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 PERU Last summer, 21 of our incredible students embarked on a life-changing, four-week expedition to Peru, and we could not be prouder of the impact they made. One of the greatest—and least visible—challenges our students were adapting to Peru's breathtaking geography. Operating at a base altitude of 3,000 m above sea level means living and working in air that holds significantly less oxygen than what we are used to at home. This made their achievements on the Salkantay Trek all the more spectacular. The team pushed through immense physical fatigue to conquer the trek's highest point, a staggering 4,680 meters above sea level. Reaching that summit was a true testament to their grit, mental toughness, and peer-to-peer support, proving to our students that they can overcome even the most grueling physical obstacles when they work together. Throwing themselves into vital community initiatives, the team rolled up their sleeves to plaster a local community center and paint outdoor furniture at a neighborhood school. They also dove into a fascinating "ground-to-table" project—caring for pigs, rabbits, alpacas, and geese, while also planting potatoes and maintaining local fruit trees. To help boost sustainable tourism, the students even constructed a brand-new toilet block at a nearby waterfall.
Beyond their construction and agricultural triumphs, the group completely immersed themselves in Peruvian culture through language lessons, traditional dancing, and learning the intricate art of spinning, dyeing, and hand-weaving yarn into bracelets. The trip culminated in an extraordinary physical feat: tackling the grueling Salkantay Trek. Our students conquered over 100 kilometers in just four days, finishing with a breathless climb up more than 1,000 steps to reach the summit of Machu Picchu. They returned home not just with unforgettable memories, but with a profound sense of global citizenship, resilience, and teamwork. Thank you to all the families for supporting this monumental journey!
Sports fixtures It has been an incredibly busy and successful year on the sports field! Our dedicated students have shown immense commitment, teamwork, and school spirit, competing in over 160 fixtures across 16 different sports. From thrilling team victories to outstanding individual performances, it has been fantastic to see so many students getting involved and representing our school with pride. Full breakdown of the season’s results, please take a look at our PE Round-Up below.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Open evening
Conference(s)
We want to extend a huge thank you to the incredible 216 students from across all year groups who volunteered their time to make our Open Evening back in September such a resounding success. Looking back, our student ambassadors truly stole the show, acting as enthusiastic tour guides, running interactive subject demonstrations, and proudly sharing what life at Cheslyn Hay is all about potential new Year 7 families. We received overwhelming praise from visiting parents who were deeply impressed by our students' maturity, confidence, and polite manners. They were the absolute best advertisement for our school community, and we remain incredibly proud of how brilliantly they represented us!
We are incredibly proud of the 14 talented students who represented Cheslyn Hay at the Windsor Academy Trust conference at the ICC Birmingham in December. Performing live in front of staff from all WAT schools took immense courage, and their exceptional performance truly captivated the audience. Alongside this group success, we were also incredibly proud of Neve McCann, who was invited to sing at the National Confederation of School Trusts conference. Thank you to all of these wonderful students for their hard work, dedication, and for being such outstanding ambassadors on these major stages!
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Normandy
Aspire Sixth open evening
Our Year 8, 9 and 11 students got the chance to attend an unforgettable five-day residential trip to France, where 54 of our young food enthusiasts took part in a Gastronomy Tour of Normandy! From exploring traditional markets to discovering the authentic artisanal processes behind famous local delicacies, our students fully immersed themselves in French culinary culture. Traveling abroad and staying away from home for a five-day residential requires great independence and adaptability, and our students rose to the occasion beautifully while representing the school with fantastic energy. They managed to practice their language skills, try plenty of new flavors, and build brilliant memories together.
It was wonderful to welcome so many potential Year 12 students and their families to our Aspire Sixth Open Evening. This event marked the very first time the upcoming cohort got a full look at our newly refurbished Sixth Form centre, complete with its own dedicated student café! Visitors spent the evening exploring our vibrant new spaces, speaking with subject specialists about the wide array of courses on offer, and discovering the exciting enrichment opportunities that set our post-16 experience apart. There was a fantastic buzz throughout the evening, and we are incredibly excited about the bright futures ahead for our next generation of Aspire Sixth students.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Auschwitz
WAT COP
We are incredibly proud of our four Sixth Form student who recently represented the school on a profoundly moving visit with the Holocaust Educational Trust. As part of this prestigious program, these student ambassadors engaged deeply with historical testimony, examined the contemporary relevance of the Holocaust, and took on the vital responsibility of ensuring these crucial lessons are never forgotten. Stepping up to represent our school community on such an important national platform requires immense maturity, empathy, and leadership.
Our student sustainability ambassadors recently joined forces with young leaders from across the Windsor Academy Trust family for our annual WAT COP event. Mirroring the efforts of global climate summits, this high-energy day focused on empowering the next generation to take direct action for the environment. Working collaboratively in workshops, our ambassadors brainstormed innovative, forward-thinking ideas aimed at preparing our schools for the future and actively minimizing our ecological footprint. From exploring local biodiversity to drafting practical Climate Action Plans, our students demonstrated incredible passion and responsibility. We are incredibly proud of their commitment to "being the change" and bringing these sustainable initiatives back to our own school community to help protect the planet.
Dance festival The Summer Dance Festival was a spectacular celebration of movement and artistry, bringing together the exceptional talent of Cheslyn Hay Academy students and local community dance schools. The event showcased a vibrant tapestry of performances, spanning a wide variety of dance styles that captivated the audience from start to finish. What truly made the festival unforgettable was the dedication of the students, who shone brilliantly not only through their incredible routines on stage but also through their professionalism and support off stage. It was a phenomenal showcase that beautifully demonstrated just how much passion, dedication, and raw talent thrives within our local community.
Liverpool and Crosby beach Our Year 11 Art students recently embarked on a vibrant trip to Liverpool and Crosby Beach to gather crucial inspiration for their GCSE coursework. The day was spent exploring Liverpool's dynamic contemporary art scene, allowing students to study professional works up close and analyse different creative techniques. The highlight of the trip was visiting Antony Gormley’s famous "Another Place" installation on Crosby Beach, where 100 cast-iron, life-sized statues look out to sea. Our students used this striking coastal setting to capture high-quality photographs, experiment with perspectives, and sketch on-site. They returned with packed digital portfolios and a wealth of fresh ideas to channel directly into their upcoming studio projects.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Y11 Revision residential
Twycross zoo
Our Year 11 students recently took part in an invaluable revision residential at Laches Wood, beautifully balancing hard work with well-deserved adventure. The trip provided students with focused, small-group revision sessions led by subject specialists, giving them a fantastic boost and tailored support as they prepare for their upcoming exams. Alongside the academic focus, students were encouraged to push themselves out of their comfort zones and try something new, tackling thrilling outdoor activities like axe throwing, high ropes, and team challenges. It was an incredibly successful weekend of learning, resilience, and camaraderie, and our students represented Cheslyn Hay brilliantly!
Our Year 8 students went on an exciting educational adventure to Twycross Zoo, swapping the classroom for the animal kingdom to explore the vast world of wildlife and conservation careers. The day was packed with specialized workshops where students discovered that running a world-class zoo requires far more than just zookeeping. They learned about a diverse range of professions, from veterinary medicine and animal behavioral science to marketing, education, and landscape architecture. Between learning about what it takes to work in these fields, students had the chance to tour the exhibits, observing the incredible species up close and gaining a real-world understanding of global conservation efforts. It was a fantastic day that sparked a lot of inspiration for their future career pathways!
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Careers fair
Year 11 Liverpool Uni
November’s Careers Fair was a vibrant hub of inspiration, hosting exhibitors, including the Royal Air Force, NHS Career Development, and numerous universities such as Aberystwyth and Cardiff. We prioritised "meaningful conversations" by providing students with conversation starter prompts and a "passport" to track their interactions. This structured approach ensured that students didn't just collect brochures but actually engaged with professionals to learn about daily life in various roles.
In September, a group of our Year 11 students visited Liverpool University for an inspiring University Taster Day. The visit gave students the opportunity to explore the university campus, tour its impressive facilities, and gain a real insight into what life as an undergraduate is like. Throughout the day, students learned about the wide range of courses and opportunities available in higher education, while hearing from university staff and current students about their experiences. The visit was a valuable opportunity to raise aspirations, encourage students to think about their future pathways, and help them make informed decisions about their next steps after secondary school.
York German market Our Aspire Sixth students stepped into a winter wonderland during a festive day trip to the historic city of York. The trip offered a wonderful opportunity for our sixth formers to unwind, socialize outside the classroom, and soak up the seasonal atmosphere. Students spent the day exploring the bustling St Nichol Fair, browsing the beautifully decorated alpine chalets, and sampling local festive treats. They also took time to wander down the famous, cobblestoned Shambles—one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe—taking in its unique architecture and charming shops. It was a fantastic day filled with festive spirit, and our students represented the academy brilliantly throughout the visit.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Nova College
RAF Cosford careers event
This year, a selected group of our Year 10 students participated in a targeted intervention visit to NOVA College, designed to help them confidently plan their next steps after Year 11. The visit offered an invaluable opportunity for students to explore the diverse range of courses and pathways available to them. They received practical, step-by-step guidance on how the application process works, helping to demystify their post-16 options. It was fantastic to see our students engaging so maturely with the college staff, asking insightful questions, and taking proactive ownership of their futures as they prepare for the exciting transition ahead.
Our students attended an inspiring and interactive Careers Event at RAF Cosford, gaining valuable insight into the diverse pathways available within the Royal Air Force. The exhibition featured a wide array of interactive stalls highlighting everything from engineering and logistics to aviation and digital technology. Students had the fantastic opportunity to speak directly with serving RAF personnel, asking insightful questions about military life, training, and career progression. A major highlight of the day was the hands-on demonstrations, where students were even permitted to handle decommissioned service rifles and pistols under expert supervision. It was a brilliant, eye-opening experience that truly brought the variety of modern RAF careers to life, and we are incredibly proud of how maturely our students engaged with the personnel.
CAT finning careers event Our students recently took part in an exciting and informative visit to Finning CAT, the world's largest distributor of Caterpillar equipment, to gain a firsthand look at the world of high-quality apprenticeships. The event offered invaluable insight into the diverse career pathways available within engineering, logistics, and heavy machinery technology. Students toured the impressive facilities, learned about the earning-while-learning structure of modern apprenticeships, and spoke directly with current apprentices and industry experts about day-to-day life on the job. It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to see how their classroom skills translate into rewarding, hands-on careers, and they left feeling incredibly inspired about their future options.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Christmas fayre
Vine court performance
We were absolutely delighted to host our very first school Christmas Fayre, bringing together local businesses, craft vendors, and wonderful members of our surrounding community for a truly magical festive afternoon. The school was buzzing with holiday spirit, and a huge highlight of the event was our students' involvement. Each year group designed and ran their own innovative stalls, working collaboratively to raise vital funds for their chosen charities. From handmade gifts and festive games to delicious treats, our students demonstrated fantastic entrepreneurship and generosity. A massive thank you to everyone who came out to support the event, connect with our school, and help us make a positive impact on the wider community!
Our talented vocal students recently visited Vince Court, a local retirement living community, to deliver a heartwarming afternoon of musical performances. The students performed a beautiful selection of songs, filling the communal lounge with incredible energy and joy. It was deeply moving to see the generations connect, with many residents singing along, tapping their feet, and sharing smiles with our young performers. After the final applause, our students took the time to sit and chat with the residents, showing wonderful maturity, empathy, and community spirit. They were fantastic ambassadors for our school, and their music truly brightened everyone's day!
Christmas concert
Our immensely talented Aspire Sixth band, "The Puddled People," recently took their musical talents on the road to visit St John's Primary School. The band delivered two fantastic, high-energy performances tailored beautifully for Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 audiences, bringing plenty of smiles, laughter, and musical magic to the children's school day. This visit was a wonderful opportunity for our sixth formers to showcase their creativity while actively strengthening our relationships with local feeder schools. Our Aspire Sixth students acted as brilliant role models and ambassadors, helping future members of our school community feel connected and inspired.
Our school community was treated to a wonderful evening of entertainment at this year's Christmas Concert, which beautifully showcased the incredible talents of our performing arts students. The stage came alive with a fantastic variety of acts, ranging from beautiful choral pieces and lively instrumental numbers to stunningly choreographed dance routines. Students from across the school have been rehearsing tirelessly over the past few months, and their hard work truly shone through, filling the hall with festive cheer, energy, and school pride. It was a joy to see them perform with such confidence and passion!
St John performance
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Botanical gardens
Your game, your plan
Our Year 10 and 11 GCSE Photography students recently enjoyed a highly successful and inspiring trip to the Botanical Gardens, with 43 talented students in attendance. This visit provided a brilliant opportunity for them to explore the grounds and capture a rich series of photographs for their crucial Unit 1 GCSE coursework portfolio. From macro shots of exotic flora to experimenting with natural lighting and textures, the students worked incredibly hard to build up their practical portfolios. Because hands-on experiences like this directly shape and elevate their final grades, attending these trips is immensely beneficial to every single student taking the GCSE Photography course. We look forward to seeing how they develop these stunning images back in the classroom!
Our Year 10 and Year 12 students participated in 'Your Game, Your Plan', empowering girls' football designed to break down barriers and get more young women involved in the sport. Rather than just playing on the pitch, this fantastic programme focuses on the bigger picture of football leadership, encouraging girls to step into coaching and refereeing roles. During the sessions, our students developed invaluable leadership skills, learning creative and effective strategies to engage other girls with football and foster an inclusive, supportive environment.
Battlefields Our History students embarked on a deeply moving and educational Battlefields trip, walking in the footsteps of the soldiers who shaped our modern world. The itinerary took students across several key World War II locations, allowing them to connect their classroom learning to real-world history. The group visited historic landing beaches, explored preserved battle sites, and paid their respects at several poignant military cemeteries and memorials. Standing in these monumental spaces gave our students a profound, firsthand understanding of the scale, sacrifice, and human stories behind the conflict. Throughout the emotional journey, our students demonstrated exemplary respect, maturity, and historical curiosity, proving themselves to be incredible ambassadors for the academy.
MCS careers event This year also saw select students going to a different careers event they dove headfirst into the day, enthusiastically exploring a wide variety of career paths, speaking with industry professionals, and mapping out potential next steps for their futures. From discovering brand-new industries to asking incredibly insightful questions, it was inspiring to see them engage with ideas for what comes next.
Football refereeing A huge congratulations to our fantastic student football referees! Over the past season, these dedicated students have gone above and beyond to complete their official refereeing qualification. They are now putting their skills to excellent use by supporting the PE department and officiating our school matches. Stepping out onto the pitch to make tough calls takes a massive amount of leadership, confidence, and integrity, and we could not be prouder of how they are representing our school.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 New York AS
Ski trip
Our Aspire Sixth students recently returned from an unforgettable, fast-paced trip to New York City, where they fully immersed themselves in the vibrant energy of the Big Apple. The action-packed itinerary saw our sixth formers exploring the city’s most iconic landmarks and top attractions. From taking in the breathtaking skyline views from the top of the Empire State Building and walking through Central Park to experiencing the neon glow of Times Square, the students experienced the very best of American culture. The highlight of the trip was an evening in the theater district, where the group got to watch a spectacular, world-class Broadway show.
We are absolutely thrilled to report on the roaring success of our ski trip back in Feb to Italy—our first ski venture in a number of years! Taking a fantastic group of 50 students away was an absolute pleasure, and they were a true credit to the school throughout the week. Although we took a range of abilities, the progress made on the slopes was nothing short of remarkable. Our students transformed from absolute beginners learning to simply walk and slide on Day 1, to confidently cruising down the blue and red runs by the end of the week. Their resilience, determination, and supportive team spirit made it an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, personal achievements, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 DofE
Ingestre hall
This has been a truly exceptional year for our Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, with an incredible 76 students taking on the challenge across three different levels. We are immensely proud of our Year 9 students, who showed fantastic teamwork and determination to achieve their Bronze Award. Building on that success, our dedicated Year 10 students demonstrated an even greater level of independence and commitment to secure their Silver Award. Finally, a massive congratulations must go to our Year 11 students who reached the absolute pinnacle of the scheme by achieving their prestigious Gold Award. Whether navigating open countryside, volunteering in the community, or learning new skills, every single participant has shown outstanding resilience, and they are all a massive credit to the school.
80 of our talented children from across eight WAT schools came together at the stunning Ingestre Hall for a day of pure creativity. From technical skills in Art and Music to high-energy Dance and Drama, The event captured the bravery and passion of our students as they worked alongside industry experts.
eSports education Our Year 10 Creative iMedia students recently enjoyed fantastic opportunity to visit an interactive Esports and digital media hub. During the trip, 14 of our students explored how gaming and digital media connect directly to education and future career pathways. They participated in engaging gameplay sessions, collaborative team challenges, and received a comprehensive introduction to the rapidly growing wider Esports industry.
The students formed such strong friendships, collaborating with peers from across our family of schools within minutes of arriving. They truly embodied our Trust values, with staff at the venue describing them as "one of the best groups" they have ever hosted.
Keele uni Law and Crim Our Aspire Sixth students with an interest in human behavior, justice, and the legal system spent an inspiring day at Keele University exploring the fascinating fields of Law and Criminology. This university taster day gave our sixth formers a genuine insight into student life and the career pathways available within the justice system. Students took part in interactive workshops, diving into complex cases.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Transition visits
Oliver
We have been incredibly proud of how our students across the school have stepped up to support our incoming Year 6 cohort as they prepare for high school. This year, our fantastic student ambassadors hit the road alongside Mr. Powell, visiting local primary school to chat with the Year 6 pupils, answer their burning questions, and ease any pre-transition nerves. Back at Cheslyn Hay Academy, ambassadors have been hosting small-group tours, warmly welcoming the primary students and helping them get to know their new surroundings before the official start in September. Their empathy, leadership, and school pride have shone through every step of the way.
Our school hall was transformed into Victorian London for our spectacular annual production of Oliver!, which enjoyed a phenomenal, sell-out run of four unforgettable evening shows. A massive cast and crew of over 80 students from across all year groups came together to bring this classic story to life, showcasing incredible acting, powerhouse vocals, and beautifully timed choreography. The energy in the room was electric every night, ending in well-deserved standing ovations. A huge congratulations to all the students who poured their hearts into these performances, and a massive thank you to the staff and families whose incredible support made this showcase possible!
WAT a choir A talented group of our students recently joined forces with young musicians from across the Windsor Academy Trust to perform in the spectacular "WAT a Choir" showcase. Spending the day collaborating with peers from other trust schools, our students worked tirelessly to blend their voices and rehearse an ambitious repertoire of songs. The hard work culminated in a breathtaking joint performance that truly filled the venue with harmony and energy. It was a wonderful opportunity for our singers to experience the power of performing as part of a massive, large scale ensemble, helping them grow in confidence and vocal technique.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Yorkshire dance day
Chesfest
Dancers contributed to a massive, official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS. On March 20, 2026, we joined forces with performers from across the UK, Ireland, and the Isle of Man at the Bradford Bulls RLFC stadium West Yorkshire. Together, a staggering 1,123 dancers coordinated by Pro-Excel performed alongside DJ/producer Sigala and singer Shanice Steele, officially setting the world record for the most backing dancers to a singer. It was a monumental, large-scale live stadium performance that brought together young talent for an unforgettable, history-making event.
Our school community truly came together for an extraordinary weekend of endurance and celebration during "WAT a Run" and our inaugural Chesfest. Staff from across the Windsor Academy Trust joined forces to complete an incredible challenge: running two marathons in two days and covering a staggering 88km in total! A massive shoutout goes to our very own Mr. Powell and Mr. Currie, who heroically completed both full days, as well as the wonderful staff members who joined them for legs along the route. This grueling journey culminated in a spectacular finish at Cheslyn Hay Academy, where we teamed up with the local running club to host Chesfest—a vibrant community festival packed with stalls and entertainment. The event raised vital funds for our school Breakfast Club and new community defibrillators.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Seville
Venice
Our Year 10 Spanish students recently returned from an incredible cultural and linguistic immersion trip to the sun-drenched city of Seville. Designed to boost the confidence ahead of their upper-school studies, the trip gave students the perfect opportunity to take their language skills out of the classroom and apply them to real-world scenarios—from ordering local tapas to navigating the bustling city streets. Alongside their daily language practice, the group fully embraced Andalusian culture, exploring stunning historic landmarks such as the breathtaking Plaza de España and the historic old town. The students threw themselves into every experience with fantastic enthusiasm, showing great maturity and curiosity throughout the trip. It was an unforgettable journey that has truly brought their Spanish studies to life!
Our Year 9 students recently embarked on their highly anticipated annual trip to Italy, making the epic journey by coach to the beautiful region of Venice. The action-packed itinerary perfectly balanced adventure and relaxation, giving students the chance to soak up the Mediterranean sun during a fun-filled day at the beach and an adrenaline-fueled afternoon at a local waterpark. The absolute highlight of the trip, however, was exploring the magical city of Venice itself. Students spent a brilliant day navigating the historic winding canals, famous bridges, and vibrant squares, before experiencing the city’s breathtaking beauty all over again at sunset. Our students showed fantastic independence, maturity, and enthusiasm throughout the long journey, making incredible memories together and proving themselves to be outstanding ambassadors for the academy.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Staffs uni Sports taster
Student Senate
Our Aspire Sixth BTEC Sport students recently visited Staffordshire University for an immersive sports science taster day. The students had the brilliant opportunity to explore the university's state-of-the-art sports science laboratories and put their classroom theory into practice. They got hands-on with cutting edge fitness and performance testing equipment and even took part in a practical workshop mastering the complex techniques of physiological kinesiology taping
Student voice continues to play a central role in shaping school improvement at Cheslyn Hay Academy through our embedded Student Council and Student Senate. Representatives from every year group work closely with senior leaders to share feedback, influence decision making and ensure students' views help shape the future of our school. This year, our Student Senate also attended the Windsor Academy Trust Student Leadership Residential, where they collaborated with student leaders from across the Trust to develop leadership skills, shape the future vision for student leadership and review opportunities available to young people. The residential included a range of team building activities, helping students strengthen communication, resilience and teamwork. We are incredibly proud of the maturity, leadership and commitment shown by our student representatives as they continue to make a meaningful difference.
Portmadog Our A-Level Geography students recently embarked on a hands-on residential field trip to Porthmadog, Wales, to put their theoretical knowledge into practice and master high-level fieldwork techniques. Stepping out of the classroom and into a diverse coastal landscape, our sixth formers conducted sophisticated data collection methods, analysing complex sand dunes, environmental variables, and human impacts on the local geography. This immersive practical experience is crucial component of their course, equipping them with the critical primary data collection and statistical sampling skills required for their independent coursework (NEA).
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Carding Mill Valley
Rewards trips
Our Geography students swapped their textbooks for clipboards and wellies during a fantastic fieldwork trip to the beautiful Carding Mill Valley in Shropshire. The day provided a brilliant hands-on opportunity for students to master essential geographical fieldwork techniques in a real-world setting. Investigating river characteristics, the group waded right into the stream to collect primary data—measuring variables like river width, depth, velocity, and stone roundness to see how the river changes as it flows downstream.
This year, our academy set a high bar with an attendance target of 97% for all students. We were absolutely delighted to celebrate those who smashed this goal—including the phenomenal group of students who achieved a perfect 100% attendance over the term—by hosting a series of brilliant rewards trips! To reward their exceptional dedication and consistency, students were invited to a variety of exciting excursions, including high-energy bouncing at Inflata Nation, competitive fun at Tenpin Bowling in Telford, a festive cultural trip to the German Markets, and a thrilling day out at Alton Towers. These trips were a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our students' excellent character and reliability, and we are incredibly proud of everyone who earned their well-deserved place on these visits!
Strawberry tea SGO events Our dedicated student Sports Leaders have been leading by example this year, playing a vital role in supporting a wide range of School Games Organiser (SGO) events. Demonstrating exceptional leadership, organization, and enthusiasm, our leaders have assisted with both primary and secondary school tournaments across a diverse spectrum of sports. Whether officiating matches, coaching younger pupils, keeping score, or ensuring the events ran smoothly, they created a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere for all competitors. They have been fantastic ambassadors for Cheslyn Hay Academy, proving that leadership extends well beyond the classroom and onto the sporting field!
We were absolutely delighted to host our traditional Strawberry Tea this week, a long-standing and much-loved highlight of our school calendar. We were thrilled to welcome local care home residents and elderly members of our community into the school for a wonderful afternoon of connection and celebration. Our guests were treated to a spectacular showcase of music, dance, and singing performances by our incredibly talented students, followed by a delicious spread of fresh sandwiches, cakes, and drinks—all proudly prepared and beautifully served by our fantastic catering students. Events like this are a cornerstone of our school's values, and we are so proud of the warmth, respect, and hospitality our students showed to our visitors. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to keep this beautiful tradition thriving!
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Sports Day Despite a slightly altered plan due to the weather, this year’s Sports Day was a massive success! Years 7 to 10 were joined by Year 12 for two days of incredible energy and house spirit. Thursday focused entirely on mass participation, with students competing for their houses in a brilliant range of activities including ultimate frisbee, tag rugby, rounders, netball, tug of war, football, dodgeball, basketball, and swimming. On Friday morning, the excitement continued with our traditional athletics track and field events. It was fantastic to see so many students getting involved, supporting their peers, and showcasing their sporting talents.
National School Sports week During National School Sports Week, students across the school had the opportunity to take part in a range of exciting new sporting activities, encouraging everyone to get active, try something different, and have fun. Throughout the week, pupils enjoyed learning and competing in sports such as pickleball, ultimate frisbee, and Danish longball, developing new skills while demonstrating excellent teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. It was fantastic to see so many students embracing new challenges, supporting one another, and discovering activities they may not have experienced before. A huge thank you to our PE department and staff for organising such an enjoyable week and to all of our students for making National School Sports Week a great success.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Science fair Cheslyn Hay Academy hosted its spectacular annual Year 7 and 8 Science Fair, showcasing the absolute best independent projects from two entire year groups. Out of hundreds of entries, only the top 50 students were selected to present their intricate physical models and demonstrate their deep scientific literacy. Facing intense summer heat and compressed preparation times, our students rose to the challenge with immense resilience and confidence, perfectly embodying our ASPIRE values. The judging panel was thoroughly blown away by the level of academic conversation. Year 7 students expertly articulated the complex functions of cell organelles, while Year 8 students masterfully explained atomic structures and chemical reactivity. While families explored the packed room, older students kept the energy electric with live "fire writing" and flame test demonstrations. ● Year 7: 1st Place: Finley Strike & Zack Dempsey (Plant Cell); 2nd Place: Emma Jesson (Paramecium); 3rd Place: Jacob Bland (Nerve Cell). ● Year 8: 1st Place: Olivia Woodward (Potassium); 2nd Place: Logan Mears & Logan Titley (Uranium Science); 3rd Place: Oliver Knox & Mathew Bagley (Moscovium). As Erica Harper, WAT Director of Sciences, noted, the event truly inspired students to explore these scientific concepts with confidence and enthusiasm. A massive thank you to all the families who came out to support our brilliant young scientists!
Year 9 Science Project Finals. Centered around British Science Week’s theme, "Curiosity: what’s your question?", students designed and presented independent STEM research to a packed room of families, peers, and judges. The evening was a fantastic display of oracy and our ASPIRE values, with finalists tackling diverse topics ranging from moon orbits and hair genetics to the mechanics of F1 cars. The level of research and public speaking confidence was outstanding, making the judging incredibly tough. Huge congratulations to our winners: Beaux Dellaway and Ivy Thornton in 3rd place (Hair Genetics), Holly Jordan in 2nd place (The Science of Cracking Knuckles), and Sophie Cozubovski-Jeffs in 1st place for her captivating presentation on Semantic Satiation. Every single finalist did an incredible job and acted as a brilliant credit to the academy!
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Orlando
Active Learning Week
An Unforgettable Week in Florida! Our Year 8 and Year 10 students enjoyed an incredible 7-day sports tour in Orlando, Florida. The 41 students represented the school with pride, competing in six football fixtures against local American teams, with the boys recording two wins, one draw, and one loss, while the girls secured one win and one loss. Away from the pitch, students experienced some of Florida's top attractions, including Universal Studios, Busch Gardens Volcano Bay, a Major League Baseball game, Icon Park, and the Premium Outlet Mall. Throughout the trip, our students demonstrated outstanding behaviour and were fantastic ambassadors for the school, making the visit a truly memorable experience.
Active Learning Week provided students with an exciting opportunity to step beyond the classroom and take part in a wide variety of enriching experiences. Throughout the week, pupils enjoyed a diverse programme of in-school activities, educational day trips, and a dedicated Careers Day, giving them the chance to explore new interests, develop valuable skills, and consider their future aspirations. With something for everyone, the week encouraged students to learn in new ways, build confidence, and create lasting memories alongside their friends and peers. It was fantastic to see such high levels of enthusiasm and engagement, making Active Learning Week a great success for all involved.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Athletics
Basketball
This year has been an outstanding season for our athletics team, with students from years 7 to 11 demonstrating fantastic resilience and endeavour at every event. We competed in four district competitions held at Aldersley Stadium, where our athletes consistently pushed their limits and showcased great sportsmanship. A particular highlight was the success of our students, with 13 individuals selected for the District squad to represent us at the county championships. Well done to everyone who participated and contributed to such a strong year of competition.
Year 7 - basketball squad has had a fantastic year on the court! Over the past few terms, the players have shown incredible dedication to developing their skills, mastering everything from court awareness to sharp passing and shooting. We are incredibly proud of how much progress they have made as individual athletes and as a team. Junior NBA league.
Sportshall Athletics
Year 8 - basketball team has had an absolutely phenomenal season, reaching the prestigious Junior NBA Semi-Finals! To top off an already stellar run, their outstanding performances secured them a brilliant 2nd place finish in the District overall. We are incredibly proud of the teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship this group has shown throughout the tournament. Congratulations to all the players on a fantastic achievement. Year 9 - have put on an absolute masterclass this year, finishing their entire campaign completely unbeaten to officially become the Cannock and District Champions. Their flawless record is a testament to their elite teamwork, tireless work ethic, and calm composure under pressure during every single match. They have set a fantastic standard for school sport, and we couldn't be prouder of their dedication and undefeated achievement. Year 10 - Undefeated District Champions & Year 11 Double Victory! Our Year 10 basketball team has rewritten the history books this season with a truly extraordinary double-triumph! Not only did they finish their own campaign completely unbeaten to be crowned the Cannock and District Champions, but they also took on the ultimate challenge of playing up an age group.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Badminton
Cross Country
A weekly Badminton Club is run throughout the Autumn and Winter Terms. Generally attracting around 20 students from across a number of year groups. This year we entered the Cannock and District Key Stage 3 and 4 Competition. It proved to be an excellent year: KS4 Boys Winner: Josh Taylor. KS3 Boys Winner: Jack Farrow. KS3 Girls 3rd Place: Olivia James Walker. Well done to all who participated in Badminton.
Our Cross Country team displayed outstanding grit and determination across the two competitions, tackling tough ground and a highly competitive field. We are thrilled to celebrate some spectacular individual achievements. The following students have been selected for the County Cross Country team and will compete on Saturday 31st January. Mason Townsend, Olly Hayhurst, Imogen Eccles, Evie Joyce, Edith Walters, Finlay Stanton, Harry Jeffery and Harry Nicholls. A huge well done to all our runners for their sportsmanship and for representing the school so brilliantly.
Results 1st place - Finlay Stanton 2nd place - Mason Townsend and Harry Jeffrey 3rd place - Imogen Eccles
Darts Cheslyn Hay was proud to host the inaugural Windsor Academy Trust darts competition. Our team of six students from Years 7 and 10 represented the school with commendable professionalism, resilience, and a competitive spirit. We finished the tournament as runners-up; while the competition concluded early before we could face the school in first place, our strong performance suggests we were well-positioned to challenge for the top spot.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Football Year 7 - Both teams have started the season strongly, both remaining undefeated in the league. The season is building nicely to create a final play off match between our two very own teams, a unique highlight saw both our Year 7 A and B teams face off in the District cup final, with team A taking the victory in a memorable club fixture.
Year 8 - Have enjoyed an explosive start to the season, proving to be a formidable force. The boys have racked up big wins including a 4–0 victory against Chase Terrace, a dominant 9–2 win in Round 1 of the ESFA and a 7–1 triumph over KES. With a staggering 37 goals in just 8 matches. The Year 8s also performed brilliantly, finishing as District cup runners-up.
Year 10 - Started the season with a solid victory in the league, their national ESFA campaign with a strong Round 1 win. Their standout performances have come in the County Cup, where they have shown great composure and skill to navigate both Round 1 and Round 2 successfully. A massive congratulations to our Year 10 team, who were crowned County Cup winners—an amazing achievement.
Year 11 - Have shown great character, after a loss in their first league game, the boys bounced back to secure a victory in Round 1 of the ESFA competition. Their cup success continued in the County Cup, where they delivered a strong performance to win their Round 1 match and progress to the next stage. Our Year 11s enjoyed a fantastic run, reaching the 5th round of the English Schools Cup and finishing as runners-up in the County Cup.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26
Girls Football It’s been a season of growth and high drama for our girls’ football teams! While the fixture schedule started slowly, we look forward to a much busier calendar after the Christmas break. Our U12 squad has shown great resilience; despite a tough Round 1 exit in the County Cup and a couple of opponents being unable to fulfill fixtures, the girls have been working incredibly hard in training to sharpen their skills. The U13s provided the highlight of the term with a thrilling penalty shootout victory against Kingsmead in a dual District and County Cup clash. Meanwhile, the U14s started their ESFA national campaign in style with a dominant 4–1 win in Round 1, before being knocked out in the second round by an exceptionally strong team from The Priory. We are incredibly proud of the progress and spirit shown by all our players and can't wait to see them back on the pitch next year!
Girls Futsal Our girls’ had the opportunity to take part in a futsal tournament, they showcased fantastic energy and skill during this term’s tournament lead by our School Games Officer Miss Wood. The Year 9 squad performed brilliantly; despite competing with only four players, their skill, fitness and teamwork earned them a very respectable 2nd place finish. Our Year 8 team also displayed great effort and spirit throughout the competition; while they ultimately finished in 4th place it was an invaluable opportunity for them to develop their understanding of the game and try something new.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Netball Year 7 Netball - The girls have shown great commitment to the team and training this year, with us often being able to get out 2 teams for fixtures and matches. Each week the girls were eager to learn and practice their new skills and we weren’t short of leaders for our warm ups and skills sessions! The girls enjoyed all of their experiences this year playing away from CHA, the first time for many. League: 2nd Place
where the team played their first matches this year. In a competitive field, the team narrowly missed out on a 2nd place finish based on goals scored. Their performance on the court was exceptional.
PGL Netball tour
Year 8’s Netball squad has shown incredible character this term. Their unwavering determination and resilience against harder competition has been excellent. They continue to fight for every interception and support one another until the final whistle. They have developed into a formidable and tight-knit team. Year 9’s This season, have displayed a level of tactical maturity and composure. Their ability to read the game and adjust their play under pressure has resulted in some brilliant passages and advantages of fluid, fast-paced netball, even if the scoreline hasn’t reflected that. League: 2nd Place Year 10’s It has been a resilient start to the season for our Year 10 Netball team. Although the schedule has been slightly interrupted with three matches needing to be rescheduled, the girls have been on point when It matters. A highlight was the District Tournament,
Between matches, the girls traded the court for the sky, showing nerves of steel on the high ropes, rock climbing and giant swing, and proving their precision in shooting sessions. It was a joy to see them bonding as a squad and tackling every challenge with a smile. Our teams performed exceptionally well on the court against some very tough national opposition the Year 8 and Year 9 teams both demonstrated incredible skill and composure to finish 3rd overall in their respective age groups. While the Year 7's narrowly missed out on the finals, they walked away with perhaps the most prestigious award of the weekend, our Year 7s were named Team of the Tournament.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Rounders
Tag Rugby
It has been an action-packed year showcasing fantastic dedication and sportsmanship across all year groups. A massive congratulations goes to our Year 9 squad, who put on a stellar performance to secure a brilliant 2nd place finish at the Windsor Academy Trust tournament, while both our Year 8 and Year 9 teams fought hard in highly competitive fields to place a very respectable 4th in their respective District Tournament Unfortunately, the Year 7 and Year 10 tournaments had to be cancelled due to weather, but we are incredibly proud of all the students who dedicated themselves to training this season. The PE Department would like to extend a huge thank you to all of our players for representing the school so brilliantly.
Our students showed incredible adaptability and grit at the recent WAT Trust Tag Rugby Gala. For many in the group, this was their first time ever picking up a rugby ball, making their achievements even more impressive. The Year 7/8 Boys showcased great teamwork to secure a fantastic 2nd place finish, while the Year 7/8 Girls dominated the pitch to bring home the 1st place trophy!
Swimming We are incredibly proud to celebrate our victory at the recent WAT Trust Swim Gala! Competing against three other schools from across the Trust, our swimmers put on a masterclass in the pool, delivering a series of exceptional individual and relay performances. Thanks to the speed, technique, and determination of the entire squad, we secured 1st place overall. We maintained this exceptional standard at the district gala, with impressive individual and collective efforts across the board, ultimately finishing as runners-up, just a few points behind the winners.
Rackleton Our Year 10 students achieved fantastic success this year by finishing as runners-up in the Racketlon tournament, a thrilling hybrid competition that tests players' versatility across both badminton and table tennis. The squad demonstrated incredible dedication, quick reflexes, and outstanding sportsmanship as they seamlessly switched between the fast-paced spin of the tables and the high-endurance battles of the courts. After a series of intense rounds against the other schools in the trust, they fought their way to a nail-biting final, narrowly missing out on the top spot but proudly bringing home the second-place trophy. We are immensely proud of their hard work and adaptability.
Cheslyn Hay Academy Enrichment Round-Up 25/26 Aspire Dance Days
Aspire Sixth Netball
This year Mrs Pierdziwol has been leading our dance offer, we have continued to give students a range of opportunities to explore dance. It was fantastic to see so many students step out of their comfort zones and throw themselves into three high-energy workshops. The sessions explored a variety of different styles, allowing the boys to develop their coordination, rhythm, and confidence in a new setting. The creativity and athleticism on display were impressive, and it was great to see the group working together to master complex choreography.
The Aspire 6th Netball Team has launched its first outing, competing in the AoC U19-21 College Netball League. After winning their first match, the team has gone on to show massive improvement scoring more and more each match. They have come together with great spirit and determination, representing Aspire Sixth, proudly.
Aspire Sixth Football A challenging opening year for our Aspire Sixth male football team. Our lads have grown together, picked up a few hard fought victories along the way, and have stood out for their determination and effort in what was a challenging first season playing in the AoC College league. We look forward to our next season, bringing new challenges, fresh faces and planning begins for our international footballing adventures.
As we come to the end of another fantastic academic year, we would like to thank all of our staff, students, and parents for their continued support in helping to make the many opportunities at Cheslyn Hay Academy possible. From sporting events and educational visits to enrichment activities and memorable experiences, it has been wonderful to see so many students getting involved and making the most of everything on offer. We remain committed to ensuring every student has the opportunity to participate in our enrichment programme, and full details of our exciting Enrichment offer for the new academic year will be shared in September. In the meantime, we wish all of our students, families, and staff a restful, enjoyable, and well-deserved summer break, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in the new term.