Academy News

Last month, over 100 Year 7 and 8 students participated in the annual Junior Maths Challenge—a problem-solving competition for high-attaining and enthusiastic mathematicians. Our students did fantastically, with 21 students achieving a bronze certificate, 26 obtaining a silver certificate and 10 students scoring high enough to receive a gold certificate. 

Five students scored highly enough to participate in the Junior Kangaroo, an even more challenging follow-on round aimed at stretching those who performed exceptionally in the main competition. 

The Junior Kangaroo took place on 10th June, and for the first time in many years, all five students who participated managed to walk away with another certificate. 

A huge congratulations to Alex, Charlie and Leo, who achieved a bronze certificate on the Junior Kangaroo, as well as Henry and Dennis, who both achieved a silver certificate.

This year, we achieved record-breaking figures for both the number of participants and the results, which is a testament to the curiosity and determination that our young mathematicians have displayed this year.

A huge well done to all students who have taken part!

This week, it was Group 2’s turn to embark on their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award practice expedition.

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening of talent and creativity as the Academy proudly presents Strictly Dance Fever – a dynamic dance competition showcasing the incredible talents of our students from Years 7 to 13.

Last week, our Year 10 students took part in the annual World of Work Day, an inspiring and hands-on event designed to help them explore a wide range of potential career paths. Whether their interests lie in design, healthcare, engineering, or something entirely different, the day offered something for everyone.

The aim of the event was to inform and inspire students about the wide array of careers available, the different pathways to enter the industry, and highlight connections to curriculum subjects. Just as importantly, the day focused on building key employability skills in a practical and engaging way.

In the morning, students participated in workshops of their choice, hosted by a fantastic range of professionals and companies that generously gave their time to share their expertise. These workshops offered students invaluable insights into real-world roles, ranging from branding products and setting up businesses to publishing books, understanding construction and physiotherapy, and exploring routes into languages, teaching, architecture, and the culinary arts.

A highlight of the day was a fascinating and top-secret session with GCHQ, where students utilised their French and Spanish skills to decode messages and assist in preventing fictional crimes, an exciting and memorable way to combine language learning with national security.

In the afternoon, students gathered in the Academy Hall for an engaging talk from Emma Cox of Müller UK, who spoke about essential employability skills and professional behaviours, providing students with practical advice as they begin to think more seriously about their futures.

As part of the workshop with Thatchers, students were asked to design their own soft drink as part of a competition. Thatchers have confirmed that the winners are: 

Alfie and Amy with their drink “Smoothii” and Noah with his drink “BBNO.$ODA”

All three winners have been offered the opportunity to go on a guided tour of the Thatchers site alongside their Talent Development Executive, Sophie. 

It was a truly inspirational day, packed with opportunity, curiosity, and motivation.

We’d like to say a massive thank you to all the organisations and parents who supported this event and made it such a success. Your time, expertise, and enthusiasm were hugely appreciated!

Special thanks to:

• Royal Navy

• Regional Cyber Crime Unit

• Author B J Mears

• Baker Hughes

• National Grid Electricity Distribution

• Cuppa Architects

• Compass Catering

• Bristol School of Acting (BSA)

• Robins Foundation

• Kier Group

• Kier Construction

• North Somerset Council

• Burges Salmon

• Thatchers

• The Bridal Store

• On-Site Bristol

• Taylor Wimpey

• Louise Griffiths, Physiotherapist

• Galliford Try

• S&W

• GCHQ

• Emma Cox, Müller UK

• Jo Gill, Education and Teaching

Thank you for helping to make our World of Work Day an inspiring and unforgettable experience for our Year 10 students!

Our Year 10 Food & Nutrition students completed their NEA 2 mock assessments this week. Their task was to create three dishes that could be used to celebrate various occasions. 

Students had to spend time researching and preparing three separate dishes and any appropriate accompaniments to demonstrate their technical skills and meet the needs of their chosen occasion. 

Some opted for classics such as spaghetti carbonara, swiss rolls and burgers, while others branched out into curries, chorizo salads and pineapple cakes. It was brilliant to see how each student brought something unique to the table and added their own signature style - we can confirm that all of the dishes were absolutely delicious! 

Take a look some of the dishes below.