Week 35
The weeks are whizzing by as we approach the end of the academic year, and this one has been particularly eventful. Our Year 11 students completed their final GCSE exams, which for many marks the end of their time here at Watling. They have conducted themselves exceptionally throughout the exam season, and I am extremely proud of their maturity, resilience and focus. I hope they now enjoy a well‑deserved break and celebrate in style at prom. Thank you to the wider school community and to parents and carers for your continued support.
Our Silver DofE group, made up of Year 11 and 12 students, began their assessed expedition in Shropshire yesterday. They are due to return tomorrow, no doubt tired and aching after two days of walking and camping, but I hope they will feel incredibly proud of their achievements.
Meanwhile, our Year 10 Spanish students set off for Barcelona in the early hours of this morning. Thank you to all parents and carers for getting them to school at such an unsociable hour. The group arrived safely at lunchtime and spent the afternoon exploring the Gothic Quarter, practising their Spanish in the local markets, and visiting the Christopher Columbus monument.
We look forward to sharing more about their adventures in next week’s bulletin, but for now, here are this week’s highlights.
Mrs Anderson
Headteacher
Pre-loved Uniform Sale
As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability and supporting the Watling community, alongside Friends of Watling Academy (FoWA) we will be holding a pre-loved uniform sale on Saturday 11th July, from 11am-12pm in the sports block.
In preparation for this event, we are inviting families to donate any items of uniform they no longer need. Please drop off donations of any branded or non-branded items in good, clean condition to the school reception. Your donations help us reduce waste, support our community, and ensure affordable uniform options for all families.
Friends of Watling Academy Fund New Lifesaving Equipment
A huge thank you to the Friends of Watling Academy, who have generously agreed to fully fund the installation of a defibrillator outside the new teaching block. This device has the potential to save lives, not only for our staff and students, but also for external hirers who use our facilities when the main building is closed. We are incredibly grateful to the individuals who volunteer their time to raise money for the school. Their dedication makes opportunities like this possible and continues to enhance the safety and wellbeing of our community.
Year 7 MEP Students Explore Chinese Culture
As part of the Mandarin Excellence Programme, our Year 7 students took part in a series of Chinese cultural learning activities during their twilight lessons this week. Led by Mr Fan and supported by Miss Wint and Mrs Ridgway, students learned how to cook Chinese noodles and enjoyed tasting the dishes they prepared, with many expressing enthusiasm to recreate the recipe at home.
Students also participated in a session led by Miss Yu on the Chinese song As You Wish. Several were already familiar with the piece and were eager to join in. The activities were very well received, and all students engaged positively and enthusiastically throughout the sessions.
Maya Goes for Gold
We are pleased to announce that Maya B (Year 7) has been awarded a gold medal in the Female U14s Kumite 48kg category at the 4th World Sport Shito Ryu Karate Championships. This exceptional achievement is a testament to her dedication, discipline and impressive skill. Congratulations to Maya on this outstanding success.
UKMT Junior Kangaroo
Following their strong performance in the UKMT mathematics challenge earlier this year, Toby L, Melody G, Mustafa G (Year 7) along with Harold O and Jayden W (Year 8), progressed to the Junior Kangaroo competition held last week.
We are delighted to share that Toby, Melody and Harold all achieved Silver Awards, an excellent accomplishment given the challenge of the competition. Special congratulations go to Melody, who achieved the highest score in the school and was our best-performing student in this year’s competition. Well done to all students who took part and represented the school so positively.
How Science Powers Sport: British Cycling Expert Inspires Students
Year 10 and 12 students were inspired this week by a fascinating careers talk from Chris Herbert, a senior aerodynamicist for British Cycling. He shared insights into how science and sport work together at the highest level, explaining how aerodynamics can make crucial differences in performance during competitive cycling. Chris also spoke about his own career journey, highlighting the importance of STEM subjects and perseverance. The talk was both engaging and motivating, giving students a new perspective on the wide range of career opportunities available within the world of sport.
Reminders
A gentle reminder that next week will be the last week for afterschool clubs as no clubs will run during July.
Sports Results
A shoutout to Evaan Y (Year 7) for an outstanding performance in the recent U15 cricket match. Representing the school team, Evaan took two wickets and hit two impressive sixes! An exceptional achievement, particularly when competing against Year 10 students. Well done, Evaan on a fantastic display of skill and confidence.
What’s happening next week?
- Monday 22nd June – Week A
- Year 10 MFL Trip to Spain Returns
- Tuesday 23rd June –
- Year 10 Network Rail Careers Programme
- Wednesday 24th June –
- Translation Bee National Final
- Thursday 25th June –
- Year 12 UCAS Discovery Event Trip
- Year 12 UCAS Information Evening
- Sports Leadership Event at Watling Primary School
- Friday 26th June –
- Afterschool clubs finish for the term
Sports Fixtures
- Tuesday 23rd June –
- Year 7 Rounders tournament at Ousedale AWAY
- Year 7 Cricket Vs Brooklands AWAY
- U13 Cricket Vs Kents Hill Park HOME
