Week 37
3rd July 2026
It has been wonderful to welcome our new Year 7 students for their transition days this week, and to meet families at our information evening on Monday. They have made an excellent start, and we look forward to seeing them again in September.
Our Year 9 MEP students have now begun their adventure in China. After departing early yesterday morning, they have arrived safely at their host university, where they will spend the week studying Mandarin and experiencing Chinese culture. We will be sharing regular updates on Facebook and look forward to hearing more about their trip when they return.
There is plenty to look forward to next week: Year 9 will enjoy a day at Thorpe Park, Year 12 head out on work experience, and Year 11 take part in their Sixth Form induction. In addition, our House Fete will take place on Friday across both lunchtimes, bringing the school community together for a fun end‑of‑term celebration.
Mrs Anderson
Headteacher
Culture Day
Today we were excited to host our annual Culture Day, a celebration of the rich diversity within our school community and an opportunity for students to share their cultural attire or demonstrate cultural traditions. Throughout the week, students took part in a wide range of activities including cultural workshops, film sessions and explorations of both ethnic cultures and sub‑cultures, all designed to promote inclusivity, respect and a deeper understanding of global traditions and perspectives. Some of the activities on offer included anime drawing, gaming, currency conversions, trading cards, and a vibrant fashion and talent showcase. The whole week was a wonderful celebration of the diversity that enriches our school community.
Year 8 Battlefields Trip
Across three days on the Western Front, 40 Year 8 students explored museums, cemeteries, trenches and memorials in Belgium and France, gaining a powerful understanding of the human experience of the First World War. From Ypres and Tyne Cot to the recreated trenches at Passchendaele, the underground tunnels of Wellington Quarry, the Menin Gate Last Post ceremony where Kelby and Aileen proudly laid a wreath, to Sanctuary Wood, Poperinge, the Somme, Thiepval and Newfoundland Memorial Park, each site deepened their insight into the scale of sacrifice and the realities of trench warfare. Mr Mason praised the students for their maturity, respect and engagement throughout this unforgettable learning journey. We have shared a more detailed account of the trip on our website and photos on our Facebook page.
Lights, Camera, Careers!
Year 10 students studying Drama, Music and Media Studies enjoyed a fantastic visit to Sky Studios in Elstree, where they were given a unique behind‑the‑scenes look at the world of television, film and media. Throughout the day, students took part in a range of interactive activities, including producing and starring in their own short films, as well as taking part in careers sessions exploring the many roles involved in bringing a TV programme from an initial idea to the screen.
A particular highlight was hearing directly from Sky employees about their own career journeys. Students learned that there is no single route into the industry and were introduced to Sky’s Future Talent Programme, which supports young people to develop industry skills, gain hands‑on experience and work alongside media professionals, providing an excellent pathway into creative careers.
It was an inspiring and memorable experience that broadened students’ understanding of the creative industries and the opportunities available to them.
Year 12 UCAS Information Evening
We know that applying to university through UCAS can feel complex, so on Thursday evening we hosted a UCAS Information Evening for our Sixth Form students and their parents and carers. The session was designed to help families understand the application process and how we will support students every step of the way. We were pleased to welcome a guest speaker from the University of Northampton, who shared valuable guidance on how students can make their applications stand out. Staff also outlined key information, timelines and the additional support available throughout the year. We hope that students and their families found the evening both useful and reassuring as they begin planning their next steps.
Barclays Fraud & Scams Roadshow
Year 12 students attended the Barclays Fraud & Scams Roadshow on Tuesday, where they learned about different types of fraud, common scams and how to protect themselves financially. Delivered by Barclays employees, the session offered students practical insight into financial crime and fraud prevention, including clear guidance on how to recognise and avoid common scams as they become more financially independent. It was an informative and timely session that equipped students with valuable knowledge to help safeguard their financial wellbeing.
Rainbow Bear Raffle
Thank you to everyone who supported the Rainbow Bear Raffle in support of Harry’s Rainbow and congratulations to Lucas K in Year 10 who won the Rainbow Bear prize!
Reminders
Academic Mentoring Afternoon – Monday 13th July
A gentle reminder that booking for the Academic Mentoring Afternoon will close at 10pm on Sunday 12th July. Please also be reminded that school will close at 12:35pm on this date. Students who receive Free School Meals will be able to collect a packed lunch before they leave, please order this via the ParentMail form by 10pm on Sunday 5th July.
Communications Survey
We are always looking to improve how we communicate with our families, and your feedback plays an important role in helping us do that. If you haven’t already done so, please take a few minutes to share your views on our current school communications. Your responses will help us ensure that the information you receive is clear, timely and useful. The survey will close at 9am on Thursday 9th July.
Parent/Carer Communications Survey 2026 – Fill in form
What’s happening next week?
- Monday 6th July – Week B
- Year 12 work experience all week
- Sports Leaders at Whitehouse Primary School sports day
- Tuesday 7th July –
- Year 9 Trip to Thorpe Park
- Wednesday 8th July –
- Year 10 Football Trials
- Thursday 9th July –
- Year 12 Induction
- Year 7 Debate competition
- Friday 10th July–
- House Fete
- Saturday 11th July –
- Uniform sale – 11am-12pm
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the bulletin. Have you enjoyed reading this? Is there anything else you’d like to see included in future? Should you have any questions, comments or feedback, please do not hesitate to email: admin@watling.academy
