Welcome back! I hope that you all had a relaxing and refreshing Easter break. The next half-term will be short but busy as exam season gets underway, development continues on our Sixth Form project, plus all of the usual trips, events and sports fixtures as we approach the end of the year.
During the week, Year 10 students have started their mock exams. This marks their first time doing a timetable of exams under full exam conditions, as they will during GCSEs. These exams give us an opportunity to review their progress but more importantly gives students a chance to become familiar with the expectations required for exams in preparation for their GCSEs next year. Well done to all students for the hard work and effort that they have put in so far and good luck with the rest of the exams.
Important update for school term dates September 2025
September 2025 will be a busy time for Watling, as we make the final preparations for our new Year 12 students and Sixth Form teaching arrangements. We have therefore agreed to hold an additional INSET day, which will take place on Wednesday 3rd September. This means that there has been an adjustment made to the term dates for September 2025.
- Thursday 4th September: First day for Year 7 and 12
- Friday 5th September: First day for Year 8, 9, 10 and 11
Sixth Form development work
We will have a significant on-site presence over the coming weeks, as we prepare for the start of our Sixth Form and new classroom block development. With this increased presence on site, please expect our car park may be busier than usual. I’d ask all members of our community to be extra vigilant when using the car park, crossing roads surrounding the school.
We will be sharing updates on our Facebook page as work progresses so be sure to follow us there for the latest news.
We are now beginning work, alongside students, to design the social spaces in the new Sixth Form. In order to support this project and make it a fantastic space for our Sixth Form both now and in the future, we have set up a campaign with Easyfundraising. Buying your everyday purchases from over 8,000 retailers via Easyfundraising generates cashback for the Sixth Form at no cost to you. All funds raised will be invested in furniture and resources for the Sixth Form. To sign up, all you need to do is join here. Thank you in advance for your support – every donation, no matter how small, will make a difference.
MK Rockschool Rocks Year 7 at Watling Academy
Thursday morning started off with a bang for Year 7 as they enjoyed a live assembly from MK Rockschool in the Main Hall. Featuring one of our visiting music teachers—Mr Glass, on guitar—alongside bass guitar, drums and vocals, the band played rock anthems that had students clapping and singing along. As well as experiencing the fun of live music, students also had the opportunity to learn about musical pathways as the MK Rockschool team spoke about the workings of the music industry. If your child fancies trying out guitar, bass, drums or vocals, please email the Music Department or visit MK Rockschool to book a free taster lesson.
Thank you to those of you who attended the Year 7 subject consultation evening yesterday and a reminder to Year 10 parents/carers that subject consultation booking for 8th May (10M) and 15th May (10K) opens at this evening at 7pm and will close at midnight on Wednesday 7th May. Please see the letter on ParentMail for details on how to book. These evenings are a key opportunity to discuss your child’s progress, performance and any areas for improvement, so teachers can work together with you to ensure your child achieves their full potential.
Mrs Fry
Headteacher
Sports Results – Results of all finals will be published next week
Wednesday 23rd April –
- Years 7, 8, 9 & 10 Netball League Finals
Thursday 24th April –
- Year 7, 8 & 9 Boys Football Finals
- Y8 Basketball Jr NBA AWAY
Friday 25th April –
- Year 10 & 11 Boys Football Final
- Year 7 & 8 Girls House football
What’s happening next week?
- Monday 28th – FOWA Meeting
- Tuesday 29th– Year 8 HPV Vaccinations
- Thursday 1st– Y11 Intervention day
Sports Fixtures
- Tuesday 29th– Y7, 8 & 9 Girls Football League Finals – Good luck!
Updated dates for the diary…
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
