Headteacher’s Bulletin

It has been an incredibly positive week at Watling, I have been delighted with the behaviour and attitudes of all students. As we move into the final week of term, I’m pleased to share some updated from this week.  

Yesterday, we held our final Subject Consultation evening for our Year 11 students. These consultations are a crucial part of each academic year, allowing us to reflect on the progress, engagement and wellbeing of our students, ensuring they are best prepared for their upcoming exams.  Thank you to all those who attended. We have a range of additional sessions and events happening over the coming weeks to support our Year 11 students and ensure that they are ready to start their exams shortly after the Easter holiday. We are all behind our Year 11 students, their families and teachers and I know how much hard work is being put in by all involved. Thank you and keep going! 

On Monday, a group of students from Years 7, 8 and 9 went on a trip to Big Rock Indoor Climbing Centre. Students took part in a variety of climbing activities, allowing them the opportunity to try something new and build their confidence in a different sport. The students began with a warm-up session before tackling the lower-level walls. Their focus and determination saw them quickly progress to more challenging climbs. They excelled in both rope climbing and bouldering, showcasing their commitment and adaptability. Throughout the day the students displayed teamwork, resilience and a positive attitude, impressing their instructors. This trip was a testament to their willingness to embrace new experiences and push their limits.  

On Monday, we were delighted to welcome the Girls in Science team and industry professionals for an inspiring careers event tailored for our Year 9 and Year 10 girls. The event was led by Lakechia Jeanne from Girls in Science, alongside employees from Santander, including apprentices, who shared their personal journeys and insights into STEM-related careers. 

Through engaging assemblies, presentations, and discussions, our students explored a range of career opportunities, aspirations, and pathways into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to providing early careers advice and hands-on industry experiences for our students. Events like this are invaluable in broadening student’s horizons, encouraging ambition, and empowering them to consider future opportunities in STEM industries. Thank you to Girls in Science and Santander for their support in making this event a success. 

I have been informed by Thames Valley Police that they will be conducting an active operation in Whitehouse focusing on parking around the school. There is a concern that there is a high level of inappropriate parking in the local area that could endanger pedestrians. This includes parking/waiting in bus lanes. Please be aware that officers will be on the estate, particularly before and after school, and will be issuing Fixed Penalty Notices of £50. Please be aware of this and use our local roads appropriately. Thank you for your support.  

Finally,  I have been contacted by a post-graduate student who is working on their Master’s degree and is focusing on children’s mental health. She is seeking parents who would be willing to take part in a short online survey and has asked to share a link to this research. Please note that this research is in no way affiliated to Watling Academy and it is completely up to parents/carers if they wish to be involved. All information provided as part of the study would be anonymous and none of your survey responses would be collected or seen by me or any of the other staff at our school. If you would like to know more, or get involved, please follow this link Watling Academy 

I hope you all enjoy a happy and restful weekend. 

Mrs Fry

Headteacher

This week’s Sports Results

Friday 21st March:  

U15 (Year 9 & 10) Girls County Cup final at Slough Town FC – Friday 21st March – Despite a valiant effort from the team, up against formidable opponents, we finished in second place. All the girls were a credit to the school 

Wednesday 26th March: 

Y7 MK Schools Netball Tournament Cup – Watling Academy 2nd Place  

Y7 MK Schools Netball Tournament Plate – Watling Academy 3rd Place 

Thursday 27th March:   

Football League Final – Although we played brilliantly and with a huge amount of effort, we fell short at the final hurdle and lost to Shenley Brook End.  

What’s happening next week?  

Celebration Assemblies are taking place throughout the week. We look forward to rewarding students for their achievements.  

What’s happening next week?

Key events upcoming:   

  • Monday 31st March –  
    • Year 10 Speaking Mock Exams All Week
    • Celebration Assemblies All Week
  • Wednesday 2nd April –  
    • Nifty Lift engineering club competition 
  • Thursday 3rd April –  
    • GCSE PE Practical Moderation 
    • Lost Property Collection – Canteen After School
  • Friday 4th April –  
    • Last day of term 
    • Y7/8 Progress Reports Emailed Home
    • FOWA Doughnut sale 

Sports fixtures

  • Tuesday 1st April –
    • Y10 Basketball League final AWAY 
    • Year 9 Girls Football Semi-Final HOME
  • Wednesday 2nd April –
    • Y7/8 Girls Football Semi Final AWAY
    • Y10 Boys Football Semi-Final AWAY
  • Thursday 3rd April –  
    • Girls Badminton League final AWAY 
    • Y8 Boys basketball league final AWAY

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


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