A Message from the Principal - Wilmington...

Wilmington Academy Winter Newsletter 2019

Newsletter

Winter 2019

A Message from the PrincipalM. Gore

I am delighted to introduce the final newsletter of 2019. At Wilmington Academy, we believe in providing many opportunities for our students. Within

this festive edition, one can see the broad range of trips, activities, support and guidance on offer. The range of events enable our students to access and develop key IB learner traits such as communication, collaborative learning and other experiential learning skills. I am sure you will capture the sense of community spirit, enjoyment and fun as you look through the forthcoming pages.

2019 has provided us with another year of celebration and success. Student outcomes from all key stages have continued to be good. From utilising the international assessment criteria of the Middle Year Programme, grades from a range of disciplines/subject areas in Year 7 and 8 demonstrate positive results. GCSE results outperformed national averages in a majority of areas, with our first crop of Post 16 results also surpassing international averages.

Our continued drive to support the global mindedness of our students have forged cultural events from many countries including Japan, China, Austria and Spain. Language Acquisition sessions have engaged learners with Dutch, Italian and German in 2020.

We are proud of attaining our fifth consecutive Kent Literacy Award as a result of our Japanese-themed World Book Day event. Visiting authors and external workshops including Taiko Drummers were a particular highlight!

We continually strive for excellence. As the new year approaches, I would like to set out our aims for 2020:

• Secure International Baccalaureate Middle Years programme authorisation

• Continue to develop international links with a partnership school in China

• Attain nationally recognised Wellbeing Award from the National Children’s Bureau

• Implement a robust 3 year curriculum at KS3 and 2 year Key Stage 4 from September 2020

• Continue to improve student outcomes in all Key Stages

• Completion of the new Jupiter building• Production of Oliver the Musical.

One can see that we do not stand still. We continue to be ambitious and driven to ensure we are true to the Leigh Academies Trust motto: ‘Shaping Lives, Transforming Communities’.

Update on Third College building at Wilmington Academy

After a number of years of waiting for planning permission, construction work for the new college building at Wilmington finally began in September. The construction company, Kier, are managing the project, all funded by Kent County Council.

The new building will provide an additional 28 classrooms over three floors, following the expansion of the Academy’s students numbers in 2015. The building will be positioned

between our current buildings, and all staff and students have the exciting opportunity to watch the construction within metres of their classrooms. It’s a perfect opportunity to encourage students into Engineering and Construction careers.

Progress has been good since September, with the steel frame completed and the floor construction underway. All being well, the new building will be ready for September 2020 and at this point we will see the removal of the temporary array of 11 classrooms, which were necessary before the new building finally got started.

Year 13 visit Rome

As an IB World School, part of Wilmington’s ethos is to develop cultural understanding and develop lifelong learners, curious about the world around them.

Year 13 students visited Italy to experience the rich culture and history, and the amazing cuisine, of Rome. We explored the colosseum, Palatine Hill and the Roman forum, strolled down to Piazza Venezia, and threw coins into the Trevi fountain. We toured the Vatican museum, taking in art from Ancient Greece and Rome, the Baroque period, and all the way up to modern works from Dali and Matisse. We climbed the Spanish steps and went window-shopping at Gucci, Armani, Dolce and Gabbana. No visit to Rome would be complete without pizza, pasta, and gelato - we had plenty!

This was an amazing opportunity for students to gain some understanding into Italian history, but also how Rome and the ancient world shapes our modern world and all of Western society.

‘Rome was the most enjoyable school trip that I have been on - seeing the city was so surreal because around every corner is a different monument or piece of history. I feel grateful and pleased that I got to go on this trip; it really was amazing.’

Joe, Year 13

‘Rome was amazing! The city was everything I hoped for. The food was delicious and I couldn’t stop eating. The culture was so different from ours and still amazing. The way they live their lives is so relaxed and so chilled. I just want to go back.’

Sam, Year 13

‘I enjoyed the Vatican City the most because it was mesmerising, looking at tall the painted walls and ceilings. The place was full of detail and preserved so well. I loved looking at the statues and learning about the history of the historical ornaments. Looking at the architecture of the buildings was amazing and walking around and taking in the environment was a good experience. The view outside the museum was breath-taking as well.

The people there were also very friendly and very proud of their history, and there were a lot of guides that would explain the background of the history, which was unique as people would be educated as well. The food was also delicious.’

Kylie, Year 13

Careers in Business and Finance at Wilmington Academy

As part of a series of drop-down careers’ assemblies, on the 22nd November, Post-16 students from Wilmington Academy welcomed guest speaker Alan Bolton, from local accountancy firm Adams & Moore.

Presenting to a packed room of interested students, Alan discussed what business and finance are and where they are carried out as well as the roles that would be included. Students were able to find out about what each role entailed, together with the skills and attributes needed to be successful: effective communication skills, an enquiring mind, problem solving skills, and the art of negotiation.

More interestingly, Alan also got students thinking about sustainability within the industries and what their future jobs could look like if advancements in technology continue.

Sincere thanks to Alan for taking the time to inform our students so that they can develop themselves.


Year 13 Spotlight: Luke’s Journey

Wilmington is proud to have seen the completion of its second IB Careers Programme cohort. Luke, a Year 13 student, reflected on what the IBCP has taught him:

‘Through studying the International Baccalaureate Careers-related Programme, I have significantly developed the skills I require to go on to university. More importantly, I havedeveloped the skills to become successful in a career. Some of the key skills I have been able to build and develop throughout this programme come from the four main units of work I completed.

Through the study of Personal and Professional Skills I know that I have become more reflective, both in my school work and in my sport. I now am a much better reflector and consequently able to recognise strengths and improvements in my work and sporting performance. Therefore, I have acquired skills that benefit both my professional studies aswell as my personal ambitions. Also, the unit of Service

Learning had a noticeable improvement in my communication skills. Working in a small team to achieve a common goal, for example fundraising for charity or raising awareness of an issue in our local community has allowed my communication skills to flourish.

I have become a much better academic writer and researcher through the Reflective Project. I have learnt about the importance of open-mindedness whilst writing this essay inorder to consider cultural and religious perspectives on an ethical dilemma that I chose surrounding my career related study of Sport. Lastly, in the language development unit Istudied Italian which was a unique and interesting experience to learn a language and about a different culture.

I strongly believe that if I had not studied the IBCP programme at the start of Year 12 that my grades, academic and personal and professional skills would not have developed as well. I have seen a huge improvement in my academic writing and ability to reflect, analyse and improve my work to achieve better results.’

On October 9th, we were thrilled to host 30 Post 16 students from our partner school, St. Ursula School in Aachen, Germany. Students were visiting London as part of a cultural trip for their last year before university, many of whom were visiting the UK for the first time. The group finished off their visit by experiencing Post 16 in a UK school setting to explore cultural differences between the two schools.

Students were introduced to subjects such as Product Design and Catering, subjects these German students had never experienced in their own school setting before. Students were taught practical skills by our very own talented Wilmington teachers. They were particularly excited about the opportunity to make and try scones complete with jam and clotted cream; they were amazed at how much they learned!

Our visitors then met and discussed other cultural differences and similarities with our Post 16 IB students. German students were excited for the opportunity to use their English with native speakers; their enthusiasm was met with our students, conversations carried on with great interest from both sides. All students participated in an IB focused group discussion and were each assigned a Post 16 student to discuss cultural focuses of not only their own countries, but others in our global community. Students then presented perspectives from their assigned countries, sharing their thoughts with the larger group.

Students finished their day with a traditional English roast lunch made by our own restaurant; they were impressed with the quality of our food and pleased with trying authentic UK food, many of whom had never tried this before. For dessert, they had the opportunity to sample their own cooking from earlier in the day, feeling proud of their culinary accomplishments.

Frank Hulden, one of the German teachers on the trip, spoke very highly of Wilmington saying, ‘I´d like to thank you again for the great day we spent at your school. And just as I assumed, what my students liked best about the whole London trip was the day we spent at your school. Thank you for making this possible.’ Although the visit was short, the opportunity for interactions for our Post 16 students was invaluable.

Many thanks to Catering and Design Technology, Post 16 and our school restaurant for making their visit so memorable.

German School Partnership Visit

Wilmington Academy Winter Newsletter 2019 3

Academy Trips

IB Global Conference 2019 Abu Dhabi

Ms R McHaran (The Halley Academy), Mr M Gore (Principal at Wilmington Academy) and Mrs J Tipple (Principal at Oaks Primary Academy) from the Leigh Academies Trust attended the IB Global Conference in Abu Dhabi on 24 to 26 October. Following winning a Leigh Academies Trust competition to attend the conference, colleagues had the opportunity to share the Trust’s and individual academies’ inspiring story within the IB community, consisting of 2,000 members from 80 countries. Mr Gore said, ‘The IBCP and MYP journey continues to be transformational for the students and staff at Wilmington Academy. Networking at this global stage ensures that the academy is at the cutting-edge of education and will continue to positively shape the lives of students from the Trust.’ As part of the schedule we were interviewed for a South Korean TV documentary who wish to pursue the IB programmes in their schools. Inspirational message from Sir Clive on Peak Performance: ‘I never lose - I either win or I learn.’ The Rugby World Cup winning Head Coach, who led the England team to World Cup glory in Australia in 2003, was a keynote speaker at the conference. He discussed his inspiring experiences, thoughts and views on leadership and shared some key strategies that ensure top performance from a range of different teams and settings. Dr Siva Kumari, IB Director General, discussed new initiatives and current issues within teaching and learning drawing from the global perspective. Ultimately her message was underpinned by the philosophy of the IB which is ensuring our students, ‘who are the next wave of humanity, care about the world and engage with the communities.’ The power of the IB programmes and Learner profile is such

that students within this framework have the opportunity to engage with this philosophy. She culminated by highlighting the key to continuing success: ‘We tend to focus on what is not working rather than what is working.’ Dr Tina Blythe, Director of Learning and Outreach at Harvard Project Zero, expanded upon this when she talked of the five powers: (professional) friendship, failure, questions, wonder, one (one teacher can make a difference). It is notable that none of these refer to skills or knowledge. What is evident from all of the speakers is that we need to enjoy life as part of learning, in addition, how significant it is for our children to understand this concept so that they may continue to be inspired to achieve success on all levels. Mrs Tipple said, ‘The introduction of the IB PYP at Oaks Primary Academy has meant that we are able to progress with our revised curriculum much more rapidly and should achieve where we want to be 10 years ahead of schedule should we have continued on our own.

It was enlightening to understand more about the learning that is happening in Secondary and Post 16 through the MYP and CP programmes and how the programmes continue the philosophy all the way through a student’s education. I got to see how all of the IB programmes can and do translate across multi-

national curriculums and cultures and the important impact that IB is having in LAT academies. Rebecca’s presentation was about the IBCP but there were clear links, information and ideas for the PYP and MYP. Travelling so far around the world, and meeting with so many cultures and nations, made the world feel a smaller and friendlier place.’ Attending the IB global conference has put the English education system and related foci for practitioners in perspective with the rest of the world. We all have barriers, successes and concerned stakeholders but ultimately want the best education and opportunities for our children. Ms McHaran was invited to present a seminar on the IBCP programme, detailing the innovative methods at Leigh Academies Trust schools that have introduced the CP to support other schools globally in doing the same. There were more CP presentations at this year’s IB Global Conference than ever before, with worldwide student numbers projected to double in the next year alone. This incredible growth is further supported by increased recognition of the programme by universities, with representatives from King’s College London and Yale Universities speaking on the value of an IB education and what makes an IB student special.


Academy Trips

Ms McHaran said, ‘By embracing the IBCP quickly, Leigh Academies Trust has ensured that we are at the forefront of this exciting programme both within the IB community and in conversations we were able to have with representatives from higher education and employment sectors at the conference.Attending a conference at a global level has allowed us to pursue new ways to develop all of our IB programmes which we can bring back to our colleagues across the trust. It has also allowed us to begin to develop meaningful partnerships

with other IB World Schools which can only continue to enrich the experience of our students and further the expertise of our staff.’ Next Steps: 1. The development of a teaching

and learning CPD session to disseminate key practices, theory and methods to staff.

2. Outreach with other IB World Schools to develop international partnerships.

Accelerated Reader: today a reader, tomorrow a leader!

Accelerated Reader is now in its ninth successful year at Wilmington Academy and continues to go from strength to strength. This is a literacy intervention for all students in Years 7, 8 and 9 across the Academy and while this is run through the English Faculty, it is an invaluable programme that helps students with literacy across all subject areas. Most GCSEs have moved from coursework to being exam based, which

Matthew in Year 7 has read his way into the exclusive Word Millionaire club by reading over 1,394,403 words since September! He is the first student to achieve this honour during this academic year, having quizzed on 20 books and accumulated 213 points along the way.

means the pressure for students’ ability to read accurately is greater than ever. A reading book is part of everyday equipment at our academy and students are given dedicated time in the school day to read and quiz on their books. Since the beginning of September, students in Years 7, 8 and 9 have borrowed 5,349 books from the library, taken over 4,700 quizzes and read a staggering 52,715,080 words.This is fantastic news, and we believe that this trend will get stronger over the years. It is important that students continue to read outside the classroom. Reading starts at home. It is widely recommended that every student should be reading for at least 20 minutes every day. Why is 20 minutes so important? See below...


Ciao a Tutti!

This year, all of our Year 9 students have been exploring the rich culture of Italy and the delights of the Italian language. They have learnt about Italian food, fashion, art, history, and much more. Italy was one of the countries that our students had voted to explore in the Year 8 survey which was conducted last June; an example of how student voices are valued, considered and appreciated when shaping a brand-new exciting project. At Wilmington, we aim to widen horizons and continuously celebrate an international, principled and open mindset.

Across the last two modules, students have produced presentations, debated the differences between Italy and the UK, and even produced Knowledge Organisers. In order to educate the whole school about this innovative project, they will also present their findings at college assemblies.

On the 25th November, we held a celebration event for the most hard-working students across all three colleges. As part of the event, families made fresh ravioli, pizza, cannoli and also lemon cake with the Food Technology Department. Beautiful wooden laser-cut Christmas decorations were also created under the careful guidance of the Design, Technology and Engineering team.

This pioneering cross-curricular event highlighted the links across different disciplines and showcased how Wilmington Academy celebrates hard work, dedication and commitment in its student force.

Awards and Events

Lest we forget...

Armistice Day (also known as Remembrance Day) is on 11th November. It marks the day World War One ended, at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month, in 1918. A two-minute silence is held at 11am to remember the fallen, who made the ultimate sacrifice for us all.

At Wilmington Academy, staff and students have always embraced the spirit of Remembrance by supporting the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

This year, we have raised the sum of £288.86! A huge thank you to everyone for your generosity, respect and kindness.

‘They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.At the going down of the sun and in the morning,

We will remember them.’

Testimonials:

‘Thank you very much for inviting my son and I to the workshop. It was a great evening. It allowed my son and I to spend some quality time together which due to my son’s busy schedule with his football and having two younger brothers isn’t always possible. It was also lovely to see my son participate in an activity that he wouldn’t normally do and I must say he did very well.

All the pupils did a fantastic job and the food was absolutely delicious. Thank you also to all the teachers who took the time to organise it. I hope my son keeps up the good work and we get to come again.’

Parent

‘I just wanted to let you know that we had a wonderful time at the workshop. It was so well- organised and all the staff went out of the way to assist us in making such amazing Christmas tree decorations.

I was so impressed with how it was run and everyone had such a great time. The food was amazing and all the staff were great too; we would like to thank each and every one of you for such a great time.’

Miss Brice, Project Coordinator


Art

Art Club

Art Club has been creating a series of festive outcomes from Bauble drawings, to wrapping paper through students’ own design and printmaking and finally ending in the entries for this year’s Christmas card competition! We are eagerly awaiting the fantastic work of our students! Year 9 Photography has been looking at the illustrator, Georgina Luck, comparing her work to M&S food photographers. When working in groups, students set up their chosen items and create a response to their chosen food photographer. This develops them as independent learners. Students have worked incredibly hard creating their

outcomes and have produced some beautiful and delicious-looking work.

Year 10 Photography has been exploring landscapes with a focus on mini-world photographer, Robert Pointek. Students take a series of landscapes and use many elements on Photoshop to digitally manipulate their images into a mini world. This was a challenging task and students developed their characters by realising that success can be achieved through hard work and dedication. We are very proud of all students taking the course and wish them the very best!

Success for Wilmington

Year 8 Football

The Year 8 football team progressed to the third round of the Kent cup this year and currently sit third in the district league with two league games left to play.

Close to twenty students have represented the year group so far this year which is fantastic. They have demonstrated excellent risk-taking skills.

Year 9 Football

The Year 9 football team progressed to the second round of the Kent cup this year and currently sit top of the league, with four league games left to play. The side have shown excellent determination and open-mindedness when competing in their fixtures.

Year 7 Rugby

The Year 7 rugby team have played one tournament so far this year and have more fixtures to come after Christmas. They have shown excellent reflective skills after each game to improve upon their performances.

Physical Education


Physical Education

Year 7 and 8 Sports Hall Athletics Event

Year 7 and Year 8 athletes participated at North Kent College for the Dartford schools’ Sports Hall Athletics Event. Wilmington Academy students gave an amazing account of themselves, showing excellent sportsmanship as well as outstanding athletic skills! What was most pleasing of all was that our students displayed the skill of risk-taking: competitors embraced the opportunity to participate in events that they had never tried before! Exemplary behaviour was displayed during the events and the students were an absolute credit to our school.

Year 7 Netball

On Tuesday 12th November the Year 7 netball team played in their first ever match against a very strong team who plays regularly: Cobham Hall.

All of the girls played very well, learning more rules as the game went along and developing their passing, defending and shooting.

The final score was 13-3; their best quarter was the third with the score

being 1-1 and the defence doing incredibly well to get rebounds and get the ball down to our shooters.

The following Year 7 girls have been praised on their efforts and encouraged to keep attending girls’ club every fortnight on a Monday.

Congratulations Maisie, Alice, Rachel, Daisy, Michaela, Tabitha and Claudia.

Year 7Fin, Jack, Raven, Emily, Bianca, Harry, Lola, Tayan, Sonny, Scarlett and Missi

Year 8Josh, Sidney, George, RoseAnna, Frank, Charlie, Lacey, Etta, Isabelle and Bella

As a result of their efforts the results are as follows:

• Year 7 girls - 3rd• Year 7 boys - 1st• Year 8 girls - 1st • Year 8 boys - 1st

As the Year 7 boys and Year 8 girls and boys were victorious in their events, they will now represent Dartford at the Kent School Games in February. We at Wilmington are incredibly proud of these students (see right and below), and wish them the very best for the upcoming games. Swimming Gala (Girls)

In November, two talented students (both called Hattie) represented Wilmington Academy in the swimming gala at Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School. Each of them swam front crawl: Hattie for Year 9 and Hattie for Year 10. Hattie from Year 9 was placed 2nd in her heat, getting her into the final eight. Hattie from Year 10 was in a straight final and placed 3rd out of six schools. Both girls then participated in the exciting relay event. This relay was a straight final and we are excited to say that both girls were placed 1st overall! Well done girls; you have made your academy very proud!


Physical Education

Swimming Gala (Boys)

On Thursday 21st November, three boys from Wilmington Academy competed in the Leigh Academy Trust swimming gala at Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School.

• Jacob from Year 9 swam 25m front crawl and placed 2nd in his heat.

• Mason from Year 9 swam 25m back crawl and placed 2nd in his heat.

• Lewis from Year 11 swam 25m breaststroke and placed 3rd in his heat.

This meant that all three got into the final!

The boys were able to swim a relay together with Jacob swimming two lengths of front crawls and Mason and Lewis swimming one length each. They were placed 2nd in their relay heats. This placed them into the final!

They then swam their four lengths in the final and managed to, at a very close finish, get 3rd place!

Overall, out of 12 schools they were placed 8th! Considering we did not have a full Year 9 team or Year 11 team, this is a fantastic result!

The boys have been congratulated on their amazing achievements and effort, and excellent etiquette and attitude when participating.

Maths Support Group

We are delighted with the impact that our Maths Support group is having since its creation!

The group was chiefly designed to support students in increasing their confidence when approaching and applying their Maths in context. The college support group meet on Monday for Minerva, Tuesday for Jupiter college and Thursday for students in Apollo. These sessions are delivered on the Minerva Plaza during form/assembly time.

Since its inception, the students in the support group have been progressing, making a huge effort and clearly feeling more confident after each session. They have also become really good at remembering to come to me on their day, so that’s a plus for their organisation skills. Moreover, we have been inspired by their levels of confidence since the start of the programme.

Students have been displaying their IB learner traits of being principled and taking risks which is really paying off! As a reward for all their hard work, focus and dedication, there have been many planned activities such as a trip and a party with parents.

We are very proud of our students and we are positive that the impact will be huge!

Year 7 & Year 8 Maths Mastery: Inclusion

The introduction of Maths Mastery this year further supports inclusive maths teaching, because it prizes the class as a community of learners, and the whole class moves through topics at broadly the same pace. Each topic is studied in depth and the teacher does not move to the next stage until all children demonstrate that they have a secure understanding of mathematical concepts. Inclusive high-quality teaching is achieved through dialogic teaching, assessment for learning questions and promoting learning conversations where understanding is seen as a corporate effort. The mastery approach is about being responsive, competent and able to explain maths in many different ways in a climate of trust and openness.

The mastery approach involves effective use of models and images to support understanding, help to build conceptual knowledge and making connections. The whole class discuss how to reach answers, what to do and articulate why. Lessons are crafted carefully and a range of different ways of approaching maths are used through visual, concrete

and abstract examples. Pupils are given time to think deeply about the maths and really understand concepts at an interactive level rather than as a set of rules or procedures.

Teaching maths for mastery offers all pupils access to the full maths curriculum, and its emphasis on promoting multiple methods of solving a problem, builds self-confidence and resilience in pupils.

Though the whole class goes through the same content at the same pace, pupils who grasp concepts quickly are challenged with rich and sophisticated problems within the same topic. Those who are not sufficiently fluent are provided additional support to consolidate their understanding before moving on.

Maths


Year 11 Field Trip

The Year 11 geographers spent a day out in London, collecting data, essential to their exams in the summer. Students visited the O2, travelled over the Thames on the Emirates fly over and spent time in Canary Wharf.

Students developed both their knowledge of Geographical skills as well as how the area had changed, from the old docks to the financial capital.

Geography

Year 7 Geographers

Year 7 students have spent the past module researching how environmentally-friendly the school site is. Students have spent time collecting data from a range of locations (even Mr Gore’s office, much to their delight!) The students have been incredibly well- behaved during the trip and the department cannot wait to see their work exploring just how environmentally-friendly we are!

Wilmington Professional Engagement MYP Design Year 7 Project

This module, some of our Year 7 students had the opportunity to present to the Principals and Governors of Wilmington Academy in the boardroom. For the students, this felt like a real-life episode of The Apprentice, as they each shared the progress they have made during an innovative new MYP Design project. The students had been allocated a small piece of land within the school grounds to design and build a Japanese-inspired outdoor space for contemplation and reflection. All four Apollo students shared their thoughts with great eloquence and the audience was impressed with the level of maturity and confidence that each student demonstrated during their presentation.

This new project provides a pioneering new direction for the academy, collaborating with an industry professional, Mr. William Hogan O’Neill, Chartered Architect for the HOCA Practice. Initially working with the Design and Technology staff to develop a live brief that closely reflects the way a piece of architectural design would be conducted in industry, Mr Hogan O’Neill has continued to work with our Year 7s, supporting them as a consultant on the project. This involvement has included leading site visits, classroom lectures and the use of video conferencing to give invaluable

Design & Technology

feedback on the students’ work. Through his ongoing commitment to the project, Mr Hogan O’Neill has enabled the students to develop a deeper level of thinking that will help them in their professional lives, whilst further developing their IB learner skills in a ‘real world’ project. A panel of judges will select the most successful design in module six and it is then scheduled to be built on the grounds of the Academy in the following academic year.


Horticulture

History

Busy as a Bee! Year 9 Life Skills We have had a busy, bustling and exciting term. Our guests have included David Rae, who is a long-term visitor to the school, and Larraine Allen. David has offered more insight into bees and presented excellent demonstrations which held our students spellbound! Furthermore, Larraine Allen, another regular visitor from Hadlow College, taught the class a lesson in making buttonholes - all the students did an excellent job!

In November, we undertook a very successful school trip to Eagle Heights in Eynsford, which gave the students a chance to get up close to birds of prey. Although it was a very chilly day outdoors, the students thoroughly

enjoyed the day with the magnificent birds. They returned to school bursting with new knowledge and information ready to tackle their new life skills challenge.

It’s Christmas, so another hive of activity has been ushered into the centre, making and planning for our annual sale, which this year, includes handmade bath bombs, beeswax candles, infused oils and vinegars, handmade soap as well as our beautiful Christmas plants!

The students have worked incredibly hard to bring all their products to a high standard and we feel justifiably proud of all of them.

History Society

Tuesdays 15:00- 16:00Hosted by Ms Begovic, Ms Youdale and Ms Moreton

The History Society is a student-led organisation where pupils can choose to investigate topics outside of the curriculum. We have just completed our exploration of Black History as October is traditionally marked as the month to study the history of black people. Rather than focusing on people and events related to slavery and Civil Rights, we chose to embrace the idea of exploring the achievements of inspiring black individuals before slavery and in modern times. This module we are studying the Silk Roads as this topic widens the focus of world history. Students are enjoying their learning which explores different perspectives of world history and topics that are not usually covered within the regular curriculum. Topics for each module are chosen together: teachers and students come up with suggestions and vote for what sounds most engaging in a democratic manner. Students also enjoy delivering their own presentations on topics that they have investigated, either individually or in groups. This develops

our students as risk-takers which is hugely popular during our weekly sessions. These presentations are chosen by the students; so far, we have already been treated to a flashback into ancient Greece, Rome and even imperial Japan! We are presently exploring the expansion our group and exciting trips are being planned for these budding historians. We are especially looking into visiting the Tower of London but are also open to other suggestions from our students.

‘A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots’


Science

STEM Club is an after-school club for students of all years who want to push the boundaries of their science beyond what is covered in class.

This module, we have looked at how different brands of Coke and Mentos sweets affect the height of the spectacular fountain that results. We then created a modern version of the ‘Great Stink’ when we made sodium acetate, also known as ‘Hot Ice’. That is the material used in hand warmers and on the videos on YouTube (Google- ‘Hot Ice’- it’s worth a view). The smell of vinegar (acetic acid) and the subsequent boiling, ensured that the whole school smelt like a traditional fish and chips shop! The reaction is simple, but we wanted to demonstrate that exciting chemistry doesn’t need a high-

tech lab to carry out great science.Our latest meetings have centred around building and optimising gliders. The kits were supplied by the Institute of Physics (IOP) and sponsored by the Royal Air Force to help celebrate 100 years of the RAF. The Stemmers built the gliders from the kit and then used their knowledge of forces to place mass on the airframe in order to balance the centre of mass with the centre of lift in order to get the perfect flight. The gliders were tested from the upper Apollo plaza to the lower. Some flew well. Others less so…

We have further exciting activities and experiments ready for blast off in the next module. Our Stemmers are an amazing group of students and they have proven that they can work as a

team, can work through a problem and follow instructions. They are so eager to learn, progress and experiment and I feel very proud of all of them!

If you, or someone you know is interested in science and wants to stretch and challenge themselves engaging in experiments beyond those in class - please contact Mr Schoeddert or Mr Irlam for more details.

STEM Club

‘Scientists have become the bearers of the torch of discovery in our quest for knowledge.’

Stephen Hawking

Wellbeing

As another year draws to a close, I feel it is important to reflect on our successes. At the beginning of the academic year, I was cordially invited to become a part of the Wilmington family, to help provide a holistic approach to our students and staff wellbeing.

Since then I have worked with nearly one hundred students, helping them to be able to cope better with life’s stresses and strains. My work has been varied and overall has helped students improve in lots of different areas: attainment, attendance, self-esteem. I have also supported parents with advice and guidance.

My role has allowed me to support the staff team at Wilmington through some difficult times, helping them to cope with what is sometimes a challenging career. Our successes this year include:

• Staff Wellbeing Group• Flu jabs for staff• Free use of the gym for staff• Registered for The National Children’s Bureau

Wellbeing Award• Improved attendance• Bespoke sessions for students who need to re-engage

in their learning• Individual support for students from Year 7 to Post 16.

Being able to deliver all of the above is wonderful, however we really want to further develop our Wellbeing Services next year. Our goals for next year are:

• Health MOTs for staff• Box Fit classes for staff • Mental Health First Aid training for selected staff • Drug awareness assembly for students• Youth services in Kent assembly• Post 16 peer mentors• Parenting programme: understanding the challenges

young people face and better supporting your child through them.

Wilmington Academy has embarked on a massive challenge to improve the academy’s wellbeing and I hope you will agree that we have made a fantastic start! If you feel that you or your child may need some additional support or advice, please contact me and we can meet to talk it through.

Finally, the festive period can be the most exciting and fun time of the year; however, it is also stressful, demanding and sometimes lonely. My challenge to everyone is to take time to talk to each other; presents are wonderful but sometimes the best present of all is giving someone time to be heard.

Nigel Crocker, Wellbeing [email protected] 013222 72111 ext 182

Festive Greetings from the Wellbeing Service


SEN Provision Map

Since the start of this academic year, the SEN team have been utilising a new system called Provision Map, “94% of schools believe we have helped them succeed with Ofsted.“

This new software is proving to be invaluable for the SEN department. It has reduced the numerous places in which data and provision information is stored and is allowing the many different interventions that are available to be monitored and tracked more effectively.

Provision Maps helps SENCOs to share pertinent information about students with staff in the school.

• Up-to-date SEN information• Clear, SMART, targets• Fully adaptable templates for a variety of purposes• Share student targets and the provisions they access.

Provision Map also provides all members of staff with access to information on all the students that they teach. Teachers can access Personalised Plans and Pupil Passports of students, which are both important to day to day planning and provide strategies that are to be used in the classroom daily.

SEN

Year 7 Nurture Group

During module one and two, some of our new Year 7 SEN students have enjoyed taking part in our Nurture Group, based in the Iris Centre.

They have participated in games, activities and learning, centred around:

• building self-confidence• managing feelings and emotions• helpful and unhelpful thoughts• recognising signs of anger• developing strategies to cope with anger• having a positive rather than a negative attitude.

‘Simple to use, Provision Map is a comprehensive tool which enables you to map and manage provision effectively and efficiently.’

Michael Surr Education Development Officer, NASEN

Together, they came up with a group name, group rules and a motto:

• Feelings (try to be aware of feelings and regulate negative feelings)

• Relax (do ‘relaxation’ breathing, meditation and have some quiet time)

• I try to think helpful (positive thinking)• Explore solutions (step plans and problem-solving

techniques)• Now Reward Yourself (spend time doing fun activities)• Don’t forget – be brave! (practice skills everyday with

friends/family)• Stay happy and talk to someone!

Students have settled in very well and are looking forward to using their newfound skills throughout the rest of Year 7.


Francesca, one of our Year 11 students, is participating in the Beauty and The Beast pantomime which is currently showing at the Woodville Theatre in Gravesend. We are very proud of her achievement.

A handsome prince spends his life as an ugly beast after being cursed! Set in the sleepy French town of Chateau de Toilet, this pantomime did not disappoint with laughs, adventure, fabulous costumes, amazing special effects and even some snow - much to the delight of our lovely students!

Our Year 7 were treated to a wonderful production of the Christmas Pantomime entitled Beauty and the Beast at the Woodville Hall venue in Gravesend. Despite the freezing

weather, the wind and the persistent rain, our students thoroughly enjoyed the school outing. We are really proud of their excellent behaviour and their boundless enthusiasm in responding to audience participation.

Our very busy module two culminated in this pantomime trip which has become a much-loved tradition at Wilmington Academy to ensure that our students embrace the spirit of Christmas.

Year 7

Christmas Cheer at the Pantomime

Reflective Learners

‘I have settled beautifully into Wilmington Academy as the teachers have made me feel welcome. The best part of this school is that it feels like home. Wilmington is a great community of staff and students who support me in my learning. Our teachers set us goals and targets which are mostly achieved through using the IB learner profile in lessons. Vertical tutoring is amazing as I get to meet students from uppers and ask them questions! I love that fact that expectations are high at Wilmington so we can achieve our full potential and have a fantastic future! I am really enjoying the MYP lessons as they fully develop my character.’

Ruby, Year 7

‘Hi, I am Joe and I love Wilmington Academy as I was immediately made to feel welcomed into my school, college and my lessons. The best part of Wilmington is that you can speak to staff about anything and feel comfortable doing it. My college makes me feel safe because I know that I can go to the SSMs who will support me.

We have high expectations so that everyone can treat each other with respect and trust which is good. The IB learner trait that I use the most is risk- taker as I am new to the school.’

Joe, Year 7

‘Wilmington has embraced me and I have settled in well and have made lots of new friends. Tutors, teachers and the SSMs make me feel safe at school. I love all the form activities, especially the SMSC tasks as we all get involved in the form.My communication skills have really developed since joining Wilmington. We also have a wellbeing person who can help us if we are struggling. At the moment I am really enjoying the sports programme and most recently we went to a Christmas pantomime which was a fantastic outing even though it was raining!’

Sonny, Year 7

All the world’s a stage...

Students from Years 9, 10, 11 and 12 had a fantastic evening on the 20th November 2019 watching Blood Brothers at the Orchard Theatre.

BTEC Drama students performed extracts from various texts including Bouncers, Shakers and Psychosis, as well as monologues.

It was a brilliant night as the students had the opportunity to perform in front of their parents. Everyone who performed made me incredibly proud.

Drama


The High-Achieving Programme

To ensure that our high-achieving pupils make the best possible progress at school, a programme of bespoke workshops has been initiated. During module one, The University of Creative Arts presented their first workshop to our Year 9 and 10 students. All the students thoroughly enjoyed the day and during the reflection session, they articulated that it impacted positively on their confidence levels.

The University of Kent and their ambassadors presented the second workshop in module two. Students learned more about making an argument, structuring an argument and they also learned techniques for presenting ideas in a public speaking setting. Students thoroughly engaged with the workshop and they confidently presented their arguments during the group session part of the day. We are so pleased to see that pupils are improving their communication skills at school and this augurs well for the future.

We are extremely excited about this programme as it is a pioneering one at Wilmington and we are very happy to see that it is already making a huge difference in the lives of our high-achieving students. This can be clearly demonstrated when we observe how our students communicate with each other. The programme will continue throughout the year and we are hoping that our younger students will also enrich their confidence when they join the programme from module three onwards.

Middle Years Programme

All secondary academies within Leigh Academies Trust align their educational beliefs and values to reflect the IB Middle Years Programme philosophy. This is to develop enquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people, who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect.

This is clearly evident through the fantastic work produced during the students’ interdisciplinary project.

One of the key features of the MYP is its emphasis on interdisciplinary teaching and learning. Interdisciplinary learning experiences have positive effects on students, teachers and learning environments.

Our exciting and engaging inquiry learning projects for this term were:

Year 7 – STEM focus: How can we send man to the moon?

Year 8 – Business, MfL and Geography focus: What impact can cultural differences and the physical geography of a country have on trade and tourism?

Year 9 – English, individuals and societies focus: How do systems and cultures change as a result of their orientation in time and space?

Year 10 – Design and Arts focus:What are the different impacts of knife crime?

Within the projects and within our Middle Years Programme curriculum students are encouraged to develop the IB Learner traits.

Students are awarded merits associated with the IB Learner Profile and it is amazing to see the full range having been acquired by our students:

Year 7 Year 8

Balanced 199 190

Caring 132 240

Communicator 768 684

Inquirer 640 667

Knowledgeable 1118 967

Open-minded 433 158

Principled 236 323

Reflective 188 138

Risk-taker 259 281

Thinker 767 507

Excellent achievement 104 69


Year 11

Key Dates 2020

Friday 20th December 2019 End of Module 2. School ends at 12.10pm

Monday 6th January 2020Module 3 begins. Whole academy back

Thursday 23rd January 2020Post 16 Parents Progress Consultation Evening 4pm – 7pm

Wednesday 29th January 2020Year 11 Parents Evening 3pm – 7pm

Thursday 13th February 2020End of Module 3. Last day of term

Friday 14th February 2020INSET DAY No students in school

Monday 24th February 2020Module 4 begins. Whole academy back

Thursday 5th March 2020Parent Voice 6pm – 7pm

Wednesday 25th March 2020Year 9 Parents Evening 3pm – 7pm

Thursday 26th March & Friday 27th March 2020Production of Oliver: the Musical

Friday 3rd April 2020INSET DAY No students in school

Reach for the Stars

As a result of the impact and success of last year’s Reach for the Stars programme, from module three all Year 11 students will be engaged with this incentive programme. The project lasts for 18 weeks and students will be earning effort points/stars from teaching staff in every one of their lessons.

A group of Year 11 students have chosen the tiered prizes available. These consist of food/drink, Prom and Bluewater or Amazon vouchers. Points are awarded for attendance, effort and conduct during lessons and attendance and engagement at subject revision sessions after school.

This has been a big hit with students in the past and many have built up enough points to earn the top prize of a free prom ticket or Amazon voucher.

Wilmington Academy would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmasand a Happy New Year

Student Leadership

The Student Leadership Team have undergone the first module of meetings with all colleges, aiming to promote student wellbeing and raise issues within lessons and outside of lessons. So far attention has been brought to issues of recycling. As of January 2020, the school’s recycling system is being remodelled and LED lights have replaced all non-environmentally friendly lights in the school. This has been pleasant news to students that are passionate about an environmentally friendly institution.

There have been discussions regarding the wellbeing of students and the upkeep of pupils’ mental health. The

team has been discussing ideas of how we can safeguard students especially during high pressure times, such as the exam season.

The introduction of the VESPA programme in the Post 16 form rooms has been hugely beneficial in creating a good mindset for students. This programme, which allows students to understand, set and achieve goals in their education, would be a gain in the lower school which has been a part of recent discussions during meetings; this would aim to reduce stress and improve time management for students during exam season as it does for Post 16.

Our next step as the end of the module approaches is to relay issues to staff, and begin to consider our approach to a new module and a new year in January. We would like to complete some charity work in the new year; the idea has been mentioned within our weekly meetings and will be a priority during the new year.

Students have expressed their desire to spread awareness and help about issues such as mental health, homelessness and retirement home funding. I am thrilled to be choosing a project during Module 3 that the entire school can be involved in!

Molly, Head Girl



As we approach another Christmas in Jupiter college, I would like to express thanks to each and every one of the students for the commitment and dedication they show to both the college and the Academy.

We started the year tremendously well and have seen many of our students return with a ‘can do and positive’ attitude. The students are engaged with their learning and all thoroughly enjoyed the range of SMSC activities on Action Day and Interdisciplinary day. Key Stage 3 students have continued to thrive and the MYP has seen students go from strength to strength in Years 7 and 8. I have been delighted to see the challenge and rigour being embraced. Our Year 11 adopted a mature outlook to their recent mock exams and are on track for great successes in the summer months.

My competitive side swells with pride when I see so many of our talented sportsmen and women go and compete against other schools. The dedication whether win or lose is inspirational and their commitment to constantly strive for success is great to see.

As it seems to becoming a wonderful annual Christmas event - Mrs Govender had the privilege of accompanying the Year 7s to the Christmas panto - Beauty and the Beast…… oh yes she did! As Head of College, it is delightful to see the students enjoy social activities such as the panto and see them beyond the classroom having fun.

As always, I extend my huge thanks to all of those families who support and actively encourage our students - I truly believe our students don’t just fly, they Soar!

Au revoir Mr Carl Hassett - you will be missed by all at Wilmington.

Message from Mr M Gore - ‘In reference to my recent letter to parents/carers, I would like to highlight my appreciation to Mr Hassett, Head of Minerva College for his time at Wilmington Academy since September 2016. We wish him all the success in his onward journey.’

It is with great happiness but also a sense of sadness that I approach my final Christmas as head of Minerva College. I would like to express thanks to each and every one of the students and staff within Minerva for the commitment and dedication they show to both the college and the Academy. Three and a half years ago I began my journey at Wilmington Academy, instilling the values below within our Minerva family:

Dream – Minerva students will have high aspirations for themselves and their community.

Believe – Minerva students will act with purpose and integrity to achieve their dreams.

Achieve – Minerva students will be successful, leading to a productive and more importantly, happy adult life.

We always encourage our students to adopt a growth mindset and ‘believe in themselves’, which is our college motto. I am so pleased to be able to look around the Minerva family and have students who, despite finding tasks challenging, persevere and give their best effort. We constantly remind students that the key to success is a strong work ethic, and it is so pleasing when students get their rewards through top grades and greater personal achievement.

I extend my thanks to all of those families who have supported me and actively encouraged the Minerva students over the years. I truly feel blessed to have had the opportunity to meet so many talented and amazing young people, I would like to leave you with the following message:

So, as a proud Head of College, may I say a fond farewell and wish you all a wonderful break and a very Happy New Year.

College Spotlight

‘The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty.’

Winston Churchill

I can’t believe we have reached the end of Module 2 already! So much has been accomplished and there is much to celebrate. Our new Year 7 students have settled into life at Wilmington Academy very smoothly and the results that they have achieved in their MYP assessments have been absolutely amazing. As ever, we have received a huge amount of positive feedback from visitors about our Year 7 guides on our Open Evening, commenting on their politeness, maturity and enthusiasm.

The quote at the start of this report emphasizes the importance of having a positive mindset. Year 11 students, are already preparing for their summer exams and have sat a series of mocks in preparation.

In most cases, I have been very impressed by their maturity and hard work during, what is for them, a very challenging year. The students that tend to achieve the best results are those with a positive attitude and who actively participate in the huge level of support provided, for example, after-school revision sessions. Well done to all those who have worked hard to achieve positive results.

The same principle is true for all our students, and it a wonderful to see so many students working hard in their lessons, using their Knowledge Organisers and responding to the feedback they are given from staff. It is also a pleasure to see so many students involved in after-school activities and trips, which enrich their lives and broaden their perspectives.

So, as a proud Head of College, may I wish you all a wonderful break and a very Happy New Year. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Apollo UpdateP. Devlin Head of Apollo

Minerva Update C. Hassett Head of Minerva

Jupiter UpdateS. Goodall Head of Jupiter

‘To be a star, you must shine your own light, follow your path, and don’t worry about the darkness, for that is when the stars shine brightest. Always do what you are afraid to do.’

Ralph Waldo Emerson

A Message from the Principal - Wilmington...

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