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Newsletter Easter 2017

Sci-Fi Convention for World Book Day 2017 After weeks of preparation, the was transformed for two weeks this module into the venue for our fi rst Intergalactic Congress. All three colleges were transformed into their own planets, and we saw students produce food that was out of this world; create their own planets with apex species, currency and defence systems; write intergalactic law, and engineer their own modes of space travel.

The goal was to win points for the quality of entries in 22 separate competitions. Bonus points were also awarded for outstanding work in many categories. There were winners from each college, but only one tutor group could be crowned Galactic Champions! They were A11, who won with 57 points and now have £200 to spend on an exciting activity. College winners who have won £50 for their tutor group are A8 (32 points), J14 (35 points), and M9 (51 points).

Congratulations to all competing students; we can’t wait to see what exciting festival we will compete in next year. Message from the Principal

Following the one day Ofsted inspection that took place on 21 February, we are very pleased with the decision to maintain the Good with Outstanding Leadership and Management judgement from the previous inspection in May 2013.

Ofsted have raised the bar considerably over the past few years and it was gratifying to receive so many compliments from them about the high standard of education that we provide. They were full of praise for our excellent students and the talent and dedication of our staff.

T. Trusler Principal

2 Trips & Visits

restaurant, their senses were immediately conversation with the staff to absorb the Food for Thought captivated by the traditional designs, Lebanese culture. flavours and aromas of Lebanon. In the spirit of embracing the IB principles Our Year 7 students are working on their at , our Year 7 students At Wilmington Academy, our key stage 3 presentations which they will share with visited the Comptoir Libanais Restaurant in curriculum gives students an opportunity the entire Year 7 cohort to cascade their Bluewater Shopping Mall during the month to engage with other cultures, at first hand, knowledge about their day and what of February. As the students entered the so that it develops their understanding they learnt about the Lebanese culture of the wider world. With this in mind, our to their peers. students created their own unique pots of hummus under the watchful eye of the We are eagerly awaiting their presentations, restaurant chef. Generous amounts of olive which we know, will be outstanding! oil, garlic, and lemons were used which are essential flavours of the Lebanese diet. After A. Govender this successful master- class, students made delicious Lemonya (traditional Lebanese lemonade). Finally, they were treated to a Lebanese lunch and engaged in detailed

discussions we in the art department, want the students to continue having. Expanding their understanding and knowledge about art will empower their own creativity!

Below are some comments that we received from some students throughout the day. Year 7 Art Trip E. Sampson “I had a nice time today. My favourite piece was this big vase object that turned everyone The Performing Arts department organised a workshop At the end of January, Year 7 students made upside down when you looked inside. I also with Year 5 pupils from Wilmington . their way into London to the Tate Modern really enjoyed spending the day walking Year 7 and 8 pupils from Wilmington Academy had the Museum for a day of gallery investigation. around the gallery with my best friend and opportunity to work alongside Key Stage 2 students in For many of the students, this was their first looking at all the pictures.” Lily Pallant order to create a performance based on Greek Theatre. time attending an art gallery and having the opportunity to see works that they have “ I liked the Tate because of all the pictures and Year 8 pupils Lucy Yates, Teddy Rickwood, only studied on paper. Students made their paintings. My favourite part about the Tate was Harry Hengler-Cotmore, Bradley Kirkham Sandy way through two exhibitions, where they all the sculptures because I thought that they all Mclaren and Olivia Pollard assisted the Art Department saw the works of Mondrian, Monet, Rothko looked very nice. I found it difficult to stay quiet with making the masks which they used for their final and many more. while I walked around because I justwanted to performance this was directed by Alice Friend, talk about what I saw.” Beth Compton Oscar Davies and Jessica Bennett. The students had a fantastic time and were extremely well behaved. It was lovely to “My favourite part of the exhibit was ALL A special thank you to Adrian Peppiatt (Year 13) who helped organise the event. hear students discussing their favourite of it because I had so much fun. It was all pieces, as well as ones that they ‘didn’t interesting and fun to learn about the different P. Wild get’, throughout the day. This is the type of styles of art out there.” Jacob Arnold

On Friday 17th March 10 students performed in They have all been practising and working Dance Show Stationer’s Crown Woods Dance show. really hard on their dances.

A duet: Lily Robus and Lewis Morris and a group I was so excited to see them perform the dances dance: Adele Clark, Nicole Lee, Kyra Tucker, that they have helped me to choreograph. Mia Newbury, Hannah Birch, Mia Martin, Alicia Lawrence and Abbie Lonergan. D. Stevens

3 Yr 11 Raising Standards

To motivate and engage students into their learning, a Year 11 Raising Standards student group have created a 12 week programme Made Training where all Year 11 students can achieve rewards for their effort in class, attendance at by Jade Vallins school and attendance at revision sessions. On Wednesday 22nd February The programme started at the beginning a select number of module 4 and will end on the last day of of students module 5. Teachers will award effort points from Year 11 to students in their class which tally up into participated in ‘Stars’. The more stars a student receives a MADE session. the more rewards they earn. 3 effort points This was equates to 1 star. extended all day so we could Rewards were chosen by a selected Year 11 get the whole group of students and range from a ‘Fast- experience. In this intervention we were Track’ lunch pass, food, drinks, to vouchers given a booklet which consisted of a or money off a Prom ticket. variety of small tasks. From debating tasks to simple imaginative tasks, all - If a student attends an after school revision in lessons much more, showing us that the of which tested our knowledge in they receive a 0.5 effort point programme is giving them an incentive to numerous ways. - If a student has 100% attendance in each learn and work hard for the grades they module they receive 2 stars. want to achieve. Students can earn prizes by I definitely think that the session participating and earning stars through hard impacted me in a positive way as I have Students can monitor their progress via work and revision. There is a tracker for the now learnt some new skills/techniques a tracker found in the corridor next to scheme which allows students to see how well that I can use within my exams. the library. they are doing and how far they are getting the next prize.’ Toby Chapman Here was the programme: The initiative has been extremely well received, as the following testimonials Reach for the stars is really good because it motivates Developing positive habits indicate: us to do well because we get lots of stars for turning for success “Since the start of the reward programme up to revision classes and staying focused in class. ‘Reach for the Stars’ students have been In this workshop the facilitator shared a attending revision sessions and contributing Ellie Newbury process with us that encouraged us to analyse all the factors that influence our academic results and identify simple changes that can be made to increase Year 11 Revision Cracked! worked, boosting my confidence towards our performance and ultimately, results. revision. This was really good as I now know

how to revise effectively.’ Emily Knight On Friday 3rd March, Tim Foot (Specialist We learnt how to: in Revision Techniques) provided training ‘I thought that Tim Foot’s revision to selected Year 11 students in a workshop 1. Analyse current strengths techniques were extremely helpful. He gave called ‘Revision Cracked’. and weaknesses us individual ways to revise for an exam, a 2. Identify areas for improvement piece of work or and end of topic test. This ‘Revision cracked was brilliant in providing 3. Decide on new, positive actions included techniques like putting the piece us with lots of different revision techniques to employ and review of revision into a song or a rap, putting the available. Tim Foot had a different take on info on flash cards and having the bullet revision and how to try and make it fun and Key Skills: points on post-it notes and sticking them not boring. Before I came to the session I had all over your bedroom or house. Before no idea how to revise but now I have many • Self-analysis attending his session I was revising the different ways. • Changing habits same way most people were doing, • Determination now I have many more enjoyable and fun The main part I remember is Revise/Test/Rest. ways to revise. This is good for me because I used to revise M. Gore His motto was ‘Revise, Test, Rest.’ for two hours straight making me become Associate Principal bored. Tim Foot showed us how our memories Lilly Robus

4 L A POST 16 T 16

Post 16 @ Wilmington has not let up on its commitment to ensuring that students receive an excellent, well rounded education. In the classroom, students have been working tirelessly to consolidate and revise what they have learnt in preparation for their final exams. Away from the classroom, students have taken part in enrichment sessions covering a wide range of topics. Year 13 have benefited from sessions focused around preparation for university, and we are also delighted to offer a session for those considering either entering full time employment or undertaking an apprenticeship at the end of March. Enrichment for Year 12 students has focused around skills building and resilience.

The two sessions covered everything from what to do on Results Day to how to work out entitlement to student finance and also how to budget.

MADE Training (Power Hours)

Students in Years 11, 12 and 13 attended workshops to help their achieve their highest potential. Students developed both their mindset and study skills: they focused on how to develop their creativity and value their own ideas, how to become a reflective learner, and manage their time effectively “The instructor was very knowledgeable and University Student and maintain motivation. For skills, students told us the ways to make applying for and practiced advanced note-taking techniques Finance Talk 2017 getting through student finance as easy as and how to use active reading strategies to possible which was great” Chay Quinn become a critical reader. Did you know that you have to apply for student finance each year, throughout your “This was a very informative talk, which made university study? me feel more confident in applying for student finance.” Oliver Jarvie A massive thank you to the University of for facilitating our University Finance Talks, both to students and parents. It was a University of Kent great opportunity for students and parents Preparation for University to find out more information about the different types of student finance available Workshops to those going to university next year. The biggest questions we’ve found from these University-bound students from Year 13 sessions covered topics including when were privileged to have Jamie, a student and how student loans are paid back; the ambassador from the University of Kent, best way in which to approach financing come into the school and put on two university life and the availability of ‘Stepping Up’ sessions that detailed how to alternative methods of university finance. handle the leap from A Level to University.

5 L A POST 16 T 16

EY Apprenticeships Student Focus: Targeted students were approached with the opportunity to complete a summer work experience with Big-Four accounting Matthew Jones fi rm EY. They attended an information session with an EY representative, My name is Matthew Jones and and have the opportunity to apply for I am currently studying level 3 EY’s incredible summer program. qualifi cations in IT, Creative Media and Engineering. Last year I achieved the equivalent of three STEM Apprenticeships A* in my subjects, and I am currently halfway through my Higher and degree apprenticeships are second and fi nal year here at a real alternative to going to university, Wilmington Academy Post 16. bringing together the best of higher The support I have received and vocational training. Many diff erent has been amazing. I am companies up and down the country off er currently part of the Business apprenticeships, as an entry to a wide range Mentoring initiative, where of interesting careers, including those I have regular meetings within Science, Technology, Engineering with people from the local and Mathematics (STEM). On Thursday business environment. My mentor 9th March, students from both Post 16 has been linked to my interests, and comes from an and Year 11, interested in pursuing careers Engineering background. In these meetings, I am able to discuss within STEM industries, where given the my future, and gain hints and tips about what I can do to improve my prospects. opportunity to gain valuable insight into I fi nd my meeting very helpful to give me ideas for the future. these areas. The assembly highlighted the diff erent careers available through STEM I have applied to university next year, to study Computer Science, with a year in apprenticeships, including the careers industry. We have received lots of support in this process, both from our Post 16 available in the Defence Science and tutors, and University Ambassadors, and I am proud to say that I received either Technology Laboratory. unconditional or conditional off ers back from all of my university choices. I have recently confi rmed Newcastle University as my fi rm choice, and am excited about Career Fair living away from home and experiencing the rich culture that Newcastle has to off er. I chose to complete a year in industry so that I can get some experience in Students in Y13 who intend to move to the workplace and in hopeful a future job career. I had previously looked at the apprenticeships after they complete their apprenticeship route for an engineering course but I feel like independence at studies attended a Careers Fair to introduce university will be a great learning curve and one that I am very much looking students to local employers hosted at WBSB. forward to taking. Students had the opportunity to meet and network with representatives from a variety Miss Evans and Miss Sanders of businesses, from Law and Accounting to Design and The Arts.

The International Baccalaureate programme Learning, Language Development, and the IBCP develops its candidate students into Refl ective Project. These are the elements that principled, balanced, open-minded young develop students beyond their academics; adults. Students are explicitly taught together with their academic and career organisation, refl ection, and communication studies, they make students an internationally skills, and lessons are grounded in developing minded, caring, socially aware, creative and thinking, caring, and principled thinking. critical thinkers.

In addition to their regular academic subjects, We are excited to be moving into the next students complete the IB Core subjects: phase of our candidacy- the Verifi cation Visit, Personal and Professional Skills, Service due to happen May 2017.

6 Subject Focus

The Canterbury Our students were very enthusiastic and Citizenship at asked some tough questions on an array of University Youth topics including the continued congestion Wilmington around Dartford, the role of the Mayor, their Parliament Visit chosen charities and more pertinent to us, Our Citizenship students have been very what is being done about the school buses, lucky this module and have visited The A mix of Yr12 and Y13 Citizenship students e.g. not turning up, being late and driving Houses of Parliament, The Supreme Court, accompanied me to Canterbury University straight past the waiting students. The visit North Kent Police Station, Canterbury Youth Parliament Visit. The students spent concluded with tea and biscuits and a visit University’s Youth Parliament Day, had tea the morning listening to speeches from to the Mayor’s Chambers. with and interviewed the Mayor of Dartford. leading lecturers and Student Ambassadors from the Politics Department. In the The Mayor and Mayoress both commented Our first visit was to the Houses of afternoon we attended workshops where on the maturity and standard of behaviour Parliament and The Supreme court, two of we heard schools debate controversial of our students. the most important institutions in Britain, contemporary issues. It was a fantastic where we took Yr12 and Yr10 Citizenship day and the students were a real credit to It is often said that young people have little students. It was a great experience for the Academy. or no interest in politics, yet if people had our students to further develop their seen the passion with which the students understanding of how central government Last but not least was our visit to Dartford engaged in this event, I am sure they would works with a guided tour of both Houses, Civic Centre where we able to interview take a different view! giving the students the opportunity to John Burrell, the Mayor of Dartford and the ask questions and to learn about the inner Mayoress. They answered questions the S. Stevens working of both chambers and students had prepared before the meeting. our government.

Once the tours were completed it was a short walk across the road to discover what the Supreme Court of Justice had in store for us. Again, we had fantastic tours of the courts and an explanation of how they fit into Britain’s judicial system. We then went down to the basement to see the exhibition rooms and to learn how the highest Appeals English Court has evolved over time. HAP Club In February Yr10, Yr12 and Yr13 students were given the opportunity to visit North The English HAP Club has continued to run very successfully this term, and students Kent Police Station. Our students had a have been enjoying the opportunity to take part in a national writing competition: guided tour from Luke, Wilmington’s local The Wicked Young Writers Awards. This has seen students develop their own writing PCSO, which included a tour of the custody piece of 750 words, on any subject of their choice. The top prizes include tickets to suite, the cells and interview rooms. see the highly acclaimed West End production of Wicked, along with a VIP backstage tour. Students can also win £50 to spend on books, as well £100 for the school Luke explained the process from arrest, library. Any students who are selected for the final, will also be given the opportunity through the custody suites to the interview to attend a prize giving ceremony in central London. rooms and finally being charged. He explained how the police use the different There have been a wide range of topics covered, and it is has been a pleasure to powers they have to stop and prevent watch the students move beyond the excellent work they are producing in the crime, allowing students to put into practice classroom, and beginning to think and act like professional writers. The English what they had been learning in class. department wishes all students that are entering the competition the very best Our students also were given a of luck. demonstration of some of the equipment that is used in modern day policing. The club runs on Mondays after school in A10, and new students are always welcome to attend.

J. Broadey

7 Subject Focus

iDesign

Key Stage 3 pupils as part of STEM have been participating in iDesign club. In this club they have been making their own designs that can then be 3D printed. 3D printing is a modern technology that allows for the quick production of small objects. The skills they are learning in this club will be useful in both creative and design oriented subjects.

C. Chambers

Year 10s Working with Businesses

Since the beginning of January, Year 10 have been investigating how the business environment impacts the decision whether or not to start up your own business. As part of the LAT Working with Businesses Initiative, Year 10 Business were fortunate to hear how these diff erent factors have impacted a local, existing business: Mobile Bar Hire Ltd. This topic forms a fundamental part of their fi rst Business coursework unit, and being able to see and understand how these complex topics impact an existing business, will give their coursework an extra edge.

Our guest speaker, Rags Sandhu, Director of Mobile Bar Hire Ltd, spoke to students about what infl uenced his decision to start up his own business, and the obstacles he had to overcome.

“I found the presentation by Mr Sandhu very benefi cial, and was able to learn what it’s really like to run your own business, from a someone who is doing it on a daily basis.” Denny Lovett

“The presentation was really helpful; it has given some good information for my coursework and future plans in life.” Kye Austen

L Evans LAT WORKING WITH BUSINESS

8 World Book Day

World Book Day 2017: Out of this World Costumes

We have made a tradition of dressing up each year for World Book Day here at the academy, and this year was no exception. With jedis and storm troopers roaming the corridors, as well as a Doctor Who or two, students and staff made it a truly memorable day for all.

well as being the author of Doctor Who radio knows we may have the next William SCI-FI CONVENTION dramas. He is also a journalist and columnist, Gallagher in Wilmington Academy. having written and shot videos for Radio WORLD BOOK DAY 2017 Times with David Tennant. He has also D Kennedy produced films about Torchwood and Strictly Come Dancing.

The workshops began with a simple written exercise where students wrote a sentence and then passed their work around to be continued by others. At the end of the exercise, and without realising it, they had unknowingly written the scene of a play. The students (and Staff) then performed the scenes they had written giving them the opportunity to see how something on a page comes alive when acted out. On World Book Day and as part of our Sci-Fi Convention we invited Doctor Who William’s workshops were a mixture of fun Scriptwriter William Gallagher to the and creativity, and every student went away Academy with his script writing “Play in feeling inspired. a Day” workshops. Maybe some of our students will use what William has written drama for previous they have learnt to spark an interest in Doctor’s Colin Baker and Peter Davison as writing as either a hobby or career. Who

9 Out of this World

Murder by the Book World Book Day Biggest Book Show on Earth: On Thursday 23rd March the library was turned into a crime scene when the librarian’s Meeting World Class Authors assistant was found dead in the Academy Library and police suspected foul play. This year we were fortunate enough to be one of only four schools invited to an ‘invitation only’ teen event at Waterstone’s Piccadilly store in London, Europe’s largest Teams of Year 9 students were challenged bookshop for World Book Day’s Biggest Book Show on Earth. to piece together a wide range of clues and information in order to uncover the truth 14 of our Year 10 and 11 students had the opportunity to meet internationally about the mysterious demise of the librarian’s renowned authors Michael Grant and David Almond, who both wrote novels for this assistant. year’s World Book Day free books. They were also excited to meet Gemma Cairney from BBC Radio 1 and vlogger, author, and musical actress Carrie Hope Fletcher! With three plausible suspects in the frame They were able to ask questions of the authors, as well as get photos with them and (including the Librarian) the teams worked attend an exclusive book signing. together to establish who did it, why they did it and how they did it. They also had to decide how the other two suspects could be eliminated.

Once they had solved the mystery the students were required to provide a detailed solution. The winning team was the one that provided the most accurate and detailed response with the largest number of clue explanations incorporated into their solution.

This is the first time the Academy has held this event and all the students had a lot of The Moon Rock and Meteorites exhibition fun playing detective. During the first week of our Sci-Fi of the moon so dusty that it clogged up D. Kennedy Convention, Ms Oliver, our very own their machinery. Astronomer, delivered two sessions on the universe with the aid of valuable samples The lunar samples were presented in an which were on loan from the Crayford encapsulated disc for viewing but the Manor House Astronomical Society. different examples of chunk-sized pieces of meteorites were the star of the show Students, staff and parents discovered how and were able to be carefully handled. the moon was formed and the different types of rock the moon is made up of. They D. Kennedy were told how astronauts found the surface

Moon Rock Samples

Imilac Meteorite Fragment discovered in the Henbury Meteorite Atacama Desert in 1822 Fragment

10 Sports at Wilmington Academy

In the second match they lost 5-2 with Out of 8 teams Wilmington Academy came Trampoline Finals excellent defending from Stephanie Ugwu 4th place. and Alice Friend (who has never played Goal The Kent School Championship finals are on Defence before) I am so proud of the girls for their efforts Sunday 26th March and Raphael Balogun and encourage them to continue to attend and Joseph Wilsdon have been training hard In the third match we lost 5-1 against DGGS. training every Tuesday after school. in order to make the top three in the finals. The girls played well but the attack of DGGS They have never done trampolining before was so strong we couldn’t get the ball to our They have another tournament on April and am so proud to support them both in attacking end. 20th so I am sure that Wilmington Academy the final! can return with some medals! Well done to the following pupils on their Congratulations and good luck to all efforts and hard work: D. Stevens competitors. Stephanie Ugwu Grace Holland D. Stevens Harriet Parris Rugby Alice Friend Hannah Birch Charlotte Chamberlain Faith Taiwo Year 8 Netball

The Year 8 netball team played in a tournament at DSTC at the beginning of March The girls played brilliantly and played 3 teams to start with. Year 7 Netball They started against Dartford Grammar On Thursday 9th March our 7 netballers Girls A team and lost 10-0. played in a tournament at Dartford and Science Technology College. They then played against DSTC A team and beat them 1-0. They finally played against The seven pupils are usually in two different St Georges B team and won a 5-2. teams and have never all played together before - some students were playing out of As they came 2nd in their table, they played their favourite position due to a number of against the team who came first in the The Year 7 rugby team has grown and students being unable to play on the day. l other table. This meant they played against grown since Christmas. The boys now have St Georges, who they unfortunately lost a solid squad which showed in both their Taking this into consideration I was very against 7-0. games against Aylesford Sports College and proud of the girls and they played really This put them through to play for 3rd place Trinity School. Against Aylesford the boys well as a team, showing resilience and overall. The girls fought hard and with were unlucky and came away losing by two determination. In their first match they great determination, but unfortunately lost tries, final score 25-15. In their second game won 4-0 against St Georges with Grace against Wilmington for they built on their impressive performance Hammond scoring one of the goals (she has Girls B team 4-2. against Aylesford and beat Trinity school never played as a shooter before!) 19-15. This was a great result baring in mind Trinity are one of the stronger schools in the area. The boys have shown a great attitude and desire to achieve great things next year. Well done to all.

L. Turner

11 Sports at Wilmington Academy

League fi xtures against St John’s and local Year 11 Module 3 and 4 rivals have seen the boys win games 4-1 and 4-2 respectively. A game The Year 11 Football team competition has Football Report against NTC saw us come away with a 3-0 been aff ected due to examination pressure, loss, a harsh result with NTC making the this has seen a lot of schools in the Dartford Following on from the local and county most of 3 mistakes. A draw against Orchard’s District School’s competition withdrawing. success from module 1 and module 2, Academy has meant that the Year 8s have The Year 11’s only game this year so far Football at the Academy again has gone qualifi ed into the Semi-Finals of the Year 8 was against the Leigh Academy, were on from strength to strength. For the fi rst Dartford School’s Competition. The semi the wrong side of a narrow defeat, losing time in the Academy’s history all the boys’ fi nal is looking like a repeat of last years 4-3. They have a fi xture against teams reached at least the Second Round fi nal with a semi fi nal draw against local and School to come in the next few weeks. of their respective county competitions. bitter rivals Wilmington Grammar School Again, with a similar story to the Year 9s The focus of this module has been on for Boys. they are still waiting for other results from competing in the Dartford School’s their group, but targeting a win against District Competitions. Any students that wish to represent the Meopham School, can only hold them in the Academy are welcome to attend training on best possible stead to potentially qualify for Year 7 a Monday on the school fi eld from 3.40-4.45. the Semi Finals.

The Year 7 have had a frustrating two Year 9 modules. Attendance to after school clubs has been superb, with regular numbers The Year 9 Football team have had a steady Girls Football of 25+ attending sessions on a Monday start to their football season this year. After after school. The Year 7s are yet to play a progressing to the 2nd Round of the U14 The Girls U14 football team’s early cup competitive fi xture this year due to other KSFA Cup losing to a strong Ravenswood run unfortunately came to an end in the schools pulling out of fi xtures. The most School. The Year 9’s focus this new calendar new year being knocked out against recent withdrawal from a school in the year turned to the Dartford District Schools a much more experienced opposition. competition meant that the Year 7 Football Competition. They started their league Attendance to Football club has been team fi nished top of their group and will campaign with a defeat to NTC losing 3-0. great and the addition of support now face St. John’s School in the Quarter Wins against (5-1) and from Dartford FC Community coaches Finals of the Dartford District Cup in the against Longfi eld Academy (3-0) and then coaching the girls during their PE lessons, coming weeks. The team has already shown a 3-0 defeat to St John’s. The Year 9s are still the Girls Football Club continues to go great potential in previous fi xtures, and the waiting for other results from their group, from strength to strength. With friendlies squad’s main aim is to build on their recent but targeting a win against the Leigh, coming up, Miss Collinson pleads that the success and win some silverware in their should see them qualify for the Semi Finals. attendance to training keeps going. fi rst year at the Academy. Year 10 Any students that wish to represent the Girls Students who wish to represent the Academy Football team are welcome to Academy are welcome to attend training on The Year 10 Football team aim again, like attend training on a Thursday on the school a Monday on the school fi eld from 3.40-4.45. others was to continue to build on their fi eld from 3.40-4.45. performances in the Dartford District Year 8 Competition. Their fi rst game of the season The PE Department thanks all staff , parents came against the Leigh. Although they were and pupils for their dedication and support Building on from their heartbreak last year, defeated, they showed great resilience and of the Academy’s football teams. We look losing the fi nal of the Dartford District Cup character, especially playing the majority forward to hopefully reporting in module 5 to near neighbours Wilmington GS, the of the game with only a bare 11 players, and 6, on our success in winning silverware Year 8 Football Team has adapted well to the result on refl ection has come to their in the Dartford Schools Competitions. moving to 11a-side Football with regular downfall. A withdrawal from a school in attendance of 30+ to training sessions. They the group saw wins awarded to all sides. S. Sage have built upon their heartbreak of losing This meant that a win against NTC would in the Kent Cup to a strong Harberdasher see the Year 10 team progress through to Knight’s Bromley. The squad have learnt and the semi fi nals. Again, the boys showed built from their mistakes from the Kent Cup great character and resilience coming from and have made a successful start to going 1-0 down and then 2-1 down to draw the one better in the Dartford District Cup and game 2-2. This however meant that their turning last year’s runners up into a winners opposition on the day, NTC progressed medal this year. through to the Semi Finals as they missed out on goal diff erence.

12 SMSC Chinese New Year 2017 – The Year of the Rooster

“I am alert Ready to take action The fi rst on the scene The last to leave I take chances But I am precise I know where things belong I am orderly and fastidious Nothing escapes me I am always prepared I never give up or in I AM THE ROOSTER”

On Friday 27th January Wilmington Academy held a celebration for Chinese New Year in the LRC.

An exhibition of artefacts allowed students the opportunity to learn why the Chinese New Year is a very special time and the most important festival of the Chinese year.

Students took part in Chinese New Year related activities, were treated to prawn crackers, and discovered their horoscope animal sign.

We also held a “Sugar Cube” competition to see who could pick up the most sugar cubes in one minute using chopsticks. The winner was Steven Roake from A12 with 44 cubes.

D Kennedy

The Great British Spring Clean

On Saturday 4th March the local community joined together to participate in The Great British Spring Clean. Iestyn North, A13 and Milly Scott, J3, represented the Academy and joined local residents to pick up litter with the aim of making Wilmington a cleaner, safer place for all. We are very proud of their eff orts. Please remember to dispose of your litter appropriately and keep our environment clean.

G. Stringer

13 Apollo Spotlight

Apollo Head of College Report Apollo SSM

These tutor groups have been rewarded We have been working hard this year to ‘Education is the most powerful weapon with their choice of Pizza and cookies. change the merit and reward systems which you can use to change the world.’ As a college they have received over in Apollo. At the start of the year we (Nelson Mandela) 6000 merits and we are amazed at the launched our new Merit competition. effort the students are putting into Students collect merits and are Nelson Mandela is regarded as one of the this challenge and look forward to rewarded individually as they reach most important figures in recent history presenting the next set of certificates at milestones. As a form group they and above is one of the many things he had the end of the module. compete against the rest of Apollo to to say about education. At Wilmington, win the end of module prize for the form we strive to provide an environment for M. McLean with the most merits. students to learn and develop in a wide SSM Apollo variety of ways. It is always a pleasure to report to parents that our students continue So far this year we have congratulated to make the most of the opportunities that A10, A11 and last module A12. they have.

Over the past two modules we have seen Apollo students achieve more merits than ever before, improve their levels of attendance, create and lead assemblies, take mock or end of module exams and assessments, participate in sporting fixtures in a host of sports very successfully, meet with visitors to the academy, contribute to the interview processes at the school, design reward systems, attend workshops with external speakers and trainers, produce exemplary pieces of work (both practical and academic) and attend offsite activities, trips and visits. I could of course go on, but to see our students take responsibility and engage with their learning in such a positive way is extremely impressive.

When you stand back and observe the students taking ownership of their education, it speaks volumes. One of the keys to success in any sphere of life is to work hard and take responsibility for your actions and we are sure that our students will continue to be successful in whatever they apply themselves to. This of course, Apollo Assemblies is only possible with parental support and engagement and I would like to thank Since the start of the school year, every week, a tutor group in Apollo has been all of our parents who support their sons delivering an assembly. Topics have included Black History Month, World Aids Day, and daughters and encourage them to Anti-Bullying and many more. Watching the assemblies is the highlight of my week. achieve and maintain the highest possible I have seen our students tackle challenging topics and deliver them confidently in standards. Thank you. front of their peers. They often bravely share their personal experiences, such as for

World Cancer Day, and use the assembly as an opportunity to collect for different Wishing you all an enjoyable Easter break. charities. I am very proud to be part of such a caring and reflective community.

Regards G Stringer Pete Devlin, Head of Apollo College

14 xxxxJupiter Spotlight What an Eggcellent module we’ve had!

It’s been a busy term with unexpected visitors and better prepared for end of module tests and as we start approaching lots of exciting events happening at the Academy. the summer term and their end of year tests. It has been a delight to see so many of the Jupiter Our Year 7s will be graduating and will be the buddies of the future, students represent the school at numerous sporting our Year 8 students are about to embark on their option choices, events including Football and Netball. Win or lose, with a view of choosing subjects that will provide the pathway for I continue to be inspired by the dedication and their future careers. Our Key stage 4 students are preparing, like commitment shown by our outstanding young never before for their journeys to success. With support and focus people who train hard in representing our academy. they can achieve great things.

The effort and focus of both students and their tutors in the Sci Fi As we close the year, our college will be hosting the Jupiter College convention, with all forms undertaking the galactic challenges and sports day - a day which I hope it will be sunny and be victorious using their best endeavours to win the space race. Watching our for the Jupiter college. We will see an explosion of activities to community creating models of new planets, designing new space celebrate the year end with various trips and exciting opportunities wear, creating languages, challenging themselves in inter-form which I hope all students will delight and take part in. battles and in some cases dressing as their favourite character was a joy to behold. Another testament to Jupiter college’s vibrancy and I would like to send my best wishes for a relaxing and peaceful the pride our students have. Easter to all of the Jupiter students and their families and look forward to another exciting summer term for Jupiter. As we move forward with the academic year, may I take this opportunity to remind both staff and students that attendance R Roberts is key in your success? Being able to be part of your academy Head of Jupiter College community and engaging with all lessons ensures that students are

15 Minerva Spotlight

It seems not long since we started back into the new term and being offered by our dedicated staff. We wish all our students every once again our newsletter indicates we are approaching the Easter success for their exams and look forward to celebrating in August holidays. As always the term has been packed with events, activities with some great results. We are also delighted that so many of our and great learning opportunities for all our students Year 11 students have chosen to apply to come back to Wilmington in Minerva. for their Post 16 phase of education. This will be an exciting time as we introduce the International Baccalaureate Careers Programme It is wonderful to see the sunshine and blue skies as we move into (IBCP) in Year 12. Spring, and once again we find ourselves coming into the final stages of the academic year for many of our older students. Public May I take this opportunity to wish colleagues, students and exams start quite early into the next term and we know students parents a safe and rewarding Easter break, and I look forward are working exceptionally hard to prepare for these important to a successful Summer Term. exams. For many of our Year 11 students they are beginning to move into a time of revision and consolidation of learning. After school, C Hassett weekend and holiday revision sessions are being run in virtually Head of Minerva College every subject and it is encouraging to see so many of our students taking advantage of the great additional opportunities that are

Gymnastics Success

I have been doing Gymnastics since the age of 7, but only started Team Gym in May 2016 with Elements Gymnastics Club. Team Gym is about power and working together in a team to support each other. You have to be really fast to get the momentum so that you can perform the skills such as: back-tuck, front-tuck, flicks and somersaults.

On Sunday 5th March I travelled to Essex with my squad to take part in the Casablanca Competition.

Firstly we warmed up on our first two pieces, which for me are vault and trampette. Soon after this, we began competing in the competition. My first event was a pike-front somersault on the trampette. I was really pleased with my performance as I went really high and landed it well. My second piece was the tumble track and we were nervous because the track wasn’t what we were used to so we had to change some of our skills! The day carried on well and we were competing as a really good team.

After a nervous wait once we had all finished competing, we were all called together to hear the final results. I was nervous because if I won this competition, it would mean I would have three Gold medals in Team Gym. When the scores were announced we were overwhelmed by our success.

Lauren Turner Year 7

16 Prom Fundraising

Year 11 Prom Fundraising

We are fundraising for our Year 11 Prom. So over the next few So if you’re here on Parents/options evening. We will be here weeks our Prom Committee will be selling raffl e tickets, asking to provide you with a cup of tea or coff ee and a lovely slice of you to guess the Teddy bears name, guess how many sweets homemade cake. in the jar etc. We ask you as students and parents to support us. It’s lovely to see our young children emerge into beautiful T.Penkert & S. Duff young adults and have their Prom as a night to remember. It is and the Class of 2017 Prom Committee the last time they will be together as a year group.

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Where Are They Now?

Wilmington Academy is pleased to announce SEEKING FORMER STUDENTS! their partnership with Future First, an Alumni Community designed to keep former students Could you inspire our pupils? in touch with the Academy.

In this issue, Andy Kemp (2010) shares what he has been doing since Whether you left 2, 5 or 20 years leaving the Academy. ago, we want to hear from you. What are you doing now? After I left school, I went to study Personal Training, Sports Nutrition From students to scientists, builders and Science at North West . After two years, I left with distinction in all three sectors and with a diploma. to business owners, we need former To tell the truth, my fi rst job wasn’t even to do with sports. I had my SIA Door Supervisors licence and at the age of 18, I started working on the students from a range of careers to doors of a local nightclub. Whilst doing that job, I applied for a company providing security for the Olympics and Paralympics 2012. I was lucky help us inspire every student. enough to be given the job and was based at Brands Hatch for 21 days for the Paralympic track cycling event. Once that had fi nished, I then got into red carpet security for the big fi lm premieres. I’ve worked for and met many celebrities such as Princes Harry & William, One Direction, Brad Pitt, Rihanna, Beyoncé and many more. 1. Go to www.latalumni.org.uk

My second job was working for an events security company in which 2. Click on ‘Wilmington Academy’ I managed to progress through the ranks very quickly. I somehow managed to land myself a Stand Manager job at Millwall Football Club 3. Click to register as we were the main provider for security and stewarding. (select former student or current student) Finally, my most recent and current job is working on behalf of Her Majesty’s courts as a Enforcement Agent, also known as a Debt 4. Or scan in the QR code on Collector or a Bailiff . your phone or tablet... What has been your biggest achievement in life and how did your experience at school help you to achieve other successes? My career to date. In all honesty, I did my fair share of misbehaving at school. I had an attention span of a fl ea but you’ll be surprised at the kind of skills you pick up in school. Communication, socialising even mentoring - help others. You learn how to punctuate things properly and conduct yourself which will be crucial in order to secure a job in whatever type of profession you’re looking at going into.

What one piece of advice would you give to current students? Appreciate school. Get your head down and learn. You may think you won’t use anything you’ve learnt in school in your day to day working life but you’ll be shocked if you think like that. School only benefi ts YOU and you only...embrace it.

What‘s your next big goal? With a lot of hard work and learning, I’d like to own my very own security company.

18 Wilmington Alumni

Easter 2017

Key Dates 2017:

The PCA Masters Cricket Gala Day Friday 31st March The PCA Masters End of Module 4 Cricket Gala Day MASTERS

Tuesday 18th April Following ten incredible years of

Your invitation to Your priority invitation to one of charity cricket matches against the best corporate entertainment Module 5 begins. Whole academy returns Lashings All Stars, LAT has this year Celebrate theevents available in the South East! The PCA Masters Cricket Gala Day

Golden Jubileeis one of the highlights of the Kent decided to accept the Professional Corporate Entertainment calendar featuring Thursday 27th April of The PCA a spectacular charity day that includes: Cricketers’ Association (PCA)'s offer • Pre-match gourmet lunch by Cucina award winning chef, Ian Morgan. PCA England Masters • A fundraising auction run by Full Event Management, to play their star-studded team including exclusive sports related opportunities, Year 10 Parents’ Evening 5pm – 8pm Charity Cricket Gala 2017premiership tickets, holidays and memorabilia. at the exclusive • Enthralling lunchtime entertainment including a as part of their 50th anniversary Q&A session. Bexley Cricket Club • Celebrated PCA Masters vs Leigh Academies Trust 25 over cricket match. Monday 1st May celebrations. Friday 30th June 2017 Sponsored by: • Darenth Print & Design Ltd • Cucina • Central Hire • Smile Group Travel • David Mewes Building • E & C Engineering Services May Bank Holiday – Academy closed On Friday 30th June, at the Services wonderful Bexley Cricket Club, we Thursday 4th May will be hosting England legends, including Mark Ramprakash, Matthew Hoggard, Parents’ Forum 6pm – 7.30pm Steve Harmison, Simon Jones, Alex Tudor and Rob Key, Thursday 11th May among others, in a 25-over game against a LAT XI. Year 9 Parents’ Evening 5pm – 8pm Prior to the match (which is due to start at 3pm), LAT, in conjunction with the PCA Masters, will host a charity lunch, Monday 15th May with all proceeds supporting the education of our students. As well as superb cuisine and service, the lunch will include GCSE & A Level exams begin a fabulous fundraising auction of exclusive sporting memorabilia, five-star holidays, UK weekend breaks and Friday 26th May many more stunning items.

End of Module 5 If you are interested in joining us for what promises to be Monday 5th June another amazing day, then please contact Katie Petts: e: [email protected] or m: 07540722865. Start of Module 6 Tuesday 27th June “One of the highlights of the Kent Parents’ Forum 6pm – 7.30pm corporate entertainment calendar” Friday 21st July End of Module 6 – Summer holidays begin

Wilmington Academy would like to wish everyone a very Happy Easter

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