Latest News Page Updates | Friday, 27 March 2026

Latest Newsletter

A FINAL Message from the Principal

Dear Leigh Stationers’ Academy Community,

As we come to the end of Module 4, and as I write my final message for our latest news page updates as Principal, I do so with enormous pride, gratitude and affection for Leigh Stationers’ Academy. It feels fitting that my final week has been marked by yet another brilliant set of stories that capture so much of what makes this school so special: more than 700 pupils recognised through our reward trips; success at the London Schools Track Cycling Championships; six medals for Equiano pupils at the National Junior Indoor Rowing Championships; Year 12 students engaging with complex history at St Paul’s Cathedral and exploring ambitious post-18 pathways at UCAS Discovery London; and A Level Psychology students taking part in expert-led preparation for their summer examinations. Alongside this, it was also a pleasure to celebrate Major Jeremy Wilson receiving a Meritorious Service Certificate in recognition of his outstanding contribution to our Combined Cadet Force. Together, these updates reflect the very best of Leigh Stationers’ Academy: achievement, character, opportunity and a community where young people are supported to flourish.

Leading this academy has been an absolute privilege. I have been continually inspired by the talent, kindness and ambition of our pupils, by the dedication and professionalism of our staff, and by the support of our parents, carers, Leigh Academies Trust and The Stationers’ Company. Over my time here, the academy has gone from strength to strength, but what I will remember most is not simply the outcomes or milestones, important though they are; it is the feeling of this place. Leigh Stationers’ Academy is calm, purposeful, caring and full of possibility. It is a school with heart, and I have felt incredibly fortunate to be part of its journey.

At the start of Module 5, Mr Russell will take up post as Principal. I know he will receive a warm welcome from staff, pupils, parents and carers, and I am confident that he inherits a school in a very strong position, with a talented team, exceptional young people and a clear sense of purpose. Thank you for the trust, support and kindness you have shown me throughout my time at the academy. It has been an honour to serve this community. I leave with deep gratitude, many wonderful memories and every confidence in the future of Leigh Stationers’ Academy. I wish Mr Russell, all of our staff, all of our families and, above all, our remarkable pupils every success and happiness for the future.

Best wishes,

Mr Joseph Sparks | Principal, Leigh Stationers’ Academy

Start of Module 5 Arrangements

Students will return for the start of Module 5 on Monday, 13 April 2026, at 08:30. A full list of term dates can be found here.

Year 10 Parents’ Evening

Leigh Stationers’ Academy will host the Year 10 Parents’ Evening on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, from 16:00 to 19:00. This face-to-face event will give parents and carers the opportunity to meet subject teachers and discuss their child’s academic progress.

The booking system for appointments will open at 19:00 on Friday, 3 April 2026, and close at 12:00 on Tuesday, 14 April 2026.  Appointments can be made via the SchoolCloud booking system, with full instructions available on the academy’s website. For any assistance or further information, please contact Gabrielle Holland at gabrielle.holland@stationers.latrust.org.uk

Reward Trips Celebrate Positive Attendance and Conduct

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week, more than 700 pupils took part in Leigh Stationers’ Academy’s Bronze and Silver Award trips, recognising their strong attendance, positive conduct and consistent commitment across the year.

The Bronze Award recognised pupils who, over Modules 3 and 4, achieved attendance above 95%, received fewer than 20 negative logs and secured more than 20 positive logs. The Silver Award celebrated pupils who, across Modules 1 to 4, maintained attendance above 95%, received fewer than 20 negative logs and achieved more than 20 positive logs.

Mr Hill, Assistant Principal and organiser of the reward trips, said: “These trips were a fantastic way to recognise the commitment and effort shown by so many of our pupils. It was wonderful to see more than 700 students enjoying the experience together, and we were especially proud of the way they conducted themselves throughout. Trip leaders and members of the public commented on their excellent behaviour, and they represented Leigh Stationers’ Academy exceptionally well. Congratulations to all of our Bronze and Silver Award winners.”

Strong Performance at London Schools Track Cycling Championships

Leigh Stationers’ Academy delivered a strong performance at the London Schools Track Cycling Championships, held at Herne Hill Velodrome, finishing fourth overall in the Under-14 category. Representing the academy were Jake, a Year 8 pupil in Hansard College, and Riley, a Year 10 pupil in Hansard College, who competed against schools with established track cycling squads across a full programme of events. 

Mr Judd, Director of Learning for PE, said: “Their standout result came in the team pursuit, where they secured a third-place finish through excellent teamwork, determination and strong tactical awareness. Jake and Riley also competed in the Keirin, scratch race and F200, which gave them valuable race experience and the opportunity to continue building their confidence on the track. It was a fantastic achievement and one that reflects both their hard work and their potential for future success.”

Equiano Pupils Win Six Medals at National Indoor Rowing Championships

On Friday, 20 March, eight pupils from Equiano College represented Leigh Stationers’ Academy at the National Junior Indoor Rowing Championships 2026 at the Copper Box.

Competing in a two-minute rowing event, pupils aimed to cover the greatest possible distance within the time allowed. Following last year’s success, when the academy secured two bronze medals, there were high hopes going into this year’s competition.

Following last year’s success, when the academy secured two bronze medals, there were high hopes going into this year’s competition. This year, Equiano pupils surpassed that achievement with an outstanding haul of six medals: four silver and two bronze. Impressively, every pupil achieved a personal best on the day.

Mr Soane, Equiano College Teacher, said: “We were incredibly proud of all eight pupils who represented the academy at this year’s championships. To come away with six medals, while also seeing every student achieve a personal best, was a fantastic result. The pupils showed real determination throughout the day and fully deserved their success.”

The full results were as follows:

  • Mythias – Silver, Year 8 Boys
  • Dolly – Silver, Year 8 Girls
  • Romeo – Silver, Year 10 Boys
  • Jasontae – Bronze, Year 10 Boys
  • Abigail – Bronze, Year 10 Girls
  • Charlie – Silver, Year 11 Boys
  • Owen – Personal Best, Year 10 Boys
  • Chibuike – Personal Best, Year 11 Boys

Young Enterprise Team Wins Two Awards at South East Finals

Leigh Stationers’ Academy’s Young Enterprise team achieved outstanding success at the South East Finals, winning two of the five prestigious awards on offer.

The team was recognised for both its creativity and development, securing the Best Marketing Award and the Best Journey Award for its student company, RE-gifted. Focused on sustainability, RE-gifted designed and produced a unique range of eco-friendly gifts, including personalised wooden hearts made from reclaimed wooden pallets, as well as key rings and picture frames crafted from recycled newspaper. The team also created carefully designed gift boxes to accompany their products.

Their products proved highly popular, with strong sales to students, staff and local gift shops in Eltham. Competing against some of the leading schools in the South East, the team demonstrated impressive dedication, innovation and business acumen throughout the competition.

Mr Sandhu said: “This has been a brilliant journey from start to finish. The students rose to the challenge, competed at a very high level and should be incredibly proud of bringing home two awards. I am extremely proud of everything they have accomplished.”

Year 12 Historians Attend City Schools Conference

This week, Leigh Stationers’ Academy’s Year 12 History students attended the City Schools Conference, hosted by the City of London Corporation and St Paul’s Cathedral. The conference, titled Teaching Difficult Histories with Integrity and Impact, gave students the opportunity to explore some of the more complex and sensitive aspects of Britain’s past.

Throughout the day, students took part in a range of academic sessions and discussions designed to deepen their understanding of how history is taught, interpreted and remembered. Highlights included a keynote address from historian Professor William Pettigrew, as well as roundtable discussions focused on citizenship, institutional legacy and the ways in which organisations are responding to difficult histories today.

Alongside the conference programme, students also toured St Paul’s Cathedral, including the climb to the Whispering Gallery and the external walkways, where they experienced panoramic views across London.

Ms Ward, Lead Practitioner, said: “This visit gave our students a really valuable opportunity to engage with challenging historical themes in a meaningful and reflective way. It was excellent to see them thinking so carefully about how the past continues to shape the world we live in today, and they approached the conference with real maturity and curiosity throughout.”

Major Jeremy Wilson Receives Meritorious Service Award

Leigh Stationers’ Academy is delighted to share that Major Jeremy Wilson has been awarded a Meritorious Service Certificate in recognition of his outstanding work with the academy’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF).

The certificate was presented at a special ceremony in London by the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London, Sir Ken Olisa OBE, in recognition of Major Wilson’s dedication and commitment to supporting pupils through the CCF programme.

Mr Sparks, Principal, said: “This is a significant and very well-deserved recognition of Jeremy’s service. I would like to thank him for his continued dedication to our Combined Cadet Force and for the commitment he shows to supporting our pupils. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and congratulate him on receiving this honour.”

Year 12 Explore Post-18 Pathways at UCAS Discovery London 2026

On Tuesday, more than 100 Year 12 pupils from Leigh Stationers’ Academy attended the UCAS Discovery Event at the ExCeL London, joining over 21,000 students from across the country to explore their post-18 options.

The event gave pupils the opportunity to speak directly with representatives from more than 150 universities, colleges and conservatoires. From leading institutions such as Cambridge, Imperial, Edinburgh and King’s College London to subject spotlight sessions and the UCAS Springpod Cinema, students were able to gain a clearer understanding of degree-level study, course options and entry requirements.

For those considering alternatives to university, the Employer and Apprenticeship Zone provided valuable insight into school-leaver pathways and apprenticeship opportunities. Pupils were able to compare academic and vocational routes side by side, while also accessing guidance on areas such as student finance and gap year opportunities.

Mr Smith, Vice Principal, said: “Our pupils had a fantastic time on Tuesday, engaging enthusiastically with a wide range of universities and apprenticeship providers. It was excellent to see them approaching the event with such positivity and making the most of the advice and guidance on offer. The day gave students a valuable opportunity to explore the range of pathways available to them and to think more clearly about their next steps beyond sixth form.”

A Level Psychology Students Attend tutor2u Grade Booster Workshop

Thirty-six A Level Psychology students from Leigh Stationers’ Academy recently attended a tutor2u Grade Booster workshop designed to support success in the 2026 examinations.

Held in a cinema setting, the event provided a full day of fast-paced and engaging learning led by experienced tutor2u subject specialists. The workshop was divided into four interactive sessions, each focusing on key areas of the A Level Psychology specification.

Across the day, students revisited Research Methods, explored key Issues, Debates and Approaches, and further developed their essay writing skills, with a particular focus on planning, structure and effective self-assessment. The final session, Up a Grade!, offered practical strategies to help students maximise their performance in the summer examinations.

Ms Hysenaj, Lead Practitioner, said: “Our students engaged brilliantly throughout the workshop and approached each session with real enthusiasm. It was excellent to see them contributing so positively, asking thoughtful questions and taking full advantage of the expertise on offer. The day gave them a valuable opportunity to strengthen their knowledge, build confidence and sharpen the exam skills needed to perform at their very best in the 2026 examinations.”

Personal Development Updates

PSHE Update: Supporting Personal Development Across Years 7-13

In Module 4, Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education at Leigh Stationers’ Academy will focus on age-appropriate themes that support students’ well-being, personal growth, and preparation for life beyond the classroom. Each session is designed to encourage collaboration, critical thinking and skill development.

Year GroupThis WeekNext Module (Week 1)
Year 7IB Community ProjectHow do I stay safe online?
Year 8IB Community ProjectHow do I keep myself safe on the internet?
Year 9IB Community ProjectWhat can I do to stay safe online?
Year 10What skills will I need for the workforce?What are British Values?
Year 11Revision Strategies & GCSE Exam Preparation -Feynman Technique
Year 12How can I develop my understanding of family dynamics?What opportunities exist for my future?
Year 13Revision

Careers Education: Weekly Information, Advice & Guidance

This week’s Careers Newsletter highlights a range of opportunities linked to healthcare, intelligence services, environmental careers, and the growing importance of data and Artificial Intelligence.

  • Virtual Work Experience & Insight Events: Students can take part in an interactive healthcare virtual work experience following patients through a simulated hospital setting, attend an insight session on careers in MI5, MI6 and GCHQ, and join an online event where young professionals share how they built careers in ecology and environmental science.
  • Apprenticeships & Professional Networking: Opportunities include a networking and LinkedIn masterclass, apprenticeship vacancies with employers such as Tesco and London Underground, and exploration platforms such as Uptree and Best Apprenticeships to help students research pathways and day-in-the-life career routes.
  • University Guidance & Diversity Initiatives: Year 12 students can apply to attend the LSE Empower online event, which provides guidance, support, and advice from alumni to help students make competitive applications to the London School of Economics.
  • Future Skills: Data & Artificial Intelligence: Students can take part in the Met Office Data Sprint, learn about the importance of AI and future skills such as creativity and communication, and listen to the Bitesize Careers Podcast to help them better understand career pathways and their own strengths.

Parents and carers are encouraged to read the newsletter with their child. Further support is available via careers@stationers.latrust.org.uk

Click HERE to read this week’s Careers Newsletter

Digital Update: Online Trends Encouraging Violence

Leigh Stationers’ Academy is sharing a new guide for parents and carers on the risks linked to online trends that promote or normalise violence.

The guide explains how violent clips, online ‘wars’ and viral challenges can spread quickly through social media, messaging groups and platform algorithms, sometimes exposing young people to harmful content without them actively seeking it out. It also outlines the emotional, social and legal risks of engaging with this material and offers practical advice on how parents and carers can support safe and responsible online behaviour.

Mr Keable, Lead Practitioner – Digital, said: “This guide offers helpful, practical advice for families on an area of online safety that can be difficult to navigate. As online content spreads so quickly, it is important that young people understand both the risks and the consequences, and that parents and carers feel well informed and confident in the conversations they are having at home.”

Parents and carers can access the guide by clicking HERE.

New Launch: Student and Family Support Hub

Leigh Stationers’ Academy is pleased to announce the launch of the new Student and Family Support Hub on the academy website.

The hub has been created as a central point of information for students, parents and carers, bringing together a wide range of practical resources to support school life and wellbeing. It includes guidance on areas such as wellbeing, academic support and wider family support. The new hub is designed to make it easier for families to access helpful information and support in one place.

Parents, carers and students can explore the hub by clicking HERE.

Year 8 Vaccinations: Important Information for Parents and Carers

Leigh Stationers’ Academy is working with the Greenwich Immunisation Team to offer HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccinations to all Year 8 pupils, with an additional MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) catch-up available for those who may have missed it.

The vaccination sessions will take place in school on Wednesday, 13 May 2026 and Wednesday, 24 June 2026.

Parents and carers are asked to complete the consent form as soon as possible using the link provided in the letter sent home. The form can be used to give or decline consent. Families who need support with completing the form, or who have any questions, can contact the immunisation team directly using the details provided in the letter and on their webpage.

Parents and carers of pupils in Years 9 to 11 who may have missed vaccinations in previous years can also contact the team directly. Further information is available in the flyer already shared.