Dear Leigh Stationers’ Academy Community,
This week has been a powerful showcase of everything Leigh Stationers’ Academy stands for: from our Year 10 students expanding their horizons on a cultural exchange to Barbados, to the grit and determination shown by our CCF cadets at one of the country’s toughest summer camps, our students continue to embody the values of leadership and scholarship in diverse and meaningful ways. We’ve seen personal growth through Humanutopia’s powerful leadership workshops for Year 9 and sporting excellence celebrated at our Sports Awards and across borough competitions.
As we approach the final weeks of term, there’s still much to look forward to. Students will soon take part in our annual Behaviour Reward Trips, and the competition between colleges is heating up as we prepare for Sports Day. Parents’ Evenings, PSHE reflections, and the closing stages of our enrichment programme all serve as reminders of our shared commitment to holistic achievement. Thank you to staff, families, and students for another outstanding week. Let’s finish the year strong.
Best wishes,
Mr Joseph Sparks | Principal, Leigh Stationers’ Academy
Music Bridges Cultures: Year 10 Students Visit Barbados for Cultural Exchange
Six Year 10 students from Leigh Stationers’ Academy recently returned from an unforgettable two-week cultural exchange in Barbados, as part of the Music Bridges Cultures programme led by Street Vibes Academy – an award-winning independent school based in the local community.
During their time abroad, students explored the island, formed new friendships with pupils from St Leonard’s School, and took part in cultural workshops, including learning to play the steel pans. A highlight of the trip was their appearance on Good Morning Barbados, where they represented the academy with pride and enthusiasm.
The programme encouraged students to celebrate and embrace cultural diversity, offering a unique experience that broadened their perspectives and deepened their appreciation of different ways of life.
Mr Sparks, Principal, commented: “We’re incredibly grateful to Sonia and the team at Street Vibes Academy for selecting Leigh Stationers’ Academy as their partner school this year. This has been a truly enriching and eye-opening experience for our pupils—one they’ll remember for years to come. What an amazing opportunity to learn, connect, and grow through music and culture… though I must admit, I’m a little jealous I didn’t get to tag along myself!”
Leigh Stationers’ Cadets Conquer UK’s Toughest Royal Marines Camp
Cadets from Leigh Stationers’ Academy’s Royal Marines CCF recently completed their annual Summer Camp, held at the prestigious Commando Training Centre in Lympstone and across Dartmoor. Joining 35 other Royal Marines cadets from across the country, the week-long camp is widely regarded as the most challenging in the UK cadet calendar.
Throughout the camp, cadets participated in a demanding and diverse programme, including live firing, a 24-hour field exercise, boatwork, military skills training, a swim test, the commando assault course, tag archery, and a low ropes confidence course. They also had the opportunity to visit Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, further enhancing their understanding of leadership and service.
Major Wilson, CCF Contingent Commander, said: “Our cadets performed exceptionally well in what is considered the toughest cadet camp in the country. They showed outstanding resilience, teamwork, and determination. Particular credit must go to Cadet Lance Corporal Connor, who was awarded champion shot for the entire camp—an incredible achievement. He received his award from General Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE, the First Sea Lord and head of the Royal Navy and Royal Marines.”
Year 9 Students Inspired by Humanutopia Leadership Workshops
On Tuesday 8 and Wednesday 9 July 2025, all 280 Year 9 students at Leigh Stationers’ Academy took part in a two-day personal development programme led by Humanutopia. The workshops, delivered by experienced facilitator Tamara, offered pupils a powerful opportunity to explore themes of identity, leadership, and aspiration.
The sessions encouraged students to reflect on their personal experiences, consider the kind of people and leaders they want to become, and step outside their comfort zones to connect with peers beyond their usual friendship groups. Activities were designed to build empathy, confidence, and the foundations of personal leadership.
Pupils engaged in open, honest conversations that sparked powerful moments of reflection and growth. As one student commented, “It made me realise I’m not the only one who’s been through tough stuff.” Another added, “I feel like I understand my year group better now,” while a third shared, “I actually believe I can do something different with my life.”
Mr Spark, Assistant Principal and Designated Safeguarding Lead, said: “The workshop created a safe, inclusive environment where students could reflect on who they are and who they want to become. It challenged them to think critically about the choices they make, the goals they set, and the future they want to build. We’re incredibly grateful to Tamara and the team at Humanutopia for delivering such impactful sessions, and proud of the maturity and honesty shown by our Year 9 students throughout the programme.”
Year 10 Students Inspired by University of Cambridge Visit
A group of seven Year 10 students from Leigh Stationers’ Academy recently visited the University of Cambridge for an inspiring introduction to higher education at one of the world’s leading institutions.
The visit began with an informative talk about university life and academic pathways, including guidance on the entry requirements for a range of degree subjects. Students then toured the historic Gonville and Caius College, gaining a first-hand sense of Cambridge’s rich traditions and unique atmosphere. The experience concluded with a three-course meal in one of the college’s grand dining halls, offering students a taste of the Cambridge student experience.
Ms Hunt, Lead Practitioner, said: “This was an incredibly valuable experience for our Year 10 students. The visit left a lasting impression, with several students expressing newfound ambition and two already aspiring to apply to the university in the future. It was wonderful to see their confidence grow as they realised that top universities like Cambridge are within their reach.”
Reward Trips Celebrate Positive Conduct
On Monday, 21 July 2025, Leigh Stationers’ Academy will hold its annual Behaviour Reward Trips to recognise students who have demonstrated excellent behaviour throughout the year. Bronze Award students will enjoy a film screening at Vue Eltham, Silver Award students will visit Oxygen trampoline park at the O2, and Gold Award students will spend the day at Thorpe Park.
Mr Hill, Assistant Principal, commented: “Recognising and rewarding students for excellent attendance and behaviour is a vital part of our culture at LSA. These trips are not just fun days out — they’re a celebration of the values we want to see every day. This year, over 650 pupils have taken part in at least one of our end-of-module reward events, and we’re incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved.”
Weekly Sports Fixtures Round-Up
Greenwich Schools Girls’ Athletics Championships
A team of 41 girls from Years 7 to 10 represented Leigh Stationers’ Academy in this highly competitive borough-wide athletics event. The girls gave it their all, achieving several notable successes:
- Year 8 Relay Team (Mia, Sereina, Neve & Sienna): 1st in heats, 4th overall in the final
- Year 9 100m – Sophie: 2nd in heat, 5th overall in the final
- Year 8 100m – Mia: 2nd in heat, 4th overall in the final
- Year 10 300m – Ava-Grace: 2nd place in the final
- 1500m Finals – Neve, Grace, Stefanie: 3rd place finishes
Year 10 Athletics Championships
Thursday’s internal athletics competition saw 43 Year 10 students take part in sprints, middle-distance races, jumps, and throws—marking the highest ever level of participation in this event. Students competed for the coveted Victor Ludorum and Victrix Ludorum titles, awarded to the highest overall male and female performers across multiple disciplines.
Victor & Victrix Ludorum
At Leigh Stationers’ Academy, the titles Victor Ludorum (for boys) and Victrix Ludorum (for girls) are awarded to the top overall performers in athletics, recognising those who excel across a range of events. Derived from Latin, the terms mean “winner of the games” and reflect the breadth, versatility, and competitive spirit of our student athletes.
- Archie secured the title with standout performances in the 100m sprint, 1500m run, javelin, and long jump.
- Ava-Grace impressed with exceptional finishes in the 200m sprint, 800m run, long jump, and discus throw.
Miss Blayney, who helped organise the event, said: “These young competitors displayed fantastic determination and breadth of talent—events ranged from sprints to middle-distance running, and they all rose to the challenge in every one.”
Annual Sports Awards Evening Celebrates a Year of Success
Leigh Stationers’ Academy held its annual Sports Awards Evening on Monday, 7 July 2025 – a celebration of student achievement, commitment, and teamwork across the year. With over 200 parents and carers in attendance, the evening recognised the dedication of students from all year groups, who together took part in more than 150 fixtures, scored 342 goals, and secured 89 wins, including six major competition victories.
Awards were presented for each team, with special recognition for:
- Sportswoman of the Year: Ava-Grace W.
- Sportsman of the Year: Stanley F.
Mr Judd, Director of PE, said: “This event was a true celebration of what sport means to our school — effort, pride, and opportunity for all. I couldn’t be prouder of our students, who have represented LSA with excellence all year. Thank you to the PE team, staff, and families for helping to make the evening such a success. We look forward to another year of sporting achievement ahead.”
Colleges Set to Compete for Sports Day Trophy
Leigh Stationers’ Academy is gearing up for its annual KS3 Sports Day on Wednesday, 16 July 2025. Taking place during normal school hours, the colleges – Angelou, Caxton, Hansard, and Equiano – will go head-to-head in a day of sporting competition to claim this year’s College Trophy.
All students in Years 7, 8, and 9 are expected to attend in full LSA PE kit, including appropriate footwear and hairbands where needed. To boost college spirit, pupils are encouraged to wear fun accessories in their college colours.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable day, students should bring:
- Plenty of water (no fizzy drinks)
- Sunscreen, if required
Mr Judd, Director of PE, said: “Sports Day is one of the highlights of our school year. It brings the whole community together and gives every student the chance to compete, cheer, and represent their college with pride. We’re looking forward to an exciting and memorable event.”
Student Spotlight: Year 8 Pupil Wins Gold at Subarashi Judo Competition
Teodor, a Year 8 student from Hansard College, achieved 1st place at the Subarashi Judo Competition held over the weekend. His success is a reflection of the consistent effort and dedication he has shown in training, and represents an excellent accomplishment at a competitive level.
Mr Judd, Director of PE, said: “Teodor’s gold medal is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the commitment he shows to his sport. It is always encouraging to see students thrive beyond the classroom, and it will be exciting to follow his progress as he continues his sporting journey.”
Celebrating Sporting Success at the London Youth Games
Leigh Stationers’ Academy is proud to celebrate the achievements of several students who represented Bexley in the 2025 London Youth Games (LYG). Their participation in this prestigious competition is a remarkable accomplishment and a reflection of their dedication to sport.
Bexley entered 23 teams across 15 different sports this season, involving over 200 athletes from across the borough. Students from LSA made significant contributions, with commendable performances across a range of disciplines:
- Jake K. (Year 10, Caxton College) – 9th Place: Road Cycling
- Sophia P. (Year 8, Equiano College) – 5th Place: Judo (Girls)
- Sophia M. (Year 9, Hansard College) – 5th Place: Judo (Girls)
- Ronnie J. (Year 9, Hansard College) – 9th Place: Judo (Boys)
- Teodor P. (Year 8, Hansard College) – 9th Place: Judo (Boys)
- Jessie V. (Year 10, Angelou College) – 8th Place: U15 Girls Football
- Luella B. (Year 10, Angelou College) – 8th Place: U15 Girls Football
The academy extends its congratulations to all students involved and looks forward to the start of the 2026 LYG season, which begins in November with the Cross-Country event.
PSHE Update: Supporting Personal Development Across Years 7-11
During Module 6, Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) Education at Leigh Stationers’ Academy will continue to focus on key areas of personal development tailored to each year group from Years 7 to 10.
Year 7 and Year 8 students will focus on ‘Life Beyond LSA’ skills, whilst Year 9 PSHE lessons will centre around the MYP Service as Action project, a core component of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme. This initiative encourages students to become compassionate individuals who contribute positively to their communities and environment. Year 10 students will continue with preparations for their forthcoming mock examinations.
This week’s PSHE topics include:
- Year 7: Year 7 Reflections
- Year 8: Year 8 Reflections
- Year 9: MYP Service As Action Project
Parents and carers are encouraged to engage in discussions at home, such as exploring ideas about laws that keep us safe or supporting Year 10 pupils as they prepare for their exams.
Reminder: Parents’ Evenings for Year 10
Leigh Stationers’ Academy will be holding the Year 10 Parents’ Evening on Wednesday, 16 July 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00. These evenings offer an important opportunity for parents and carers to meet with subject teachers, discuss their child’s academic progress, and identify areas for further support. Bookings for both events went live via SchoolCloud at 18:00 on Wednesday, 2 July 2025. For full guidance on how to book appointments, please visit our website: Guide for Booking Parents’ Evening Appointments
For Year 10 Parents’ Evening, bookings are initially limited to eight teachers per pupil. This limit will be lifted on the day of the event, allowing parents to make additional bookings where staff still have availability.
