Dear Leigh Stationers’ Academy Community,
This has been a wonderful final week of the term at Leigh Stationers’ Academy, marked by a rich range of events and achievements across the academy. Our Christmas Extravaganza concerts were a particular highlight, with soloists, bands, choirs and the orchestra performing to packed audiences of parents and carers across two evenings. Pupils have also enjoyed a range of enrichment and reward activities, including Woolf College’s festive trip to Greenwich and the Bronze Reward cinema trips, recognising positive behaviour and attendance. In sport, our netball teams continued their recent success and our Year 7 girls’ football team progressed to the Kent Cup semi-final. Alongside this, pupils demonstrated strong leadership and community spirit through charitable initiatives supporting the Salvation Army and the Real Life Ministries Food Bank, while we also celebrated the achievements of our Year 13 PICT grant recipients.
When we return in January, Module 3 will bring a number of important events and opportunities for pupils and families. These include Parents’ Evenings for Years 11 and 13, mock examinations for our examination year groups, continued CCF activities and recruitment, work experience preparation for Years 10 and 12, and further enrichment opportunities across the academy. Thank you, as always, for your continued support, and I wish all our families a restful and enjoyable Christmas break.
Best wishes,
Mr Joseph Sparks | Principal, Leigh Stationers’ Academy
Start of Module 3 Arrangements
Module 3 will begin on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, at 08:30 for all pupils. A complete list of term dates is available here.
Key Dates for Module 3
A number of important events are scheduled to take place during Module 3 at Leigh Stationers’ Academy. Further details about each event will be shared in upcoming Latest News page updates.
Key dates for Module 3 are as follows:
- Wednesday, 7 January 2026: Year 11 Parents’ Evening (16:00–19:00)
- Tuesday, 13 January 2026: Work Experience (WEX) Information Webinar for Years 10 and 12 (17:00–17:30)
- Wednesday, 14 January 2026: Year 13 Parents’ Evening (16:00–19:00)
- Tuesday, 3 February 2026: Vaccinations for Year 9 Pupils
- Monday, 9 February 2026: Year 11 and Year 13 Mock Examinations Begin
- Thursday, 12 February 2026: End of Module 3 (15:15)
Christmas Extravaganza Concerts Celebrate Musical Talent at LSA
On Tuesday, 16 December and Thursday, 18 December 2025, Leigh Stationers’ Academy hosted its annual Christmas Extravaganza Concerts, welcoming over 400 parents and carers on each evening.
The concerts showcased an impressive breadth of musical talent, featuring soloists, duos, bands, orchestral performances, and contributions from both the Year 7 Choir and the Senior Choir. The programme highlighted the wide range of music being performed across the academy, from musical theatre and contemporary pop to classical and orchestral works.
The Senior Choir performed Colour My World from Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, while the Year 7 Choir delivered a confident rendition of Memories by Maroon 5. Instrumental performances included a piano solo of Tico-Tico no Fubá by Abreu, and a stirring orchestral performance of Finlandia by Sibelius. The bands brought energy to both evenings, performing a range of hits including Friday I’m in Love by The Cure and She’s Electric by Oasis.
Mr Sparks, Principal, said: “This year’s Christmas Extravaganza was the best we have ever had. The range and quality of performances were outstanding, and the standard of music at Leigh Stationers’ Academy continues to go from strength to strength under the leadership of Mr Yeates. It is wonderful to see so many pupils participating and performing with such confidence and skill.”
The concerts were a fitting celebration of the festive season and a testament to the strong and growing music culture at Leigh Stationers’ Academy.
Woolf College Sixth Form Enjoy Festive Ice Skating Trip to Greenwich
On Friday, 12 December 2025, 160 pupils from Woolf College took part in a festive trip to Greenwich, combining seasonal celebration with cultural exploration.
Students enjoyed an ice skating session before visiting the historic Greenwich Market. The day also included an organised scavenger hunt, encouraging pupils to explore key landmarks across Greenwich while capturing the experience through photographs.
Ms Collier, Head of Woolf College, said: “It was wonderful to be able to take so many students to Greenwich for the day. We had some excellent ice skaters, and it was great to see all of the pictures taken on the scavenger hunt. The trip was a great way to celebrate the festive season while giving students the opportunity to socialise and explore London’s history.”
Christmas Shopping Trip Supports the Salvation Army
Last week, Year 7–10 College Council leaders from Leigh Stationers’ Academy visited Eltham High Street to turn generous tutor group donations into essential items and gifts for the local community.
Mr Hill, Assistant Principal, said: “Following an even greater response than last year, the items purchased were delivered to the Salvation Army, who kindly distributed them to families in need. Our pupils showed real empathy and leadership throughout the initiative, taking great care to choose thoughtful and meaningful gifts. Charity work like this is vital in helping young people understand the importance of giving back and supporting those in our local community.”
Year 13 PICT Grant Winners Announced
Three Year 13 pupils at Leigh Stationers’ Academy have been awarded grants from the Paper Industry Charitable Trust (PICT) in recognition of their studies in Digital Design and Media and Broadcasting T Levels. All eligible pupils were invited to apply for the grant, with three students selected by the Trust’s board. The successful recipients, Ethan D, Leah M and Oliver C, were presented with their awards during the Woolf College Celebration Assembly on Monday.
Each pupil has been awarded £1,500, which they can use in the new year to support their studies. Previous recipients have used the grant to purchase equipment such as Apple Mac computers or components to build their own PCs.
Mr Sparks, Principal, said: “We are extremely grateful to the Paper Industry Charitable Trust for continuing to provide these excellent opportunities for our pupils. The support offered through the PICT grants can be transformative, giving students access to high-quality equipment that directly supports their learning and future aspirations. Opportunities like this make a real difference to each and every one of our pupils who benefit from them.”
Bronze Reward Trips Recognise Positive Behaviour and Attendance
On Wednesday and Thursday this week, nearly 1,000 pupils from Leigh Stationers’ Academy took part in the Bronze Reward Trips as part of the academy’s Behaviour Reward Programme. Over 70% of pupils qualified for the Bronze Reward in Term 1 (Modules 1 and 2), reflecting strong standards of attendance and behaviour across the academy.
Pupils visited VUE Eltham, where they enjoyed a private cinema screening, with students able to choose between Zootropolis 2, Wicked: For Good and Home Alone 2. Mr Hill, Assistant Principal, said: “To qualify for the Bronze Reward Trips, pupils were required to meet clear criteria, including fewer than 20 negative behaviour logs across Modules 1 and 2, attendance above 95%, and participation in enrichment, extra-curricular or community activities. These expectations recognise pupils who consistently demonstrate positive behaviours and engagement with wider school life.”
Netball Squad Celebrates Success with Ice Skating Trip
Year 9 and Year 10 netball players from Leigh Stationers’ Academy took part in a celebration trip to Ruxley Manor Ice Skating Rink in recognition of their continued commitment and success in representing the academy.
Ms Blayney said: “This trip was a small way of saying thank you to the girls for everything they have given to the academy over the past 18 months. They have shown real commitment and teamwork, represented the school with pride, and achieved fantastic success by winning five netball competitions. They fully deserved the chance to celebrate their achievements together.”
Weekly Sports Fixtures
Leigh Stationers’ Academy pupils enjoyed another successful week of sport, highlighted by a victory for the Year 7 girls’ football team and well-attended intra-college competitions.
| Fixture | Result | Scorers / Shooters | Player(s) of the Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 7 Girls Team vs Bullers Wood | 2-2 full time 3-1 on penalties | Holly G & Zoe D | Holly G & Zoe D Holly G & Zoe D |
Mr Judd said: “It has been an incredible week. I’m delighted to announce that our Year 7 girls are through to the Kent Cup semi-final. Our intra-college boys’ handball and girls’ football competitions were also a huge success, with over 100 students taking part. It was fantastic to see pupils showing such pride in representing their college.”
Reminder: Parents’ Evenings at Leigh Stationers’ Academy
Year 11 Parents’ Evening
The Year 11 Parents’ Evening will take place on Wednesday, 7 January 2026. Bookings will go live on Friday, 19 December 2025 at 19:00 and will close on Tuesday, 6 January 2026 at 12:00.
Year 13 Parents’ Evening
The Year 13 Parents’ Evening will take place on Wednesday, 14 January 2026. Bookings will go live on Friday, 2 January 2026 at 19:00 and will close on Tuesday, 13 January 2026 at 12:00.
Further parents’ evening dates are as follows:
- Year 9 Parents’ Evening – Wednesday, 18 March 2026
- Year 10 Parents’ Evening – Wednesday, 15 April 2026
- Year 7 Parents’ Evening – Wednesday, 8 July 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, parents and carers are asked to contact Gabrielle Holland at gabrielle.holland@stationers.latrust.org.uk
CCF Cadets Train at Royal Marines Reserve Headquarters
Combined Cadet Force (CCF) cadets from Leigh Stationers’ Academy attended a day of training at the Royal Marines Reserve headquarters in Wandsworth on Saturday, 13 December 2025. During the visit, cadets developed and practised a range of military skills before ending the day with seasonal gifts for the CCF core team.
Recruitment for the CCF is now open for the start of Module 3 in January, with opportunities available to pupils in Years 9 to 12. Plans for Module 3 include a series of enrichment opportunities such as Year 9 taster afternoons, a navigation exercise in the Surrey Hills, a military skills exercise and a climbing afternoon. Further information about the CCF can be obtained by contacting Lt George Heine at george.heine@stationers.latrust.org.uk
Personal Development Updates
PSHE Update: Supporting Personal Development Across Years 7-13
In Module 3, 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 Group | Key Question / Focus |
|---|---|
| Year 7 | What is puberty, and how will it impact me? |
| Year 8 | Healthy bodies = Healthy minds. How can I look after myself? |
| Year 9 | How can outside influences impact my mental health? |
| Year 10 | What is the law surrounding Social Media and Hate Crime? |
| Year 11 | How can I stay safe against harmful traditional practices? |
| Year 12 | How can I stay safe from fraud and scams? |
| Year 13 | How do I maintain personal hygiene? |
Year 10 & Year 12 Work Experience Parent/Carer Webinar
Leigh Stationers’ Academy will be hosting an online webinar for parents and carers of all Year 10 and Year 12 pupils on Tuesday, 13 January 2026 at 17:00. The webinar will provide guidance on how to support pupils in securing a suitable work experience placement, as well as an overview of how to use Unifrog to record and process placements once they have been confirmed. A link to access the webinar will be shared with families in early January. As a reminder, the work experience placements will take place from Monday, 6 July 2026, to Friday, 10 July 2026.
British Army Insights: Online Session for Parents & Carers
Parents and carers are invited to register for a free online information session taking place on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, from 18:00 to 19:00. The session will provide an overview of the opportunities available to young people within the British Army, including information on roles, training pathways, apprenticeships and qualifications. It will also include real-life experiences, practical advice and a live question-and-answer session. All attendees will receive a free downloadable resource designed to support conversations with their child about future career options.
Year 13 Apprenticeship Opportunities
A range of degree apprenticeship opportunities are currently available to Year 13 pupils, offering alternative pathways into higher education and professional careers while earning and gaining valuable work experience.
Ada, the National College for Digital Skills, is promoting several degree apprenticeships in the technology sector, combining paid employment with a degree qualification. Further information is available at:
https://www.ada.ac.uk/apprenticeships/
The Government Economic Service is also offering a degree apprenticeship programme leading to a fee-free economics degree from the University of Kent, alongside work in a central government department or agency (application deadline: Sunday, 4 January 2026). Further details can be found at:
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/government-economic-service/about/recruitment
In addition, A&O Shearman is offering a law degree apprenticeship with a fully funded degree, real client experience and a £32,000 starting salary plus a £3,000 sign-on bonus (application deadline: Wednesday, 18 February 2026). Details are available via Unifrog.
Forvis Mazars is also offering degree apprenticeships in accounting and consulting, combining structured learning with hands-on professional experience. Further information can be found at:
https://www.forvismazars.com/uk/en/careers/students/apprenticeships
Woolf Student Leaders Support Local Food Bank
One of the key aims of the newly appointed Woolf student leadership team has been to widen support for both the school and the wider community.
As part of this work, students made contact with the Real Life Ministries Food Bank and coordinated a donation drive across the academy. Pupils and staff donated food and essential items, which were collected on Thursday, 18 December 2025.
Ms Collier, Head of Woolf College, said: “This initiative showed real leadership and community spirit from our students. I am incredibly proud of the way pupils and staff came together to support our local community and make a meaningful difference to others.”
JK Clothing: Christmas Holiday Opening Times
Families are advised of the following opening hours for JK Clothing over the Christmas holiday period: JK Clothing will close on Saturday, 20 December at 17:00. The shop will reopen on Monday, 29 December and Tuesday, 30 December, operating from 10:00 to 16:00 on both days. Normal opening hours will resume on Friday, 2 January 2026, from 09:00 to 17:00.
Ski Trip 2027
We are currently exploring the possibility of running a school ski trip for students currently in Years 8 & 9 in 2027. This would be a fantastic opportunity for students to experience skiing in a world-class resort, develop their skills, and enjoy an unforgettable trip with their peers.
Provisional Trip Details:
- Destination: Folgarida, Italy OR Serre Chevalier, France
- Dates: Departing 06 February 2027 (8 days, 7 nights)
- Accommodation: Full board
- Skiing Package:
- 4 hours of ski tuition per day (for 6 days)
- 6-day ski lift pass
- Ski equipment rental (skis, boots, and helmet)
- Travel: Return flights, UK and overseas airport transfers
- Extras: Evening activities (e.g. ice skating), plus a ski trip hoody
- Estimated Cost: £1,725 per pupil
At this stage, we are assessing the feasibility of running the trip and would like to gauge interest from parents and carers. If your child would be interested in attending, please complete this expression of interest form by Friday, 2 January 2026.
Please note that completing the form does not commit your child to the trip at this stage. However, it will help us determine whether we can proceed with organising this exciting opportunity.
Families are advised of the following opening hours for JK Clothing over the Christmas holiday period: JK Clothing will close on Saturday, 20 December at 17:00. The shop will reopen on Monday, 29 December and Tuesday, 30 December, operating from 10:00 to 16:00 on both days. Normal opening hours will resume on Friday, 2 January 2026, from 09:00 to 17:00.
