Dear Leigh Stationers’ Academy Community,
As we begin Module 4, it has been fantastic to see our students returning with focus and enthusiasm. This week, we have seen pupils engage in a wide range of opportunities, from careers guidance and PSHE lessons to sporting success and international travel. Our Year 9 rugby team demonstrated resilience and teamwork in the Kent Rugby 7s tournament, while a group of students embarked on an educational visit to New York City, gaining invaluable insights into history, culture, and global perspectives. We are also incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements of 2nd Lt. George H, who has been awarded a Certificate of Commendation for his dedication and leadership within the CCF.
Looking ahead, we have several key events on the horizon. Parents’ evenings for Year 7 and Year 9 will provide a vital opportunity for families to discuss progress with teachers, while our IB MYP Coffee Morning will help parents understand student reports. We are also preparing for World Book Day, with activities designed to inspire a love of reading across the academy. Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to another successful module ahead.
Best wishes,
Mr Joseph Sparks | Principal, Leigh Stationers’ Academy
Upcoming Parents’ Evenings at Leigh Stationers’ Academy
Year 7 Parents’ Evening – Wednesday, 5 March 2025
Leigh Stationers’ Academy will host the Year 7 Parents’ Evening on Wednesday, 5 March 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00. This is an important opportunity for parents and carers to meet with teachers and discuss their child’s progress. The booking system is now open and will close at 12:00 on the day of the event. Parents and carers are encouraged to book early via the academy’s designated booking site, with instructions available on the school’s website.
Appointments are booking fast. If you are unable to secure an appointment, you can add yourself to the waiting list via the booking system. Alternatively, if you are unable to book a slot with a specific teacher, please reach out to them directly to discuss your child’s progress.
Year 9 Parents’ Evening – Wednesday, 19 March 2025
The Year 9 Parents’ Evening will take place on Wednesday, 19 March 2025, from 16:00 to 19:00. This event provides a chance to meet subject teachers and discuss academic progress as students move towards Key Stage 4. The booking system opens on Wednesday, 12 March 2025, at 09:00, and closes at 12:00 on the day of the event. Parents and carers should secure appointments early via the academy’s designated booking site.
For assistance with either event, please contact Ms Holland, PA to the Principal, at gabrielle.holland@stationers.latrust.org.uk.
Reminder: IB MYP Coffee Morning – Understanding Your MYP Report
Leigh Stationers’ Academy will be hosting an IB MYP Coffee Morning on Wednesday, 5 March 2025, from 08:45 to 09:45. This session will focus on ‘Understanding Your IB MYP Report’, providing parents and carers with valuable insight into how to interpret student progress and assessment within the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP). To attend, please secure your place via EventBrite using the following link.
Mock Examination Timetable for Years 11 & 13
The second round of Year 11 and Year 13 mock examinations at Leigh Stationers’ Academy continues next week. These assessments provide an essential opportunity for pupils to refine their exam techniques and identify areas for improvement ahead of the summer examinations.
Timetables for each year group can be accessed via the following links:
Reflecting on the first week of exams, Mr Farr, Vice Principal, said: “Our students have approached their mock examinations with focus and determination. It has been fantastic to see them rising to the challenge and demonstrating the hard work they have put into their studies. They are well-prepared, and this experience will be invaluable in ensuring they are ready for their final exams this summer.”
To support pupils in their preparation, morning and afternoon examination warm-up sessions will take place before each exam. These sessions will help students consolidate their knowledge, focus their revision, and approach their exams with confidence. Further details regarding these sessions have been shared in a letter to parents and carers.
All pupils must bring the required equipment for each exam. This includes:
- Black pens (multiple)
- Pencils, ruler, eraser, and sharpener
- Scientific calculator (if required for the exam)
- Clear pencil case
- Water bottle (no label)
- Prohibited Items: Mobile phones, smartwatches, and any other electronic devices are not permitted in the exam hall.
Cadet Leader to Receive Commendation at London Awards Ceremony
Leigh Stationers’ Academy is delighted to announce that 2nd Lieutenant George H has been awarded a Certificate of Commendation by the Greater London Reserve Forces and Cadets Association for his outstanding service and leadership within the Combined Cadet Force (CCF).
George was the only CCF recipient selected from over 50 contingents across London, making this a remarkable achievement that highlights his dedication and contribution to the cadet programme. He will officially receive his award at the Spring Awards Ceremony at Yeomanry House, Handel Street, London, on Thursday, 13 March 2025. The presentation will be conducted by the Lord Lieutenant for Greater London, Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE. The event will also celebrate the achievements of other outstanding cadet instructors across the London region.
Major Wilson, who leads the CCF at Leigh Stationers’ Academy, said: “This recognition is thoroughly deserved. George has shown exceptional leadership, commitment, and dedication to the CCF, inspiring younger cadets and strengthening the unit. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and look forward to celebrating with him at the awards ceremony.”
LSA Students Explore New York on Educational Visit
A group of 46 students from Years 9, 10, and 12 recently embarked on an educational trip to New York City, immersing themselves in the culture, history, and energy of one of the world’s most iconic cities. Over four days, students visited landmarks including Grand Central Station, Times Square, the Financial District, and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, gaining insight into American history and global events.
Beyond sightseeing, students experienced a live college basketball game, enjoyed ice skating in Central Park, and took in the city’s skyline from the Empire State Building. The trip concluded with shopping on Fifth Avenue and a visit to Macy’s before heading home.
Reflecting on the visit, Mr Huxley, Lead Practitioner and Event Organiser, said: “This trip was an incredible opportunity for students to experience the culture and history of New York first-hand. From exploring famous landmarks to the excitement of a live sports event, they made the most of every moment. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and excellent behaviour were a credit to the academy. We hope this experience inspires them in their future studies and travels.”
A huge thank you to Mr Huxley, Ms Collier, Mr Smith, Ms Edwards, and Mr Spark for ensuring the success of this unforgettable trip.
World Book Day 2025: Celebrating a Love for Reading
Leigh Stationers’ Academy is excited to celebrate World Book Day on Thursday, 6 March 2025, with a range of activities designed to inspire a love of reading among our students. This year’s celebrations will see staff dressing up as their favourite literary characters and engaging students in exciting reading-focused activities throughout the day.
Key Stage 3 students will take part in a ‘reading river’ activity during tutor time, reflecting on books and texts that have shaped their childhoods. Students will also receive World Book Day book tokens, which can be used to purchase books from a selection of participating retailers—further details are provided on the tokens.
Throughout the day, staff will read the opening of a great book at the start of each lesson for Years 7 to 10, introducing students to a variety of exciting texts and encouraging them to seek out new stories to enjoy.
In addition, we are launching a Trust-wide competition inviting students to create their own book. More information will be shared in English lessons in the coming weeks, with students able to complete their projects by the start of Module 5.
As part of our ongoing commitment to celebrating reading, we are also introducing a Reading Recommendations Newsletter, which will be updated every module with a curated selection of books for different age groups. The first edition can be found here, with age recommendations provided for each suggested book.
Weekly Sports Fixtures
Year 9 Kent Rugby 7s
The Year 9 boys’ rugby 7s team delivered a strong performance in the Kent Rugby 7s tournament, securing a victory against St. Lawrence (15-10), drawing with Beths (12-12), and narrowly losing in the quarter-finals to Bullers Wood (15-12).
- Squad: L. Richards, C. Cruz, T. Edwards, B. Grimes, L. Grimes, M. Gallagher, J. Malia, L. Colley, R. Mahoney, L. Burns, K. Philips
- Try Scorers: L. Colley (2), T. Edwards (2), A. Richards (2), H. Lamb (1), J. Malia (1)
“The team showed great determination and teamwork throughout the tournament, demonstrating strong attacking play and resilience in defence,” said Mr Judd, Director of PE. “They competed with real energy and commitment, and it was fantastic to see their hard work pay off in such a competitive environment. Well done to all players involved!”
Final Opportunity for Flu Vaccination – Community Flu Clinic
School-age children have a final opportunity to receive their flu vaccination at an upcoming community flu clinic.
- Date: Saturday, 1 March 2025
- Location: Lee Green Fire Station
- Time: 10:00 – 14:00
Flu vaccinations play a vital role in maintaining children’s health, reducing absences, and protecting the wider community. Further details can be found in the NHS poster here.
Parents and carers are also reminded that Year 9 DTP/MenACWY vaccinations will take place on Tuesday, 11 March 2025. Those wishing for their child to receive the vaccine should complete the consent form, which is available on MCAS.
PSHE Update: Online Safety and Careers Preparation
In Module 4, Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) education at Leigh Stationers’ Academy will focus on key aspects of online safety for students in Years 7–9, helping them develop a deeper understanding of responsible online communication, the importance of protecting personal information, and how UK laws and regulations work to keep individuals safe online.
Meanwhile, Year 10 students will begin preparations for their work experience placements later in the academic year. This will involve researching opportunities, developing key employability skills, and understanding professional expectations in the workplace.
Each session is designed to encourage critical thinking and skill development. This week’s topics include:
- Year 7: Internet Research
- Year 8: Social Media Use
- Year 9: Social Media Addiction
- Year 10: Careers and Work Experience Research
Parents and carers are encouraged to continue these conversations at home, discussing online safety or work experience preparation to help reinforce students’ understanding of these important topics.
Year 11 Career Opportunities: Exploring Future Pathways
Year 11 students at Leigh Stationers’ Academy continue to benefit from dedicated career guidance during their Monday and Friday tutor sessions. While these sessions are temporarily on hold due to the upcoming mock examinations, they will resume in Week 4. In the meantime, students are encouraged to explore the following career-related resources and opportunities:
- Careers Newsletter, Edition 21 – This edition provides further insights into apprenticeship opportunities, careers in the tech industry and space exploration, guides on understanding UCAS, and access to free online courses aimed at upskilling students for the creative industries.
- Job of the Week: Graphic Designer – Students have gained an understanding of the skills required for this career and the various pathways available in graphic design.
- Pathways Document – A comprehensive guide outlining the different post-16 options available to students, supporting them in making informed decisions about their next steps.
- Springpod – Students have access to Springpod, an online platform dedicated to work experience opportunities, allowing them to explore career pathways and placements aligned with their interests.
Throughout Module 3, Year 11 students have also had the opportunity to attend one-to-one careers meetings to support their post-16 decisions. Any students who have not yet had a meeting and would like to arrange one can contact our careers advisor at shaina.saif@stationers.latrust.org.uk.Students are encouraged to make full use of these resources to explore potential career pathways and plan for their future.
