As the academic year draws to a close, I wanted to take this opportunity, as Principal, to celebrate some of the fantastic achievements of our students with you. It has been a year filled with remarkable successes: academically, on the sporting field, and in various trust-wide competitions. It is truly humbling to reflect on the incredible journey we have shared.
Achieving Beyond Expectations
Our motto at the academy is to “achieve beyond expectations“, and this year, we have seen this motto come to life in the most inspiring ways. The vast majority of our students are growing in confidence and truly flourishing in our disruption-free classrooms. Where students have not quite met our expectations, we have been firm but fair, offering corrections as per our policies while also putting supportive measures in place to help them get back on track.
Developing Well-Rounded Individuals
This year has been brimming with fantastic opportunities for our students to participate in events that have truly helped them develop their communication skills and ability to work in groups. The Wizard of Oz performance was an absolute masterpiece, showcasing incredible talent and teamwork. Our MYP Interdisciplinary Day was a fantastic experience, fostering cross-curricular connections and innovative thinking. The Year Community Project was brilliant, demonstrating our students’ commitment to making a positive impact on the wider community. And of course, Sports Day was the best ever, a true testament to our students’ athleticism and camaraderie.
A Bright Future for Our Leavers
We extend our heartfelt wishes to our Year 11 and 13 students, who worked incredibly hard throughout the exam season. Their dedication and perseverance have been truly inspiring. We wish them the very best for a golden future and eagerly anticipate celebrating their achievements with them on results day.
Our Shared Mission
Looking out at all of our students, I see the living embodiment of our mission – which is to develop knowledgeable, inquiring, principled citizens who will contribute effectively to our democratic society. Their positive attitudes, kindness, and willingness to support one another have helped to create the vibrant, inclusive environment that defines our academy.
Our Vital Partnership
Your unwavering support, encouragement, and trust in us are invaluable. I have always maintained that while we may occasionally see things from a different lens, we have a common goal: to use our best endeavours to maximise the potential of the young people entrusted to our care. Thank you for standing by us, for nurturing your children, and for being an integral part of their journey. I am optimistic that, together, we will continue to achieve beyond expectations for many years to come.
Celebrating Our Staff
Finally, I want to take a moment to acknowledge our exceptional staff. Their tireless efforts, passion for teaching, and generous giving of time go far beyond the classroom. They are the architects of potential, nurturing our students, guiding them, and helping them to maximise their abilities.
We are incredibly proud of our colleagues who have gained recognition beyond our academy, including:
- Mrs Pike: A finalist for the Trust’s ‘Making a Difference’ Award.
- Ms Mulholland: Winner of the Trust’s ‘Best SEN Teacher’ Award.
- Mr Lowe: Recipient of the Teacher Training ‘Mentor of the Year’ Award for North Kent & London.
We also celebrated colleagues whose profound contribution to this academy has spanned many years. Ms Mulholland, Ms Oliver, Mr Kozak, Ms Sudds, Ms Mutch and Ms Sandford, all celebrated 20+ years service at the academy. Their dedication is a cornerstone of our success, and we are profoundly grateful for their service.
Thank you for being such a vital part of our academy community.
Have a fantastic summer holiday.
Dr Felix Donkor | Principal
