News and updates from Lionheart Educational Trust | Issue #08 | December 2024
This December, staff and pupils across Lionheart schools were tasked with a very important mission: to spread festive joy and cheer.
Having received their instructions, our schools wasted no time in assembling their Christmas trees, dusting off their Santa hats and jazzing up their classrooms and corridors with snowflakes, tinsel and baubles – fully embracing the holiday spirit.
There were primary school craft mornings, festive biscuit decorating, a fun run around Bradgate Park and even a Christmas dance-a-thon!
Amid the season of goodwill, our busy Lionheart agents also gave back to their local communities. They contributed to toy appeals, volunteered at food banks, delivered cards to care homes and fundraised through
initiatives such as Christmas Jumper Day.
But did the Lionheart agents complete their mission? Watch this year’s festive video to find out!
Dear parents and carers
As we approach the end of another successful term and, of course 2024, I am delighted to share some wonderful highlights from across our schools.
First, I would like to extend my congratulations to all our students for their incredible achievements in their summer examinations. From Key Stage 2 SATs to GCSEs and A-levels, our learners have demonstrated resilience, hard work and ambition, which is a credit to them, their families and our dedicated teaching staff. These accomplishments are a testament to the commitment we all share in fostering excellence and nurturing potential. We’re pleased to see many of these young people continue their education in a Lionheart school and wish every success to those who have moved on.
More recently, throughout this term, we were honoured to welcome Members of Parliament to our schools, showcasing the fantastic work happening within our classrooms. These visits provided an excellent opportunity to highlight the talent and innovation of our pupils and staff, as well as the enriching programmes that make our schools such vibrant places to learn.
A special congratulations goes to The Newbridge School for recently
Key dates
welcoming His Majesty’s Ofsted Inspectors for a two day visit, which resulted in achieving 'Good' across all four categories, including quality of education. This recognition reflects the unwavering dedication of the school’s staff and leadership team and the supportive and inspiring environment cultivated for our students. Well done to everyone involved!
As the festive season is now upon us, our schools have been busy with heartwarming fundraising efforts and spreading goodwill in the community. From fun runs and food bank collections to carol singing in care homes, your support – and that of your child/ren - has been instrumental in making a positive difference in our wider community. These festive initiatives are beautifully captured in this year’s Lionheart festive video,
showcasing the joy, compassion and creativity that make our schools so special.
Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. Together, we continue to provide an exceptional educational experience for young people within the Lionheart Educational Trust.
I wish you all a peaceful and joyous festive season and look forward to the exciting opportunities that 2025 will bring.
With festive wishes,
Kath Kelly CEO of Lionheart Educational Trust
Celebrating exam success!
Every year, we are proud to celebrate the achievements of Lionheart pupils - from primary school through to sixth form - who undertake their formal examinations, putting in lots of dedication to achieve their very best. And this year was no different...
KEY STAGE 2 SATs GCSEs A-LEVELS
Our Year 6 pupils shone in their Key Stage 2 Standardised Assessment Tests (SATs), collectively exceeding the national average for AgeRelated Expectations (ARE) in Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling, Reading and Maths across Lionheart Schools, and gaining strong foundations for their future learning at secondary school.
74.4%
61% Vs OF LIONHEART PUPILS OF PUPILS NATIONALLY Met or exceeded ARE in Reading, Writing and Maths
In August, GCSE students collected their results, unlocking exciting opportunities for the departing Year 11s. Many progressed to A-levels and equivalent Level 3 courses, while others opted to undertake apprenticeships to further develop their skills while earning.
Lionheart sixth forms enjoyed another year of exceptional A-level success, with many students able to accept places at prestigious Russell Group universities, or embark on rewarding apprenticeship schemes with leading businesses, like accounting firm, Cooper Parry.
52.8% 84.4%
45.9% 76% Vs Vs OF LIONHEART STUDENTS OF LIONHEART STUDENTS OF STUDENTS NATIONALLY OF STUDENTS NATIONALLY
Achieved Grades 5 or above in both English and Maths
Achieved grades A* to C in all subjects
These strong outcomes were attributed to the hard work, resilience and determination of our young people, who applied themselves throughout the year, worked hard in school lessons and undertook extra revision sessions outside of the classroom.
We also extend our thanks to our parent/carer community, whose support is always a key factor behind students’ successful results.
Politics in action
This term, our schools have embraced opportunities to connect with politics. They have engaged with local Members of Parliament (MP), enjoyed unique opportunities to explore the inner workings of government and strengthened their understanding of important issues beyond the school gates.
BEAUCHAMP COLLEGE DOES QUESTION TIME
Neil O’Brien – the Conservative MP for Harborough, Oadby and Wigston – visited Beauchamp College in September, where he hosted a unique version of Question Time for A-level and GCSE students.
Students asked a range of interesting and wellresearched questions that covered everything from the recent General Election to climate change. Neil was generous with his time and was eager to hear students’ own views, particularly on matters relating to the local constituency.
“The event provided students with a unique opportunity to gain an insight into what life as a politician is like from the viewpoint of a current MP,” explained Mr Watson, History and Politics teacher at Beauchamp College, who organised the event.
MP VISITS MARTIN HIGH AND HIGHCLIFFE
In October, Martin High and Highcliffe Primary hosted newly elected MP for Mid Leicestershire, Peter Bedford.
At Martin High in Anstey, Peter toured the school with Executive Principal Laura Sanchez and watched the Girls’ Futsal team play a match in the new Sports Hall. He later met with the Student Leadership Team over coffee and cake, discussing his weekly routine and plans to promote apprenticeship schemes.
Peter then headed to Highcliffe Primary in Birstall, where he met a variety of staff and pupils, including Wellbeing Ambassadors, English Experts and the Eco Council. After fielding questions from the pupils, Peter joined the assembly to celebrate pupils’ achievements.
On visiting the schools, Peter said: “I understand the importance of visiting educational establishments in my constituency which will help me to understand the challenges faced by schools and educational institutions.”
"It was great to see first-hand the opportunities available to the young people at Martin High and Highcliffe Primary School during my visits."
BROOM LEYS PUPILS VISIT PARLIAMENT
Roles were reversed in late November, as Year 6 pupils from Broom Leys Primary School in Coalville took their learning to the heart of politics with a visit to the iconic Houses of Parliament in London.
Building upon their classroom learning, they attended a workshop that focused on the impact of the Suffragettes and how they helped to change the law. Later, the pupils met Amanda Hack – newly-elected local MP for North West Leicestershire – and enjoyed quizzing her about what it is like to work in parliament.
This term’s engagements have been an enriching experience, providing invaluable insights into the political landscape to help our young learners gain an understanding of our country’s democracy before they reach voting age.
Exciting beginnings at new Coalville primary school
We welcomed over 70 families for a pre-opening event in October, at our brand-new forest primary school in southeast Coalville, with parents keen to get a feel before making their child’s first school application.
Built at the heart of new housing developments between Hugglestone and Ellistown, Greenstone Primary
School will welcome its first early years pupils in August 2025, with Lionheart selected by Leicestershire County Council to run the school.
The modern school building has been expertly designed with year group buildings linked by landscaped pathways that encourage time spent outdoors, alongside plentiful outside space for activity. The school’s forest
Ofsted success for The Newbridge School
We are thrilled that, following a visit from Ofsted in November, The Newbridge School in Coalville was commended as ‘Good’ across all four judgement categories; Quality of Education, Leadership and Management, Behaviour and Attitudes and Personal Development.
Having described Newbridge as “caring and welcoming,” with a “calm and orderly atmosphere,” Inspectors celebrated the academic offer, saying, “the school and the trust have markedly improved the curriculum and how it is delivered,” highlighting the significant progress made since
the school joined Lionheart in 2022.
Commenting on the feedback received, Co-Heads of School Mike
school ethos will provide an outdoorfocused educational experience, underpinned by all-important foundations in core subjects.
Applications for Early Years entry to the 2025-26 school year for Greenstone and all other primary schools are open now via your local council website, until 15th January 2025.
Gamble and Mick Rowbottom said: “We are delighted that Newbridge has been recognised as a ‘Good’ school in all areas by Ofsted.
“Over the past two years, our staff and students have demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment, working tirelessly to raise the school’s standards. We would also like to thank our parents and carers for their support throughout this journey.”
Read the full report at www.newbridge.org.uk
Artist alumnus inspires creativity among students
Beauchamp College welcomed two extra special visitors in late October; artist and alumnus David Shrigley, alongside his threemetre-tall praying mantis sculpture, which set up home for two weeks in the school’s design department.
David – a Turner Prize-nominated artist, who studied at Beauchamp in the 1980s and whose designed have inspired costumes on ITV’s The Masked Singer – loaned his creation to the school, where it formed a focus for a variety of lessons and after school clubs.
In art and design, budding young artists crafted stunning portraits as part of a life drawing session; they also manufactured mantis models out of blocks of icing in
food classes, created bug hotels in design technology and took part in a textiles needle felt class.
There were interactive activities too, with a mantis-inspired yoga session for staff, while students enjoyed participating in a kung fu workshop. Branching out from the art and design focus, the mantis was also used as a centre piece for both music and science lessons.
Pupils from neighbouring Brocks Hill Primary were also fortunate enough to visit the green giant!
The initiative – initiated by David –was designed to stimulate students’ interest in creative disciplines, seeing their importance alongside subjects such as science and maths.
“I made The Mantis Muse because I believe that art is a fundamental part of how children learn; whether that’s by doing it, viewing it, or using creativity as a way to explore other thoughts and concepts,” David said.
“I’m hugely grateful to my old school Beauchamp College for not hanging up the phone when I explained the idea, and for providing the art education that set me on the path for everything I’ve done since then.”
This incredible opportunity was the subject of much media interest, featuring over 150 times in both local and national press, but more importantly inspired Beauchamp and Brocks Hill students to create some fantastic artistic work.
WATCH THE MANTIS MUSE FEATURED ON BBC EAST MIDLANDS TODAY
Exclusive ticket offer with Leicestershire County Cricket Club
Thanks to our exclusive partnership with Leicestershire County Cricket Club, pupils can access a fantastic ticket offer ahead of the new season in 2025.
All Lionheart students can claim one Adult White Ball Pass and 1 Junior White Ball Pass for a combined £50 (saving £130).
WHAT’S INCLUDED
• All seven home Vitality Blast group stage fixtures.
• All three home Open Day Cup group stage fixtures (excluding the match at Kibworth).
• Priority access to a home Vitality Blast quarter-final (should the club qualify).
• Priority access to a home Vitality Blast semi-final (should the club qualify).
• Priority access and discount on selected nonmatchday events at the Uptonsteel County Ground.
• 10% discount on club merchandise.
Join the teaching profession
Are you passionate about inspiring young minds and shaping the next generation? Lionheart Teach –our teacher training programme – is currently accepting applications to start in September 2025.
To give potential applicants a better understanding of our programme, we are hosting an evening event at Beauchamp City Sixth Form on Thursday 6th February 2025, where you can learn more about the training for both primary and secondary teaching as well as speak directly to the programme lead.
HOW TO REDEEM
Either visit the club shop at Uptonsteel County Ground, Grace Road, Leicester, LE2 8EB) or phone 0116 283 2128, by Friday 14th February
Parents/carers will need to supply:
• Child’s name, school & date of birth.
• Parent/carer’s name, address, email address.
Please note that the club shop and phone lines will close at 1pm on Monday 23rd December, re-opening on Thursday 2nd January at 9am.
BOOK YOUR PLACE HERE
Inspire the next generation Join our alumni network
From illustrating acclaimed children’s books, to working in the NHS, we take great pride in the diverse careers former Lionheart students embark on when they step out into the world of work.
Many have also gone on to join our alumni community, where they use their knowledge and experience
to inspire and guide the next generation of Lionheart students.
So, if you’re a former pupil of (what is now) a Lionheart school, with a story to tell and experiences to share, we want to hear from you! By staying connected, you can share your journey, help inspire current students as they explore their own
futures, and enhance your own skillset.
Complete our alumni form to join our growing network and inspire young minds!
FROM BEAUCHAMP TO THE BIG SCREEN EDMUND’S STORY
Edmund Stenson’s love for film truly took off at Beauchamp College, where his studies in Film and Literature sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling.
Now a successful filmmaker, Edmund’s career has seen him direct Blink, a feature documentary available to stream on Disney+ from 17th December, and work as associate editor on Navalny, the Oscar and BAFTA-winning documentary. Looking back, Edmund credits Beauchamp for igniting the creativity and determination that’s driven him to where he is today.
SIGN UP HERE
INTHEMEDIA
There’s been lots of interest in Lionheart schools this term, with the media keen to feature all the fantastic work that’s been happening across the East Midlands! Here’s a round-up...
Mercia’s new school building
Following a move into a new school building – constructed in record time - staff and students from Mercia Academy were interviewed live on BBC Radio Derby and BBC East Midlands Today in September.
Assistant Headteacher, Aaron Black and Head of Creative Arts, Steph
Padmore, alongside a group of very articulate students, discussed their excitement of moving into the new building, also praising the resilience of the Mercia community after a challenging year.
The TV cameras offered a glimpse of the impressive new facilities –
Highcliffe pupils join Ady’s Breakfast Club
Alien choirs, powerful plungers and questionable duck impressions! It’s safe to say the pupils at Highcliffe Primary School had an unforgettable time on Ady’s Breakfast Club in October.
Across a whole week on BBC Radio Leicester, Tiana, Shay, Lewis and Penny entertained listeners by participating in
including the gym and science labs –as students spoke with passion, eloquence and maturity about settling into their new school environment.
WATCH THE SEGMENT ON EAST MIDLANDS TODAY HERE
a range of fun segments. They faced Assistant Headteacher, Mr Watts, in ‘Kids vs Teacher,’ interviewed their ‘Pupil’s Pet,’ Premises Officer Mr Singh, and offered their own unique spin on the week’s major news stories.
The pupils had a brilliant time and enjoyed hearing themselves back on the radio!
Castle Rock raise awareness of International Men’s Day
Connor Acton, Deputy Headteacher at The Castle Rock School, was interviewed live on BBC Radio Leicester in November, speaking about International Men’s Day and the importance of young people having male role models.
Chatting to Summaya Mughal, he revealed that fellow staff members had each chosen a male role model that inspired them.
From Sir David Attenborough to Kylian Mbappé, and Sir Chris Hoy
Children in Need celebration at Beauchamp College
Excitement filled the air at Beauchamp College in November, as a BBC TV crew captured the school’s Children in Need fundraising.
Students and staff – many dressed in onesies and pyjamas – took part in a variety of carnival-themed games, including basketball, tin can alley, ball-in-a-bucket, card games and
pin the nose on Pudsey. Sixth form students also took to the stage with a live music performance.
During interviews, students shared why Children in Need is such an important campaign and explained why they proudly champion and fundraise for this cause each year.
to Ncuti Gatwa, students enjoyed learning more about a range of inspirational and iconic men.
Humphrey Perkins’ anti-bullying initiatives shared to inspire other educators
As part of November’s Anti Bullying Week, Della Bartram, Associate Principal at Humphrey Perkins School, wrote an article for TES, one of the country’s leading educational publications.
She outlined the school’s antibullying initiatives, highlighting why Humphrey Perkins are the only secondary school in Leicestershire to have been awarded the Gold ‘Beyond Bullying’ accreditation from Leicestershire County Council.
READ THE ARTICLE HERE
Subject Spotlight
Personal Development
Across our schools, pupils benefit from our broad and ambitious Personal Development Curriculum (PDC), which exposes them to important subjects that are not typically covered in conventional lessons.
Introduced to better prepare our young people for adult life, from Key Stage 3, pupils undertake one session per week covering topics such as finance, gang culture and housing. These lessons also offer ample opportunities for pupils to strengthen their knowledge and develop an empathetic mindset, allowing them to view the world through a variety of different perspectives.
GLOBAL ISSUES
In 2021, Lionheart introduced a bespoke Global Issues Curriculum (GIC) that broadened the scope
of the PDC by diving into timely, relevant global challenges. The GIC is designed to engage pupils in understanding and addressing issues beyond their immediate environment and help them gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. As a curriculum developed by Lionheart, we can also ensure that most topics are adaptable so that lessons are age appropriate, from primary through to sixth form.
Typically, each academic year, three key topics are selected, which have so far included food poverty, women’s rights and misogyny, refugees, war and conflict and climate change.
Lessons encompass both teaching and regular pause for discussion, with subsequent social action consolidating learning and empowering pupils to explore meaningful ways they can positively impact the world.
“Rich, varied and thought-provoking" Ofsted,
on Lionheart’s Personal Development Curriculum.
GLOBAL ISSUES LESSON, DECEMBER 2024: THE IMPACT OF MISINFORMATION ON THE REAL WORLD
Among the first generation to grow up with social media, many pupils have access to unregulated information and, as such, often face challenges in differentiating between fact and fiction.
In response to these challenges – and the growing relevance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) – this term, our learners explored the concept of misinformation and its impact on the real world.
Defined as ‘mistakenly spread false information’ , pupils explored the origins of misinformation, how it differs from disinformation – ‘the deliberate distribution of fake news’ – and examined its
role within two recent events: the UK Summer Riots and the US Presidential Election.
They examined the significance of social media and how the algorithms of platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram – alongside TikTok’s ‘For You Page’ – can create echo chambers, amplify biases and promote one-sided narratives, which can reduce a user’s ability to tolerate opposing views.
Lessons concluded with practical tips on combating misinformation, with teachers encouraging pupils to be curious by checking the author, the
source and the date of any information shared online to evaluate its authenticity.
This time, the element of social action was a fact-checking campaign, with pupils creating posters that helped others identify misinformation. These were then displayed in school visitor areas for greater external reach.
The lessons were wellreceived, equipping pupils with the essential skills to distinguish fact from fiction and empowering them to confidently navigate through an increasingly digitised society.
SCHOOL ROUNDUP
Beauchamp City Sixth Form
Supporting the medical professionals of tomorrow
I
n November, 40 Beauchamp City Year 13 students enjoyed participating in mock Multiple Mini Interviews (MMIs) – a practice used by medical schools to assess prospective candidates – to help them prepare for their university applications.
MMIs comprise a range of different stations that test students on specific facets of either dentistry or medicine and students were fortunate to be supported by Dr
Dhroov Thanki, a local dentist and Beauchamp College alumnus.
During the sessions, students discussed ethical considerations,
Beauchamp College
Spreading kindness and making a difference
Students and staff at Beauchamp College went above and beyond this term, supporting the local community and making a positive impact.
In November, the school raised a staggering £2,313 for Children in Need through various carnivalthemed stalls and a non-uniform day. Their efforts were recognised
explained how they would prioritise tasks, demonstrated manual dexterity by the modelling of Blu Tack teeth and showcased about their ability to manage difficult conversations.
Together with Dr Thanki, careers lead Rebecca Illston worked hard to establish this valuable experience for students applying for medicine or dentistry. Students rose to the challenges admirably and engaged positively with the tasks posed.
by the BBC, who visited the school to gain regional coverage of the national charity campaign.
Meanwhile, a whopping 201kg worth of essential items – including food and toiletries – were donated to the local South Leicester Foodbank, and 50 shoeboxes were packed with thoughtful gifts for the YMCA Shoebox
Appeal. These contributions from staff, students and their families helped to spread festive joy and ensured those in need received necessary support.
These efforts reflected the school’s commitment to compassion and community spirit – values at the heart of everything they do.
Brocks Hill Primary School
Scoring success in sport
Pupils at Brocks Hill Primary School have worked up a sporting sweat this term, engaging in a variety of physical activities and initiatives.
As part of the South Leicestershire Sports Partnership, children participated in cross-country and Sportshall Athletics events, as well as the Paralympic Legacy Festival. The school’s football team also enjoyed a successful term, reaching Round Three of the Rice Bowl Cup for the very first time and winning the Oadby and Wigston Pokémon Cup, advancing to the county finals in the process.
Battling against other Leicestershire schools, pupils also took part in Move it Boom, a competition where children earned points by recording their
physical activity online. As the Autumn Term concluded, Brocks Hill were among the top performing schools, having accrued over 6000 points.
Further demonstrating the school’s commitment to physical education, eight pupils completed training
Broom Leys Primary School
Re-writing local history
This term, Year 4 pupils at Broom Leys Primary School had fun putting their own unique spin on Coalville’s local history.
In collaboration with the Leicester Comedy Festival and The UK Kids’ Comedy Festival, pupils worked with comedic poet Rob Gee on ‘The Completely Made-up History of Coalville.’ The project encouraged pupils to think creatively and invent stories about local landmarks.
Starting at the former Snibston Colliery, pupils walked through the centre of Coalville, observed buildings and used their imagination to come up with ideas such as what it was used
for and who might have lived there. Children then recorded their creative stories, which were edited together to form a self-guided audio trail available to the public.
to become Sports and Wellbeing Ambassadors, while 20 Playground Leaders were also appointed. These children attended conferences and developed detailed plans to promote a strong, holistic programme for their classmates to enjoy throughout the rest of the academic year.
This imaginative project will go live in February, offering the local community a fresh and creative perspective on the history of Coalville.
The Castle Rock School
Magical Matilda musical
For two magical nights at the Harley Theatre in midDecember, performing arts students at The Castle Rock School delivered a spellbinding musical production of Matilda Jr., bringing the famed Roald Dahl novel to life.
Students wowed the audience not only with their singing and acting but also with the care and attention they had devoted to creating
imaginative sets and costumes, which helped to deliver a truly immersive experience.
school productions should they join Castle Rock in the coming years.
Connecting with the community, the school were proud to invite local primary school pupils to dress rehearsals, where they got an insight into the hard work and dedication required to host an event of this scale. It inspired many of the young visitors to consider taking part in
The Cedars Academy
Leicester City footballer opens new 3G pitch
In October, The Cedars Academy was thrilled to welcome Leicester City and Republic of Ireland midfielder Kasey McAteer to officially open their new, state-of-the-art 3G pitch.
In front of students, parents/ carers, teachers, governors and local councillors, Kasey cut the ribbon to open this fantastic facility, which has already been widely used by Cedars’ students and partner football clubs – Birstall United Juniors, Mountsorrel Juniors and East Goscote United – this term.
The pitch promises to be a game-changer for not only the school – where it will continue to
And such was the enticing buzz around the show, the school were also pleased to see the return of several alumni to watch the performances, showing their support for former teachers and current students.
It was an unforgettable showcase of talent, teamwork and community.
enhance the delivery of PE lessons and an engaging extracurricular programme – but also for the local community, who are able
to hire the multi-purpose facility for a wide variety of sports, including football, rugby, fitness sessions, frisbee and handball.
Hallam Fields Primary School
A trip down memory lane
Enthusiastic historians in Hallam Fields’ Year 4 embarked on a trip down memory lane this term, through a walking tour of Birstall.
Packed full of historical knowledge, the experience encouraged children to use their orienteering and map reading skills to locate key landmarks around the village.
They visited the Old Forge Cottage, The Clock House and St. James Church, which dates back to Anglo Saxon times. The trip to The Old School particularly amazed children, who were shocked at its size, especially when compared to their own school building!
Pupils also identified train tracks that were once part of The Great Central Railway – which originated in 1897 – and located the tree planted to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, learning that it has been replanted three times over the years.
Highcliffe Primary School
Author inspires budding writers
Local children’s author, Steve Skidmore, visited Highcliffe Primary School in October, hosting assemblies and workshops to spark pupils’ interest in reading and writing.
Steve – who was a pupil at Highcliffe many years ago – shared his journey from school to forming a successful writing partnership with Steve Barlow. Together, the duo, known as ‘The Two Steves,’ have penned a wide variety of popular children’s books, including Killer Custard, Enter The Penguin and NINJA
The children thoroughly enjoyed uncovering the history of these iconic local landmarks, many of which they had walked past before without realising their significance.
Year 6 pupils were especially fortunate to participate in a hands-on workshop with Steve, where he introduced them to his latest literary works – a series of graphic novels that gave modern twist on some iconic Shakespearian plays.
The experience allowed the children to gain an invaluable insight into storytelling and creativity, leaving them inspired to develop their own writing.
Humphrey Perkins School
We will remember them
Staff, students and members of the local Barrow upon Soar community commemorated Remembrance Day in November.
Under a crisp, autumnal sky, attendees stood in quiet reflection as members of the Senior Leadership Team – Mrs Bartram, Mr Khakhar and Mr Cross – spoke about the importance of the occasion and celebrated iconic wartime heroes and heroines.
Smartly dressed army cadets – also students at the school - then stood to attention as ‘The Last Post,’ beautifully played by a talented Year 11 student,
filled the air and marked the start of the traditional two minutes’ silence, which was impeccably observed.
Students, applauded by visitors for their exemplary conduct, were
a credit to the school. They demonstrated outstanding maturity and ensured this poignant occasion was a fitting tribute to soldiers who have served in conflicts past and present.
Judgemeadow Community College
An invitation to tea with the Lord Mayor
Six lucky students had the honour of meeting Leicester’s Lord Mayor, Bhupen Dave, in December, alongside Associate Principal Mr Grainge.
Students were warmly welcomed into the mayor’s private office and – over tea, cake and sandwiches – enjoyed open conversation with both the Mayor and the Lady Mayoress.
They spoke about a range of topics, including the history of Leicester and the values of modern Britain. Students also enjoyed sharing their experiences, discussing the school’s annual Culture Day celebration and highlighting the engaging events they participate in.
The students had a wonderful time and gained a valuable insight into the world
of politics and the responsibilities that come with being Lord Mayor.
Commenting on the experience, Year 8 student Durvesh said:
“Thank you to the Lord Mayor for his warm hospitality. I thoroughly enjoyed the visit and the opportunity to learn more about Leicester’s history and values.”
Martin High School
Aspirational careers event
Representatives from a range of colleges, universities and job industries – including University of Leicester, Beauchamp City Sixth Form, The Royal Air Force and Leicestershire County Council – visited Martin High School in November, sharing their expertise at the annual Careers Fair.
Students from Year 7 to Year 11 networked with the visitors, discussed a variety of courses, gained an insight of the practical skills required for certain jobs and developed a deeper understanding into the subjects and pathways that will support them with their career aspirations.
Mercia Academy
A vital part of the school’s Career Development Programme, the event provided learners with a valuable opportunity
to explore the wide range of options that are available on completion of their studies.
Students host action-packed futsal tournament
M
ercia Academy was thrilled to welcome pupils from local primary schools to their brand-new Sports Hall in December, where they participated in an enthralling futsal competition.
The event – which was live-streamed onto the hall’s big screen, so those
watching from the sidelines could cheer on their friends – was led by some of Mercia’s Duke of Edinburgh’s Award students, who volunteered as part of their Silver accreditation.
Students officiated the futsal matches, organised table
tennis and supervised pupils’ ‘downtime,’ ensuring a fun and enjoyable experience for all.
Visitors were full of praise for the Mercia students who hosted the event, describing them as a “credit to the school!”
Newhall Junior School
To infinity and beyond!
Budding young astronauts at Newhall Junior School enjoyed an intergalactic term, enthusiastically engaging with a range of brilliant space-themed initiatives to support their learning.
The school was a vibrant hub of interstellar activity in October as pupils celebrated World Space Week through exploration of celestialthemed subjects; they took on astronaut training, experimented with pump rockets and designed their own space capsules.
Diving deeper into the wonders of the cosmos, Year 5 children
participated in an Astro Camp experience the following month, learning about day-to-day life on the International Space Station and, thanks to a visit from a local astronomy club, they were even able to get a glimpse of Saturn and Jupiter!
Fully immersing themselves into astronaut life, the children spent the night camping in the school hall.
These experiences have ignited a passion for space exploration, inspiring the young learners to reach for the stars!
The Newbridge School
Empowering student leaders
The Newbridge School proudly launched its Student Leadership Board this term, offering learners the chance to work alongside the Senior Leadership Team and collectively shape the future of the school.
After attending an assembly focused on democracy and the value of student leadership, students were invited to apply for a leadership role. Submitting thoughtful applications and attending official interviews, students demonstrated outstanding maturity and professionalism, therefore, selecting successful
candidates was not easy.
After careful consideration, though, Harry and Eliza were appointed as the Lead Senior Students. They will be supported by Ewan, Emily, Jackson, Wiola and Edward, who were named Senior Student Leaders.
Working with year group representatives – who were elected by their peers after presenting compelling manifestos – the Student Leadership Board will promote student voice, embody the school’s values and foster a collaborative partnership that will bring about further positive change.
Riverside Primary School
Soaring to new heights
Year 6 pupils at Riverside Primary School had an unforgettable time on their week-long residential trip to The Pioneers Activity Centre in Shropshire.
An annual event enjoyed by Year 6s, the experience was designed to positively challenge pupils, encouraging them to develop resilience and strengthen their teamwork skills, all while making lasting memories with their classmates.
Throughout their stay, the children enjoyed a wide variety of exhilarating activities; they scaled vast climbing walls, zoomed down zip-wires and soared across the high-ropes course.
They also had the opportunity to explore the forests and surrounding countryside while, in the evenings, they sang songs around campfires, showcased their dance moves in disco celebrations and settled down to enjoy a cosy film night.
Sir Jonathan North Girls’
College
Spectacular sporting events
It’s been a term full of fantastic sporting events at Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College, with the school once again showcasing its commitment to promoting physical activity.
In October, the school hosted the first Lionheart Sports Performance and Careers Day, bringing together 140 students from across the nine secondary schools.
Participants enjoyed trying out a variety of sports – including rugby, boxing and cricket – and listened to a careers talk from Dan Hemingway,
a former professional rugby player and the Head of Community Sport at Leicester Tigers.
The sporting excitement continued later in the term, with the school’s Student Sporting Ambassadors supporting three further festivalsincluding the sport of Boccia - all of which welcomed visiting schools.
A significant part of pupil development, this traditional Year 6 trip, allowed children to gain independence and improve their social skills; traits that will support them as they prepare for transition to secondary school.
Demonstrating excellent organisational skills and commendable leadership, the students – who are part of the school’s Leadership Academyensured a fantastic experience for all attendees, further strengthening the school’s strong ties with local primary and secondary schools.
Empowering every learner: Alternative provision in action
The Pioneers’ Centre
Acentre for young people at risk of exclusion from school, Key Stage 4 students benefit from an adapted curriculum delivered in smaller class settings.
The Meadows
Delivering a therapeutic educational experience to complement academic study, The Meadows supports small groups of students to thrive
The Green Room
Promoting a therapeutic curriculum, students at The Green Room have embraced hands-on learning this term,
The Bridge
Supporting students to carry out temporary school suspensions in a ‘host’ school where they can continue their education, this
This term, students explored apprenticeship opportunities with representatives from Ibstock Brick, gaining valuable insights into career pathways and picking
through a non-pressurised, vocational programme.
This term, students have engaged with a variety of activities,
up application tips, which enabled them to feel more confident about their future career options.
including hair and beauty, DIY, woodwork, gardening and animal welfare, all of which provided them with practical life skills that will help them to succeed in later life.
engaging in practical initiatives that expanded their skillset. Alongside lessons in hair and beauty and arts
and crafts, students completed creative projects such as making candles and wooden Christmas trees.
term The Bridge offered careers advice sessions. Additionally, students collaborated with Leicester City in the Community
as part of their Inspires Project, further enhancing their personal and social development.
Through these provisions, we remain committed to supporting every learner, supporting them to gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to thrive.
TRUSTIMPROVEMENTS
We’re busy investing and improving…
To ensure our young people have access to the best resources possible, our dedicated IT and Estates teams are continually identifying opportunities to enhance the learning environments across our schools.
Here is a list of projects completed during the Autumn Term:
IT and Technology
To better share learning resources with students in lessons, 16 audio-visual screens were installed at Beauchamp College.
The Mac Suite at Martin High School was extended, with learners now able to enjoy using brand-new keyboards, which have strengthened the delivery of the music curriculum.
Major IT works – including internet connectivity – were installed at Greenstone Primary, complementing the opening our brand-new school.
Buildings
Greenstone Primary – our new establishment in Coalville, with a forest-school ethos – was officially handed over to Lionheart this term. The school will welcome its first collection of pupils in 2025 and has been expertly designed to provide a nurturing, outdoor-inspired education.
Over the October half-term break, a new 3G sports pitch was laid at The Newbridge School. The fantastic facility will not only enhance the delivery of PE lessons in school but will also be widely used by members of the local community.
Structural refurbishment has been completed on a bungalow at Highcliffe Primary School. Over the next term, internal refurbishment and redecoration will take place before the building is handed over to the school to supplement the existing curriculum offering.
If you’d like to contact us, offer any feedback about this newsletter, or tell us what you’d like to see in future issues, please email info@lionhearttrust.org.uk
