Aston Manor Academy Newsletter Autumn 2024 by Wave Ed

ASTON MANOR ACADEMY

PART OF EQUITAS ACADEMIES TRUST 2024

CHRISTMAS NEWS

Welcome to the Aston Manor Academy Christmas newsletter. This term has felt exceptionally busy due to the large number of trips, visits and experiences that students have been engaged with. As I write this some Year 7 pupils have just returned from Aston University science labs, where they have been learning about cells and microscopes and more Year 7’s are working with Birmingham Open Media for developing their creative digital media skills. I had the pleasure of visiting Aston Church last week for their annual Christmas Carol concert, where our school choir performed along with other primary and secondary schools in the local area. The afternoon was filled with Christmas songs and readings, a wonderful atmosphere created by all of the young people involved. The choir this week will be visiting

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

On Monday 11 November 2024, Aston Manor Academy honoured Remembrance Sunday with a poignant tribute as *The Last Post* was played across the school grounds. James Routledge performed the solemn bugle call and his notes resonated through the classrooms, bringing a moment of reflection to students and staff alike. Pupils gathered in their classrooms and listened in respectful silence; honouring those who served and sacrificed in past conflicts.

YR 9 Sustainability Workshop

As part of their ongoing environmental education our Year 9 students participated in a dynamic sustainability workshop organised by the science department. The session, made possible through the support of Wimbledon and delivered by Everfi, focused on practical ways students can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Following the workshop students completed an online module and

INSPIRING

Heartlands Hospital, and I am sure they will bring a smile to all those who hear them! I would like to take the opportunity to thank two members of staff who are leaving us this term. Mr Nazeeb has worked within the science department for the last eight years, and Ms Truscott, also from the science department has been with us for a year. Both members of staff have worked exceptionally hard to support our students and will be moving on to promotions at other schools, we wish them the best of luck.

As we reach the end of the year, I would like to thank you for your continued support of the school and wish you all a peaceful and joyous holiday.

Jill Sweeney

Following the tradition of Remembrance, the school community observed a one minute silence, reflecting on the meaning of the day and paying their respects.

A heartfelt thank you goes to James for his moving performance which helped to make this observance a meaningful experience for everyone at Aston Manor Academy.

earned a certificate which they can proudly add to their CV. They also had the chance to ask Maggie Weiss about her role at Wimbledon, gaining valuable insights into career opportunities in sustainability and the professional world.

This engaging experience provided students with both the knowledge and inspiration to make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond.

CURRICULUM ENRICHMENT DAY

Celebrating diversity, black history and community

Last month, Titan Partnership had the privilege of visiting Aston Manor Academy for their first Curriculum Enrichment Day of the academic year, which focused on ‘diversity, Black History, and community’. The energy and enthusiasm from students and staff was contagious as they engaged in a wide range of fun, educational and thought-provoking activities that linked these important topics to their learning. The day had been carefully prepared with students attending assemblies in the days leading up to it to get them excited and ready for a deeper exploration of the key themes.

Humanities and Modern Foreign Languages

The Humanities and MFL departments provided an enriching exploration of ‘Black History’, starting with a quiz that tested students’ knowledge of significant historical figures and their impactful careers. This led to powerful discussions on essential topics like racism, democratic rights, equality, protest and the perception of women throughout history. Students also watched the film Harriet, a moving depiction of Harriet Tubman’s courageous efforts in the fight for freedom, sparking reflection on perseverance and bravery in the face of oppression.

English and Art

English and Art took a creative approach to exploring the contributions of different cultures to literature, especially British culture. Students analysed the language used in literary works and even used artificial intelligence to write their own poems, blending tradition with innovation. They also learned about the Gee’s Bend quilters who were groups of African American women who created beautiful quilts from old clothes, often their husbands’ garments. Students then had the chance to create their own quilt designs, demonstrating how collective effort can produce something truly unique and meaningful.

Science

In science, the contributions of Black women to the field were highlighted, with students creating detailed fact files on six trailblazing

black female scientists. This activity not only provided a look into the often-overlooked achievements of these women but also encouraged students to consider their own futures in scientific fields. By recognising these role models, students were inspired to think about what scientific careers they might want to pursue, opening their eyes to the many possibilities available to them.

Physical Education, Design and Technology, and Music PE, design & technology, and music gave students the opportunity to explore black role models; in PE, the students referenced key sporting events like Birmingham’s Commonwealth Games. Working in groups, students were given the task of creating warm up routines inspired by prominent black athletes from different sports disciplines, blending physical fitness with creativity. They also enjoyed a hands-on cooking experience, preparing a variety of traditional foods, and even participated in cultural African drumming sessions, learning about the rhythms and sounds of African heritage.

Maths and IT

The maths and IT departments delivered an interactive session, where students took part in a relay race that challenged them to solve math problems related to prominent Black figures. They also learned about statistical data linked to black history, reinforcing how numbers can tell the stories of social progress. Additionally, students watched the inspiring film Hidden Figures, which tells the story of the brilliant black women who played crucial roles in NASA’s early space missions—yet another powerful reminder of how history is shaped by diverse voices.

A Day of Learning, Reflection and Celebration

Aston Manor Academy’s Curriculum Enrichment Day was a truly inspiring event that not only celebrated Black history and diversity but also showed how these themes can be seamlessly integrated across the curriculum. From science and literature to sports and the arts, students were given the chance to reflect on the significant contributions of Black individuals throughout history while also thinking critically about their own roles in creating a more inclusive and equitable future.

This day was a testament to the power of education to not only teach facts and figures but to inspire understanding, empathy, and action.

Welcome New Staff

Our New TAs in the Inclusion Team!

We are delighted to welcome two new Teaching Assistants, Ms. Anwar and Mr. Grimshaw, to the ‘Inclusion Team’ at Aston Manor Academy. They have already been hard at work, joining lessons and offering fantastic support to our students during break and lunch times on the astro turf. Their dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive environment is already making a difference and we’re thrilled to have them as part of our school community!

Competition

AMA SEND department took part in the Christmas Tree Decorating Competition with Titan in partnership with Zen Educate. Students were asked to be creative and decorate the tree in their own unique way. Those who took part were:

• 8M pupils

• 9M pupils

• Pupils who come into D4a during lunch and break

• Crochet Club in the Library

• Knitting and crochet staff, especially Ms Cliftonwhomade the elf at the top.

• Our wonderful teaching assistants

This truly is an ‘Inclusive Tree’ that reflects the diversity of our school community, perfect for celebrating the season in a way that respects everyone, including those who don’t observe Christmas.

The Last Post at Aston Manor Academy

Competition Winners!

Fibonacci day was on 23rd November, to acknowledge the day pupils were given the opportunity to research the golden rectangle and design one accurately. There were lots of fabulous entries, but the winners are….

On the 18th of October, we had the pleasure of having a talk delivered by Dr Nira Chamberlain, a renowned black mathematician. He came into talk about the ‘Black Heroes of Mathematics’ as part of ‘Black History Month’. He was inspirational and the Year 10s’ were very enthused by all he had to say. The speech he delivered delved into the black mathematicians who broke boundaries to showcase their work against their peers. The feedback was positive from the students saying ‘I didn’t know that there were that many black mathematicians around!’

If you would like to read more about Dr Nira Chamberlain, go to Professor Nira Chamberlain OBE: STEM Talks for UK Schools.

MUSIC

DJ Workshops with Toni Grehan

A group of our Year 8 students took part in wonderful DJ workshops with Toni Grehan. These workshops were a chance for our students to find out how DJ’s produce seamless performances. They had fun exploring the different technologies and producing their own DJ set for performance.

Spotlight Concerts

After a long time without access to a performance space we have introduced the Spotlight Concert series. These informal concerts allow our musicians to showcase pieces they have been learning and try them out in front of a small and supportive audience. They have proved popular and we are looking forward to some more next term.

Aston Parish

Church Community Carol Service & Broadway Academy Concert

As part of our festive music making we also performed at Aston Parish Church for their annual community carol service and at Broadway Academy for their Christmas Concert.

Ibrahim (Y7) Shamaila (Y7) Well done to the winners and everyone else who entered. All pupils have received a 4Be for participation!

1st 2nd

Christmas Concert

The Christmas Concert this year was attended by Year 3 from Chilwell Croft Academy and students from Aston Manor. It was wonderful to have this event back on the school calendar and to showcase the incredible talent that our students have.

Heartlands Hospital

The choir sang at Heartlands Hospital as part of their Christmas Festive

Slapping Skins

African Drumming Workshop

As part of our Black History Month

Carding Mill Valley

Alwayse Ball Transfer Unit Trip

14 Year 9 students, who study Design and Technology, were taken to a local engineering/manufacturing company, where they got to experience a day in the life of manufacturing ball units used in places like airports and courier transfer. They students participated in Q&A’s and in addition, had the opportunity to make a small ball joint unit themselves. They thoroughly enjoyed the trip and really felt appreciated. The students were exemplary to Aston Manor Academy and the CEO was amazed by their behaviour and attitude.

PE Rewards Trip Ackers Adventure: A splashing success!

On Tuesday 8th October, nine students across Year 8 and 9 enjoyed an exciting rewards trip to Ackers Adventure, where they tried kayaking and canoeing for the very first time. Guided by skilled instructors, they learned paddling, steering and balancing techniques, quickly gaining confidence despite initial nerves. Laughter and cheers filled the air as the students raced across the water, mastering new skills and forming friendships with peers from another year group.

Instructors praised the students’ enthusiasm and willingness to step out of their comfort zones, noting how well they embraced the challenge. The trip was a well deserved reward for their achievement and excellence in PE, offering not just fun but also opportunities to build confidence, resilience and teamwork. The students returned to school with fantastic memories and a sense of pride, eager to explore more adventures in the future.

Celebrations. The choir enjoyed entertaining the staff, patients and visitors to the hospital.

On 7th October 2024 the Year 11 GCSE geography students attended an excursion to Carding Mill Valley in Shropshire. This trip is an integral component of their Year 11 GCSE Geography curriculum and provided the students with an invaluable opportunity to engage directly with the subject matter in a practical setting. Not only did students get to actively participate in a variety of fieldwork techniques designed to enhance their understanding of river processes, but the weather was on our side and the sun shone gloriously for us!

On Thursday 14th November, twenty nine Year 11 students participated in a thrilling high ropes practical assessment at Go Ape Cannock Chase as part of their OCR Sport Studies course. The activity provided an exciting and hands-on opportunity for students to demonstrate key skills such as teamwork, communication and problem solving, while navigating challenging obstacles high above the ground. The students tackled a variety of elements, from zip lines to rope bridges and swinging platforms, showcasing determination and resilience throughout. Many faced their fear of heights with courage, and the support from peers

A group of our Y10 HAP students recently embarked on an inspiring trip to the Birmingham Rep to experience a mesmerising performance of A Christmas Carol, one of their key GCSE English texts. The production dazzled with breathtaking special effects, vividly capturing the eerie and emotional essence of Dickens’ classic tale. We were thrilled to also see Mr. John’s daughter deliver a stellar performance on the big stage, a proud moment! This enriching opportunity not only brought the text to life but

STEM Event

Enrichment, we invited Aaron Meli from Slapping Skins back to school to provide us with a day of drumming workshops. These were fantastic and provided a fun and practical way to engage with this topic.

The trip was a fantastic learning opportunity, beneficial for not only acadechievement, but also contributing significantly to their personal development. The collaboration among students during fieldwork fostered teamwork and encouraged a deeper engagement with the material, which is crucial for their GCSE examination in the Summer. Well done Year 11!

created a positive and encouraging atmosphere.

Staff at Go Ape praised the group for their focus and effort, noting how well the activity aligned with course objectives. The experience not only enhanced their practical skills but also left students with a strong sense of achievement and unforgettable memories that will live with them for a lifetime!

also deepened students’ understanding in a truly memorable way. Having such a dedicated and inspiring theatre in our community allows the students to build on their cultural capital and the students left eager to re-visit The Rep soon! Well done and thank you to all who made this trip possible, we are eager to take the Y11s this week too!

Wednesday 27th November, our Year 8 girls were invited to attend The STEAM house in Birmingham. Throughout the afternoon the students were introduced to exciting career possibilities. They experienced, inspiring talks by global tech companies and explored cutting edge innovations across Cyber Security, Robotics, AI OSINT, and data analytics. Through hands on activities the girls engaged in problem solving and engaging discussions. The event aimed to open curious minds to technology and inspire a new generation of female innovators.

Cannock Chase Year 11 Students soar to new heights at

Basketball Academy

SPORT

The Basketball Academy have trained hard over the past year and throughout their summer holidays in preparation for the 2024/25 season. Both teams have had somewhat mixed starts to their respective league campaigns; winning and losing games. The coaching staff are very happy with the work that both teams have put in up to this point and are hopeful that both teams can kick on in the latter parts of the season and achieve the success that their hard work deserves.

U16 Basketball Academy

The U16 academy have been training hard since returning to school in September both as a U16 group on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons as well as on a Thursday evening with the main Academy. A number of the younger students have also been called up to represent the Basketball Academy in fixtures against other institutes. We are very excited about the potential of some of our younger members and will continue to encourage them to attend practice and work hard to ensure that this potential is fulfilled.

Year 7 and 8 Junior NBA Competition

The winning continues with our Junior NBA teams. Year 7 played there first two games against Holyhead where they came out with a win. Unfortunately, they lost to Holly Lodge however they were playing against a team of national league players so did amazingly to keep their opponents within distant missing out by only 5 baskets. Year 8 showed great efforts against Holyhead and Woodgreen leaving

Football Academy

This year has seen Aston Manor Academy enter 2 boys and 2 girls teams into the Community & Education Football Alliance Leagues. It has been a season of highs and lows so far but in moments their dedication and talent has shone through and produced some outstanding performances.

The boys 1st team have overcome some early challenges to shine recently with the highlight of the season so far being an outstanding 4-2 win over a tough team in local rivals West Brom. Our 2nd team has had a challenging start to the year but remain dedicated to improving and coaches Marco and Astel are pleased with their progress. Their improvement has seen numerous first year players and 2nd team players earn call ups to the 1st Team. Injuries have struck our Girls Football Academy heavily through the first part of the season. They have shown great togetherness to stay competitive. Both teams have bounced back from tough losses and shown great improvement in recent performances away to West

Ackers

Adventure Rewards

15 Year 7-10 students were awarded with an exciting day out due to their amazing sporting achievements throughout the last academic year and outstanding leadership skills. Students visited Ackers Adventure where they experienced Skiing and Rock Climbing and for the majority this was their first time. Smiles on faces all round and the day was finished off with a student favourite… Nando’s. Well done all!

A KS3 and KS4 Girls King Edwards School Partnership League

A brilliant start to the Basketball season for our KS3 and KS4 teams. KS3 were triumphant against Broadway and Windsor Olympus and missed out by only one Basketball against Holte. KS4 remain undefeated after consecutive wins against Holte, Broadway and King Edwards Handsworth.

Leadership Opportunities

As always, we want our students to be able to gain and develop skills and qualities through exciting new experiences and leadership opportunities and this year is no different!

Brom and Bristol Rovers. Coaches Matt and Alberto are confident with the resilience the girls have shown and players returning from injury that both teams are set for a strong remainder of the season.

Our football students did an amazing job running our local Year 6 Primary Tournament and Area ESFA Year 7 Tournament with the help of PE staff this term. Students assumed the role of team managers, coaches, officials and scorekeepers helping run 3 smooth tournaments from start to finish. They did an amazing job and were a credit to themselves and the school! We were extremely proud to hear Year 7s from other schools wishing they too would be a part of Aston Manor AVFC Academy one day.

Our football students did an amazing job running our local Year 6 Primary Tournament and Area ESFA Year 7 Tournament with the help of PE staff this term. Students assumed the role of team managers, coaches, officials, scorekeepers and helped run 3 smooth tournaments from start to finish. They did an amazing job and were a credit to themselves and the school.

Primary Schools Shine in Autumn Football Tournament!

This Autumn, our first primary school football tournament of the academic year was a roaring success!

Young players from Chilwell Croft Academy and Prince Albert Primary school brought their A game, showcasing teamwork, passion, and resilience in every match.

The event was packed with energy, smiles, and thrilling moments as

Year 9 BTEC sport participated in a leadership event

Girls football tournament, one team getting knocked out in the qualifying stages and the other team coming 2nd overall out of nine different schools.

Year 9 & 10 OCR groups led three primary school sporting events, and they received amazing feedback from staff and pupils.

Y8 & 9 students focused on their Active Mind and how to support themselves and others know how to tackle and overcome different mental and emotional barriers.

10 Y9/10 & 11 students developed their leadership which equipped them with the skills to support SEND event. They also understood how through sports many doors can open for you regarding many different careers. All students received recognition through achieving the Bronze Leadership Badge and Inclusive Leadership Badge.

Congratulations to the winners

YEAR 5 & 6: 1st Place: Chilwell Red

2nd Place: Prince Albert Purple

3rd Place: Prince Albert Yellow

4th Place: Chilwell Blue

YEAR 7:

1st Place: Plantsbrook

2nd Place: Aston Manor Academy

students bonded through sport and friendly competition. We’re already counting down to the Spring tournament, where even more excitement awaits!

A huge thank you to all the players and Sixth Formers to referred the matches - what a fantastic way to kick off the year!

Year 9 BTEC sport participated in a leadership event, leading four different primary schools in different gross skills including throwing, catching, passing, shooting, a lot of hand eye coordination.

Aston Villa festival for girls took thirteen girls to Brookvale to participate in different football activities to help them adapt their knowledge within football, this was led by Aston villa coaches.

Year 9

Year 9 students get a taste of the hospitality industry at Campanile Hotel

Year 11

During the Autumn term our pupils have been busy engaging with employers, visiting workplaces listening to speakers and enjoying hands on experience of the world of work.

Year 9 Hospitality and Catering and ASDAN students have been on an exciting journey, participating in three immersive trips to the Campanile Hotel in Aston. These hands on experiences have given them a unique insight into the hospitality and catering industry; providing invaluable opportunities to explore potential careers.

During their visits, students rotated through key roles in the hotel, including working at reception, assisting in the kitchen and supporting housekeeping. They gained a real feel for the fast paced and customer focused environment of the hospitality sector, while also learning the importance of teamwork and professionalism.

For many, this experience has been life changing. Students not only developed practical skills but also discovered the satisfaction of pleasing customers and contributing to the local community. This hands on approach has proven to be the best way for students to learn, offering them a first hand understanding of the industry that classroom learning alone could never replicate.

The school extends its heartfelt thanks to the Campanile Hotel for providing this fantastic opportunity. Their generosity and support have left a lasting impact on our students, opening doors to future aspirations and careers. Keep an eye on the Year 9 students, they might just be the future stars of the hospitality world!

SEND Students

Success at Bowling Event for SEND Students: Celebrating Team Achievements and Individual Excellence

Our students participated in a fantastic bowling event for children with special educational needs (SEND), held at Acocks Green. The competition brought together teams from 10 schools, creating a vibrant and supportive atmosphere as the students showcased their skills and sportsmanship. Our school was represented by two outstanding teams, and we are proud to report that both did exceptionally well. One team secured a fantastic 3rd place finish, while the other team came in 4th. This is an incredible achievement, considering the number of schools involved and the level

Leadership Event

AMA Students Shine at Inclusion Leadership Event

Unifrog

Since September all of our pupils have access to our brilliant new career’s platform

of competition. Both teams demonstrated teamwork, determination, and a strong spirit of sportsmanship throughout the day.

Year 11 pupils have been researching their career goals as they prepare for their GCSE examinations. This has included considering options for continuing on to Sixth form, College applications and working towards applying for apprenticeships. We have welcomed speakers from BMET, Access Creative College, UCB and BMW apprenticeships

Year 12 pupils have been working on their employability and CV writing skills. Year 13 pupils who are considering degree apprenticeships have been working with our apprenticeship expert in application workshops.

Our Year 10 HAP pupils had the opportunity to meet healthcare professionals from many areas of the NHS to consider different career roles in healthcare and to experience some practical sessions including clinical skills: taking patients’ blood pressure, managing asthma and post wound care for patients.

But the excitement didn’t stop there. Two of our students were also recognized for their individual excellence. One student won the Hot Shot Award, while the second student took home the Big Score Award. These accolades are a testament to their hard work, focus, and skill in the game. It was an honour to see them shine and receive such welldeserved recognition.

This event was not just about the competition; it was also a celebration of how much our SEND students have grown and how they continue to thrive in an inclusive environment. The opportunity to engage in such a positive and supportive event

adapting learning strategies for diverse needs. Held at Alexander Stadium, the event brought together students from various schools to explore ways to create more inclusive learning environments and develop leadership skills. We are proud to share that our students not only did exceptionally well, but they also represented AMA with great enthusiasm and dedication. Throughout the event, students were actively engaged, contributing valuable insights and showing a deep understanding of how to adapt learning strategies for their peers with varying needs. The students participated in a range of workshops and activities designed to encourage innovative thinking around inclusive education. They learned how to use different tools and techniques to support learning for all students, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their challenges, can thrive in the classroom. Their ability to grasp these strategies and think critically about how they can be applied to real life

Unifrog - This is an online platform which contains a wealth of information, activities and resource. Pupils use this to help them navigate their future careers paths based on their interests. All our pupils throughout school have access to this platform & it is a key feature of our pastoral activity schedule.

Pupils will be using this platform throughout their journey at Aston Manor Academy to help support them with exploring their interests, and what career paths they can take to reach their goals.

educational settings was truly impressive.

Our students enjoyed the experience immensely, making the most of every opportunity to collaborate with others, share ideas and develop new skills. Their positive attitudes and teamwork were on full display, reflecting their commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment at AMA and beyond.

Not only did they gain valuable knowledge from the event, but they also represented our school with pride. Their behaviour, professionalism and dedication were noticed by event organisers and we couldn’t be more proud of the way they embodied the values of inclusion, leadership and mutual respect.

Your passion, engagement, and leadership truly made a difference and we are excited to see how you will continue to use these skills to inspire others and enhance the learning experience at AMA.

Exam Certificates

Exam certificates from the Summer 2024 series will be available to collect from Reception from the start of

DESIGNATED SAFEGUARDING LEADS IN SCHOOL

If you need help or are worried about something or someone and need to talk to someone – we are ALL here to listen. You can speak to ANY member of staff in school about ANY concern, but they may need to share that information with one of these members of staff