It was a pleasure to welcome author Jeffrey Boakye to our Academy last Friday.
He officially opened our new library but his impact was felt way beyond that relatively simple task.
Jeffrey made a lasting impression on all he met.
Students found him engaging, informative and inspirational.
He also gave staff plenty to think about when he spoke in an afternoon session.
He picked up some of the themes he writes about in his book and was forthright in his views that we shy away from debating big topics such as misogyny and racism and donât understand what it is like for our students who are different.
Jeffrey (pictured) feels strongly teachers nationwide do not talk to children about difficult issues for fear of upsetting them. It is a failing across the education system, Jeffrey argues. I understand what he is saying.
He had students in the palm of his hands and I loved a couple of his quotes.
He told students âwhatever is holding you back can push you forwardâ and âweâve all got our own superpowers.â
How right he is on both.
We are always talking to students about believing in themselves and I hope the quotes provide inspiration when they are needed in the future.
He was very generous in his assessment of the Academy, picking up how proud our young people were to study here.
It was, he said, a âtruly powerful culture to cultivateâ and he had had âan energising and inspiring dayâ.
I repeat again, I am proud to be headteacher at this Academy.
In terms of the library, it has been terrific to see children using the quiet, chill out space for 15 minutes. It is clear a significant proportion have needed it.
Today (Wednesday) it is the first chance our Combined Cadet Force students have had to wear their full uniform to school. They have waited for it to arrive and then be measured up. I know they will wear it with pride.
A total of 70 students are in the programme. When Year 11s leave next term, there will be a recruitment window for Year 7s to join in September.
I would encourage them to give it some thought and look out for the opportunity being advertised.
A Year 7 Parentsâ Evening takes place tomorrow (Thursday) from 4pm.
Subject teachers will be available and it is important to attend, half way through the year, to check on your childâs progress and attainment. If you have not committed to coming already, please do so.
Next week, Year 9 will experience exams in Maths, English and Science in full exam conditions. It will give them great experience as to what is ahead. Children need to be arriving in a positive state of mind. I wish them well.
