On Thursday 5th June, 32 Year 9 students from St Edmund’s Catholic Academy embarked on an exciting journey to Laches Wood Outdoor Education Centre to begin their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award training and practice expedition.

Despite the wet and windy conditions, our students arrived fully prepared and eager to embrace the challenges ahead. The day started indoors with a classroom session focused on expedition planning. Students developed essential navigation skills, including interpreting grid references, estimating travel times, and understanding map features such as contour lines and terrain.

In the afternoon, the learning moved outdoors with hands-on training. Students practiced pitching tents, managing basic first aid, efficiently packing their rucksacks, and cooking a hot meal using a trangia stove. As night fell, they camped out to put their newly acquired skills into practice.

The following morning, the group packed up and set off on a 12km expedition, navigating solely by map and compass. Along the route, they also learned about the Countryside Code, gaining an appreciation for protecting the environment, local wildlife, and respecting rural communities.

Throughout the two days, our students displayed outstanding teamwork, resilience, and behaviour, proudly representing St Edmund’s and embodying the core values of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

We extend our sincere thanks to our teachers Mrs Beech and Mrs Hobday for their commitment and support in making this experience possible. We are incredibly proud of all our Year 9 students and look forward to celebrating their completion of the Bronze Award later this year.

This week, Year 7 students at St Edmund’s have been actively participating in the Bikeability program, a nationally recognised initiative aimed at teaching young riders essential cycling skills and road safety. Over several days, pupils have gained practical experience and confidence in navigating roads safely and responsibly.

The program combines classroom instruction with hands-on cycling sessions, where students learn how to control their bikes, understand traffic signs, and practice safe manoeuvres such as signalling and positioning on the road. Local cycling instructors and school staff have been on hand to guide the students through these important lessons.

Bikeability not only promotes physical activity but also empowers children with the knowledge they need to stay safe while cycling independently. The initiative is part of the school’s ongoing commitment to student well-being and active travel.

Students have expressed enthusiasm about the program, with many appreciating the chance to improve their cycling skills and understand the rules of the road better.

On Monday 9th June, 45 Year 10 and Y12 Art, 3D Design and Drama students attended a visit along with Mrs Geal, Mr Parker, Mr Corns and Mrs Sehera,  to the Warner Bros Harry Potter Studios Tour in Watford.

Students had the opportunity to view the inspirational ideas behind the sets, costumes, props and special effects involved in the Harry Potter movies, and even had the chance to ride on a broomstick (courtesy of green screen technology!).

All students involved were an absolute credit to the Academy and fully immersed themselves in the tour, taking plenty of photos and drawings to use back within their lessons in order to support their coursework development. A wonderful day was had by all.

St Edmund’s is very proud to be in the top 10% of all FFT secondary schools again this term.

Well done to our students, parents and carers, the Attendance Team and Pastoral Team.

Working together improves the education of our learners.

Over the May half-term, a group of sixth form students took part in a moving and memorable pilgrimage to Lourdes, France. This spiritual journey gave the students a unique opportunity to not only serve others but also to take time for personal reflection, prayer, and peace.

Lourdes, known for its healing waters and spiritual significance, offered the perfect setting for the students to grow both personally and spiritually. Throughout the trip, they supported and accompanied pilgrims in need, showing compassion and dedication in every moment. The students also attended Mass regularly, deepening their faith and connection with the wider Catholic community.

The pilgrimage was a time of kindness, service, and inner calm—an experience that will no doubt stay with the students for years to come.

Congratulations to all the students involved for their commitment and maturity. A heartfelt thank you goes to Rev McKearney, Mrs Harris, and Mrs Letheren, whose guidance and support made this incredible opportunity possible.