Annual Charity Walk & Litter Pick

25th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

St Edmund’s Catholic Academy’s annual charity walk and litter pick event took place on Friday 21st July. It was heartwarming to see the school and the community coming together to raise funds for deserving charities, chosen by our students, and promote environmental stewardship.  This year parents and carers were also invited to join in the fun.

The chosen charities for the event, are as follows:

1. Local Charity: Let Us Play
2. National Charity: Promise Dreams
3. International Charity: Action Against Hunger

By supporting these charities, the school is not only making a positive impact on the local community but also contributing to national and international causes. It’s great to see parents, carers, and even the local Police being involved, which makes the event even more special and inclusive.

Such events play a crucial role in promoting awareness about social and environmental issues while instilling values of compassion and empathy in the students and the community at large

“If the simple fact of being human moves people to care for the environment of which they are a part, Christians in their turn realise that their responsibility within creation, and their duty towards nature and the Creator, are an essential part of their faith.” Pope Francis, Laudato Si

 

Photo: Sahil Gill

 

Photo: Ashley Nightingale and Sophy Handley

 

Photo: Millie Carter, Amelia Ruscoe, Rowan Ridley, Mathea Soller and Isobel Cartwright

 

Photo: Mr White, Mrs Hicks, Mrs Henry, Mrs Watts-Robinson, Mrs Nwenwu, Mr Reynolds, Miss Harris, Miss Baker, Miss Rowland and Mr Endean

 

Photo: PCSO Steven Munn and Reverend Michael McKearney

Saint James The Apostle Feast Day

25th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint James the Apostle, also known as James the Greater, holds a significant place in the Christian tradition. He was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus to be part of his inner circle. Throughout his life, Saint James displayed great zeal and dedication in spreading the teachings of Christ. He witnessed important events such as the Transfiguration and the Agony in the Garden. James was the first apostle to be martyred for his faith, being beheaded by the order of King Herod Agrippa I. His martyrdom occurred around 44 CE, making him an early Christian martyr. He is often depicted with a pilgrim’s staff and a scallop shell, symbolising his role as the patron saint of pilgrims. Saint James remains a revered figure, inspiring believers to remain steadfast in their faith and mission, even in the face of adversity.

 

If any of you lack wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. – James 1:5-6

 

Saint James – Pray for us

Year 7 Drama Festival

24th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

On Tuesday 18th July, our Year 7 students participated in the Year 7 Drama Festival.
Year 7 classes have been working hard, writing play scripts and rehearsing, culminating in a class vote where each group put forward a performance for the festival. All performances were original pieces, written, designed, and performed by our students.

Year 7 was treated to eight very different performances that had us laughing, crying, and
considering our own morals. All finalists have received a copy of Taran Matharu’s novel The Novice from The Summoner series. Well done to the winning group from 7XB who have won tickets to the National Theatre’s performance of The Ocean at the End of the Lane at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre in September.

One Year 7 student commented ‘I enjoyed the Drama Festival because it was fun to watch and was amazing to prepare; the performances were fabulous!’ One of our performers said ‘We really enjoyed getting to perform – it was nice when everyone said they enjoyed our play.’

Year 8 Performance Showcase

24th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

On Friday 14 th July, our Year 8 students participated in St Edmund’s very first Performance
Showcase.

Year 8 enjoyed watching performances from students who had taken an original text and transformed it into a very unique piece of theatre. We were treated to an array of wonderful pieces,  including two moving adaptations of Wilfred Owen’s Dulce Et Decorum Est and a very clever performance based on a Much Ado About Nothing monologue. However, Year 8 voted for an extremely engaging performance from 8XR as the winning entry.

All finalists have received a copy of Taran Matharu’s novel The Novice from The Summoner series.

Our winning performers will also enjoy free tickets to our September visit to Wolverhampton Grand  Theatre to watch the National Theatre’s performance of The Ocean at the End of the Lane.

Year 9 Mock Trial Competition

24th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

Our Year 9 Magistrates’ Mock Trial team has been working hard all year, preparing their case for the trial R v Rowe. On Tuesday 18 th July, we welcomed in Dr. Danny Smith, Solicitor-Advocate for PCB Solicitors, to advise our students and judge the competition.

Students took on all the roles of a Magistrates’ Court, including lawyers and witnesses. After an extensive discussion, the Magistrates decided that the defendant was innocent and delivered a verdict of ‘Not Guilty’. Dr. Smith then spoke to our students about the strengths in their performance and advised them on how to prepare for a career in Law.

It was a truly wonderful experience for our students and Dr Smith was very impressed by their
diligence in preparing for the case. Well done to all involved!

 

Photo: Oghogho, Natalie K, Natalia A, Sophie H, Arsen, Roshan, Emmanuella, Isha, Evie B, Felicity, Lyra, Omoyeme, and two other year 9 students.

 

 

 

Mayor Opens New Sixth Form Centre

19th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

Dr Michael Hardacre, Mayor of Wolverhampton, visited St Edmund’s today to officially open our new university-style sixth form centre.

Principal Mrs Hazeldine said, “It was such an honour to have the Mayor with us today. Our sixth form has grown so much over the past 5 years and this new centre is a testament to the immense work of Mrs Toor and the sixth form teaching and pastoral teams. The centre has 3 independent study spaces, kitchen facilities and well-being room. Fully staffed and fully equipped, the centre is an exciting investment in post-16 education within the Academy.”

 

Photo – left to right:

Mrs Cooper (Teacher of Science and daughter of Dr Michael Hardacre (Mayor of Wolverhampton), Mrs Letheren (Vice Principal), Mrs Toor (Head of Sixth Form), Mrs Hazeldine (Principal), Dr Michael Hardacre(Mayor of Wolverhampton), Gabio Pothen (Lead Prefect) and Christina Cudjoe (Senior Lead Prefect).

 

WOLVERHAMPTON COPYRIGHT MNA MEDIA TIM THURSFIELD 19/07/23
Opening of the newly refurbished sixth form area at St Edmunds Catholic Academy, Wolverhampton.
Mayor Mike Hardace opened the centre.

 

WOLVERHAMPTON COPYRIGHT MNA MEDIA TIM THURSFIELD 19/07/23
Opening of the newly refurbished sixth form area at St Edmunds Catholic Academy, Wolverhampton.
Mayor Mike Hardace opened the centre.

UCAS Convention

17th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

Year 12 students had such a valuable experience at the UCAS Discovery Exhibition in Birmingham on Monday, 26th June. Events like these provide an excellent platform for students to explore various educational and career opportunities after completing Sixth Form.

Meeting representatives from over 100 universities, colleges, and employers face-to-face can be highly beneficial, as it allows students to ask questions, gain insights, and make personal connections with institutions and potential employers. These interactions can help students make informed decisions about their future educational and career paths.

The live Q&A sessions and talks by experts were insightful, providing students with the latest information and advice about different career options. This kind of firsthand knowledge can be invaluable for students who are considering their options and trying to figure out the best pathway for their interests and ambitions.

Overall, events like the UCAS Discovery Exhibition can play a significant role in shaping students’ future decisions and encouraging them to explore a wide range of opportunities beyond Sixth Form.

 

Memorial of Saint Kenelm

17th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint Kenelm, also known as King Kenelm, was a young Anglo-Saxon king who lived in the 9th century. Despite his tender age, he displayed remarkable piety and wisdom. As a devout Christian, he ruled with justice and compassion, prioritizing the welfare of his people. Saint Kenelm’s unwavering faith and virtuous character stirred admiration among his subjects. Sadly, his reign was cut short when he was tragically martyred at the hands of his ambitious relatives. Despite his untimely death, Saint Kenelm’s legacy endured, inspiring generations to embrace the values of faith, humility, and dedication to God. He serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one’s commitment to Christ can shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Saint Kenelm – Pray for us
When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers – Proverbs 21:15

ECO Week Success

14th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

St Edmund’s Catholic Academy is committed to become a LiveSimply award community in response to Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si to protect the world entrusted to us by God. By embracing sustainability, the academy is taking an active role in creating a better future for the environment.

The ECO Week sustainability events for Year 7, 8, and 9 students that took place earlier this week demonstrate the dedication to raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices among its students. The various activities and competitions, such as the video-making competition, movie night, science club, and raffle, provide engaging opportunities for students to learn about environmental issues and solutions.

The decision to donate the profits made during ECO Week to environmental charities or to fund the school’s own sustainability initiatives is commendable. It not only supports important causes but also reinforces the school’s commitment to taking concrete action toward sustainability.

By fostering collaboration between students,staff and stakeholders, St Edmund’s is building a community that prioritises sustainable choices and decisions. This collective effort ensures that sustainability becomes an integral part of the academy’s agenda and empowers students to make a positive impact on the environment.

Overall, St Edmund’s Catholic Academy’s initiatives and activities during ECO Week reflect their dedication to environmental stewardship and their commitment to creating a sustainable future. By engaging students and promoting sustainability, the academy is instilling important values and fostering a sense of responsibility towards the planet.

 

 

Photo: Leah Esson and Alaha Bahadon (Science Club)

 

Photo: Ashpriya Basi and Kyle Luis (Lead Prefects)

Lower School Celebrations

13th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

It’s fantastic to hear about the celebration of efforts and achievements in the Lower School! The awards given to students in Years 7 and 8, such as tutor nominee, highest grades, most progress, highest ATL, most merits, and most Star Awards, showcase the diverse talents and hard work of the students.

Mr. Selvey, the Head of Lower School, expressed his pride in the many winners and emphasised that they should feel proud of themselves. This recognition event is a wonderful way to acknowledge the students’ dedication and accomplishments throughout the year.

Jaya Rani, specifically mentioned by Mrs. Jeer, the Head of Year 7, stands out as an exceptional student who embodies and upholds the school’s CARE values. Jaya’s positive influence on her peers and her overall conduct makes her a credit to her tutor group, year group, and the school as a whole. It’s evident that she is a role model for others.

Similarly, Oliver Green, recognised by Mr. Taylor, the Head of Year 8, is commended for his confidence, intelligence, and good manners. Oliver consistently demonstrates the CARE values and serves as a role model for his peers in the Lower School. His hard work and exemplary behaviour are recognised and appreciated.

Overall, this celebration event and the individual recognition of students like Jaya Rani and Oliver Green highlight the positive atmosphere and the focus on character development in the Lower School. It’s clear that the students are encouraged to embody the school’s values and are supported in their journey toward future success.

 

Photo: Jaya Rani and Mrs Jeer

 

 

Photo: Oliver Green and Mr. Taylor