As we approach the end of the first summer half term and look forward to the May half term break, I am delighted to reflect on the achievements and highlights of our school community. This term has been filled with remarkable accomplishments and opportunities for growth and I am proud to share these with you. Our core values of Commitment, Opportunities, Respect, and Excellence continue to guide our students in their academic and personal development.
Our school website and the latest news items in our bulletin provide a comprehensive overview of the fantastic work that has taken place across various subjects. This bulletin serves as a key reference point to showcase the dedication and achievements of our students throughout their learning journey.
I would like to draw your attention to several notable articles in the bulletin:
Congratulations to the Top Students of the Accelerated Reader Award: High-quality reading skills underpin much of our students' curriculum. We are proud to celebrate the achievements of our top readers who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and enthusiasm for reading.
National Junior Maths Challenge: Special congratulations to Wilbur and Ellie for their outstanding performance in the National Junior Maths Challenge. Their hard work and mathematical prowess are truly commendable.
Year 8 Basketball Team: Our Year 8 Basketball Team has shown incredible skill and teamwork, making it to the National JBA Finals next term. This is a significant achievement and we look forward to cheering them on as they compete at the national level.
Year 9 Engineering Experience Day with Smallpeice Trust: Our Year 9 students had the opportunity to participate in an enriching Engineering Experience Day, working with the Smallpeice Trust. This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into the world of engineering and innovation.
International School Leaders: Our International School Leaders have done a remarkable job leading Year 7 assemblies. Their leadership and commitment to fostering a global perspective within our school community was great to see.
Additionally, I would like to extend a special well-done to the students in Manor College, who are still on track to potentially replace Binswood College as our current leading College. Your hard work, spirit, and dedication continue to set a high standard for all.
As always, we strive to make our communications relevant to each year group. Please take the time to read your child’s end-of-term Year Group Bulletin, which contains tailored information and updates specific to their academic journey and progress.
As we head into the May half term break, I wish you all a restful and enjoyable time with your families. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education journey. Together, we can continue to nurture an environment where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to achieve excellence.
Our Year 9 and Year 10 athletes had a successful afternoon competing at the Town Championship Athletics event at Edmonscote Athletics track last week with a number of impressive performances; 11 of our students placed in the top 3 in their event.
Our Anti-Bullying Ambassadors are now over three months into their Diana Award Anti-Bullying Programme journey and are offering support to fellow North Leamington School students.
Our year 13 students celebrated their last formal day here at North Leamington School Sixth Form as they start their study leave.
With a fancy dress theme of Past and Future, we celebrated all the things our students have achieved during their time with us and all the many wonderful plans they ha...
Year 10 students have returned from a memorable three-day visit to tour the Battlefields of World War 1, with a focus of visiting sites that were related to the medicine in the historic environment section of Paper 1 of the History GCSE.
Year 7 continue to have a great year so far. They really are proving to be a lovely year group, who are full of potential as we prepare for them to transition to Year 8.
This term started with a fantastic weekend away to Whitemoor Lakes. This first residential opportunity for...
This half-term has again flown by in the blink of an eye! There have been enormous amounts of progress, efforts and achievements from our Year 8 students since we returned to school on 8 April. Over the course of the last few months of the school year, Year 8 will begin preparations for...
This half term has flown by! Year 9 students have really matured this half term, they are focused on the future and excited about starting their GCSEs in Year 10. They have continued to promote the school ethos through the tutor curriculum as well as during lessons. On average, their attitude t...
As we come to the end of the penultimate term, I would like to take the opportunity to reflect on the activities and events of the past few weeks within Year 10.
Year 10 students have conducted themselves in a fantastic manner during their first two GCSE RE examinations. I have been really impres...
It has been fantastic to see how Year 11 students have begun the GCSE summer exam season, where they have conducted themselves with great maturity during this demanding period. I continue to wish students all the very best with the remainder of their exams, and look forward to celebrating with them...
I hope this update finds you well and you are looking forward to the May half-term break…
Enrichment – including Duke of Edinburgh
Thanks to Mr Barrett and the staff team who, following on from the practice event in March, recently led an daring team of Sixth Form students on th...
Well Done to Manor who achieved the most Reward Point this term.
With one term to go the total number of points for each College for the year so far is:
Binswood - 76,462
Blackdown - 74, 267
Croft - 70,696
Manor - 78,981
Park - 73,329
Manor lead the way at the moment but the term coming up provides a number of opportunities for students to win even more Reward points alongside the curriculum with wider and extra curricular opportunities and key events such as sports day. Let's see if Binswood can retain the cup they won last year or if one of the other Colleges can.
Year 10 students have enjoyed the challenge of understanding the economy and international trade. For fast approaching summer exams, it is imperative that they continue to make detailed revision notes on each topic. The revision should be completed on a weekly basis as part of the homework
Students can access the workbook (Pearsons Edexcel GSCE) in class and on the school portal, it provides plenty of opportunities to complete questions and practice application. After school intervention is in place for students to access support in developing their analytical skills, students should take full advantage of this support.
Well done to Year 11s who have completed their first GCSE papers this month. Keep practising questions for the final paper – Building a Business - in June. Good luck for the final push, we are so proud of you all!
Year 12 Our Year 12 students are demonstrating their entrepreneurial skills by creating a business plan as part of theme 1.5 Enterprise. The challenge is to create a street food pop-up business. The students have enjoyed researching realistic costs in order to produce a cash-flow forecast and marketing mix plans. We are looking forward to hearing them pitch their ideas after half term.
Year 12 should also be focussing on the progression exams, Paper 1 will cover Theme 1 Marketing and People, Paper 2 will cover Theme 2 Managing Business Activities. Students should be consolidating all revision notes on both themes and developing their balanced chains of arguments. All topic PowerPoints, exam questions and gap tasks are on the portal. If students need any support with either exam technique, revision methods, or they have questions over content there are sessions available after school on Tuesday.
Year 13 Lead examiner workshop. Year 13 students really enjoyed the workshop with a lead Examiner from Edexcel Paul Clarke. The workshop sessions focused on exam technique. Students spent the day examining how to build a contextualised response, developing effective lines of analysis, using business theories and models to hone and sharpen analysis, writing strong conclusions and strategies to help develop evaluation.
Well done to Year 13s who have completed paper one and two of their A level exam. Paper three, Investigating a Business in a Competitive Environment is in early June where they will answer questions on case studies from the Retail industry. This Paper will cover Theme 1 to Theme 4. So for the final push carry on completing practice questions in preparation – good luck we are so proud of you all!
Year 7 – Binary This half term students have been gaining an understanding of data and binary. Students should now be able to understand how to decode denary (decimal) to binary and vice versa plus convert binary to letters using the ASCII character set.
Year 8 – Cyber Security
This half term students have gained an understanding of the main concepts of cyber security through an online platform called ‘Cyber Explorers’ developed by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
Year 9 – Programming with HTML This half term students have been learning how to create a simple webpage using HTML. In addition, students have developed their understanding of CSS and DIV tags to improve web page layout and appearance.
All of our GCSE students have continued to develop their programming skills using a high level language (Python). In addition to this …
Year 10 – GCSE Computer Science
Students have studied Unit 2 topics including Boolean Logic plus Translators and the use of IDE’s to develop programs. Students have now studied all elements of the specification at least once and will now spend the rest of Year 10 revisiting prior learning/topics and exam technique, this will continue into Year 11.
Year 11 – GCSE Computer Science
Students have been following bespoke revision plans and practising exam technique ready for their final examinations.
Year 12 – A Level Computer Science Students have been developing their understanding of binary conversion, hexadecimal, fixed/floating point binary, data structures and Boolean logic.
Year 13 – A Level Computer Science Students are developing the exam technique whilst reviewing and revising key areas of their own learning program ready for their final examinations.
Extra Support – GCSE and A Level For all our GCSE & A Level students there is a continued promotion of using the Smart Revise platform to develop and enhance student’s ability to recall information and facts plus improve their use of literacy and keywords around the subject. Your support by encouraging your child to engage with this at home on a regular basis is much appreciated. Each student has their own personal login and can access the platform on any device through a web browser. At GCSE we also run an after school support club once a week on Wednesdays with Mr Challice.
Computing Club
The club now has a regular steady group of students numbers from Years 7 to 10. Students get involved in a range of activities from Coding to Lego to Games.
CISCO Certificates & iDEA Award
We are still continuing to offer CISCO certification and our latest certificate (Python) is available. If this is something you would like to complete please speak to Mr Sycamore in S218. Look out for the next course next term.
We also encourage all KS3 students to at least complete the Bronze award for iDEA. This is something students can access at home as well as in class. Students have their own individual logins for these. This term we have seen Ben and Jaya achieve their Bronze certificate whilst Aayush has achieved his Bronze certificate along with his Silver … well done!
These courses are an invaluable addition to CV’s, references, College and University applications plus apprenticeships.
Supporting Students At All Levels We are currently promoting independence in computer science and have a variety of support mechanisms students can access during their lesson or even at home through SharePoint. Some of these strategies are outlined in the image below:
Computing Literacy The computer science department now has a selection of fiction, non-fiction and coding books plus a range of revision guides available to loan from either the department itself or the school library to supplement homework and NLS literacy focus as a whole. We also have a large selection of computing magazines. We will be adding to this over the next year so, if you have any recommendations that you would like to see included, please email Mr Sycamore to add to the reading list. Some ideas to get started …
KS3 Drama
Year 7 Drama
Performing Text The Grimm Tales This unit of work focused on collaboration skills and how to work well in a group. Students had the opportunity to explore extracts from a play from The Grimm Tales (Hansel and Gretal) and explore line learning and interpreting the script using physical theatre, chorus and props.
Year 8 Drama
Documentary Theatre (Saw it the Papers by Adrian Mitchell) This unit of work focused on collaboration skills and how to work well in a group. Students explored Brecht’s Epic Theatre strategies to consider how theatre can have a message for the audience and how theatre can try to persuade an audience to feel or think in a particular way. Students have had the opportunity to create and develop a performance using Narration, Direct, Address, Chorus and Placards based on the poem ‘Saw it in the Papers’ by Adrian Mitchell. The final performance will allow students to ask the audience rhetorical questions and get the audience to think about issues linked to a tragic event.
Year 9 Drama
This unit of work focusses on the role of the Designer and students have had the opportunity to explore the story of An Inspector Calls by J B Priestley and explore Production Design through Designer Mood boards, Costume and Set Design tasks.
Year 10 GCSE Drama
Component 3 Theatre Makers Section B - Live Theatre Evaluation This half term our work focused on Section B of the written exam and preparation for the Year 10 Progression exam.
Students have created a set of live theatre notes based on the National Theatre’s Life of Pi to help them with revision and in preparation for the exam. They have also had the opportunity to practice some exam style questions.
Congratulation to Year 11 GCSE Drama who completed their final exam in May and to our Year 13 A Level Dramastudents who will complete their final exam in June, we wish you well.
Y12 A-Level Drama & Theatre
Year 12 Drama students have completed their written portfolio based on their Component 1 Devised performance ‘SOCIETY’. Students answered six questions to analyse and evaluate their devising process and final piece.
Enrichment in Drama
VIBE Drama Club Tuesday after school 3.15-4.30pm (Drama Rooms C030) As an RSC Partnership School, the Drama Department are running a performance project with VIBE Drama club for the RSC Playmakers Festival. The VIBE club students are currently immersed in preparing their unique rendition of Hamlet by William Shakespeare for their RSC playmakers' performance. Their unique approach involves retelling the story from Ophelia's point of view, deconstructing the narrative while staying true to the original text and language. Under the guidance of Mrs. Wright, the students are collaborating as an ensemble to bring the story to life through physical theatre and narration. The group will have the opportunity to work with a practitioner from the RSC for an afternoon in June. A sharing event will be hosted at North Leamington with local primary schools to showcase the students' interpretations and view the work of other schools in the community. Subsequently, friends and family will be invited to witness the short production as part of the Drama Showcase on Wednesday 3 July at 6pm. Tickets will be free for this event. Further details to follow. It is an excellent opportunity to experience live performance whilst developing an understanding of the drama strategies that they will have learnt throughout their Drama lessons.
Enrichment Opportunity for Year 8 & 9 Drama students – Places available We are really excited to be an ambassador school working with Highly Sprung Theatre and will be participating in the Physical Fellowship Festival which is a week-long festival of environmentally themed youth performances. Places are still available and the letter has been issued to Year 8 and Year 9 students via Parent communications with information about payment.
The Physical Fellowship 2024: Power Monday 1 – Friday 5 July, Belgrade Theatre
For 2024 theme is exploring Power. When young people understand power it gives them the tools to speak up for what’s right and make positive changes. Physical Fellowship POWER is about being able to use power to positively make a difference. To create a fairer and better world for everyone.
Each evening features a programme of original physical performance work from local school and youth groups, finishing with a headline performance of Say No More from our youth group Sprung Advance Plus.
We will be previewing the performance for free on Wednesday 3 July at NLS. Tickets for Physical Fellowship are on sale and can be booked directly through The Belgrade Theatre website here.
KS3 Update
Year 7 students have been studying the theme of Identity and Culture through the lenses of literature and non-fiction. Students have been learning some historical elements such as South Africa’s apartheid era, the migration of those from the Caribbean and South Asia and the tyrannical brutality of despotic leaders and analysing the way the voices of those who experienced these times is portrayed through various literary and non-fiction texts. They will be using these voices to create their own voice, being able to write evocatively, persuasively and passionately.
Similarly, during the summer term, Year 8 students are studying a scheme of learning on Minority Voices through the base text of Long Way Down, a novel written entirely in verse, where they will look at writers’ creation of a voice and recreate their own ‘voices’. An excellence transitionary module that will see our students prepared for the next step of their learning journey into Year 9.
Year 8 Spoz poetry
Some of our Year 8 pupils had the opportunity to work with an award winning performance poet, singer/songwriter to understand and create some slam poetry. They explored the serious issue of refugees and showed great empathy in their poetry.
All pupils involved performed their poems on the mic and perfected their speaking skills to make them into a real show!
One lucky group were also given signed copies of Spoz’s work as a prize, which they can then share with their friends and continue to explore how to express themselves using poetry.
This half term, Year 9 students breached the gap the between KS3 and KS4 by looking at their first GCSE text, ‘An Inspector Calls’. Students are analysing the creation of character and those characters’ development through the play, linking the play’s purpose to the contextual issues of its 1945 origin and the Edwardian setting. Students will be examined on this text and others in the summer of 2026 when they take their GCSE English Literature exam.
Accelerated Reader
Congratulations to the following students who are our current top quizzers on Accelerated Reader
First place: Esme B, 178.5 points Amy K, 422.9 points Joshua M, 136.7 points
Second Place: Maya Y, 141.5 points Niamh T, , 250.5 points Isabel H 125.2 points
8X3 recently produced a fire poem with Mrs Wright. They were consolidating their understanding of poetry by writing a poem using similes and onomatopoeia. The students involved are: Joe N, Oliver B, Joseph R, Kelsey K, and Kamarley C
KS4 Update
Year 10, students have been revisiting the skills for the GCSE English Language Paper 1 exam. This is based around the analysis and then production of creative writing. English Language Paper 1 is the paper that students will be examined on as part of their transition exams in Summer 2.
Year 11 this half-term have been preparing for their GCSE examinations in English Language and English Literature (see exam timetables for dates of exams). They have been undertaking bespoke in-class intervention based on the mocks they have taken this year in both language and literature and the department have used data to analyse students’ performance on each of the questions to target the interventions in each class.
Year 11 students should be using the KS4 Revision Hub when revising as there are a plethora of resources available for them including videos from Mr Hoskin’s YouTube channel, here his masterclass lectures and much, much more…
KS5 Update
Year 13 students have also been undertaking bespoke in-class intervention based on the mocks they have taken this year and the department have used data to analyse students’ performance on each of the questions to target the interventions in each class. Students completed their NEAs recently after willingly attending advisory sessions for these last half-term. The range of topics and texts that students have studied is wide and varied and our students have worked hard on ensuring they achieve the top grades possible with their entries.
If any parents or students wish to know more about our A Level options or require any further information, please email jbarrett@northleamington.co.uk.
We wish all of our students in both Year 11 and Year 13 the best of luck with their exams.
Rewards in English
We LOVE recognising how amazing our students are in English and our young people may have noticed our Brag Board on the English corridor. Every half-term, the Class Act (class) with the most Reward Points will be awarded a prize (get your child to ask their teacher for more details).
Congratulations to Year 11 and Year 13! After two years of hard work the finish line is almost in sight. Everyone at NLS wishes you the best of luck with your exams and hope to see your relieved and smiling faces on the August results days.
Year 10 have been working towards the completion of Component 3 for their GCSE. Students are currently taking photographs to be used for the DVD cover and promotional poster for their Horror themed coursework. These photographs need to be uploaded to Teams so that both Mr Krysta and Miss Norman can give students feedback on these photographs and give guidance where necessary. Keep up the good work year 10!
Year 12 are currently preparing for their end of year exams - students are revising set texts and theory in lesson to prepare them for the end of year 12 and start of year 13.
During this half term Year 7, 8 and 9 classes have been learning about a range of places in the world. Year 7 have been investigating polar environments, both the physical and human characteristics and exploring the ways of life of the Inuit people.
Year 8 have been completing a topic on hazardous areas of the world and have produced some amazing pieces of work on those places that are also popular with tourists – a selection can be seen in the photo below.
Year 9 are on their final topic of the year are investigating urban areas of the world, including megacities such as Mumbai of which we have a link with via our partner school.
Year 10 have been looking at weather hazards both in the UK and globally and the impacts they can have.
Year 11 Geographers have been preparing well for their three Geography exams and as part of paper three have been investigating a proposed housing estate in Kent.
Don’t forget there will be a final revision session on Thursday 6 June between 12.20 and 3.15pm. The session will be used as final preparation for paper 3 which will be on Friday 14 June, this paper includes questions on fieldwork that has been carried out as part of their GCSE course and also questions on the proposed housing estate.
The year 11 Geographers have been a delight to teach and we wish all of you the very best for the future – travel and explore places as much as you can!
Year 12 have completed two topics, and are now onto the very topical units of migration and human rights as well as deciding upon their topic for investigation for our upcoming residential fieldtrip to Southwold in June.
Finally, we are very proud of Year 13 and how they have prepared themselves so well for their upcoming Geography exams, we wish them all the very best for their future.
Did Geographers manage to see the northern lights over Leamington on the weekend of the 10 and 11 May?
One Geography teacher took this amazing photo in Leamington!
Year 10 BTEC Travel and Tourism students have now completed their first non-exam assessment Component 1 Travel and Tourism organisations and destinations.
This involved five tasks which included researching how technology is used by travel agents, recommending attractions and route options for a specific customer profile and researching and producing a report on how ancillary organisations collaborate with other travel and tourism organisations.
The students should be proud of their commitment and effort levels demonstrated in completing their first PSA.
This term students have been studying the content of Component 2 Customer needs in Travel and Tourism, which includes interesting themes such as research methods, market segmentation and product development.
Year 11 have completed their BTEC course and sat their final exam. Well done year 11; we look forward to seeing how you have done on results day.
Well done to Year 10 who completed their Component 1 coursework last term. They are now making a good start at learning new content for their Component 2 coursework that they will complete around October time of Year 11.
So far in this Component they have been looking at the different health care services people can access. For example, Primary services such as GPs are usually the first point of contact if you need support and they can refer you to secondary services (such as a cardiologist or dermatologist) if more specialist support is required. Some of the Year 10s have then applied this knowledge to real life examples by watching an episode of ’24 hours in A&E’; they noted how many different service providers can be involved in a person’s care at any one time thus recognising the importance of multi-disciplinary working.
They are now moving on to look at specific illnesses/needs a person may have (such as arthritis and type 2 diabetes) and how different services can support them.
We’d also like to give a special mention to Amelie W who is this month’s Health and Social Care student of the month. She regularly attended after school sessions to work on her Component 1 course work last term demonstrating her dedication for the subject and her eagerness to achieve. She also demonstrates empathy and kindness towards others in the classroom, particularly when discussing sensitive topics. Well done!
Year 13 have been doing a brilliant job of revising as a close-knit and supportive group in our lessons since returning from the Easter holidays.
They have completed two ‘walking talking mocks’ for the examination unit and have built their confidence in answering all questions from the specification and across the range of skills, covering 2, 4, 6 and 8 markers.
Our previously identified actions of using more terminology and making further links to the stated scenarios, are much improved and very clear.
This group have worked so well together and have been so supportive and encouraging. Their work ethic has been fantastic and there are no questions they cannot tackle. They have also now finished their coursework and made any final amendments to their write ups for this.
They completed their final exam on Friday 17 May and we wish them so much luck in their future endeavours!
Year 7 have been concluding studying the problems faced by medieval Kings, including the murder of Thomas Becket in Canterbury cathedral over the issue of spiritual versus temporal power, a theme continued through to year 8 with Henry VIII and the Reformation. They will move onto the Crusades, the War of the Roses and conclude the year with a focus on the Reformation, with Florence and Leonardo da Vinci as a focus.
Year 8 have begun looking at the social and political reform of the industrial period from 1750 to 1900. Within this we have covered the transatlantic slave trade, child labour, the 1832 Reform Act leading to the expansion of the franchise and public health reform with legislation introduced in 1848 and 1875.
Having concluded World War II with a focus on the Holocaust, Year 9 will spend the remainder of the year looking at the British Empire. Our focus is Britain’s relationship with India and Ireland up to independence and we focus on migration into Britain after World War II, looking at the impact and experiences of people from the West Indies and the Indian subcontinent.
Year 10 have continued working through Paper 2 of their GCSE this term. We have finished Early Elizabethan England, 1558-88 and working on International Relations and the Cold War, which completes the second half of Paper 2. Year 10 will sit a full paper 2 mock exam in June, with questions on Early Elizabethan England and International Relations and the Cold War.
We had a very successful trip to France and Belgium, which supported section A of Paper 1, looking at medical provision in the trenches during World War I. If you haven’t seen the article, with photos, as yet it is available on the school website and also linked in the latest news section earlier in this Bulletin.
Good luck to Year 11 who sat their History GCSE Paper 1 on May 15, Paper 2 is on June 4 and Paper 3 on June 11. If students need any support during this period their teachers will be available either in their classrooms or via email. We wish them all the best of luck.
Year 12 Historians have been working through Paper 1 – Britain, 1918-97 and the USA, 1955-92 – which is their focus for the year.
Good luck to Year 13 Historians who begun A level History exams starting with Paper 1 on May 23, Paper 2 is on June 7 and Paper 3 on June 11. If students need any support during this period their teachers will be available either in their classrooms or via email. We wish them all the best of luck.
Year 12 Politics students have continued working through Paper 1 and Paper 2 – British Politics and British Government. It is important that students keep abreast of contemporary political events, and with the general election having been called this week, by reading broadsheet newspapers, following politics programmes on TV and radio and listening to the podcasts that have been suggested to them in class.
The same applies to Year 13 to enable them to comment on contemporary events in their June exams, even if the information they read is published on the same day as the exam.
On that note, good luck to the Year 13 Politics students who begun their A level exams with Paper 1 on May 21, Paper 2 on June 5 and Paper 3 on June 14. If students need any support during this period their teachers will be available either in their classrooms or via email.
National Junior Maths Challenge In April, 175 students in Year 7 and 8 took part in the National Junior Maths Challenge.
The Maths Challenge is a nationwide competition for the highest performers in maths. This year over 300,000 students took part, roughly the top 5% of participants receive a Gold certificate, the next 10% Silver and the next 25% Bronze.
We are very proud of the effort all of our students put into the competition and how resilient they were problem solving. As a school we received 51 bronze certificates, 24 silver certificates and 4 Gold certificates, which is a fantastic result.
Our two top scorers in Year 8 have also made it through to the Kangaroo challenge, which is a massive achievement. Well done to everyone who took part and good luck in the next round Ellie and Wilbur!
Year 13
Congratulations to our Y13s for all their hard work and efforts this year in maths. Remember to keep trying as many practice papers as possible and come in to your scheduled lessons if you wish any extra support.
Good luck! We know you’ll do great! Don’t forget to please bring in your textbooks when you complete your final exam.
Year 12 We are wrapping up all topics from the AS side of the maths curriculum now and students have made good progress in their module tests. They now need to start preparing themselves for their end of year 12 progression exams! I am sure with lots of revision they will all do fantastically well. Further Maths is also really encouraging.
Year 11
Congratulations to all our Y11s for all their hard work in maths this year. We know they have given their very best efforts and we are sure they will do really well in their final exams. One exam down – two to go! Please come in on your normal year 11 lessons if you wish to have any extra support!
Year 10 We have now completed the majority of the Key Stage 4 curriculum for Maths! This is where we start to bring together all the disparate areas of maths such as number, algebra, statistics, geometry and measure and ratio and proportion. From now on it is the mixing of these topics we are really going to work on. Students will receive some GCSE practice papers in the coming weeks and will sit a mock paper, just like the real exam, to give them a flavour of what to expect going into Y11. Students must remember a calculator and use the websites Maths Genie and Corbett Maths to help them.
Year 9 We have now completed the majority of the Year 9 curriculum and students are now ready for their end of year assessments in the third week after half term. Good luck to them all! They have now completed some tricky topics in algebra, number and shape and space. They need to make sure they have a calculator for their second test, and should use the websites Maths Genie or Corbett Maths to help them revise as well as possible! Results will be given to the students in late June.
Year 8 We have now completed the majority of the Year 8 curriculum and students are now ready for their end of year assessments in the week after half term. Good luck to them all! They need to make sure they have a calculator for their second test, and should use BBC Bite size and the CIMT website to help them revise as well as possible! Results will be given to the students in early June.
Year 7 Having completed the majority of the Year 7 curriculum students have completed their end of year tests and we are really pleased with all their efforts and achievements. Results will be given to the students in early June. We have suggested using BBC Bite size and the CIMT website to help them for their revision and encouraged them to get into good habits and make sure they have a calculator.
German
Year 7 German students have made really pleasing progress and are currently studying the topic of free-time. They are becoming confident with various verb forms in the present tense and are able to express opinions. We are so impressed with their understanding of phonics in German. They have worked extremely well this half term and demonstrate excellent pronunciation. At the end of this module, we will be conducting an assessment in speaking and reading. We look forward to seeing the groups progress further.
Year 8 students are, at present, studying the topic of town and shopping. They are really developing their listening and speaking skills and are able talk about their town and order food and drinks. This will be very useful when we hope to be able to visit Germany in the future. We are proud of our students and many are so active in the lessons during the games and transactional tasks. At the end of this unit, we will be assessing listening and writing skills on this topic. We feel confident that our students will show pleasing progress.
Year 9 have studied the topic of family, friends and relationships and are now able to form the past (perfect) tense. They have really understood this tense and are making such pleasing progress. They continue to support each other and are active in class in the many speaking games to reinforce our grammar rules. We are so pleased that many students value the German language and realise the importance of a second language for future careers. We are so looking forward to our students entering their next stage of German at KS4.
This half term, Year 10 German students have studied the topic of home and town. We are extremely pleased with the effort and progress our students have made and look forward to seeing them go from strength to strength. Alongside our next topic, of school, we will be looking at exam skills and techniques in preparation for their end of year progression examinations. We will be completing a listening, reading and writing paper on the topics covered in Year 10. Our students are focused and respond extremely well to feedback. We are confident that they will handle the exam papers well at this stage of the course.
Year 11 German students have worked conscientiously and have really showed progress in the speaking examination in April. We are so proud of the efforts made. After the speaking exams our focus has been practising examination papers for the listening, reading and writing skills. They are learning key vocabulary, are able to recognise and avoid the distractors in listening and reading.
During study leave, we will be available to support in any way we can.
We will really miss both German groups and would like to wish everyone the very best in all their exams.
French
Year 7 have been learning about sports and free time activities. They understand the difference between sports that need je joue and je fais and some students are able to use the third person single and plural forms as well. Students can also talk about what activities they enjoy doing on their mobile phones and use a variety of opinions and justifications to extend their responses.
Year 8 have been learning about town and have learnt a variety of new vocab to describe where they live. In recent lessons, they have learnt how to order food and drink in a café and created their own role-play dialogue. To finish the topic, students will cover the near future tense to describe what they are going to do in Paris. This will coincide nicely with the Year 8 trip to Paris after May half term.
Year 9Students are nearing the end of the relationships module. They are able to describe their relationships with family and friends using reflexive verbs and give detailed justifications for their opinions. They have also recapped the near future tense and used it to talk about their plans with family and friends. In their most recent lessons, students have started learn how to correctly form and use the perfect tense with regular ER verbs. All students are comfortable using it in the third person and a large number are also using it accurately across the full paradigm.
Year 10 students recently completed the town module, which falls into Theme 2 of their GCSE curriculum. At the end of the topic, students did a listening paper, which gave them the opportunity to practise their listening skills with authentic GCSE questions before their mock in Summer 2. In the run up to the mock window, students have begun to look at the school topic, which is part of Theme 3 at GCSE. Students have recapped school subjects, complex opinions and reasons, school rules, the difference between the school systems in France and England, and healthy choices to be more successful at school.
Year 11 have completed the speaking element of the GCSE course and all worked incredibly hard to get as many marks as possible in this paper. Students have since finished the GCSE course and have spent the last few weeks revising key content and grammar structures for the GCSE exams. We wish students all the best for the upcoming exams!
Year 10 Our Year 10 Spanish students have covered some new topics and have been working extremely hard. We started off with the study of our school, our school uniform, the importance of school rules and describing our school’s facilities. We worked hard on using phrases like ‘I have to …’ and ‘You’re not allowed to …’.
Our Spanish students completed some really excellent written work using the language and structures we had been studying. I was impressed. We also had our first assessments of 2024 – listening and reading. The results show that there has been progress made by the majority of our students and this improved attainment is so pleasing.
In Year 11 we have been concentrating hard in lessons working towards the GCSE examinations that will be taking place in June. Our students all completed their speaking examinations in April and we are so proud how well they coped and how much hard work went into preparing for these.
We are now all clear on what needs to be revised and worked on before the first written papers that will be taking place in a few weeks. We wish them all good luck and enormous successes when results arrive in August.
Year 7: Rhythm in Music & Keyboard Skills
Rhythm in Music This unit of work focuses on music appreciation, composition and collaboration. Students have been provided with listening tasks to develop their understanding of rhythm and to encourage creative thinking. Alongside class Samba performances students have been tasked with creating and performing their own percussive Stomp-style pieces using recycled or repurposed objects.
Keyboard Skills This unit of work focuses on performing written music. In pairs students have continued to develop their practical music-making and keyboard skills. Notated music challenges students to consider note placement alongside practical skills, performance technique and collaboration. Students have been encouraged to perform to the class for assessments and build confidence through shared music-making experiences. Resources provided offer students of all musical ability the opportunity to access the curriculum and develop musical understanding.
Year 8: World Music & Keyboard Duets
World Music This unit of work focuses on music appreciation, composition and sequencing, exploring the use of musical devices to create music from other cultures. Students have been provided with listening tasks and contextual information to develop an understanding of musical traditions from around the world. Students were then tasked with using music software to compose and record a piece of calypso-style music refining their performing, recording and sequencing skills alongside composition and theory.
Keyboard Duets This unit of work focuses on students collaborating in pairs to perform a selection of popular pieces. Students have been encouraged to develop their practical, technical and collaborative performance skills, practising and performing more challenging notated music. They have also considered the musical genre and applied genre-specific stylistic or musical features to their performance. Students are encouraged to demonstrate a disciplined approach, review their work, monitor progress and identify areas for development.
Year 9: Cover Versions & Original Compositions
Original Compositions This unit of work focuses on students collaborating in pairs or small groups to compose and produce an original composition. Students have used sequencing software and instruments to reproduce style-specific musical features and demonstrate their musical knowledge/understanding. They have analysed a range of genres through listening tasks to develop their understanding of key terms, historical and contextual significance and the musical features associated with their chosen style. Students have also been able to develop their song-writing or composing skills and music theory knowledge.
Cover Versions This unit of work focuses on students collaborating in pairs or small groups to perform, record and/or produce a cover version of a famous piece of music. By developing a more independent approach to learning this has involved gathering appropriate resources and equipment in order to collaborate, perform, practise and record their chosen cover track. They have analysed the musical features and apply genre-specific stylistic elements to their performance. Students have demonstrated a disciplined and safe approach to their work, monitor their progress and identify areas for development.
Year 10: BTEC Music Level 2: Component 1 Students have recently completed PSA Tasks 1 and 2 of Component 1 of their BTEC Music course and are currently working towards elements of Component 2. During these components, students have been learning about a range of musical styles, tasked with performing, reproducing and composing pieces to demonstrate their practical/instrumental/music-making skills. Alongside their practical work students have produced written analysis and reviews to demonstrate their historical, contextual and theoretical knowledge. Students are also busy preparing for the upcoming Summer Music Concert.
Year 11: BTEC Music Level 2: Component 3 Students have completed the PSA Component 3 for their BTEC Music course. This unit has focussed on students developing and performing cover versions of selected musical repertoire. Students have applied their performance, composing, sequencing and analytical skills to realise their creative ideas and demonstrate their musical knowledge in their final assessed piece of work. Year 11 are busy revising and we wish them all the best for their exams.
Year 12: BTEC Music Level 3: Unit 39 and 7 Students in Year 12 are developing their knowledge of the music industry and exploring how the different areas are interrelated. Students have studied job roles, venues, contracts, marketing and business plans with a view to building a comprehensive understanding of how the industry operates and the potential career opportunities. Students also use their time to continually develop their performance skills and broaden their musical repertoire.
Unit 7 is aimed at developing students composing skills and provided the opportunity to create and compose five original ideas in contrasting styles/genres, with a view to developing a selection into full compositions.
Year 13: BTEC Music Level 3: Units 33 and 43 Year 13 have completed Unit 33 by presenting and performing a programme of solo music. They performed their musical choices in a 30 minute recital in March and completed their Specialist Subject Investigation. Year 13 have now left us for exam season. We wish them all the best for their upcoming exams and will hopefully see them for one last performance at the Summer Concert.
Extra-Curricular
Wind Band: Tuesdays 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Rock Club: Wednesdays 3:20pm – 4:20pm
Pop Choir: Wednesdays 3:30pm – 4:30pm
Steel Band: Wednesdays 3:30pm – 4:30pm
String Ensemble: Fridays 3:30pm – 4:30pm
There are a variety of extra-curricular music opportunities on offer at NLS. Many of the groups and soloists are preparing and rehearsing to perform at the Summer Concert on 9 July. A range of students, ensembles and performances will be performing, as we look forward to celebrating their hard work and talent in our annual event. Tickets for the Summer Concert will be available on ParentPay, so please come along for an evening of musical entertainment!
Music Tuition
We offer a variety of music instrumental tuition at North Leamington School.
Acoustic Guitar
Flute
Trombone
Bass Guitar
Keyboard
Trumpet
Clarinet
Music Technology
Viola
Drums
Piano
Violin
Electric Guitar
Rock Band
Voice
Euphonium
Saxophone
Lessons are available for
20 minute - individual lesson
20 minute - shared lesson
30 minute - individual lesson (for Violin only)
If your child wishes to start receiving lessons in September at NLS, or has been been receiving instrumental tuition please contact us at nls@northleamington.co.uk.
Football Success!
North Leamington have finished the Football with trio of Cup winners
The term started with a the U13 Girls Football team facing Stratford School in the District Cup final, with the girls looking to complete the double and add the cup to their unbeaten league winning campaign. In a well fought game, The North Leamington girls ran out 2 – 0 winners.
U13 Girls District Cup Winners
The girls finished the season last Friday winning the Warwickshire Schools six-a-side tournament at Myton. During the five games – against Campion, Southam, Kenilworth, Oakley and Myton - they scored a fantastic 21 goals and conceded only 1. Fearless football, played in a spirit we would all be proud of. Commitment. Opportunity. Respect. Excellence, living the NLS values each day.
Congratulations to Mr Bamber and the girls in their fantastic performances this year.
The Year 7 football team, which also features two girls from the triumphant U13 girl’s team, also went into a final against Stratford, hoping to add the District Cup to their league winning success. This time the boys got off to a great start and went 1-0 up within the first 10 minutes. Despite being in control for the majority of the game, they were unable to add to their lead, but did manage to hold out and secure the win. Congratulations to Mr Butler and the Year 7 team for a hugely successful first season.
Year 7 Football District Cup Winners
The Year 8 Football team went to the District final hoping to retain the Cup that they won last year. They faced off against a strong Alcester Grammar School, which featured a number of Academy players. The North Leamington team played a fantastic game, running out with a hard fought 3 -1 victory and ensured their names will appear on the trophy for a second time. Well done to Mr Guilfoyle and the boys on their continued success.
Year 8 Football District Cup winners
Hoping to be NBA Champions The Year 8 Basketball will hope to add to the District league success when they travel to Nottingham to compete in the Jr NBA East Midlands Finals. They boys finished the group stage top of their group with a 100% record and qualified as the number 1 seed going into the knock-out stages of the competition. They progressed past Parker E-ACT Academy and then Carre’s Grammar School, in the eastern conference semi finals. The North Leamington Boys ran out 46-20 winners and now travel to Nottingham Trent University on 6 June to compete in the final 4s for the Jr NBA title. The Boys will be facing Schools who are Basketball Academies, so it will be tough, but they will go in with confidence based on their terrific season so far.
Jr NBA Finalists
Rounders Season starts The Rounders season has started and the teams have got off to a great start. The Year 10 team started with a 10 – 4 1/2 win over Kingsley. The Year 8s recorded a 6-3 win over Campion and the Year 9 team also beat Kinsley by 20 -10. Well done girls and good luck in your future matches.
Year 10 Rounders Team
Year 8 Rounders team
Year 9 and 10 Athletics Town Champs
On Wednesday 15 June our Year 9 and Year 10 Boys and Girls Athletics teams competed in the Town Champs event at Edmonscote Athletics track, with the aim of the top performers hoping to be selected to represent the County. We had a number of impressive performances on the day with 11 students placing in the top 3 in their event. Seven students won their events including Max Roberts in the 200m, George Ochoa in the 300m, Chloe Steele in the shot putt. Joe Castle in the 200m and Lucy Rogers, Jacob Smith and Archie lane all won their respective 1500m events.
A special mention must go to Archie Lane who recorded the fastest 1500m time ever at the Town Champs, beating the previous record which has stood for 38 years!
Congratulations to all those who competed for the school and good luck to those who will have earned a place in the County Athletics team.
Year 9 and 10 District athletics event winners.
Physical Education Curriculum News Well done to our Year 13 A Level & Year 11 GCSE PE students who have now completed their first exam paper with the remaining papers scheduled for after half term.
Part of the A Level and GCSE courses requires students to perform practically in their chosen sports. Well done to the hours of dedication that goes into excelling in their practical performance.
Our Year 13BTEC Sport and Year 11 BTEC Sport students have also been sitting exams as part of their qualification. They have also completed coursework assignments on the way to achieving their final grades.
We wish them all well for their exam papers and in the future, whatever they decide to do.
Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 Physical Education.
Core PE lessons and extra-curricular sporting opportunities have switched to the summer sports this term, with students having the opportunity to participate in Rounders, Tennis, Softball, Athletics, Volleyball and Cricket, both in lessons and after school clubs. Inter school fixtures and events have also been arranged in Athletics, Rounders, Tennis and Cricket. Students can read the weekly PE bulletin for extra-curricular clubs, fixtures and results.
At NLS, we utilise the schemes of learning and opportunities that The Prince’s Trust offers to enable some of our most vulnerable pupils to achieve. Students in Year 10 have completed a module on Sustainability this half-term. Later in the summer term, Year 10 students will be building and installing bird boxes in the school grounds.
Our Year 11 students have been working on their units for three years now (with many completing six units) and most have been entered for the Level 1 Certificate. We congratulate those students for all of their hard work and wish them well as they move forward, knowing that The Prince’s Trust will always be somewhere they can find support in their future careers.
Year 7 have been exploring relationships including friendships, consent and boundaries and peer influence
Year 8 have been developing their digital literacy skills and have focused on strategies for staying safe on line. We have had some interesting and insightful contributions from students on this important area of their lives.
Year 9 have been focusing on the factors necessary for developing healthy romantic relationships and warning signs to be aware of when a relationship is becoming unhealthy and potentially abusive.
Year 10 have started to examine and discuss issues relating to extremism and radicalisation. This will continue next half term.
Year 11 as part of the relationships unit Year 11 have explored the potential challenges of being a young parent and issues of fertility.
Year 12 have been looking at making safe choices including safety in relation to travel and the pros and cons of being a young driver.
Year 13 have been looking at Politics here and abroad. It has been lovely to see Year 13 engaged in discussions and debates throughout the year during PSHE sessions. We will miss them and wish them well in their exams and beyond.
What have we been studying?
Year 12 studies have included a classic Psychology topic, Memory investigating foundational theories on how we remember and forget. Additionally, the groups have been delving into the world of Psychopathology, the study of mental health disorders and how we treat them.
Can our behaviour be explained through nature or nurture, or both? Year 13 completed key topics such as Cognitive and Development, Issues and Debates and Schizophrenia exploring key questions: ‘Are we born with certain cognitive skills, or are they acquired?’ Is Schizophrenia a genetic disorder, or does it take it an environmental trigger? They have also worked incredibly hard with final revision in preparation for the start of the exam season.
As our year 13 students left for study leave our leaving message to them had to include some research to back up the importance of saying a well-rounded goodbye:
"Saying goodbye allows us, as humans, to convey our gratitude, love and appreciation to those who have been a significant part of our lives."
"If you deliberately plan on being less than you are capable of being, then I warn you that you’ll be unhappy for the rest of your life." So make sure that whatever you do, you strive to be the absolute best version of yourself, celebrate the successes and learn from the mistakes. (Albert Maslow)
Good luck to our Psychology Class of 2024! We wish them the best of luck with all their exams.
Year 12s Well-Being sessions - International School
This term, in line with our International Schools project in Psychology, Year 12 worked in groups to research and deliver a well-being strategy to their peers. We had everything from eating oranges to reduce cortisol levels, laughing yoga, dancing, acupressure points, gratitude journaling, origami and childhood games.
A key highlight of the sessions came from Evelyn S, Naomi A, Ingrid L and Alice B where they organised a ‘Pet Therapy’ session.
Pets are known to boost our mood through encouraging endorphins, and we were lucky enough to have Marigold, Luna and Zest pay us a visit! The three house chickens made an appearance and brightened everyone’s mood.
All groups contributed to an incredibly enjoyable week for all classes and teachers. Well done all!
The Great Psychology Bake Off!
Following their studies on mental health problems, such as OCD and schizophrenia, and promoting wellbeing our students hosted a ‘Psychology Cake Contest’.
Students baked psychology-themed cakes (which were delicious) and sold them to students and staff with the proceeds then donated to ‘Mind’ mental health charity
It was an enjoyable experience and something we’d like to do again next year! Thank you to everyone involved, bakers and buyers!
And especially well done to Grace and Saanvi who won the cake contest with their ‘multi-store model of memory’ cake!
Psychologists of the Month! Congratulations to our Psychologists of the Month - Georgina Mc, Ethan W, Freya O and Eva K. This month we decided to award Psychologist of the Month to those students who go above and beyond to help others.
These students have supported others well-being and show us just how important it is being kind to their peers, and the impact that can have; whether that be making others smile, collecting catch up work for their peers and promoting what it means to be a caring individual.
Well done (and thank you!) all!
Year 13:
We are incredibly proud of our lovely group of Year 13 RE students and we wish them the best of luck as they approach their final exams. Please remind students that we will be available to support during their timetabled lessons right up until the final Ethics paper. We are also offering after school sessions on a Tuesday if students require them. Please encourage them to make contact with us if they need anything.
Year 12:
Students almost half way through the course content now in Philosophy, Ethics and Christianity. It is really important that students are reviewing their notes outside of the lesson and are creating revision resources for each topic as this is the best way to secure knowledge and prepare for assessments.
Year 10:
We couldn’t be more proud of our Year 10 students who have been working exceptionally hard in lessons and at home revising for their final GCSE RE exams. We will continue to support them as they prepare for Paper 3 on Friday 7 June. We encourage all students to attend the after school revision sessions and ensure they are using their Islam revision booklets at home.
Half term
All students will be set a 1 hour Islam past paper to complete over half term
Wednesday 4 June
3.20-4.15pm
H107
Islam (Beliefs and Practices)
Thursday 5 June
3.20-4.15pm
H118
Islam (Beliefs and Practices)
Year 9:
Year 9 students have been working on Paper 3 (Islam). They have been focusing on key beliefs and teachings and how they impact the lives of religious believers. We have been very impressed by the thoughtful discussions students have engaged in on the afterlife, freewill and predestination. Please encourage your children to complete the revision tasks set on Go4schools so that they are fully prepared for end of unit assessments.
Year 8:
Year 8 students have been studying Judaism this half term. They have particularly enjoyed recreating the Passover meal in lessons through tasting the different elements and discussing the meaning behind this.
Year 7:
Year 7 students have been exploring the foundations of Christianity.
We were fortunate to have Cross Teach in to share their experiences of Christianity with our students.
We have had some very interesting discussions on miracles and it has been lovely hearing the students talk about their personal experiences of ‘miracles.’
As we begin to look at the impact of parables, we are looking forward to seeing our classes write and perform a modern day parable.
Year 7 Chemical Reactions
Year 7 have been exploring chemical reactions in science including combustion, thermal decomposition, exothermic and endothermic reactions and rusting.
They have been looking at how to represent chemical reactions as word and symbol equations as well as considering different conditions required for rusting and those that might speed up the process.
Students have really enjoyed the practical side to this module, especially combusting pieces of magnesium ribbon to show that mass is conserved in a chemical reaction.
Students clearly demonstrated that they are able to work safety and in a scientific way to ensure their practical approaches are second to none!
Year 8Reactions with acids Students have started their third Chemistry topic in which they learn about the reactions of acids. They have investigated the reactions that take place between different metals and hydrochloric acid, recorded their observations and used the trend observed to deduce the order of reactivity of the metals that were tested.
Students used the general word equation for the reaction between a metal and an acid to predict what gas was produced and name the salt made.
As an extra challenge some students used symbol equations to represent the reactions that occurred and balanced these to ensure they obeyed the law of conservation of mass. Students were also able to prove that hydrogen gas was produced by completing a test that makes a characteristic squeaky pop sound when ignited.
Year 8Photosynthesis Year 8 have made exceptional progress in applying research skills on photosynthesis in preparation for practical work. Students consolidated previous learning and used the additional learning material provided to read and then respond to their actions (FAR) for homework.
New knowledge was shared with the class using various sensory approaches through videos, visual cartoons, diagrams, text and keywords. Students were allowed flexibility on choice of resources to complete the main task in line with the various success criteria.
Working collaboratively students were able to identify the equations for photosynthesis and write a brief description or story demonstrating the application of literacy skills.
Using a topic check list students could link their current learning to the learning outcomes of the whole topic allowing for flipped learning (learning done prior to studying new knowledge in lesson).
Year 9Circuits
This term we empowered our Year 9 students more hands-on learning as they explored the fundamentals of circuits. It was fantastic to see them engage in this aspect of the curriculum which sparked their curiosity and fostered critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Their creativity lit up the classroom as their understanding of science shone brightly!
Smallpeice Trust We're thrilled to share an update from our recent, exciting Engineering Experience Day, where some Year 9 students delved into the world of renewable energy and engineering innovation. During this engaging event, run for us by the Smallpeice Trust, students had the opportunity to explore the fascinating realm of renewable energy sources, with a special focus on hydrogen power. Through hands-on activities, they learned about the process of electrolysis (extracting hydrogen from water), and its potential as a clean, sustainable energy source.
The highlight of the day was the design and construction of hydrogen-powered cars. Armed with their new-found knowledge, students embarked on the challenge of building vehicles fuelled entirely by hydrogen.
From conceptualisation to execution, they applied their creativity and problem-solving skills to bring their designs to life. Witnessing the culmination of their efforts, as their cars propelled forward solely on renewable energy, was a moment of pride and accomplishment for all involved. It was not just about building cars, it was about understanding the possibilities and limitations of renewable energy and the role of engineering in shaping a sustainable future.
The day was filled with enthusiasm and curiosity as students eagerly explored the intricacies of renewable energy and engineering principles. We are confident that the experiences gained during this event will leave a lasting impression, inspiring our students to continue exploring the fascinating world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Year 10 Planning investigations Year 10 chemists have been working hard to consolidate their knowledge and make connections between the different topics they have studied in Key Stage 4. Students continue to develop their practical skills and linking theory to practice.
From planning and setting up an investigation into the properties of ionic compounds, students have shown how their knowledge of ionic bonding from chemistry unit 2 explains the physical properties of substances such as sodium chloride (table salt).
They have built on this planning further investigations into how we can break down these compounds with electrolysis, which was studied in unit 3 and comes up again in unit 6.
Year 10 Revision techniques Year 10 students have been working on their revision skills, learning from our trusted approach to biology revision as they prepare for their exam.
By actively engaging in the creation of revision material students deepen their understanding of key concepts while honing their communication skills. Through collaborative efforts, we have seen them craft comprehensive study guides, flashcards, and interactive material tailored to the curriculum and exam requirements. With each revision session, students are reinforcing their own learning and helping their peers with the aim of it leading to future exam success.
Year 11 Microbiology Year 11 students have been working on their practical skills as part of their final preparation for their GCSE exams.
In this particular investigation they were growing a strain of bacteria as part of an aseptic techniques experiment.
This was to test student’s skills in growing bacteria, while making sure they are keeping sterile conditions throughout and preventing growth of unwanted pathogens!
Their aim was to compare different antiseptics and antibiotics to see which is most effective at preventing growth of the bacteria.
This is part of their medicine and disease module in the B6 biology module.
They compared the zones of inhibition of their results on the agar plate, concluding whatever zone was the largest, that antiseptic was the best at destroying that strain of bacteria.
Year 11 Measuring Speed As part of their Physics GCSE exam preparation, students have been reviewing work on motion and how to calculate and estimate speed. This started with showing a video of Usain Bolt completing a 100m sprint which really engaged students into discussing the factors that affect speed and how to calculate it, ensuring that they had the confidence to rearrange equations and convey units if necessary.
Students carried out an experiment implementing their ideas in order to determine speed of moving objects, ensuring certain variables were kept the same in order to make it a fair test.
We even had a few demonstrating with a 100m sprint competition which they all found to be extremely competitive!
We wish all our Year 11 scientists the very best for their remaining GCSE papers .
Year 12 Mammal Heart Dissection This term our year 12 students completed one of their CPACs, (Common Practical Assessment Criteria) which required them to apply their knowledge and perform a heart dissection. Nothing beats a hands on practical in science. Practical work is at the ‘heart’ of biology, and is used to support and consolidate scientific concepts. It also develops investigating techniques and helps build, and master, practical skills. Dissections are a vital part of scientific research. This CPAC gave our students the opportunity to examine the internal structures of this particular organ. The students carefully followed a method which allowed them to identify a significant number of anatomical structures, including the four main chambers of the heart, arteries, veins, tendons and valves.
It was impressive how our year 12s conducted themselves in this particular practical.
Year 13 Physics Throughout the year, four Year 13s have organised and successfully run an A Level Physics Club, designed for highly aspirational students to further develop their Physics, help with preparation for Oxbridge entrance exams and the very challenging Physics Olympiad. Another aim was to introduce students to fun topics outside of the A Level specification, using advanced mathematics beyond the requirement of the course. These were chosen by the students. Whilst a lot of work went into running this club, it is clear all those involved have benefitted hugely, and it has been so great to see students engaging with extra content in their subject.
This term, Year 13 Physics students have been making their final preparations for their exams completing the final part of the course content on electromagnetic induction.
In addition we have covered content students have requested, including practical investigations, circuits, fields, and optics. Students have been working hard in preparing for their exams, with extensive use of their revision resources PLCs, knowledge organisers and past papers
We wish all our Year 13 students the best of luck for their remaining A level Exams.
Year 12 have now completed the Families and Households topics and have one final topic to learn before we complete the ‘Research Methods’ element of the course and the Year 12 content.
We have explored the practical and ethical strengths of a range of research methods that Sociologists use in their research, to uncover the patterns and trends in society; quantitative methods such as questionnaires, official statistics and structured interviews and qualitative methods including observations, unstructured interviews and the use of personal documents.
Once this topic is completed, we will have a period of consolidation lessons, reviewing these research methods and those in the education topic, to prepare students for their progression exams. In these, they will answer:
A 4, 6, 10 and 30 mark question on Education
A 20-mark question on ‘Methods in Context’ Two, 10-mark questions and one, 20-mark question on Families and Households.
If students do not already have one, drafting a revision timetable will be valuable at this stage to ensure they cover each topic equally and consistently well in advance.
This is also a good point to remind students to look at the recommended ‘reading and watching’ to enhance their learning and understanding of key topics. Recommendations are outlined on the curriculum overview section of the website.
My current recommendation is ‘Gang Leader for a Day,’ a book which outlines Sudhir Venkatesh’s ethnographic study of the Black Kings Gang in Chicago, USA.
Much is in the press also relating to ‘toxic childhood’ and evidence of the impact of smartphones on experience of childhood. Worth being aware of these topical links to enhance your understanding of these key concepts in wider society.
Year 13 have now completed their Sociology course! We had a sad farewell to the fantastic groups who have thrown themselves into the study of society.
We have enjoyed many opportunities to broaden our knowledge over the last two years with external talks from Mr Lowdell on Educational Policy and Keith Trobe the author of our class text on skills techniques required for the exam. In addition students have visited the local crown court to support their understanding of how the criminal justice system operates and have a talk with the head judge.
We will continue to work with the students to support them in the final weeks before their exams. An additional offer will be sprint finish revision sessions which will cover once more each paper, recapping both the skills and knowledge requirements. These sessions also address some of the common misconceptions and marginal gains that can be made to make all the different. We are really looking forward to seeing the students that can join us for these sessions.
Room: C228
Date
Paper
Wednesday 15 May 12:20-15:15
Paper 1: Education with Theory & Methods (only need to attend one session)
Thursday 16 May 09:50- 14:00
Paper 1: Education with Theory & Methods (only need to attend one session)
Wednesday 22 May 11:20- 15:15
Paper 2: Beliefs in Society
Thursday 23 May 11:20-15:15
Paper 2: Families & Households
Thursday 6 June 12:20-15:15
Paper 3: Theory & Methods
Monday 10 June 11:20-15:15
Paper 3: Crime & Deviance
It's been a busy half term in Art and with Year 13 and Year 11 completing their component 2 externally set task for their final exams
Students have created a wealth of independent work in a variety of materials and their final pieces demonstrate all the learning experiences they have had over the last five, or seven years, and are wonderful pieces to behold.
Once the pieces have been moderated we look forward to being able to share with you the impressive outcomes.
We wish all our students the very best for their futures with many planning to continue their studies and in their creative pursuits.
Year 12 Students are preparing for their progression exam in June and have investigated their own A level topic, researching articles, visiting galleries, and finding images to inspire their ideas. This is an exciting time for the students as they create ideas for a final piece.
Year 10 Our Year 10 students are busy planning their ideas and testing out the materials, processes, and techniques of their chosen Artist. With every student choosing a different Artist it is exciting seeing students create and explore a wide variety of materials and techniques. In June the progression exam will allow students to experience creating a refined and mastered final piece.
Below are some of the sketchbook ideas created by some of the students in our two classes.
Year 9 The theme of this half term for Year 9 has been studying the Artwork of storyteller and illustrator Teesha Moore. Students have been busy painting an Artist copy and learning about her style of work. Her dynamic use of patterns, images, words, and portraits will help students plan and create their own version next half term.
Having learnt about colour theory previously in Year 7, students are revisiting these skills and learning how to layer and create a variety of marks with their paint brushes. This practice is good learning ready for their painted outcomes to follow.
Year 8 Students have been busy learning about the global warming issues of our oceans, having studied the ceramic work of environmental artist Courtney Mattison. As an Artist, she has actively raised the issues of this through her impressive and large-scale ceramic instillations, some which take years to make.
Year 8 have been recording coral and sea creatures in their sketchbook ready for the clay pieces they then created in class.
These are just a few of the clay pieces prior to firing and application of colour. Our students really love this project and have impressed us with their keenness and impeccable behaviour.
Year 7 Learning to paint is a crucial skill in Art and here at NLS we teach our students to mix and use a wide range of tints, tones, and shades of a colour, with just the three primary colours and black and white.
Students are enjoying this valuable learning experience and are now presenting their learning in their sketchbooks.
They have produced colour wheels, learnt about secondary and tertiary colours, as well has how to clean and use paint brushes correctly.
These skills will be further developed next half term, when they will create seascapes and repeated every year in our curriculum.
It has been a very busy start to the summer term in the Photography department. We have had sessions of 10 hour GCSE Photography exams followed by 15 hours of A Level exams. The students have coped very well with these and produced some exciting outcomes in the allocated time. We wish them well in their next journeys and hope to see some Year 11 join us in the sixth form next year. We look forward to sharing their exam work once it has been moderated.
Elsewhere in the department Year 12 students have been working on the start of their Component 1 coursework which is initiated with an in-depth research project into a focus of their choice. So far we have students looking at the importance of photography in capturing memories, an investigation into documentary photography through turning the camera on your own family as well as a consideration of the changing face of fashion and the photographer's gaze in the modern world. We are looking forward to seeing how the research informs the development of the practical work over the next few months.
Year 10 students are well into their Component 1 coursework projects and about to start their first outcome to this project. This will allow them to explore their ideas in further depth and refine the skills and techniques they have been learning over the year.
Year 9 students are coming to the end of their introduction to photography course by looking at the importance of light and the use of shadows to create interesting and abstract images.
We will be able to share some more examples of work in the next newsletter .
Year 13 A level and 11 GCSE students Students from both exam years have worked hard over the last few months completing their coursework project and externally set exam work. Year 13 students completed a three day textiles exam (15 hours) and Year 11 students completed their final piece over a two day period (10 hours).
This has resulted in some amazing pieces and we have seen students pushing themselves further to produce a wide range of creative outcomes, a massive well done to all our students!
Year 12 Students have been busy working on their own personal coursework projects, researching their themes, this has included self-led visits to the Butterfly Farm in Stratford, a Textiles Exhibition at the MAC in Birmingham and interviewing friends and family to name a few.
They have then begun to create experimental sample work based on their chosen artists, to help develop their skills and further ideas.
They will be working towards planning out a substantial outcome in the progression exams next term.
Year 10 Students are currently studying their third artist to help inspire their ideas for their personal coursework projects (which is 60% of the final GCSE).
They will plan a final piece based on one of their artists to be completed in timed conditions during the progression exams next term. This will help prepare them for the final two day GCSE exam in year 11.
Key Stage 3 – summer rotation
Year 9 students have rotated again this term and have worked on some great artist samples inspired by Keith Haring and Jean Michel Basquiat and used fabric marker pen, applique and hand embroidery.
Year 8 have been busy completing practical samples, including: tie-dye, embroidery and applique and started their final packaging inspired cushion covers.
Year 7 have produced some great pop art inspired homework design this term! Their fantastic work is on display in the classrooms, showing off their creativity!
Year 11 Food Preparation and Nutrition Now that the NEA 2 is completed and being marked students are busy revising for their upcoming written examination. This exam is on June 19 and is worth 50% of their overall GCSE.
Student’s revision should focus around – Food Science Nutrition Food Provenance Food Safety and Hygiene
We wish them all the very best.
Year 11 Design Technology Students should be using the AQA DT specification to aid them in their revision and continue to come to after school intervention to support them in their preparation for the exam.
The written exam is on 18 June and worth 50% of their overall GCSE so they still plenty of time to complete their revision. Using the SENECA website is a good way to revise or using GCSE bitesize.
Students should be concentrating their revision on the following topics –
new and emerging technologies
energy generation and storage
developments in new materials
systems approach to designing
mechanical devices
selection of materials or components
forces and stresses
ecological and social footprint
sources and origins
using and working with materials
stock forms, types and sizes
scales of production
specialist techniques and processes
surface treatments and finishes.
materials and their working properties.
Year 7 and 8 and 9 DT classes Classes are working on a rotational system with Art Textiles, Food Preparation and Product Design, the last of these rotations have now taken place. There have been some lovely items made in the workshop and in the food room.
Thank you again to parents for supporting us by providing ingredients for the food lessons.
Recently students have been focusing on making sweet dishes with enriched doughs – Y9 iced fingers, Y8 cookies and Y7 shortbread.
These are some of our Year 9 working their magic in the kitchen.
If any of you have spare containers such as empty sweet containers or ice cream tubs we would greatly appreciate having these to support students who may at times forget to bring the correct container for their food.
Enrichment Activity Opportunity
We are looking to offer Year 8 and Year 9 some new opportunities after school in the next term. A four-week course for students to cook some more complex dishes in a smaller group. Students will need to be prepared to bring ingredients for the session and a container and those not selected from the first round will be rolled over to the next term.
Robot Wars is well underway with students using our 3D printer to design their new creation. We look forward to sharing their forthcoming ideas in the next Bulletin.
Year 10 DT
Students will be starting their NEA after the May half term. The tasks will be released to students in their first lesson back after the holiday and will be aiming to complete as much of the research section before the summer holidays. The NEA is worth 50% of their GCSE so every mark can really make a difference to their overall grade next year. Students will also be completing a mock in July so its important that they start revising for this – students can use the list for year 11 to support them.
Year 10 Food
Students will be starting their NEA at the start of Year 11. We will be offering after school support in September to help students with these assessments.
The first task will be released to students in their first lesson back after the holiday, which consists of an investigation style assessment. The second NEA will begin after the October half term with far more practical related assessments contributing towards their GCSE. The NEAs combined are worth 50% of their GCSE so every mark can really make a difference to their overall grade next year. Students will also be completing a mock in July so its important that they start revising for this – students can use the list for year 11 to support them.
Recently year 10 have been practising the NEA by choosing a dish suitable for a specific task. Making pasta was one of these options which is trickier than it might seem.
A Level Product Design
Students are well underway in their assessment and although it sounds like it is far away from now we will be looking for a Christmas deadline for the NEA to be marked. Students are making a wide range of items from textiles inspired products to storage solutions and the modelling for these prototypes is looking very professional.
Welcome to our Digital Literacy curriculum update.
We have completed our final Digital Literacy Week for this year where during tutor time students have enjoyed sessions that cover some of these various aspects of digital literacy as seen below.
Websites / Apps / QR Codes – Year 7 : Websites, apps, and use of QR codes are integral parts of the digital landscape. Our curriculum teaches students how to navigate these platforms safely and effectively.
Digital Footprint – Year 8: Understanding the concept of a digital footprint is essential in today's digital age. We educate students on the importance of managing their online presence, including privacy settings, appropriate content sharing, and the potential long-term impacts of their online actions.
Writing Emails for Work Experience – Year 9: As part of our curriculum, students learn valuable skills such as writing professional emails. This includes etiquette, formatting, and effective communication. We encourage parents to support their child's learning by practising these skills at home, perhaps by drafting emails for work experience opportunities together.
IT Tools for Revision – Year 10: Incorporating IT tools into revision can greatly enhance learning outcomes. We introduce students to various digital tools and platforms that can aid in revision.
Managing Your Online Presence – Year 12: Building on the concept of digital footprint, we teach sixth form students how to actively manage their online presence across social media platforms and other online forums. This includes strategies for maintaining a positive reputation, dealing with negative feedback, and understanding the impact of their digital interactions on their future opportunities.
Nine of our Year 8 and Year 9 students are currently working with the Really Youthful Theatre Company and RISE (Mental Health Services).
The aim of the project is to encourage and engage seldom-heard voices, increase youth participation, and support co-production within RISE services.
They are working together to produce a drama, which will be scripted, acted, produced and filmed by them; it will capture the daily experiences and challenges faced by young people today, and show how these experiences impact wellbeing and mental health.
The RYTC believe in changing lives creatively, and provide a comfortable environment that fosters self-confidence, self-esteem and connectedness today, and show how these experiences can affect their wellbeing and mental health.
They are half-way through their eight-week workshops which will culminate in a festival showcasing the young people’s experience. They are working brilliantly as a team, and are making new friendships along the way.
The students will be invited to be RISE young Ambassadors and RISE Young Voices as mental health advocates after their production.
This is a very exciting project, and we are looking forward to seeing the final film at the end of the project.
Happy Birthday to Lulu
Lulu, our school dog, celebrated her fifth birthday in April.
Lulu is a valued member of our student support and mental health team.
Lulu does a great job supporting our students (and staff) particularly those who feel worried or anxious.
She also spends time with some of our vulnerable students who benefit from her care and cuteness!
Lulu enjoyed her day with a cake and new bandana and lots of attention.
In April our Year 8 International School Leaders presented in a Year 7 assembly to share more information about what being an International School means and their findings from a zoom call they enjoyed with our partner school, Anjuman I’Islam BSK High School, in Mumbai.
The International Leaders wrote the assembly themselves and then presented.
They were able to explain what being an International School means and the opportunity to learn and increase awareness of the world and learn about other countries.
They shared that here at NLS there is an International School project in every department as well as the other opportunities available through our International School curriculum through tutor time, trips, workshops and leadership opportunities.
When our International Leaders had a zoom call with our partner school it was a great opportunity to build connections and learn more about each other. They then shared their learning with the Year 7 audience who were able to get a glimpse into the classroom of our partner school through a quiz.
Year 7 really enjoyed this and participated really well. The quiz involved spotting differences between the two schools such as in the class sizes, curriculum, facilities and structure of the school day to learn that for example, class sizes are much bigger and AI and Robotics is part of their curriculum. They were shocked that school started at 7.30am but that they were finished by 12.30pm.
Our wonderful International Leaders are fantastic ambassadors for our International Schools work and we are very proud of them bravely speaking so well at the Year 7 assembly.
This week, (Monday 20 May) was World Bee Day. With the aim to spread awareness about the important roles that bees play in our ecosystem, its timely to share how NLS are committed to creating a bee-friendly environment.
We are fortunate to have Mr Ellis, one of our Site Maintenance Team, an experienced Apiarist, who brings a wealth of his knowledge and passion to our school with his expertise in beekeeping.
With seven years of experience in apiary management, he offers a practical perspective on the art of caring for bees and the importance of creating a sustainable habitat for them.
Mr. Ellis is not only responsible for maintaining the hives at North Leamington School but also takes care of several hives across Warwickshire including locations at Warwick Castle and Hatton Country World
His routine checks ensure the bees are healthy and thriving, with a Queen present.
We have four hives here at NLS and this year will be the first year honey is being produced.
Over half term Mr Ellis anticipates being able to collect the spring honey which started to be produced a few weeks ago.
Summer honey will then follow and be ready at the beginning of July through to August.
Nearly every plant we have on the school site is pollinator friendly, not only for bees but also butterflies, which is vital in supporting our bees to collect their food source, pollen (their carbohydrate) and nectar (their protein).
Recently, students had the opportunity to accompany and observe Mr. Ellis in action as he completed one of his checks and expanded a hive, to accommodate a growing colony, from 12 to 24 frames.
This hands-on experience is crucial for further understanding the intricate world of bees and the importance of their well-being. We look forward to expanding this opportunity and learning with other students. An average hive contains 60,000 bees and a healthy hive can produce up to 22lbs of honey each week. A Queen can lay up to 2,000 honeybee eggs per day and bees keep their own hives clean. Such is their work rate a worker bee's lifespan is 6 weeks - over the winter this is 4 to 6 months.
The Queen Bee is identifiable by the red spot
One of our hives currently is without a Queen. When a Queen dies in a honeybee hive the workers can create a new Queen bee by selecting a young larva and by feeding it ‘royal jelly’ in the hope the larva will develop into a fertile Queen. When this doesn’t happen, Queen bees can be purchased and we await the post.
Bees are more than just creatures that produce honey – they are vital to our ecosystem and play a crucial role in the pollination of many plants, including the crops we rely on for food; Bees pollenate 38% of our food & 90% of other food for birds and animals.
At North Leamington School, we understand the importance of these incredible insects and continue to support their population. Through Mr. Ellis's leadership and our school's dedication, we are fostering an environment where bees can prosper and help in ensuring a sustainable future for bees and our ecosystem.
Cheerleading Our summer term club Intro to Cheerleading has started up again this half term and we have had an excellent turn out of students from all year groups.
The club includes dance elements, introduction to basic cheerleading positions and learning new lifts/stunts and gymnastics. It has been great to see students attend and try something new and have a go at something different. We are hopefully working towards a routine for Sports day as we hope to make our debut as a cheer team and support our Colleges!
A big thank you to Year 10 student leaders Imogen H, Chloe S and Thea S for supporting students in club and teaching students new tricks and tumbles.
History Ancestory Club One of our newest clubs this term is History Club which provides students with opportunities to discover, trace and develop their understanding of their family history. Through researching their families history on AncestryClassroom and beyond students can create family trees and build a connection to their past and make new discoveries.
We have 20 students who have joined the club and we look forward to seeing what their research uncovers over the next few weeks.
Students in Year 9 who are undertaking the Bronze Award have been completing their Skills, Volunteering and Physical sections since the start of the academic year and many are coming to the end of at least one of these.
For Bronze students, their commitment to the award looks like this:
There are two training sessions remaining for the Bronze Award
5 June
Bronze Route Planning 2
12 June
Bronze Route Planning 3
On 17 & 18 May our Bronze participants completed their practice expedition where we used the grounds here at NLS.
They are now ready to tackle the qualifying expedition which will take place on July 5-6.
5 – 6 July
Bronze Qualifying
Students in Year 10 who are undertaking the Silver Award have also been completing their Skills, Volunteering and Physical sections since the start of the academic year.
For Silver the demand is a little more and students’ commitment to the Silver award looks like this.
There are three remaining training sessions
19 June
Silver Route Planning 1
26 June
Silver Route Planning 2
3 July
Silver Route Planning 3
10 July
Silver Kit Distribution Q
Having successfully completed a practice expedition recently the qualifying expedition is set for:
12 – 14 July
Silver Qualifying
Our Silver participants undertook their Practice Expedition in the Peak District a few weekends ago. We had a mixture of weather with some heavy rain battering their exertions at one point over the weekend. This was, fortunately, punctuated by bouts of beautiful sunshine and this, especially on the last day was a welcome relief.
Students in Year 12 who are undertaking the Gold Award have also been completing their Skills, Volunteering and Physical sections since the start of the academic year.
For Gold the level of demand is higher still and students’ commitment to the Gold award looks like this
Training has been taking place every Wednesday since the start of the academic year and our expedition dates are as follows:
12 June
Gold Kit Distribution
13 – 16 June
Gold Qualifying
On 18 – 20 April, Gold students successfully undertook their Practice Expedition.
New knowledge was shared with the class using various sensory approaches through videos, visual cartoons, diagrams, text and keywords. Students were allowed flexibility on choice of resources to complete the main task in line with the various success criteria. 
