Category: BACK TO SCHOOL

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Chivenor School pupils launch interactive digital treasure hunt to uncover Castle Vale’s rich history  

Artwork and QR code for The Case of the Lost Legacy Keys

Words by Chivenor Primary School

Chivenor School pupils have officially launched a brand-new, interactive digital treasure hunt app designed to turn their area’s rich local heritage into an engaging summer holiday activity for local families.

The app features a specially mapped one-hour walking route that allows users to learn about the neighbourhood’s rich history.

To create this unique trail, children from the Pupil Parliament embarked on a community walk to pinpoint key historical locations. They then devised a clever series of interactive questions and trivia challenges that participants must successfully answer as they complete the outdoor hunt.

School reception and entrace to Chivenor Primary School / Image supplied by Chivenor Primary School

This innovative digital trail marks the exciting culmination of a deep heritage project. Enthusiastic students spent months thoroughly researching the vibrant evolution of Castle Vale, successfully tracing its ancient roots all the way back to Saxon times.

The young researchers also conducted several insightful interviews with long-term community members, capturing valuable and vivid personal stories from the past about the estate’s dramatic regeneration period during the 1990s.

Organisers shared that the project aims to give residents an entertaining and highly educational way to explore their surroundings over the school break.

While the initiative directly stems from the school’s ongoing anniversary celebrations, the primary focus always remains on providing a lasting, free resource for everyone to enjoy.

Local people can easily join the adventure by scanning a simple QR code, which instantly launches the application.

School leaders noted that the dedicated pupils are incredibly proud to see local families discover the wonderful hidden stories of beautiful Castle Vale today.

For more on Chivenor Primary School visit www.chivenor-gst.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of Griffin Schools Trust, for more information visit www.griffinschoolstrust.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Chivenor School celebrates 60 years of history, heritage and community spirit

Chivenor Primary School 60 year anniversary event / Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Ed’s note… This article was first published in the Erdington Local monthly newspaper, out on shelf from 18 June.

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Words by Chivenor Primary School

Chivenor School officially marked its 60th anniversary year with a vibrant Heritage Evening, bringing together generations of students, staff, and community leaders to honour six decades of local education.

Co-Heads of School Mrs Cox and Mrs Werrett opened the evening by reflecting on Chivenor’s unique beginnings in 1965. Originally designated as ‘School Number 1’ under founding headteacher Mrs Wise, the institution famously had no pupils when it opened. However, growth was rapid; by 1967, enrolment soared past 1,000 children, prompting the opening of a second school on the Vale.

The celebration seamlessly blended past and present, highlighting the revival of beloved traditions like balancing a sweet tin on children’s heads for their birthday.

Recognition was a central theme, with certificates awarded to the Head Boys and Girls, Pupil Parliament members, and dedicated ‘Heritage Heroes’ who championed the history project.

Attendees, including current and former staff, alumni, and community representatives, enjoyed uplifting performances from the school choir and the St. John’s Ambulance Brass Band who had the children dancing in the aisles.

Mrs Cox and Mrs Werrett shared that the event aimed to honour Mrs Wise’s 1965 vision for Chivenor. A newspaper article stated that she wanted Chivenor to be “A place of happiness where children grow in body, mind, and spirit”.

Sixty years later, the joint heads noted that these core values remain alive through the school’s modern pillars of High Achievement, Wide Horizons, and Proud Traditions and they hoped these values would remain strong in 60 years time.

PICTURE GALLERY: Chivenor Primary School’s 60 year anniversary event / Photographs by Tracy Fisher

For more on Chivenor Primary School visit www.chivenor-gst.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of Griffin Schools Trust, for more information visit www.griffinschoolstrust.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Inspirational Chivenor Teaching Assistant runs marathon in aid of Motor Neurone Disease research

Claire Almond, Teaching Assistant at Chivenor Primary School, at the Rob Burrows Leeds Marathon 2026 / Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Words and photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Usually found guiding the youngest learners at Chivenor Primary School, teaching assistant Claire Almond demonstrated a powerful lesson in perseverance by completing a half marathon on Sunday, 10 May.

Almond tackled the gruelling 21-kilometre Leeds Marathon course to raise vital funds for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) research, a cause close to her heart.

The challenging route began and ended at Headingley Stadium, the hallowed home ground of the late rugby league legend Rob Burrow. For Almond, a dedicated women’s rugby player, Burrow’s courageous battle with the neurodegenerative condition served as a profound inspiration.

Runners running in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon 2023 / Photograph from Adobe Stock Images

After witnessing the impact of the disease on the sporting community, she felt compelled to trade her rugby cleats for running shoes to make a difference.

Almond’s journey to the finish line, which she completed in an impressive two hours and twenty minutes, is particularly remarkable given her recent start in the sport.

Having only begun running last summer through the NHS ‘Couch to 5K’ program, the transition to a half marathon represented a monumental leap in distance and endurance. “I never even thought I’d be able to run 5 kilometres, let alone 21K,” Almond shared, reflecting on her rapid progression from novice jogger to long-distance fundraiser.

Her grit and determination have resonated throughout her community.

The children and staff at Chivenor Primary School are incredibly proud of Claire’s fantastic achievement.

By pushing her physical limits, she has not only raised essential funds for MND research but also provided an inspiring example of dedication for her students.

For advice from the NHS about Motor Neurone Disease visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/motor-neurone-disease

For more on Chivenor Primary School visit www.chivenor-gst.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of Griffin Schools Trust, for more information visit www.griffinschoolstrust.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom. If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Chivenor to Welcome “mini Griffins” as Department for Education greenlights new nursery

Chivenor Primary School main entrance / Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Words and photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

The Chivenor school community is celebrating a major milestone following official confirmation that the Department for Education (DfE) has approved funding for a brand-new, on-site nursery facility.

The announcement, which reached parents and staff via email this week, marks the culmination of months of dedicated “behind the scenes” advocacy and strategic planning. School leadership expressed immense pride in the achievement, noting that the successful bid represents a significant investment in the area’s early years provision.

This new addition will allow the school to support its “mini Griffins” from the very start of their educational journey.

“This achievement is the result of months of hard work,” shared Lisa Guest, Executive Head, who extended gratitude to the staff and partners involved in the complex application process.

While the funding is now secured, the work is far from over and the school is now entering a rigorous phase of preparation to ensure the environment is ready for its first cohort. The project will involve several months of detailed planning and infrastructure development to meet the specific needs of the youngest learners, with the nursery doors opening in September 2026.

Local families have welcomed the news, with many places already being snapped up.

As the school community looks toward the future, this initiative stands as a testament to Chivenor’s commitment to providing comprehensive, high-quality local education for the next generation.

If you would like more information or to request an application pack, please contact the school office or email nursery@chivenor-gst.org

For more on Chivenor Primary School visit www.chivenor-gst.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of Griffin Schools Trust, for more information visit www.griffinschoolstrust.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

 

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Legacy and logbooks – Chivenor alumni revisit a bygone era

Chivenor alumni holding logbooks (centre) with current pupils / Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Words supplied by Chivenor Primary School

History leaped off the pages of dusty logbooks, as two former students returned to Chivenor Primary School, marking a nostalgic start to the school’s heritage project. The alumni, who first entered the school over fifty years ago, provided a living link to a vanishing era for today’s local youngsters.

Current head boys and girls bombarded the past pupils with questions, eager to compare childhoods across the decades.

While football was popular then and remains a firm favourite today, the visitors explained to the pupils that they also used to play “marleys” – a traditional game of marbles. When asked about the teachers, the men fondly described Miss Palmer and Mr. Fletcher as “kind and fun”.

Chivenor alumni holding logbooks (centre) with current school staff / Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

However, they noted that Mr Fletcher also had the job of disciplining the pupils, recalling classmates receiving “the slipper” for misbehaviour. This contrasted to the nicer memory of a birthday biscuit during assemblies.

The highlight of the day was when the gentlemen looked through the school archives, delighted to find their names in the official register. They also read the school logbook, which chronicled milestones including the time they were filmed for a television segment regarding energy conservation.

They also spoke warmly of school trips to the farm, laughing as they remembered constructing a giant papier-mâché cow.

Chivenor Primary School was originally opened in 1965 before an official opening in 1967. If you attended in the 60’s 70’s or 80’s please contact the school to share your stories and take part in their heritage project: heritage@chivenor-gst.org

For more on Chivenor Primary School visit www.chivenor-gst.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of Griffin Schools Trust, for more information visit www.griffinschoolstrust.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

 

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Chivenor pupils captivated by West End spectacle

Chivenor Primary School pupils outside Lyceum Theatre in London / Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Words and photograph supplied by 4Cadbury — Chivenor Primary School’s Junior Correspondents

On Wednesday 7 January, students from Chivenor Primary School swapped their traditional classroom lessons and books for a “dazzling, once-in-a-lifetime experience” in London’s West End.

Departing by coach early in the morning, the group journeyed to the capital, where they were lucky enough to catch glimpses of iconic landmarks including the London Eye, Elizabeth Tower, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square.

The highlight of the excursion was a visit to the Lyceum Theatre to see the world-renowned production of The Lion King. As the “heart-beating drum beats” began and the r curtain rose, the atmosphere became “spine-tingling”.

Students were fascinated by the “magnificent” giraffes, enormous elephant and various other animals in hand-crafted masks that brought the African savannah to life.

The performance was a powerful retelling of Simba’s journey from childhood to king of the Savannah. Pupils watched intently as the story unfolded, from the “animal parade” at the start to the darker moments where the villainous Scar led Simba toward a “disgusting” hyena-filled trap.

Despite the complexity of the plot, one student noted that the “captivating” production ensured even those at the back of the theatre felt like they were part of the action.

After the final curtain closed, the group began their long journey home enjoying the lights of London as they passed.

While the day was long, the students returned with “dazzling” memories of a ‘soul-stirring’ performance that perfectly complemented their current studies on the continent of Africa.

For more on Chivenor Primary School visit www.chivenor-gst.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of Griffin Schools Trust, for more information visit www.griffinschoolstrust.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Local heroes remembered – Chivenor Primary’s moving poppy display

Chivenor Primary School pupils and teacher in front of Remembrance Day poppy display / Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

Words by Chivenor Primary School

(Ed’s note – this BACK TO SCHOOL article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and published on 18.11.25)

Chivenor Primary School has unveiled a deeply meaningful display to mark Remembrance Day, ensuring the sacrifices of past generations are not forgotten.

The tribute holds extra resonance for the local area, which is historically significant: Castle Vale was home to the Castle Bromwich Aircraft Factory, producing over half of all Spitfires built during World War II.

Every child at the school contributed to a magnificent wall display featuring a silhouette of the iconic Spitfire aircraft surrounded by hundreds of individually crafted poppies.

Fr Jules Mambu and Chivenor Primary School pupils by veteran’s memorial at St Cuthbert’s Church, Castle Vale Photograph supplied by Chivenor Primary School

The vibrant tribute faces the busy local roundabout, offering a powerful, visible reminder to the local community as they pass by. This collaborative project allowed every student to directly participate in honouring veterans and those who served.

In a further act of remembrance, the school’s Head Boys and Head Girls proudly represented the school. They visited the nearby St Cuthbert’s Church, where they solemnly laid a poppy wreath at the war memorial nestled in the church garden.

This Proud Tradition reinforces the strong community ties and commitment to teaching respect and history.

To complete their efforts, the school also donated a giant poppy, which is now on display at The Sanctuary, Executive Head Lisa Guest commented: “The children have shown immense respect and pride in creating these tributes. It’s a vital part of their education to understand the importance of Remembrance Day.”

The Chivenor Primary displays serve as a moving testament to the community’s commitment to memory, courage, and peace.

For more on Chivenor Primary School visit www.chivenor-gst.org

Chivenor Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local, please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Wilson Stuart students embrace adventure at Bendrigg Trust

Staff and students from Wilson Stuart School on the water at Bendrigg Trust, Lake District / Photograph supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Words supplied by Wilson Stuart School

(Ed’s note – this BACK TO SCHOOL article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and published on 15.05.25)

Fourteen secondary students from Wilson Stuart School embarked on a life-changing four-night residential trip to the Bendrigg Trust in the Lake District towards the end of the spring term.

The group participated in a wide range of adapted outdoor adventure activities including archery, rock climbing, canoeing on Lake Windermere, caving, and zip wires.

For many students, it was their first time staying away from home, offering a valuable opportunity to develop confidence, independence, and resilience. The experience also supported the growth of essential life skills as part of their journey into adulthood.

Leigh Noble, Forest School Lead and organiser of the residential, shared: “It’s an amazing experience for our students – a chance to try new things, learn new skills, and build new friendships.”

They added: “None of this would be possible without the dedication of our incredible staff team, who not only work tirelessly to meet the needs of each student but also have a great deal of fun themselves.

“This trip is truly a team effort, and it simply couldn’t happen without that shared commitment and enthusiasm.”

The excitement continues, as another group of students is set to visit Bendrigg in July, ensuring even more learners benefit from this enriching experience.

For more on Wilson Stuart School visit www.wilsonstuart.co.uk

For more on the Bendrigg Trust visit www.bendrigg.org.uk

Wilson Stuart School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Bulls in the City with Queensbury School – a creative community adventure

Staff and students at Queensbury School wiht decorated ‘calf’ for Bulls in the City 2025 Art Trail / Photograph supplied by Queensbury School

Words supplied by Queensbury School

(Ed’s note – this BACK TO SCHOOL article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and published on 15.05.25)

Queensbury School was thrilled to welcome John from Birmingham Hospice, who spoke to our Key Stage 3 students about the exciting Bulls in the City project — a vibrant public art initiative that brings creativity, culture, and community spirit to life.

As part of this city-wide campaign, our students will design and decorate a life-sized bull sculpture to be featured in the upcoming Bulls in the City art trail.

John shared the meaningful mission behind the project, which aims to raise both awareness and vital funds for Birmingham Hospice.

Blank Bulls in the City 2025 Arts Trail ‘calf’ with designs at Queensbury School / Photograph supplied by Queensbury School

The initiative has sparked our students’ imaginations, encouraging them to collaborate, explore local history, and express themselves through bold, creative designs.

From researching the city’s cultural ties to bulls to painting intricate patterns, they are embracing the opportunity to contribute to a cause that blends art and compassion.

Be sure to look out for our school’s bull on display — a true testament to the power of young creativity and community connection! You might just spot a bull proudly decorated by the talented young artists of Queensbury School!

For more Queensbury School visit www.queensburysch.com 

For more on the Bulls in the City 2025 Arts Trial visit www.bullsinthecity.co.uk

Queensbury School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Year 6 residential trip to Aberdovey with Kingsthorne Primary School

Kingsthorne Primary School Year 6 residential to Aberdovey, Wales / Photograph supplied by Kingsthorne Primary School

Words by Lila and Martha (Year 6)

(Ed’s note – this BACK TO SCHOOL article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and published on 15.05.25)

Last month, we went to Aberdovey in Wales for our Year 6 residential. It was an incredible experience away from home and school!

We got to try many activities including: climbing mountains, jumping into the sea and many more. The instructors were very kind and encouraged us to overcome our fears.

“I loved Aberdovey because we were with our friends and I conquered my fear of heights,” told Lila.

The meals there were very appetising, and they made sure you had eaten enough for the fun experiences that were ahead. The dorms were very cosy and comforting to anyone who may have felt homesick.

Kingsthorne Primary School Year 6 residential to Aberdovey, Wales / Photograph supplied by Kingsthorne Primary School

Many people’s favourite activity was the jetty jump as it took a lot of courage jumping from a 10 foot platform. It looked very scary but when you jumped it was not as bad as you first thought.

We also liked the speed boat because of how fast it went! At the centre, we had plenty of free time to rest, clean or play before meals and even more activities!

“This residential really boosted my confidence by completing things out of my comfort zone,” added Martha. “It was a great adventure and I’m sure everyone who went would recommend it.”

For more on Kingsthorne Primary School visit www.kingsthorneprimary.co.uk

Kingsthorne Primary School is part of the Erdington Local BACK TO SCHOOL programme, working together to celebrate school life from staffroom to classroom.

If your school would like to know more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local please email: edking@erdingtonlocal.com