Tag: BACK TO SCHOOL

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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: [email protected]

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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: [email protected]

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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: [email protected]

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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: [email protected]

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Learning and fun with after school clubs at Kingsthorne Primary School

Words by Kingsthorne Primary School

(Ed’s note – this BACK TO SCHOOL article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and published on 14.03.25)

After school science club at Kingsthorne Primary School / Image supplied by Kingsthorne Primary School

At Kingsthorne, children are given the opportunity to take part in after school clubs. These are run by staff and this half-term the following clubs are available: Warhammer. Pokémon, art, drama, trumpets, and science.

The art club are busy painting the mural for our new library. Fergus in Y6 explained: “We are drawing a picture on the wall; we carefully mix the colours to get the shades right.

“We user different size brushes, small for the detailed parts and bigger for the larger areas. It is a bit of a rush though! We must get it finished next week and there is still a lot to paint!”

Library mural by after school art club at Kingsthorne Primary School / Image supplied by Kingsthorne Primary School

Rebecca in Y4 talked about drama club: “We do lots of acting and actions to music. Last week we had to pull a name out of a hat and act like that character named. Names like Woody, Micky Mouse and Sleeping Beauty… Sleeping Beauty was easy – just lying down!”

Nicloe, Y6 gave an insight into the Warhammer club: “We make figures, from plastic kits. The figures can be superheroes, villains, soldiers, and we have even done a space marine! The teacher takes them home and sprays them with white paint.”

She added: “He does this so that when we decorate them the paint doesn’t peel off. We design our own characters and next week we will learn how to play the game!”

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: [email protected]

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Loads of love at Kings Rise Academy

Content supplied by Kings Rise Academy (KRA) Editorial Team

(Ed’s note – this BACK TO SCHOOL article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and published on 14.02.25)

Celebrating love and community at Kings Rise Academy / Image sourced from Adobe Stock

As January merges into the next month, February, the theme of love is floating in the air and every second that passes is one second closer to Valentine’s Day. We are very excited for the upcoming weeks as it will be filled with fun!

On 28 February, we will be celebrating Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The exact dates of Ramadan change every year. This is because Islam uses a calendar based on the cycles of the Moon.

Also, to celebrate St David’s Day, we will wear something yellow. On Valentine’s Day, we will be wearing pink and completing some love-themed activities.

Signs outside school gates at Kings Rise Academy / Image by Ed King

At KRA, we love embarking on trips, especially a whole school beach one coming up in a few months. Valentine’s Day is one of our favourite holidays because it is a golden opportunity to show affection or celebrate love with cards, flowers, and sweets!

We hope you have a wonderful Valentine’s, and many good things throughout February! Let’s hope February ends winter with a good note, Happy Valentine’s Day!

Best regards, KRA Editorial team

Ehichoya Jason Obor (Y6), Liyana Walters (Y6), Sienna Mills (Y6), Zaneta Onojah (Y6), Hiba Ahmed (Y5), Ryley Mortiboys (Y6)

For more on Kings Rise Academy visit www.kingsrise.org

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

To find out more about going BACK TO SCHOOL with Erdington Local please email: [email protected]

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Times Tables Rock Stars storm the charts at Marsh Hill Primary School

Words supplied by Marsh Hill Primary School

(Ed’s note – this BACK TO SCHOOL article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and published on 14.02.25)

Children at Marsh HIll Primary taking part in Times Tables Rock Stars / Image supplied by Marsh Hill Primary

Children at Marsh Hill Primary School have been storming the charts this term and improving their maths, competing in the nationwide Times Tables Rock Stars programme.

Pupils from Years 2-6 have all been taking part in the initiative that combines online learning platforms and rock star imagery to get young people excited about learning their times tables.

Believing in an effective ‘little and often’ approach to mathematics, the Times Tables Rock Star platform can be accessed through any internet connected device and uses colourful and fun incentives to encourage learning.

Adopted by thousands of schools across the UK, Times Tables Rock Stars is an award winning initiative that supports mathematics learning in children from 6 years and upwards.

Children at Marsh HIll Primary taking part in Times Tables Rock Stars / Image supplied by Marsh Hill Primary

Earlier in February, the children at Marsh Hill Primary put their times table skills to the test and competed in a series of online challenges against other schools across the country – coming to class dressed as a rock star for inspiration.

Breaking into the top ten of times tables, the young people at Marsh Hill came an astonishing seventh on the Total Scores Leaderboard from a total of 204 schools nationwide.

Marsh Hill Deputy Head Teacher, Mrs Leavey, told: “We’re so proud of our rock stars and how amazingly well they did in the national times table competition.

“They were really invested in the Times Tables Rock Star programme and it’s been a great way to support their mathematics, numeracy, and general learning.”

For more on Marsh Hill Primary School visit www.marshill.bham.sch.uk
For more on Times Table Rock Stars visit www.ttrockstars.com

Marsh Hill 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: [email protected]

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Queensbury School celebrate Chinese New Year

Words supplied by Queensbury New Horizons

(Ed’s note – this BACK TO SCHOOL article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and published on 14.02.25)

Students and staff at Queensbury Schoool celebrating Chinese Year New Year with Fenfen Huang (bottom row, centre) / Image supplied by Queensbury School

Queensbury School recently came alive with vibrant festivities to celebrate Chinese New Year.

Students and staff celebrated this special day to honour the Lunar New Year with traditional decorations and artist workshops.

A highlight of the event was a series of dance workshops led by Fenfen Huang, a renowned dance instructor specialising in traditional Chinese movement arts. Huhang’s workshops introduced participants to the elegance and symbolism of Chinese dance, blending graceful movements with rich cultural storytelling.

Students and staff took part in the workshops learning steps inspired by classical and folk dances. The workshops not only provided an opportunity to embrace Chinese heritage but also fostered spirit and appreciation for diverse traditions.

The celebrations concluded with a mesmerising dance showcase, where students and staff performed alongside Fenfen Huang.

Queensbury’s Chinese New Year event was a resounding success, leaving our students with a deeper connection to Chinese culture and a joyful start to the Lunar New Year.

For more Queensbury School visit www.queensburysch.com

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: [email protected]

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BACK TO SCHOOL: High Sheriff of the West Midlands visits 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 14.02.25)

High Sheriff of the West Midlands Douglas Wright MBE DL with students from Wilson Stuart School / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Wilson Stuart School was delighted to welcome the High Sheriff of the West Midlands, Douglas Wright MBE DL, for an insightful visit to explore the school’s commitment to inclusivity and tailored support for students with complex physical and medical needs.

During his visit, Mr Wright engaged with students and staff, gaining a deeper understanding of the personalised approaches that help each student thrive. He was particularly inspired by the enthusiasm and creativity of the students as they showcased their talents through a variety of projects.

The High Sheriff also took time to speak with the dedicated staff, learning about the challenges they face and the continuous efforts to enhance resources and opportunities for students.

Wilson Stuart Headteacher Simon Harris (left) with High Sheriff of the West Midlands, Douglas Wright MBE DL (right) / Image supplied by Wilson Stuart School

His visit highlighted the importance of collaboration between the school and the wider community to ensure the best possible outcomes for young people with additional needs.

Wilson Stuart School would like to express its gratitude to Douglas Wright for his time and interest in the school’s work. His visit was a valuable opportunity to celebrate the achievements of students and staff alike. We look forward to continuing to work closely with him in the future.

For more on Wilson Stuart School visit www.wilsonstuart.co.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: [email protected]

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BACK TO SCHOOL: Wilson Stuart School hosts Social Justice and Compassion Conference

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 17.01.25)

Wilson Stuart School students out shopping ahead of Social Justice and Compassion Conference / Pic supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Wilson Stuart School held its first-ever Social Justice and Compassion Conference, a landmark event aimed at promoting awareness of fairness and equality in everyday life.

Hosted by staff and students, the conference welcomed special guests including Troy Yeomans, Destinations Manager at The Fort Shopping Centre, members of the governing body, and the local community.

The event focused on raising awareness of social justice issues, with a particular emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity in public spaces like shopping centres.

Students presented innovative ideas to Troy Yeomans, highlighting barriers faced by wheelchair users and individuals with neurodiversity. Their suggestions ranged from improving physical accessibility to creating sensory-friendly environments.

Liz Morgan, Associate Head of School, emphasised the significance of such initiatives: “Events like this are vital for raising awareness of everyday challenges. Our students are determined to inspire positive changes in the local area.”

The conference received praise for fostering meaningful discussions and showcasing the students’ commitment to improving community spaces. Troy Yeomans expressed gratitude for the students’ insights and pledged to consider their ideas for future improvements at The Fort.

Wilson Stuart School extends heartfelt thanks to Troy and all attendees for making this inaugural conference a success. The event sets a hopeful precedent for ongoing dialogue and action to create a more inclusive Birmingham.

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

For more on The Fort Shopping Park visit www.thefort.co.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: [email protected]