Tag: education

Posted on

Ending of the winter term at Kingsthorne Primary School

Words and pics supplied by Kingsthorne Primary School

(Ed’s note – this BTS article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and initially published on 20.12.24)

Play-tropolis in Wombourne, Wolverhampton

On a wet and windy Thursday in December the Y1 children boarded a coach and went on a visit to Play-tropolis in Wombourne, Wolverhampton – a local role play centre for young people, with nine purpose built play areas that offer an immersive experience and introduce children to the grown up worlds of work.

The Kingsthorne children had a great time because they got to visit a model street where they practiced some grown up jobs. They had the chance to be firefighters, vets, hairdressers and police officers to name a few!

They were allowed to visit the Play-tropolis Café, supermarket and Post Office. The children had a fantastic day trying out different jobs and seeing miniature versions of shops and businesses.

Play-tropolis in Wombourne, Wolverhampton

Later that day, at the school disco the children got to meet and talk to Father Christmas! He was visiting for the day and chatted to them about what they wanted for Christmas and what they had put on their lists. A truly magical experience!

Although the journey back took much longer than expected, all the Y1 pupils had a fantastic day and learned about future careers.

For more on Kingsthorne Primary School visit www.kingsthorneprimary.co.uk
For more on Play-tropolis visit www.play-tropolis.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]

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Christmas at Kings Rise Academy!

Words and pics by KRA Editorial Team

(Ed’s note – this BTS article was first written for the Erdington Local printed edition and initially published on 20.12.24)

Snow covering the playground and planters at Kings Rise Academy / Pic supplied by Kings Rise Academy

It’s Christmas time at Kings Rise Academy, and we are feeling festive! December is always a magical month at our school, and KRA in the snow definitely set the mood this year. There are so many fun activities happening, and the excitement is in the air!

To start off the month, Scroogical the Musical came and performed at our school, and it was absolutely amazing! Both staff and children were captivated by the show and loved every minute of it. The energy and joy it brought to our school were unforgettable.

One of the highlights of the year is Christmas Dinner Day! It’s a special time when we all sit down together to enjoy a festive lunch with crackers, jokes, and Christmas music filling the air.

Then, on Tuesday, 12 December, it’s time for our much-anticipated Christmas Fayre. There will be games, prizes, treats, and lots of fun stalls. It’s a wonderful opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit while spending time with friends and family.

We’re also looking forward to our Christmas discos, which are always a hit! KS1 will have theirs first and KS2 will get to dance and celebrate a little later. With so many exciting events, there’s truly something for everyone this festive season.

From all of us at Kings Rise, we hope you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Thank you for making this year so special for our school community.

We can’t wait to see all the exciting things 2025 has in store!

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

Kings Rise Editorial Team: Sienna Mills (Y5), Zaneta Onojah (Y5), Liyana Walters (Y5), Riley Mortiboys (Y5), Hiba Ahmed (Y4), Ehichoya Jason Obor (Y5).

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]

 

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Generosity abounds – non-uniform day and shoebox appeal at Wilson Stuart School

Words & pic supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Students and staff collecting for the shoebox appeal / Pic supplied by Wilson Stuart School

In a commendable display of community spirit, Wilson Stuart recently organised a non-uniform day, encouraging students to donate generously in support of children and young people aided by Birmingham Children’s Services.

The initiative was met with enthusiasm and participation from all classes across school, underscoring our commitment to social responsibility.

Particularly notable was the effort of Challenge 4 class group, whose members demonstrated exceptional dedication in collecting donations. Through their hard work, they inspired classmates to contribute an array of items, ensuring that the shoebox appeal was a resounding success.

The students embraced the opportunity to spread joy and kindness, reinforcing the notion that even small gestures can significantly impact the lives of those in need.

As a result of the collective efforts, our school has successfully filled over 30 shoeboxes, each packed with thoughtful gifts designed to bring comfort and happiness to disadvantaged children this festive season. The shoeboxes will be forwarded to charity organisations, reinforcing the significance of our contributions.

Form Teacher Jenny Worthington expressed her pride in the students’ efforts, stating: “We have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others, and it is inspiring to see our students come together for such a worthy cause.”

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]

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Sixth Form student leads Wilson Stuart School’s Remembrance Day commemorations

Words & pic supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Year 12 student Jack Salloway has demonstrated outstanding leadership and independence in organising this year’s Remembrance Day commemorations across Wilson Stuart School.

A dedicated member of the Scouts, Jack took the initiative to set up a school-wide remembrance event, highlighting his commitment to honouring those who served and sacrificed for freedom.

Jack began his efforts by arranging a meeting with a representative from the Royal British Legion, coordinating the collection of poppies and other items for sale to help raise funds for the charity.

He then rallied a team of fellow students, moving from class to class to encourage participation and raise money in support of soldiers and veterans.

In addition to these efforts within the school, Jack represented Wilson Stuart at an outdoor remembrance service, where he paid his respects alongside the wider community.

His dedication and sense of duty throughout the occasion have made him a remarkable ambassador for Wilson Stuart School.

Associate Head of Secondary, Tom Elmes, praised Jack’s initiative, stating: “Jack’s actions exemplify the core values we hold dear at Wilson Stuart.

“His leadership along with his respect have made a meaningful impact, reminding us all of the importance of remembrance and community.”

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]

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Helping young people with disabilities reach their goals

Words & pic supplied by The Hive College

The Hive College works with young people with disabilities to help prepare them for adulthood. Our motto is “Believing Is Achieving”.

Did you know that just 4.8% of adults with disabilities are in paid work? Shocking, isn’t it? Well, we at The Hive want to change that. We use Supported Internships to help our learners get into paid work.

They are similar to apprenticeships in that the learners spend the majority of their time in the workplace, getting hands-on experience whilst continuing to improve their English, Maths and ICT skills at college.

We send a Job Coach with the learners to ensure they are adding value to the business and have the support they need to put in place any reasonable adjustments they need due to their disabilities.

Over a year, the Job Coaches step back and allow the students to become independent at their job roles until they are no longer needed. At this point the business is expected to offer them an interview for a paid position.

We had great success last year with Reece who is now working as a cleaner for Serco and with Dan who has a job with Danny Sullivan Group (DSG).

About having Reece work at Serco, Gary Tempest, Facility Manager, told: “Reece brightens up every room he enters, and he is loved by all our team and customers.

“His passion, enthusiasm and desire to secure employment was so refreshing. Myself and the team at Northfield can’t wait to welcome into our work family.”

About his job with DSG, Dan Morgan told: “Thanks for helping me on my journey, it’s not the end but more of a new beginning.”

For more on The Hive College visit: www.hivecollege.org.uk

The Hive College 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]

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Queensbury School celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights

Words and pics by supplied by Queensbury School

Our school’s Diwali celebration was a vibrant and joyous occasion filled with cultural decorations, and togetherness.

The main celebration took place on the 4 Nov, starting with teachers showing Diwali presentations explaining the Festival of Lights.

The festivities began with students decorating classrooms with beautiful rangoli patterns and traditional diyas. This transformed the entire school into a glowing haven of light and colour, capturing the essence of Diwali.

During form time, teachers spoke about the significance of celebrating Diwali with eco-friendly practices, promoting a message of responsibility and care for the environment. Students were also encouraged to reflect on the school values of diversity, kindness and respect.

The event concluded with leaving everyone with smiles and the warmth of celebration. The Diwali celebration brought our school community closer, creating cherished memories and reinforcing cultural values.

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]

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Kings Rise Academy unites in remembrance for the fallen

Words and pics by KRA Editorial Team

On 11 November at Kings Rise Academy, students gathered to honour Remembrance Day, paying tribute to those who have lost their lives in war.

At 11 o’clock, the whole school observed a two-minute silence, where we all stayed quiet to show our respect for the soldiers who fought for our country. Many of us wore poppies as a way to remember the bravery of those who sacrificed so much.

Year 6 played a special role in the ceremony by reading a poem dedicated to the fallen. The words of the poem were powerful and moving, making us think deeply about how much was given up by people who came before us.

Listening to it, we felt proud, and it was like we were all saying thank you in our own way.

Mrs Noonan (head teacher) reminded us that this day is important to help us understand the meaning of remembrance and why we should never forget those who protected our future. Standing together in silence, it was clear that everyone felt the importance of this moment.

Kings Rise Academy’s ceremony showed that as a school, we are grateful for the sacrifices made for us, and we will always honour those who gave everything.

Kings Rise Editorial Team: Sienna Mills (Y5), Zaneta Onojah (Y5), Liyana Walters (Y5), Riley Mortiboys (Y5), Hiba Ahmed (Y4), Ehichoya Jason Obor (Y5).

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]

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Year 4 children at Kingsthorne Primary School visit Twycross Zoo

Words and pics supplied by Kingsthorne Primary School

On Friday 18 October, Year 4 children from Kingsthorne Primary School went to Twycross Zoo on a coach. When they were there, they saw lots of different animals – read some of their experiences and memories from the days below.

Rainbow Lorikeets:
“The rainbow lorikeets were one of the first animals we saw. They are rainbow birds with tongues instead of teeth. We got some disgusting yellow food and went to the exhibition. At first, the rainbow lorikeets where nowhere to be seen but then they kept coming and coming! They were attracted by the awful looking food!”

Orangutans:
“The orangutans were so big and orange it was quite scary! They had a big play enclosure with lots of equipment for them to climb, swing and jump off. Maybe we could have some of that for our playground…”

Butterflies:
“The butterflies are kept in a warm enclosure because this is more like their habitat at home. They were really bright and colourful and ate very sweet fruits. Up close, you could see how delicate their wings are.”

Other memories from the day:
“We were lucky enough to see bonobos, guerillas, rhinos, penguins and cheetahs too.”

“It was a great day at the zoo and when we got back on the coach to return to school we were tired but very happy!”

Thank-you to all of the Y4 children that contributed to this article, including: Zofia, Almamo, Layla, Kobie, Alis, Rim, Rebecca, Khadeza, Anomika, Jessie-Ann, Pernell, Lincoln, and Amelia.

For more on Twycross Zoo visit www.twycrosszoo.org

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]

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Wilson Stuart students embrace the love of reading

Words & pic supplied by Wilson Stuart School

Wilson Stuart School student with books from Bookbuzz 

Students at Wilson Stuart School are wholeheartedly embracing the joy of reading, thanks to their recent engagement with the Book Trust scheme, ‘Bookbuzz’.

This innovative initiative allows the school to pay a subscription, granting access to a vibrant selection of accessible, high-quality books.

Pupils are encouraged to conduct investigative work on these books, determining their interest before choosing one to enjoy at home and school. If they find a book to their liking, they have the delightful opportunity to keep it, thereby gaining access to hundreds of literary treasures throughout the year.

Central to this initiative is a generous donation from the Children’s Book Project, which has significantly enriched the students’ reading experience.

All children at Wilson Stuart School are now able to select a book to take home, fostering a lasting love of literature and ensuring every child has access to quality reading material.

A special visitor this year was Woody from Toy Story, adding excitement to the occasion.

Literacy lead Kristyl Bonner and EYFS learning lead Charlotte Davis expressed their gratitude, stating: “We would like to say a massive thank you to the Children’s Book Project in donating to Wilson Stuart and giving our students the opportunity to come along, pick up and take home a book of their choice. It shows the importance of reading and the power of books.”

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]

Posted on

BACK TO SCHOOL: Change of season – a poem by Daniel Selwood

By Daniel Selwood

We start with cold air.
Weak, unwarm sunshine,
Falling in rays –
A cold wind heaving
His chorus …

Imperceptible fade into summer,
The sound of happiness personified –
The tinkle of wind chimes,
The slam of struggling sea waves,
And the smell of cut, hot grass …

Then the weather makes an
Imprint like a potato: nice, paintable skies –
Yellow clouds and flying birds.
The smell of fire and the sound of crows …

We end with cold air.
A frosty feeling –
The taste of colds wrapped in a bandage
Around our tongues,
Burned away with a hot, sweet drink…

Daniel Selwood is a student at The Hive College who is involved in our BACK TO SCHOOL, LOCAL AMBASSADORS, and GET WRITING GET WORKING programmes – providing him a platform to support and develop his writing.

For more on The Hive College visit: www.hivecollege.org.uk

 The Hive College 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]