Heywood Academy Blog - 12.6.26

Celebrating National Thank a Teacher Day

In our weekly assembly this week, we were proud to celebrate National Thank a Teacher Day, a special opportunity to recognise the dedication and care shown by our staff every single day.

Our students took the lead in marking the occasion, writing messages of thanks to their teachers. These were shared during the assembly, with students confidently reading their words aloud. It was a lovely moment that reflected the strong relationships we see across the school and the genuine appreciation our students have for those who support them.

We were also delighted to receive so many positive messages from parents and carers. Your kind words about our staff team have meant a great deal to us all. Taking the time to share your appreciation has made our week.

Thank you to our whole school community for your continued support, it is always valued and very much appreciated.

Ms Crossley’s weekly update

English Update – Exploring Thought-Provoking Texts Across KS3

It has been another exciting and engaging half term in English, with pupils across Key Stage 3 immersing themselves in a range of powerful and thought-provoking texts.

Year 7 – Game Over: Rise of the Raid Mobs

Year 7 have been thoroughly enjoying Game Over: Rise of the Raid Mobs, a fast-paced and accessible novel that has really captured their interest. Pupils have been exploring character development and plot, as well as discussing key themes such as teamwork, resilience and bravery. It has been fantastic to see their enthusiasm for reading grow, with many pupils keen to share predictions and opinions about the story.

Year 8 – The Lottery by Shirley Jackson

Year 8 have been studying The Lottery by Shirley Jackson, a striking and unsettling short story that has prompted excellent discussion. Pupils have explored how tension and suspense are built throughout the text, particularly through the gradual revelation of events. They have also been developing their analytical skills, carefully examining how language and structure influence the reader’s response. We have been really impressed with the mature and thoughtful ideas pupils have shared.

Year 9 – 1984 by George Orwell

Year 9 have begun their study of 1984 by George Orwell, engaging with its complex and challenging ideas. Pupils have been exploring themes such as power, control and surveillance, while also developing their ability to interpret Orwell’s use of language. This has led to some insightful discussions about society and the role of authority, and it has been great to see pupils rising to the challenge of this demanding text.

Ms Zobeniica’s weekly update

Students have begun their Athletics topic across all year groups, making an excellent start to the unit.

Year 7 have been focusing on relay racing, learning the key techniques needed for successful baton exchanges and effective teamwork. They took part in team races around the track and showed fantastic encouragement and support for one another throughout the lesson. Year 8 have started their javelin unit. They have learned the correct grip and have begun developing their throwing technique to improve both accuracy and control. Students listened carefully to instructions, demonstrating a strong understanding of safety expectations. Year 9 have begun their long jump practice, where they will be developing their technique across the run-up, take-off, and landing phases in the coming weeks.

Year 9 have had an exciting horticulture opportunity this week, linking their learning to future careers. Students were invited to RHS Bridgewater, where they had the chance to speak with employers and professionals within the gardening sector. They explored a range of ‘green’ career pathways and gained valuable insight into the industry. The visit also included a hands-on planting experience, which the students thoroughly enjoyed and engaged with enthusiastically.

Ms Grace’s weekly update

It has been a fantastic week for 7G, filled with energy, enthusiasm and a real commitment to learning across the curriculum.

In Science, students explored the fascinating topic of gas exchange, bringing their learning to life by creating their own lung models. This hands-on activity helped everyone develop a deeper understanding of how the process works, and it was great to see such engagement and curiosity in the classroom.

Music lessons were equally lively, as students began learning how to play the recorder. The room was filled with plenty of enthusiastic first notes, and it was wonderful to see such confidence and willingness to try something new.

In English, 7G have been reading The Angel Player, and I was incredibly proud of how confidently students read aloud. Their positive attitude and determination to take part in every task really stood out and made a lasting impression.

Overall, it has been a brilliant week for 7G, demonstrating fantastic effort, curiosity and consistently positive attitudes towards their learning. Well done to everyone!