Preparing for British Science Week
Students have been asked to create a poster.
Diversity Talent Programme
On Monday, students in Year 9 who are participating in the DiversITy Talent programme were invited to the Science Museum by Nationwide Bank to look at technological advancements through the years. The group was led by two professional software developers, who spoke about their career pathway. Students were also given the opportunity to watch a 3D film about space travel and space stations. Nationwide commented on the exemplary behaviour and engagement they saw from our students.
Into Tech
Following a round of applications, selected Year 10 students started their Into Tech work experience programme. Into Tech is a high-impact intervention programme with the aim of highlighting careers in the technology industry. Our students took part in an employer-led virtual insight day activity with Infinite Vision, a social media marketing company.
British Science Week
For British Science Week 2025, students have been asked to create a poster showing how plants and animals adapt to changing seasons or surroundings or how humans have adapted to changing technology. They could also examine climate change and how we can adapt our behaviours to protect the environment or their favourite science experiment and how it shows change. The more creative the interpretation of the theme, the better! The deadline is Thursday, 27th March. Please encourage your child to participate.
Sports fixtures updates
Football
On Tuesday, our Year 10 football team played Oasis Shirley Park. A'Shyah’s goal put us in the lead. More success continued as we scored a second with a well-composed penalty taken from Joe T. However, we entered half-time with a precarious lead at 2-1. Oasis quickly fired goals to win the game 4-2. There were many positives to take from the game and some standout performances from Malachi, Ricardo, Keetan and Alex.
Rugby
Last Friday, a dynamic team of Year 8 and 9 students stormed the 7s rugby tournament. Each match was a fierce battle. Jermaine showcased his incredible ball-carrying skills and had our opponents scrambling. In the final game against Oasis Shirley Park, we fought hard but narrowly missed out on the win, securing an impressive third place overall.
The team displayed resilience and determination, making it a performance to be proud of, one that will serve as a solid foundation for their future rugby journeys. A special shoutout to Shay, who played in an unfamiliar position and became a vital part of the team’s success. We are just beginning our rugby journey here at Orchard Park so it is fantastic to see such an encouraging performance. Huge congratulations to everyone involved
Opportunities beyond the classroom
The PE department has been working hard to provide opportunities beyond the classroom for some of our most talented students. Excellence being part of our school values, we aim to live and breathe this within our work, not only as teachers but as a community. We recently had three students invited to AFC Wimbledon for a player monitoring trial game in which they were able to showcase their talents to coaches and scouts at the Academy. Those students involved were Joe (Year 11), Mason and Trey (both Year 7). The journey to becoming a signed academy player involves competing with the top 1% across the country. The fact that three of our students were invited speaks volumes of their abilities. Following positive feedback from the Head of Recruitment, Trey has officially been invited into AFC Wimbledon to start his trial and was recently involved in his first game beating Fulham FC 6-1 last weekend. A former student, Hayden Ford, was recently offered a scholarship at Premier League Club Wolverhampton. Hayden has been selected for the England Youth Football Team. We wish Hayden the best of luck in his journey to the top!
Notices
A message from the residents of Kaine Place. Please park carefully here, ensuring residents’ cars can get in and out when you are dropping off or collecting your child. Thank you.
A reminder that Friday 28th March is an inset day: the school will be closed to all students.
Ms C Moran Headteacher