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Football League Winners

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to our Year 8 Football team who have recently won the Basildon & District Schools League for their age group.

Students have designs on art

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Accompanied by Art teacher and photographer Laura Chapman and Head of Art and Design, Michael McCall, Year 13 students taking BTEC Photography and Year 12 students studying Art and Design toured the Royal Opera House Bob and Tamar Manouklan Production Workshop taking photographs of the craftsman and women at work.

The Year 13 Students are working on their final project based on the myth of Orpheus. Their work is to be shown as part an exhibition for Wordfest in Brighton, a festival based on the link between the written word and art. As part of this project, the students are looking at theatre productions and how stories and feeling are portrayed in theatre design.

The students then had the opportunity to work with Sim Cannetty-Clark, a professional photographer who works for the Royal Opera House amongst other clients. Sim shared her expertise with the students, helping them develop their photography skills. The Year 12 students are studying 3D installation as part of their course. They were able to see how 3D design and 3D art work together in theatre and set design. They also looked at the temporary sculpture exhibition at the High House Production Park, examining how the sculptures have been displayed and how they fit their surroundings.

The sculpture exhibition is supported by the Royal Opera House, Arts Council England and The Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation and features the work of five international artists: Anthony Gormley, Steven Gregory, Marcus Kleinfeld, Tim Morgan and Jilly Sutton.

Jo Smith, Creative Schools Manager at Royal Opera House Thurrock said: “Having the sculptures at the High House Production Park has provided an added dimension to the students’ visit to see inside the Royal Opera House Bob and Tamar Manoukian Production Workshop”.

The High House Sculpture runs until 19^th March. For further information about the exhibition go to www.highhouseproductionpark.co.uk or call 017080892620

Cinderella

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The 6^thForm Performing Arts group are currently performing ‘Cinderella’ in the main hall on the Upper site. The show has been in production for ten weeks and thanks to the dedicated hard work of staff and students the show opened Tuesday 17^th to rave reviews from all who viewed the first performances.

Just wanted to say thank you so much for inviting us to watch the panto yesterday - it was fantastic and our children loved it!!
Well done to everyone involved in the show - it must have taken a lot of hard work to get it to such a great standard
Deborah Rowe
Greensted Juniors

Primary school students from Greensted, Pitsea and Northlands enjoyed a spectacular blend of song, dance and comic acting, together with; amazing costumes, dazzling lighting and heart stopping sound effects the audience enjoyed a thoroughly professional performance.

The Punctuation Roadshow

Fri, 9 Dec 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The Basildon Academy was delighted to welcome Barrie and his ‘Punctuation Roadshow’ on Wednesday and Thursday. Barrie entertained Years 7, 8 and 9 with his educational and hilarious songs about punctuation. He also put on a special show for our neighbouring primary schools, Northlands and Greenstead, who very much enjoyed themselves. Thank you Barrie!

Sixth Form Application

Tue, 1 Nov 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Applications for the Academy Sixth form for next years intake can be accepted as of today.

Click here to apply

The Final Curtain

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Year 9 BTEC Performing Arts students delivered their drama pieces to family and friends. Orange 9 students performed their version of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Blue 9 performed a play called ‘Hard to Swallow’ both plays were well received by the audience and a great success.

Student authors published

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The KS3 English presentation saw our Year 7 & 8 students from the 'Adopt an Author' project receive their stories, scripts, poems and jokes in print for the first time. The students first novel ‘BLAA 2’is a result of their hard work following a number of workshops with Paul Herzberg and Roy Apps where they have learnt different skills and developed their understanding of literacy. Students were joined by their mentoring author Paul Herzberg as they read out snippets from the book to an audience of class mates, family and teachers. Following the presentation everyone was invited to enjoy a freshly prepared buffet.

Talking to the Elderly

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Members of our Student Voice were invited to Abbeyfield residential home today to meet with their local residents and host a Talkoke session. The students explored the residents education and life with the cane, their daily routines at the home and were asked about Academy life, the school and how they enjoy spending their time and their hopes for the future. Abbeyfield were over the moon with how the afternoon went and have asked the students to come back in the future to continue the relationship between the young students and their elderly residents.

Crucial Crew Event

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Today, The Lower Academy hosted the annual ‘Crucial Crew’ event, attended by all the Year 6 students of Pitsea and Greensted Schools. The event ran mini workshops to teach children about topics such as healthy eating and lifestyles, drug awareness, local issues such as crime and housing, as well as the importance of education. Students got to interact in the workshops where they made their own fruit smooties and took part in some short drama plays.

Goodbye Year 11

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The Year 11 students have said their final farewell to the Basildon Academies with a leavers assembly and end of Year Prom. The students to the Academies one last time today where they attended their final assembly to honour the students and present them with awards to recognise their hard work and achievements over the last five years. The Assembly was followed by the leavers Prom which was held at Orsett Hall. Students and staff enjoyed a three course dinner followed by a disco in the stunning grounds.

Princes Trust award our students

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Today, 16 of our students from Year 9 and 10 have been presented with medals at the Bower and Pitsea Football Club. This follows a 6 week course as part of the Princes Trust in which the students have been undergoing different workshops and tasks with manager Colin. The students have enjoyed football coaching, boxing, exercising in the gym as well as working towards targets set by themselves and Colin. The program, which is designed to encourage students to work as part of a team and to build confidence, has been a huge success and one all the students have enjoyed. Well done to all the students who have taken part and thanks to Bowers and Pitsea Football Club and the Princes Trust for giving these students these opportunities.

Music Festival Host

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:00:00 GMT

If you have been in the atrium this week you would have heard the sweet tones of our local primary school children preparing for their music festival. The event which ran for 3 nights joins all the local primary schools for one big musical show. Parents have been beaming in the audience and the show has been a great success. Well done to all the little ones who took part.

Students qualify as PADI divers

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The Basildon Academies have recently had the opportunity to get students involved in more sporting activities for the Olympic Legacy with sponsors coming from Basildon School Sports Partnership and Sports Unlimited. The year 11 students were given the chance to take part in a scuba diving course, resulting them in becoming qualified PADI divers. 10 students took this on, they took part in classroom lessons & experienced their first dive in the school pool. 13 weeks of training & overcoming fears and challenges they all got to qualify by doing a series of dives in open water at Buckland Lake in Kent.

Adopt an Author

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 7 and 8 students have been working with Paul Herzberg since October as part of our Adopt an Author project. The students have been working to improve their literary skills and will be publishing their own book following the workshops they have taken with Paul. All students have now handed in their final pieces of work for publication, these include poems, film reviews, comedy sketches, play scripts and stories. The students had their last session with Paul last week and are now eagerly awaiting the publication of their book, BLAA 2 which will be ready in July!

Inspirational visit

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The Basildon Academies welcomed Karen Frank for a visit this week. Karen is the head of the European Women’s Network and works closely with women’s and children charities, she visited both the Lower and Upper site and took time to speak with members of our Student Voice team on the Lower and a group of Year 12 students on the Upper. Karen had some great advice for the students and was very inspirational.

Students make county standards

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 12:00:00 GMT

A number of our students were recently selected to represent Basildon in the County Athletics Championship. On Saturday the students competed in their events at Melbourne Park in Chelmsford where many of them made the finals and being recognised as County standard. Well done to everyone who took part in the day.

Primary District Athletics

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 12:00:00 GMT

London is hosting the 2012 Olympics and this week we have hosted the Primary District Athletics. Students from the local Basildon Schools attended the Lower Academy to compete against each other in a range of athletic events. Parents and teachers cheered the youngsters from the sidelines and the proud winners went home with a smile on their face.

Maths Exam record

Thu, 9 Jun 2011 12:00:00 GMT

With Year 10 and 11 taking the Maths GSCE this week we have had a record number of students sitting one paper. This week, nearly 750 students across the year groups took the exam in across three sessions in a hope to reach their grades in August. Well done and good luck to everyone who took part.

New Sports Leaders

Wed, 25 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

19 of our Year 9 students delivered a multi skills fesitival to Year 4 students at Fairhouse Junior School and were awarded their Level 1 Sports Leader Award, The Leaders had to organise, plan and deliver their multi skill activity to groups of 8 children for 10 minutes on rotations for one hour. The feedback from the young students and the school was really positive and our students demonstrated excellent communication skills, organisation, and responsibility and ensured the children were safe at all times while taking part and enjoying their game. They all enjoyed their experience and will be delivering more multi skills fesitivals to other local primary school as well as offering help and support for school sports days in the near future. Well done to all the students who took part and achieved their level 1 award.

2Smart Roadshow

Tue, 24 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Today, our Year 7 students were invited, along with other local schools, to attend the 2Smart Roadshow held at Basildon’s Towngate Theatre. The event is put on each year by Essex Police and Essex County Council and is to help raise awareness to the dangers of drugs, bullying, knives and alcohol. Over 1000 children from the Basildon area enjoyed the 90 minute show which features actors, singers, dancers, stuntmen and performers all with a story to tell. Each The Year 7’s were given an interactive programme on their arrival which they used throughout the show to participate witht he performers on stage. Students were selected from the audience to take part in games on stage with one of ours playing basketball against another school. After the show the students were raving about what lessons they had learnt and how much the enjoyed themselves. To see a video of our students talking about the road show please visit http://www.2smart.co.uk/videos.html

Dance Leadership Award

Mon, 23 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Year 10 students Daisy Borg and Annie Emeny have both been awarded their Level 1 in Dance Leadership. The girls had a two week work experience placement where they competently organised and led dance activities for Year 7 and 8 students, taught creative dance routines they had choreographed themselives and assisted with workshops at Kreate Dance Centre. Both girls have shown great potential for a future in dance.

Royal Appointment

Wed, 18 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, our Gateway FM student volunteers were invited to the radio studios to welcome a very special guest. HRH the Duke of Gloucester paid a visit to the station and took time to meet with the students and ask them about their involvement with Gateway FM. Ryan Phillpot and Josh McDougall were also presented with their Princess Diana Awards for their commitment to volunteering at Gateway FM. It was an honour for the students to meet with His Royal Highness and for them to be recognised for their hard work and achievements.

Athletic Season

Fri, 13 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 students have been taking part in the district athletics this week at Gloucester Park. Competing against other schools the students have taken part in relay, hurdles, high jump, discus, javelin, 100 metres and much more. We are awaiting results but well done to all the students who took part.

Student Leaders make us proud

Mon, 9 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

A number of our Student Leaders have been working with 9 local primary schools as part of the Tag Rugby Programme. The students have helped organise and referee at the Tag rugby district finals tournament and were praised by staff, students and parents.

Speak out regional finals

Fri, 6 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Last night Abbie Boughtwood and Aimee Basham took part in the Jack Petchy Speak Out Regional Finals. The girls competed against students from the Basildon and Chelmsford area. The girls delivered the speech with confidence and conviction and really enjoyed taking part.

Our very own beauty queen

Mon, 2 May 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 11 student Paige Jarvis has made it through to the finals of Miss Teen Queen UK. Beating 39 other young hopefuls in her regional heats Paige will now compete for the crown in the national finals in September. If she is crowded Teen Queen UK Paige will win a modelling contract and tons of fashion and beauty goodies. Well done and Good Luck Paige.

Royal Wedding Celebrations

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The world was gripped as Prince William married Kate Middleton last week. Here at the Academies we had our own celebrations as Cucina put on a right royal feast for students and staff. The menu included wedding cake, larger jelly and British burgers.

Easter Revision

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 12:00:00 GMT

During the Easter break 150 of our Year 10 and 11 students have been attending additional revision sessions in preparations for their exams this summer. Covering English, Maths, DT, Engineering, Geography, Textiles, Art, ICT, Business Studies, Performing Arts, PE, Science and Travel and Tourism the sessions have been running 9am til 12.30pm or 1pm til 4pm. It has been great to see so many enthusiastic students putting in the extra hours to reach their grades.

Essex Art Award for our Year 8 student

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 8 student James Funete has received his Essex Arts Award from Gateway FM during the Easter holidays. James, who suffers from cystic fibrosis has been volunteering at community radio station Gateway 97.8 and has been recognised for his hard work and dedication by being presented with his Essex Arts Award certificate by Ian Clark, general manager of Eastgate Centre where the Gateway studios are housed. Well done James.

Another win for our football team

Wed, 6 Apr 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Following in the footsteps of the Year 10 and 11 football team our Year 8’s have won the district cup for their year group. Having taken the title at the district league, the team took on Bromfords for the cup final beating them 5-4. The game was close and the score remained 4-4 until just 5 minutes before the end. Well done to all the team and coaches.

Double win for the Academies

Fri, 1 Apr 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Last night was a double celebration for the Basildon Academies as we won, not one but two district league football cups. Having successfully made their way into the finals our Year 10 team faced James Hornsby and took the title in a 4-2 win. At the same time, having won the district league a week ago against Beauchamps our Year 11 team took on Woodlands for the finals and won 2-1. This is the first time we have every won the cup and all the players and coaches are over the moon. Well done lads.

Year 10's take a trip to learn about medicine

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday 29th March, 33 Year 10 History students travelled to London, to visit two museums to provide them with an introduction to Medicine through Time. The students visited the Wellcome Collection Museum, where they had a tour of three exhibitions:

· Medicine Man Gallery

· Medicine Now Gallery

· “Dirt: the filth and reality of everyday life” Exhibition

They also visited The Old Operating Theatre Museum. The students actively listened to an hour-long talk about Victorian Surgery in the time before the advent of Anaesthesia. The surgery talk provided a compelling interpretation of surgery, and culminated in a demonstration given by one of the curatorial staff who took on the role of a 19th Century surgeon. The group sat around the tiered stands of the Operating Theatre, where 19th Century students would originally have stood to witness operations without anaesthesia or antiseptics. Original Victorian surgical instruments were used to perform an 'amputation' of a volunteer patient's left leg.

The students asked lots of questions and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Student awarded the Painters-Stainers Award

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Today, Sixth Form student George Tellam and his mum attended a London Awards ceremony at the infamous Painter's Hall. Joined by students from some of the top schools in the country George was recognised and awarded for his outstanding artwork. In a special ceremony George was presented with a certificate and £100 to spend on art books and materials. Following the presentation guests were served tea and coffee while they had the change to view the winners work in a special exhibition. Well done George on this brilliant achievement.

Strengthening families

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

This week will see the start of a new workshop held at the Basildon Academies. Parents of our most challenging students have been invited to attend a three hour workshop to help develop their parenting skills and strength families who may be struggling to cope. We hope this will benefit the parents, students and the Academies.

Speak Out Challenge

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

This week, seven of our Year 10 students took part in the Speak Out Challenge delivering speeches to the Year 8 Assembly. The students were asked to work on a speech on a subject of their choice, we had subjects such as food and poverty, guide dogs, football and money, and the value of friendship. During the Assembly the Tutors, College Heads and members of the English department were asked to judge the speakers to establish the top two who are now being entered into the Regional Final.

Our top speaker was Abbie Boughtwood and runner up Aimee Basham, they will now join students from other schools on 5th May for the regional finals.

Year 11 take the lead

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 11 football team may have been down about getting knocked out of the English Schools Cup in the quarter finals, but they proved why they were the last school in Essex standing in a national competition and why they made it so far by winning the district football league last night.

Seven of the local schools entered the league, Woodlands, Mayflower, De La Salle, Bromfords, Billericay, Beauchamps and ourselves. Each school played each other during the tournament. Undefeated throughout we won all six matched and took the title in a 6-3 win against Beauchamps.

A semi final cup match will take place shortly.

Sea cadets get awarded

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Last night our Year 11 student Ian Neave-Houghting was presented with a Jack Petchy Award at a special ceremony in Kensington. Awarded for his outstanding contribution towards Basildon Sea Cadets Ian joined a number of other outstanding and inspirational young students all of who are linked to water sports and sea projects or clubs. The Jack Petchy foundation recognised and rewards 11-25 year olds who support their local community and help to make a difference to others.

Year 10 Parents Evening

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

On Thursday the parents of our Year 10 students were invited to discuss their child’s progress with their teachers as well as getting the first chance to see the Upper Academy where year 10 are now based. The evening went really well with parents showing a great interest in the Academies.

Speaking and Listening tasks

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Over the last couple of days some of our Year 9 students have been working on their speaking and listening skills with a trainer from the Speakers Trust Organisation which is part of the Jack Petchey Project. Students have taken on a number of new challenges and have all worked extremely hard on their tasks.

Lord Adonis hears our views

Wed, 9 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

This week we had a visit from Lord Adonis who joined our students from our Student Voice on the Talkaoke table for discussions on rewards, school trips and teaching. After a short tour of the Lower Academy our visitor joined the Sixth Form students for a discussion on University courses. The visit was very beneficial for everyone involved.

Pat on the back from the High Sheriff

Mon, 7 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 9 student Joshua O’Sullivan has been recognised and rewarded by the High Sheriff for his voluntary work he does with Craylands Activity Zone. Joshua helps at the centre during school holidays running the tuck shop, settling in new children and manning the games table. As part of the award the centre have received a much needed grant which will enable them to train new staff and take the children on day trips. Joshua attended an awards ceremony in Braintree where he was presented with the award and High Sheriff cup.

Quarter final knock out

Fri, 4 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 11 Football team had done extremely well to make it through to the quarter finals of the English Schools Football Cup. Sadly last week their run of good luck came to an end when we lost 5-3 to Towers School. It was a shame to not make the next stage but we are sure the lads were grateful of the support throughout the competition.

Slice of success

Fri, 4 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The Sixth Form students have been working extremely hard this week as they performed their play ‘A Slice of Saturday Night’ for four consecutive nights. A production based in ‘Club A-Go-Go’ explores pulling techniques of teenagers. The roars of laughter that were heard from the car park is sure sign the audience enjoyed the show.

Glee club take 3rd place

Wed, 2 Mar 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our ‘Glee club’ music students came 3rd in a Showchior competition last night at Basildon’s Towngate Theatre. The show, in connection with the Rotary club gave a number of schools from Essex the chance to take to the stage and perform a 6 minute Glee inspired piece in front of a panel of judges and live audience. The winning group would win a trophy as well as joining opera sensation Blake on stage at Southend’s Cliffs Pavilion when they visit Southend as part of their national tour next month. Our 15 students spend weeks rehearing their rock chick themed performance before the show last night. The judging panel, which included local star Josh Dubovie rated each of the performances before announcing the winner. Our girls were thrilled to be awarded the third place trophy which will be displayed in our awards cabinet shortly. Well done for everyone’s hard work.

Changes to the Academies

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Since returning from half term staff and students would have noticed a lot of changes within the Academy. A new behaviour programme has been put in place and the college system has changed with students now moving between schools. Thank you all for your cooperation while everyone gets to grips with the new system.

The Basildon Academies join Twitter

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Celebrities do it, businesses do it, children do it and now we do it! The Basildon Academies are ready to launch our official Twitter account. We will be bringing parents, staff and external businesses all the latest news and events from the Basildon Academies.

Following the success of the students Facebook page which we launched at the end of 2010 we have decided to use twitter to communicate with a wider audience of people who may be interested to see all the good work our students are doing.

If you would like to follow us and keep up to date on all the latest news from across both Academies we can be found at www.twitter.com/basildonacademy.

Year 10s move to the Upper Academy in time for exams

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

The students will now be evenly split with roughly 800 students on each site which will mean less congestion for staff and students during lunch and break. A new classroom structure will also be brought in from the start of the half term with classrooms being dedicated to set subjects. Although this will mean slightly more moving for the students it will also give the teachers a regular base to plan and structure lessons as well as making it easier to store and display students’ work. Alongside the student move we will be introducing our new behaviour policy which will come into action from 28th February. All students and parents will receive information about the policy and we hope that by bringing a stronger programme into play we are able to eliminate disruptive students, putting them on a one to one learning programme which will benefit all other students and will make a difference to our exam results.

Students Shine for Princess Diana

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

While celebrating the New Year, we had even more reason to celebrate as three of our students were awarded with The Diana Award at the beginning of term. The awards were to recognise the hard work our students have done with Basildon’s community radio station Gateway FM.

Lord Petre, Lord Lieutenant of Essex, presented Lewis Blaney, 17, currently in our Sixth Form and Tyler Pittaway, 16, with their Diana Award certificates. Ex-student Harry Finn, 17 was awarded an extra special award. The Princess Diana Lifetime Achievement Award following his hard work and commitment while at Gateway FM as well as his work for the local community. The awards ceremony was held at the Gateway FM studios in the Eastgate Shopping Centre. We are incredibly proud of all three students on achieving this award. Congratulations boys.

Slice of Saturday Night

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

In February our Year 10 students will be returning from half term and settling into their new accommodation on the Upper Academy site. This shift in Year groups will mean changes across both sites with all students seeing a positive change to their education. The students will now be evenly split with roughly 800 students on each site which will mean less congestion for staff and students during lunch and break. A new classroom structure will also be brought in from the start of the half term with classrooms being dedicated to set subjects. Although this will mean slightly more moving for the students it will also give the teachers a regular base to plan and structure lessons as well as making it easier to store and display students’ work. Alongside the student move we will be introducing our new behaviour policy which will come into action from 28th February. All students and parents will receive information about the policy and we hope that by bringing a stronger programme into play we are able to eliminate disruptive students, putting them on a one to one learning programme which will benefit all other students and will make a difference to our exam results.

Adopt an Author UPDATE

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

22 of our Year 7 students have been working with Paul Herzberg since November as part of our Adopt an Author project. The students have worked on producing their own film scripts and have recently moved onto journalism.

Looking at some powerful and persuasive speeches, the students were then asked to work on their own speeches on a topic of their choice. The end results were amazing and they confidently delivered their speeches to the rest of the group.

The students have been really positive and enthusiastic in their sessions with Paul and have been creating very high quality work. This has all helped to extend and develop their writing skills.

UFriday just got bigger

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our UFriday programme has been running for four months and hundreds of our students have enjoyed learning new skills and gaining experience in different areas, such as Scuba Diving, Football, Fashion and Beauty, Yoga, Hell’s Kitchen, and Special FX Make Up. The UFriday Programme is set up to give the students an opportunity to stay in school on a Friday after their academic day has finished. The programme runs from 1:30pm to 3:30pm and is free of charge. When we return from the half term we will have six new courses on offer including Photography, Acting Techniques and Athletics. All students on the Lower Academy are encouraged to join a course.

A UFriday market place was held at the end of this half term for students to learn more about each course and see some of them in action. More information about the UFriday Programme can be found on our website.

Glee Competition is shaping up

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

14 of our Performing Arts students from Year 7 to 10 have formed a Glee club as part of the Rotary Club Songchoir contest. Our group will compete against six other schools from the local area including Woodlands, Beauchamps High School, Castle View School, Gable Hall and St Clere’s School. To kick start the competition we were visited by local Eurovision Song Contest star Josh Dubovie, who will be one of five judges when our students perform. The show will take place at The Towngate Theatre in Basildon on 1st March. Good Luck girls.

Student voice speak out

Thu, 3 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our 75 Lower Academy student voice representatives have been presented with their student voice pin badges this half term. The gold badges sit on the lapel of the student’s blazer and will help all students to identify their student voice representatives for their college.

The Student Forum meets approximately three times per half term to give the students a chance to raise any issues and concerns they may have about the Academies and to put forward ideas on how we can improve certain areas.

Yr11 Football team in quarter finals

Wed, 2 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Last night our Year 11 football team made it through to the quarter finals in the English Schools Football Cup. Playing Riddlesdown Collegiate in Croydon the game was 1-1 at full time with 20 minutes extra time following, the game was then taken to a penalty shoot out where we won 4-3. Goalie Mitchell Clarke saved two penalties by the opposition and was awarded Man of the Match for his skills throughout the game. From 765 teams we are now down to the final 8 and hope our next match will see us make it into the semi-finals. Keep up the good work lads.

Whizz Kids Rewarded

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

This month six of our students using wheelchairs were awarded their Bronze, Silver and Gold certificates recognising their confidence and skills in using and manoeuvring their machines while in school.

The students, some who use manual and others who use electric wheelchairs, were set a number of challenges including an emergency stop, getting into and out of a room, showing an understanding of the Highway Code and using a pedestrian crossing. This was to demonstrate and test their skills in operating their chairs in the outside world as well as in the classroom. All the students received at least one level of the award and were presented with the certificate by Miss King in a special ceremony. Miss King was very impressed by the hard work everyone had put in and the skills they had learnt. The students should feel very proud of their great achievements this half term.

Young Person’s Parliament UPDATE

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Six of our Year 8 students have been involved in the Basildon Council’s Young Persons’ Parliament Project. Together with a number of schools in the local area, our students have been working on their own manifesto to help improve our community. Over 100 students visited the Houses of Parliament as part of the campaign and attended workshops to help them create a manifesto and film their campaign video.

The parties were part of ‘The Big Debate’ at Townsgate Theatre where they presented their ideas to other parties and members of the local community before answering questions from the audience. In the coming weeks each school will be given a ballot box and voting papers for each student to vote on the idea and party they wish to back. After the election, the winning party will receive £5000 to put their ideas into action and make changes to their community. The project has been very enjoyable and educational for our students and has helped them to think about the area in which they live and how they can make a difference and make improvements.

Year 11 Football team make it through to the next round

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Well done to the Year 11 Football team who are now down to the final 16 schools in the English Schools’ Football Cup following a 3-2 win on Wednesday against Leiston High School from Suffolk. 765 schools entered the competition last year. The Basildon Academies are the only Essex school left in the competition and we will play Riddlesdown Collegiate in round 7. Good luck to everyone involved.

Dance Students steal the show

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 11, 12 and 13 BTEC dance students hosted their own dance school at the Lower Academy on Tuesday night. ‘Fusion’ saw a mixture of dance styles including musical theatre and street dance. A number of the pieces were choreographed by the students as part of their coursework. Parents, teachers and fellow students were in attendance to help support the show. Well done to everyone involved. It was a huge success.

Christmas for the Elderly

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Last night, 65 of our elderly local residents joins us for our annual Senior Citizens’ Christmas meal. Originally scheduled for December the meal was postponed due to the snow, giving the guests something to look forward to following the madness of Christmas. Student helpers were on hand to greet our guests and show them to their seats. Our drama students performed a short play called ‘The Unwanted Gift’ before our Year 10 music students sang a few songs. Dinner was served by the students and our guests enjoyed a fill Christmas dinner with turkey and all the trimmings followed by Christmas pudding. Rock and Roll tribute act ‘Let’s Rock n’ Roll’ then entertained while Tea, Coffee and Mince pies were served. Our music teacher Mr Eldred finished the evening off with a song along before our guests were taking to awaiting taxi’s for their journey home. Everyone had a lovely time and the students really enjoyed helping at the event and chatting to the local residents. We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year.

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Our team have reached the quarter finals of the English Schools Football Cup and their next match will be played on home turf. The lads will play Towers School on Thursday 3rd March at the Basildon Upper Academy. Kickoff is 2pm. Good luck to the team.

Year 11 Football team hoping to bring the cup home

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

765 schools entered the competition and at the end of last term we made it through to Round 6 of the competition. With just 32 schools left and being the only school representing Essex the boys have done extremely well. The next match will take place on Wednesday 19th January.

Romeo and Juliet visit the Academies

Sat, 8 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

On Saturday our Year 11 Diamond and Year 10 Sapphire students attended our Romeo and Juliet Saturday school revision day.

Students watched an abridged performance of the Shakespeare play by Saytwo productions before attending a 45 minute workshop followed by a Questions and Answers session. All students in attendance seemed to enjoy the performance and workshops that were put on for them. This is ahead of the Unit 2A English exam on Wednesday 12th January.

Students part of Young Persons Election

Fri, 7 Jan 2011 12:00:00 GMT

A group of our Year 8 students have been working with the Basildon Council while taking part in the Young Person’s Parliament Project. A number of schools across the county have been attending workshops and lessons to learn and develop their own manifestos which will run as part of a Young Person’s election. The Big Debate takes part at Townsgate Theatre in Basildon on 17th January where our student’s ideas will then put to a vote. The winning party will receive £5000 to put their plans into action.

Student Magazine Launched

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:00:00 GMT

This term we have be working hard to find a team of student editors to launch our very first student magazine. Students were asked to apply for the role of editor and had to submit an article suitable for the magazine as well as summary of what they wanted from a publication. We had a great response and selecting our editors wasn’t an easy task. The first issue launched in December, it contains sports reports, academy stories, quizzes, teacher interviews and much more. B.A-N.G will be a fortnightly publication and all students are invited to submit articles and ideas.

Sixth Form Open Day at the Upper Academies newly opened College

Thu, 9 Dec 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Leaving school is a big milestone for 16 year olds and planning your future can be very daunting; there are so many careers to choose from and courses to think about.

Last week we held a Sixth Form Open Day at the Upper Academies newly opened College where our Year 11 students and other potential candidates had the opportunity to learn about and trial a number of Sixth Form courses we have on offer. Teachers and students were on hand to talk through the different courses and showcase some of the extraordinary work produced in our Sixth Form. The event ran from 8.30am until 9pm in the evening where parents were invited to join their children as they discussed their future education and took the next steps to applying for the courses. We had an overwhelming response and great feedback about the event, with a number of students rushing to complete their application forms the same day. We look forward to welcoming our current Year 11’s and new faces to our Sixth form in September of 2011.

Christmas Dinner Celebrations

Wed, 8 Dec 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Before going on their Christmas break the students at the Basildon Academies were treated to their very own Christmas dinner parties last week. Year 7 & 8 students shared the restaurant on Wednesday and Year 9 & 10 did on Thursday.

On the Upper site Year 11 & Sixth Form enjoyed their meal on Wednesday. The catering staff from Cucina, served up turkey with all the trimmings, Christmas pudding or chocolate mousse, a drink and crackers to all our students. It was empty plates and party hats all round.

Official Basildon Academies Facebook account information

Wed, 1 Dec 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The official Basildon Academies Facebook account is www.facebook.com/thebasildonacademies This is the only Facebook profile to display correct information about school closures. If you are taking the information from Facebook please check your son or daughter are connected to the official account. We will also announce any closures via the Academies website, the Learning Platform and local radio. All students over the age of 13 are invited to join our Facebook page for news updates, academy stories and photos from events.

Year 7 students experience Roman food tasting.

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

As part of their Roman History lesson, some of our Year 7 students stayed in school yesterday to sample some of the food enjoyed by the Romans in ancient times.

Sampling cooked cucumber, fresh bread and a garlic dip followed by a fig cake and wash down with a honey flavoured drink we had a mixed reaction from the students, while some rushed to the bin to spit it out others came back for seconds. Next week the students will become part of a Roman Army as they continue to learn about life as a Roman.

Facebook launched for students

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The Basildon Academies official Facebook page has launched this week. The page is for students aged 13 and above and will be used to post important information, reminders, event photos and after school club information.

People outside of the Basildon Academies will not be able to receive access. We hope that all students will find it beneficial and enjoy the online community we have built for them. Students may request us as a friend at www.facebook.com/thebasildonacademies

Children In Need fund raising success at the Academies.

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The students and staff at the Basildon Academies had a nice excuse to stuff themselves with cookies and sweets all of last week as Cucina held a week long cookie sale to raise money for Children In Need. Over the course of the week, Cucina had also been making a giant Pudsey Bear cookie which was donated to the Little Havens Hospice. Our Sixth form students also help a Bottle stall at 10p a go and our Year 11 and Sixth Form football team played a friendly and charged people to watch. All in all we raised over £3000.

Thank you to everyone who got involved.

Sixth Form saviours help elderly lady.

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

We received a letter of commendation from the Chief Constable of Essex Police, thanking two of our Sixth form students Daniel Haslett & Simon Luckhurst for helping and comforting an elderly lady who they found laying in the street. The pair contacted emergency services and remained with the lady ensuring her comfort and safety until her family arrived. Both Daniel and Simon have been awarded the Jack Petchey award and a charity donation for the efforts.

Sixth Form Entrepreneurs plan new business.

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

As part of the Global Entrepreneurship Week some of our Sixth form students spend the day researching and creating a business plan for a new business which could be launched in December and could be set up on a market stool. Our teams come up with some great ideas and the winning team, with their business, Santa’s Workshop has been entered into the next stage of the competition where they will be up against 27,000 students from across the UK. The winners will receive a trip to test their business ideas, have a business coffee meeting with Peter Jones from Dragons Den and have use of video mentoring and access to websites to help turn their ideas into reality.

Amnesty International awareness campaign gets going.

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The Basildon Academies are taking part in a greeting card campaign to raise awareness and show support to Amnesty international. Our students and staff will be raising money to send greeting cards to people who have suffered abuse of human rights in the hope that our messages will bring them great comfort. Each Year group has been given a target number of cards to send and we hope to have sent 420 greeting cards by the end of term.

Four Year 7 Blue students attend an Anti-bullying conference.

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Four of our Year 7 Blue students attended an Anti-bullying conference run by the Basildon District Youth Council, an organisation run by some of our ex pupils acting as the voice of young people in Basildon. The BDYC work to tackle the issues that matter to the 11-19 year olds the most.

As part of Anti-bullying week Jemma Adams, Lewis Morgan, Coby Nelson and Kirby Cousins attended the conference along with other students from the local primary and secondary schools. The students took part in some team building games and group discussions to address bullying and understand the impact bullying can have on individuals. The BDYC are hoping to come into the Academies to give a talk during an assembly to encourage more of our students to support their campaign.

Saturday School is a success

Sat, 13 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Over the last two weeks we have held Maths and English revision Saturday school for our Year 10 and 11 students, leading up to their exams. Nearly 300 students attend across the two weeks with everyone working hard and finding it very beneficial. Thank you to all involved.

Jonathan Goodwin of Jefferies tours the Upper and Lower Academies

Tue, 9 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The Basildon Academies were delighted to welcome Jonathan Goodwin of Jefferies to tour the Upper and Lower Academies. While building work is still underway at the Upper Academy we were proud to show Jonathan round our newly completed college. On the Lower Academy Jonathan toured our Orange College and sat in on some of the Year 7 and 8 classes before attending an assembly. Amber Gibbs and Kurt Hollington lead the tour and Maisy Hollings presented Jonathan with copy of BLAA before his departure.

Success as 250 students attend new UFriday programme.

Fri, 5 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Today saw the launch of the new UFriday programme and it was a huge success with over 250 students in attendance.

Offering a range of courses, UFriday encourages the students to stay in school on a Friday afternoon for some additional learning. Courses on offer include Rugby, Scuba Diving, Stand Up Comedy, First Aid, Basketball, Fashion. The students were fully engaged in their sessions and enjoyed the knowledge and experiences that the professional tutors offered. Each student will be taking part in their sessions for 6 weeks, developing their skills and knowledge leading to a final presentation. The UFriday programme will continue to build on this success and implement more programmes for a January start with an aim to engage more pupils on a Friday afternoon.

Year 7s meet our Adopt an Author Paul Herzberg

Wed, 3 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

This year we are lucky enough to be working with a famous author and film writer Paul Herzberg at the Lower Academy. He will be working with 22 Year 7 students from Orange college on various tasks to help develop our students English skills.

The first sessions was held this week with the students taking part in different ice breaker activities and games while Paul got to know a little bit more about the group. The students were then asked to work in small groups and come up with their own ideas for a film which they then presented to the rest of the group. All the teams came up with great ideas, one even suggested an alien film being set in the Basildon Academies.

The three hour session was a great success and was well received by everyone. Well done to the Year 7 students who were a credit to the Academy and thank you to Paul for all his hard work. The next session will be in a few weeks.

Ghosts and ghouls at our spooky Halloween disco

Wed, 3 Nov 2010 12:00:00 GMT

As the darkness crept over the Basildon Academies and the corridors stood empty our Year 8 students returned dressed as ghosts and ghouls for our spooky Halloween disco. Our teachers dressed up to join in the fun and each guest received a glow stick before they partied the night away with games, face paints and competitions. Great fun was had by all.

CEO of Barclays Visits

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The Basildon Academies welcomed some very special and important guests yesterday when John Varley, CEO of Barclays Group and his key team members toured the Lower Academy guided by Year 8’s Lauren Cole and Charlie Roberts. Visiting students in their lessons the group were able to get a feel for the Academy life and interact with our students and staff. Following the visit we hope to develop links that will support education and life chances of the Academy students. Each guest was presented with a copy of BLAA, a published book of our students work before their departure.

Haunting Halloween at Cucina

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Something scary had taken over the Academies kitchen today when the students arrived for lunch. The Cucina staff were pale faced and covered in blood (strawberry jam) while serving witches fingers, pasta ears, pumpkin salad and spider web waffles. Cobwebs hung from the ceiling and a skeleton haunted the counter as the students tucked into the ghostly meals.

Five students pass their Tag Rugby Leadership qualification

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Five of our students (Jon-Luke Jousiffe, Sam Bardell, George Hyland, Saber Uddin and Jack Debham) celebrated passing their Tag Rugby leadership qualification at Basildon’s Festival Leisure last week when they were presented with their certificates and Tag Rugby Jackets. The community project, which started last year in local secondary schools encourage pupils take part in becoming Sport Leaders, who then visit local primary schools to pass on their skills.

Upper Academy building work on track

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

As the Year 11 students returned to the Upper Academy at the start of term they were welcomed into the new college which was completed on September 1st. Each floor houses 150 Year 11 and Sixth Form students and has a heart space, three classrooms and three practical rooms for Art, Technology and Science. A second building has recently been completed and will be accommodating our students shortly. The reception and the front entrance of the Upper Academies are going extremely well, and we are on track to complete the development for Summer 2011.

UFriday Programme Launched

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

All students in the Lower Academy are invited to join our UFriday Programme, offering a range of courses. UFriday encourages the students to stay in school on a Friday afternoon for some additional learning. Courses on offer include Rugby, Scuba Diving, Stand Up Comedy, First Aid, Basketball, Fashion and much more. All the courses run for six weeks at a time from 1.30pm until 3pm and are free of charge. If you would like more information, this can be found on our website.

Please follow this link to download a copy of the information leaflet.

Jack Petchy Award Success

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Kayleigh Arthurton, Rebecca Cook, Chenelle Dowler and Sanjay Rai were recognised and rewarded for the work they have done within the local community and for the Academies when they were presented with a Jack Petchey Award. The Presentation, which was held in Basildon, saw a number of local schools come together for an evening of entertainment.

Kayleigh, 14, received her award for exceeding her personal best in the Discus event. She has represented the Academies at local level and Essex Nationally. Chenelle, 14, and Rebecca Cook, 13, were both awarded for their involvement in dance at the Academy and encouraging younger students to enjoy dance. Sanjay Rai, 14, was acknowledged for his fundraising skills. He took part and organised several fund raising events for the Academies’ Charities week, raising the most money from a College in 2010. Congratulations to our Jack Petchey winners.

Year 6s welcomed to the Basildon Academies for our Open Day

Sat, 9 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Leaving primary school and moving into secondary education can be very scary for both students and their parents, which is why we opened our doors this week and invited our local Year 6 students to come and get a feel for the Academy life. Showcasing example lessons from a wide range of subjects our visitors were able to enjoy Science experiments which included custard powder explosions and dissecting a heart, clay modelling in Art and Design, trampolining, spin bikes and the climbing walls in PE and decoding Angelo-Saxon rune messages in English.

Being guided through the Academies by our current students our guests were able to get a feel for the extensive facilities we have to offer as well as our unique learning spaces. Students were on hand to answer any questions and to help show people what the Basildon Academies are about.

Before heading off home everyone enjoyed sampling our school food and drinks in our impressive dining hall.

We look forward to seeing everyone again next year.

Our students join in Beechwood Village celebrations

Sun, 3 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

On Saturday a group of Lower Academy dance and drama students were asked to join in a special celebration at the new Beechwood Village.

Launching a unique inflatable building, which will be used as a performance space, our students represented the Basildon Academies as they took to the stage for a dance melody including street dance. This was followed by an anti-bullying drama piece which was watched by the local community who were joining in the celebrations at Beechwood Village. Well Done to all of our students involved.

Going for Gold

Fri, 1 Oct 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Catering staff at the Basildon Academies have every reason to celebrate this week as they were presented with a Gold award for healthy eating in schools. Being just two schools in the Basildon County to receive the award we are extremely proud.

Scott Reader, head chef was awarded the silver award last year and has worked hard to make sure he met all the requirements for him to achieve gold status this year. The award is presented by Basildon Council and Ofstead and recognises healthy menu options as well as hygiene standards. Well done Scott and the Cucina team.

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Some of our year 10 students visited Wimbledon Lawn Tennis museum and the prestigious ground where the likes of Roger Federer, Andy Murray, Laura Robson and many more have made history and achieved great success.

The students looked back at tennis through the years and were able to see the changes to the clothing, rackets and strings as the sport has developed to where it is today.

Everyone involved in the trip had a fantastic day and enjoyed seeing firsthand the home of Tennis.

New Year 7 Open Evening

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Please reply using the contact form from the contacts page if you are wishing to come to the Prospective Students & Parents evening.

>> http://www.basildonacademies.org.uk/contact.asp

Tea Party held year 9 student group

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 9 additional studies group held a Tea party at the Lower Academy this week inviting 12 teachers and a number support staff to attend. The group organised the whole event with Callum and Demi being in charge of the invitations and everyone making the food in the learning support kitchen. The school chef, Scott, took 6 students into the restaurant kitchen to make sausage rolls.

Each of the students made a PowerPoint presentation to present to the guests. Principal, Miss King and the other guests all enjoyed themselves and were really proud of how hard the students had worked. Well done to everyone involved.

Successful After School Clubs

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Last night was another successful night for after school clubs with 96 pupils taking part in various activities. In regards to our College competition we had 64 Orange pupils and 32 Blue pupils. That brings the total to 122 Orange, 73 Blue and 5 Green.

Special guests visit the Basildon Academies

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Banker Sir Paul Judge and Margaret Thatcher’s industry minister Lord Young arrived for a special visit to the Basildon Lower Academy this week. Our guests enjoyed a guided tour of the newly completed site by two of our year eight students Megan Johnson and Reece McMillan. They lead discussion sessions and a questions and answers session with our sixth form students studying Business, Social Science and Public Services.

Our students from year eight who achieved 100% attendance in their previous academic year were also presented with a gift voucher and certificate from Sir Paul before our guests enjoyed an informal lunch with some of our staff and students.

We look forward to welcoming more guests into the academies in the future.

End of year newsletter now available

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Please follow this link to download from the newsletter area on the website.

Boswell School Dance Festival

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday 9 of our lower academy students took part in a dance festival held at The Boswells School in Chelmsford. Their performance was outstanding and it was very clear all their hard work in rehearsals had paid off. They thoroughly enjoyed taking part and had the opportunity to watch dance work from other schools. They have been a pleasure to work with and were a credit to the school so if you see or teach them please could you congratulate them on their success.

NEW School Calendar

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The new school calendar is now available via the website.

Please follow the links below or find them in the relevent areas.

Click here to download a copy of the calendar for year 2010/2011 !!

Blaa Book Ceremony

Thu, 8 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Over the past year, eleven G and T year 7 pupils have been working with a famous author, Roy Apps, on the ‘Adopt and author’ scheme ran by the Excellence Cluster. During this time the students have been working on their writing skills and have presented stories at Greensted primary school for Year 5 and 6 students.

We were then offered the opportunity to publish our own book by the Little books company free of charge. The book consists of a collaboration of short stories and poems written by the children and will arrive at the school next week. The book is called Blaa and stands for Basildon Lower Academy Authors and is priced at £3 a book.

To celebrate this huge achievement Ms Kelly ran a celebration ceremony and invited the pupils along with their parents and Senior Management from the Academies to attend and listen to a few short segments of the students work.

If you would like a copy of the book, it is available from Ms Kelly or at reception for £3.00

Magic of the Musicals

Thu, 8 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The evening was a fantastic success which benifited from a full audience on its final night. Parents and guests loved the performances shown from a wide variety of famous West End musicals.

6th Year Induction Day

Thu, 1 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Year 6 students from local primary schools came to visit and have a look around where they will be attending next year at the Lower Academy. All the new students seemed to really enjoy and appreciate the effort gone in to creating this new school and work environment. We hope this enthusiasm will continue when they start next year.

Primary School District Athletics

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Friday’s primary school district athletics was a huge success with over 300 pupils, parents and teachers in attendance. Thanks to all staff who assisted on the day and helped to make this event run smoothly.

The students from the Academy that assisted on the day represented the school very well and a big thank you to them.

Friendship Day

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 12:00:00 GMT

On Friday, 18th June the Transition Mentors held a 'Friendship Day' for students who lived outside the area. Around 45 children turned up and a big thank you for all the staff involved in this successful day.

Royal Society of Chemistry Schools’ Analysts Competition 2010

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Royal Society of Chemistry
Schools’ Analysts Competition 2010
Queen Mary University of London

The Basildon Academies Sixth Form College AS Chemistry pupils fought off strong competition to finish 5th in the prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry Schools’ Analysts Competition held at Queen Mary University of London on 31st March 2010. The team of three, Arjun Singh, Lola Lawal and Zain Rehman made to Regional Heat amongst other grammar schools in the region.

The tortuous competition involved delegates conducting team based research using sophisticated analytical chemistry techniques. The pupils started the competition at 0930 and worked until 1430 to complete the experiments which required superior practical skills, accuracy and precision in recording, calculation and interpretation of the results. Our team enjoyed the experience and found the experiments to be challenging and worked with virtually no help from their mentor, Mr Bullo. The experiments include analysing household products and measured the amount of caffeine in a beverage using the High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), pH titration, and the calcium ion content of mineral water with atomic absorption spectroscopy.

This is the first time we have made the Regional Heat in this event and finishing 5th is no easy to compete with high-performing public schools. The coveted Colchester Grammar school came 1st and has qualified for the UK National Final this year.

Kreate Dance Centre

Tue, 25 May 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Miss Bigaignon, Mrs Dale and Miss Singleton took a group of girls over to Kreate Dance Centre to take part in a gifted & talented workshop led by professional choreographer Tim Noble.

The girls had a fantastic day and worked exceptionally hard. I believe there will be a few stiff bodies today!

The Academies Win District Athletics

Fri, 14 May 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Boys Results

	1st - Points	2nd - Points	3rd - Points
Year 7	Acad 80	Brom 68	DLS 64
Year 8	Wood 126	Brom 78	Bill 61
Year 9	Acad 114	Brom 99	wood 96
Year 10/11	Acad 175	Bill 111	wood 103
Relay	Brom 50	wood 50	Acad 44
Overall	Acad 423	wood 380	Brom 318

Girls Results

	1st	2nd	3rd
Year 7	Acad 96	Bill 81	May 65
Year 8	Acad 82	wood 79	Brom 68
Year 9	Bill 84	Brom 64	Acad 65
Year 10/11	Brom 113	Beau 104	Acad 65
Relay	Brom 48	wood 46	Beau 44
Overall	Acad - 326	Bill- 305	Brom 301

Overall

	1st	2nd	3rd
Year 7	Acad 176	Bill 141	Brom 123
Year 8	Wood 205	Brom 147	Acad 136
Year 9	Acad 179	Brom 164	wood 153
Year 10/11	Acad 258	Bill 201	Beau 195
Field Overall	Acad 377	wood 268	Brom 246
Overall	Acad 749	wood 631	Brom 619

St John's Ambulance Qualification

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Year 8 blue have been taking part in a St John's ambulance qualification.

Year 10 win district football

Tue, 6 Apr 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Year 10 win the district league after a hard season. Well done boys!

Year 11 boys win district football Trophy

Tue, 6 Apr 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Our Year 11 boys have won the district league in football after a great season. Well done Boys!

Sixth Formers Vs Police match, makes news.

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The epic clash set up by Basildon police School officer PC Chris Burch, saw our Sixth Formers take on our local bobbies in a bid to win the Academy Cup.

Many parents came to watch too, so it also gave them a chance to see an approachable side to their local neighbourhood officer. "Officers do exist in the community to uphold the law, but they are also there to address concerns of local residents and work with other agencies to make life better for everyone. "I hope this match has allowed people to see this human side to police officers, in the name of a bit of healthy sporting rivalry." The sixth Formers won 3-2.

Extracted from the Daily Echo.

Students chosen for Young Writer's of Essex publication.

Thu, 4 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

A number of Blue Year 8 students have had their mini sagas published in the Young Writer’s of Essex mini sagas book. Congratulations and we cant wait to read them.

Year 11 boys win Vs Mayflower school

Tue, 9 Feb 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Year 11 boys won 25-5 in Rugby against Mayflower school on the 08.02.10.

Well done Lads!

Academy win vs De La Salle

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Year 10/11 boys won their basketball match against De La Salle on the 28.01.10 and won 45-30. Well done Lads!

Student Makes News

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 12:00:00 GMT

One of our outstanding students was given the Diana award from Basildon MP Angela Smith for helping students with Disabilities, while coping with his own medical problems. Ed Vickers, 17 was singled out for the prestigious Diana Princess of Wales Award by staff and fellow pupils at Basildon Upper Academy.

He is known for the support that he brings to many students with disibility issues and the time and effort he puts in to helping others both before, after and during the school day.

Basildon MP Angela Smith, who was giving out her first Diana Award, said: "He Really is an outstanding young man. Very proud to have had the opportunity to present him with this award."

The Basildon Academies are both open.

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Basildon Academies are both open. We are aware the local radio stations have inadvertently said otherwise and we apologise for confusion this may have caused.

The school day will end at 1.30pm as normal on a Friday.

Festive Cheer

Wed, 9 Dec 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Invitations were extended to Senior Citizens from the immediate community around the Academies and over 135 people accepted the invitation to attend an evening of festive food and entertainment. Mrs Pepper, Vice Principal was heavily involved in the evening and spoke of the benefits the event has. “This was a wonderful way for us to continue building community relations and a fantastic way of bringing different generations together.” She went on to say “I hope that all the guests enjoyed their evening with us, and I know that the students were happy to welcome them to the Academy.”

Academy staff offered their services as chauffeurs, collecting the guests from local care homes, residential housing and private homes. At the Lower Academy students greeted and escorted their guests to their seats in the seasonally decorated restaurant. A traditional Christmas dinner prepared by the Academy caterers, Cucina, and served by a team of students was rounded off with coffee and mince pies while preparations were made for the after dinner entertainment. The evening was a good opportunity for people to catch up with old friends and make new ones as students and guests mingled.

The senior citizens were then treated to some great after dinner entertainment; two sketches from Year 7,8 and 9 students, a traditional sing a long organised by the Performing Arts Department lead, Mr Eldred, as well as a tribute to the rock and roll era performed by the Vocational Engagement manager, Ms Nelson and her partner Mr Jennings. The evening was brought to a close with some spirited carol singing before the senior citizens were taxied back home.

Football Match - 6th Form Vs Carillion

Fri, 4 Dec 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Carilion the construction company was challenged to a friendly by the Basildon Academies Sixth Form. The Match was fast past with both sides eager for a win. The match ended up as a 2-1 win for the Academies but may have been closer but for some good defensive work by the Academies.

More friendlies with other comunity teams like the Police and Fire Service may be in the pipeline, so watch this space!

Lord Mayors’ Show

Wed, 2 Dec 2009 12:00:00 GMT

One wet Saturday in November, following in the footsteps of his predecessors, the 682nd Lord Mayor of London’s first duty was to embark on a procession from Mansion House to St Paul’s Cathedral as part of the Lord Mayor’s Show and some of our students and staff, together with the Executive Principal and Principal of the Lower Academy were privileged to be part of the parade as guests of the Worshipful Company of Painter-Stainers.

When asked what it felt like to be included in the invitation student Aaran Waldon said “I was really excited and honoured to be part of this year’s Lord Mayors Show in London. I was really surprised when I was invited to come along but really really happy.”

An established highlight of London’s social calendar, the Lord Mayor’s Show attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Behind the new Lord Mayor, in a procession extending more than three miles, around 6,000 people came together to celebrate London’s proud cultural heritage and to revel in its diverse modernity.

As part of this procession, members of the Painter Stainers Company which was founded in the 13th Century paraded on foot as a group, proud to continue their long association with the Lord Mayor’s show. Today the Company supports education and training in the Arts and Crafts, awarding prizes and bursaries at most major Art Schools and many Universities for painting, textile design and picture restoration.

To signify the Company’s support for Arts and Crafts education and training, the Liverymen extended the invitation to the Basildon Academies to be part of the Parade. Alan Roach said, “This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to be part of the historic pageant and for the Basildon Academies to take centre stage. We were honoured that the Worshipful Company of Painter Stainers chose our students to accompany them and we enjoyed demonstrating to the crowds lining the streets of London and to the nation, on television, the Academies' commitment to education, commerce and to the community.”

The Master of the Worshipful Company, two Wardens, the Clerk and the Beadle, all dressed in their Company Robes for the occasion. They were surrounded by Liverymen of the Company in their Livery gowns and Tudor hats whilst the Academy students carried large Basildon Academy Banners on the route which will wind its way through 1.7 miles of streets within the Square Mile.

Make your Mark team make it to regional finals

Tue, 1 Dec 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Academy students went head-to-head with their counterparts from thousands of other secondary schools and colleges across the country when they were challenged to come up with unique and inspiring ideas in response to a brief launched online on Monday 16th November. The 2009 Challenge was to create an entrepreneurial idea within the theme of “Don’t be a carbon copy” and was launched online and fronted by TV presenter and mathematician Rachel Riley.

The team of four students: Daniel Archer, Jamie Box, Kris Keeley and Rafal Walewski aged between 17 and 19 had just one day to come up with the concept, identify their competitors, work out the costings and put a presentation together. To achieve this, the group worked intensively throughout the day to produce the idea that is taking them through to the regional finals.

The students’ idea was based on the concept of creating high-end art and sculptures from industrial waste ‘tomorrow’s art from yesterday’s rubbish’. The size of the landfill site in Pitsea was the inspiration for the enterprise idea. Gary Smith, curriculum strand leader says: “We were delighted to make it to the regional finals. The idea that the Y13 team has proposed has been well developed and has great potential.”

The Academy students came third out of ten teams in the regional final of the Challenge; they presented their idea in front of a large crowd and were questioned at length by the “dragons” who were on the judging panel. The students were confident in their presentation and responses to the panel and their idea was well received.

As well as receiving a very credible third place, The Academy team were awarded the prize for the ‘most enterprising responses to the judges’ questions’. They were awarded a hazel nut tree for planting in the school.

The Academy team has also been admitted to the MYMForward 500 – a society that is aiming to bring together the 500 most enterprising young people in the UK.

Over 11’s winner in the Xtra talent show – October 2009

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Chloe a pupil at the Lower Academy beat the competition in her Catergory with a feisty street dance performance. All Competitors recieved a medal and certificate.

Successful Information Evenings

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Lower Academy hosted two highly successful Information Events in October for prospective students and their parents.

The events provided an opportunity for local families to visit the new Academy buildings and have a chance to participate in a wide range of activities to gain a taste of Academy life. Zoë King, Principal, was joined by staff and students in welcoming over 500 visitors during the two events.

Students from across Key Stage 3 volunteered to act as guides in order to show prospective students and their parents around the Academy’s fantastic state of the art facilities. Visitors experienced activities such as: exploding custard powder in Science; new trixster fitness bikes in PE; food tasting in Enterprise and a range of practical activities in Technology.

Added to this, the restaurant was popular throughout both events as the Cucina staff enabled all guests to refuel by sampling some of the food offered to students on a daily basis. Students were on hand to demonstrate their culinary skills by producing pizzas, pancakes and stir fry for the hungry guests!

The current Year 7 students also compiled their own prospectus to give those visiting an insight into what they thought life at the Academy is like.

Zoë King, Principal, said, “This was the first time the Academy has opened its doors to the public since we started on the 1st September 2009. It was wonderful to be able to show prospective students and their parents the many opportunities that are available to those that join our institution. I look forward to welcoming them again as future students and would like to thank staff and students for the hard work that they put in to make the events such a success.”

The Introduction of Colleges

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The Academy is introducing an innovative new way of organizing our pupils into Colleges which has, as you may have seen, sparked considerable interest in the education world as well as at a local level. These Colleges are learning zones for 150 students incorporating smaller classes. The Academies will have 15 Colleges of 150 students and a Sixt Form College of 500.

The Colleges are self contained learning bases for each student group and will accomodate most subjects, reducing the need for students to move around the site between lessons. Each College will be managed throughout the day by the Head of College, aided by a College Support Assistant who will know them well and lead them through their educational and emotional development. Both will spend their entire time managing the College and supporting their students. The reglar Form Classes will be replaced by Mentor Groups; groups of 12 students each with one Staff Mentor.

Each Year Group will situated on one floor and the Academy buildings have been designed to allow access both between the Year Groups when appropriate.