Students and staff at Monkton Wood Academy gathered to observe a two-minute silence today as part of the National Act of Remembrance, paying tribute to the courage and sacrifice of service members past and present.
To read the full story on the Somerset Gazette website please click here.
Students from Monkton Wood Academy took part in the Somerstage Gifted and Talented Singing and Musical Theatre Workshop.
To read the story in full on the Somerset Gazette website please click here.
Students from Monkton Wood Academy had an exceptional opportunity to participate in the Somerstage Gifted and Talented Singing and Musical Theatre Workshop, organised by Somerset Music.
This dynamic workshop was designed to boost students’ confidence, refine their performance abilities, and offer an insight into the professional world of musical theatre.
Facilitated by two seasoned performers with experience in national and international theatre tours, the workshop combined elements of dance, acting, and singing.
Students engaged in a variety of physical activities and exercises that challenged them to stretch their creativity and expressiveness on stage.
Students said: “It was an amazing and tiring experience, but it really inspired us and helped us to grow in confidence—especially as we prepare for auditions for our upcoming school musical production of School of Rock.”
A school spokesperson said: “The academy is thrilled to see how this experience has energised and inspired the students, sparking enthusiasm and self-confidence as they take on new performance opportunities in the school year ahead.”
Monkton Wood Academy joined millions around the globe in celebrating World Mental Health Day 2024, with staff and students proudly dressing in yellow to show their support and raise awareness for mental health issues.
The academy organised a series of activities aimed at promoting good mental health and a supportive environment for all.
Throughout the day, students were encouraged to visit pop-up resource stands, where they could access information and guidance on maintaining mental wellbeing. These stands provided resources on a wide range of topics, and outlined where students can find help if they or someone they know is struggling with mental health challenges.
As part of the celebration, students participated in tutor group discussions, learning more about the importance of mental health.
Students made yellow-ribboned tags with supportive messages and mental health tips, which were then displayed around the school. The tags served as a visible reminder of the academy’s commitment to fostering a caring and understanding community.
Nicola Patmore, a member of the school’s Safe Hub team, said: “At Monkton Wood Academy, we believe it’s crucial to create an environment where students feel safe to talk about their mental health.
“World Mental Health Day gives us the chance to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, but it’s a conversation we want to keep going throughout the year.
“Our students’ engagement has been inspiring, and we hope the tools and messages they’ve shared will have a lasting positive impact.”
Twenty-four students from Monkton Wood Academy have volunteered to stay behind after school to take on the challenge of studying for a further maths qualification.
This advanced program offers a unique opportunity for students to dive deep into higher-level mathematical skills, with a strong focus on algebraic reasoning.
This tough qualification is designed to push students beyond the standard GCSE mathematics curriculum, preparing them for Level 3 studies and beyond. It builds upon the knowledge acquired during Key Stage 4, giving students the tools they need to excel in future academic pursuits
A school spokesperson said: “We’re incredibly proud of our students for their commitment and passion for learning. With this opportunity, they are truly maximising their potential.”
Monkton Wood Academy has announced that 61 students have successfully completed their entire Bronze Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award.
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Monkton Wood Academy is extremely proud to announce that 61 students have successfully completed their entire Bronze Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award.
This incredible achievement reflects the dedication, resilience, and hard work of students over the past year.
The Monkton Community was delighted to celebrate their accomplishments at a special awards evening, attended by students and their proud parents. With nearly 100% completion from this year’s large cohort, school leaders are thrilled with the commitment and perseverance shown by all participants.
Rebecca Purnell, Associate Assistant Principal, Monkton Wood Academy, said: “As we look forward to the upcoming year, we encourage our new Year 9 students to get involved and sign up for the DofE award.
“The program not only provides a rewarding experience but also builds valuable life skills that will serve them well into the future.
“A huge thank you to all the teachers and parents who played a key role in making this achievement possible. Your support has been instrumental in guiding our students through this journey.”
Monkton Wood Academy was delighted to host two members of staff from Water Bear College, who delivered an inspiring seminar to Key Stage 4 music students.
The seminar was attended by both Year 10 and Year 11 BTEC and GCSE music students, and aimed to expand students’ knowledge of the wide array of careers available within the music industry.
In addition to learning about various college and university courses they could pursue after leaving school, students were introduced to different career pathways ranging from music performance and songwriting to production and management.
A highlight of the session was the discussion of Water Bear College’s famous alumni, who have gone on to achieve success in the industry, performing with, managing, and writing songs for renowned artists.
These real-life success stories served as an invaluable source of inspiration for the students, encouraging them to follow their own musical ambitions.
A spokesperson said: “Monkton Wood Academy is committed to providing its students with meaningful opportunities to connect with industry professionals, and this seminar was a significant step in broadening their understanding of the exciting possibilities the music industry has to offer.”
A talented young artist from Monkton Wood Academy has beaten thousands of other students to win the Cabot Learning Federation Artist of the Year competition.
To read the full story on the Somerset County Gazette website click here.
A talented young artist from Monkton Wood Academy has triumphed over thousands of other students to be named the winner of the Cabot Learning Federation artist of the year competition.
Year 9 student Elsie Ryder’s outstanding line drawing, a unique blend of an everyday scene and famous artwork, impressed audiences, earning her the top spot through an online vote.
Her work had been displayed in an online gallery alongside art created by students from other CLF students between Gloucestershire and Somerset.
Elsie said: “This is an amazing surprise! I am very passionate about art and have worked so hard on this piece. I am absolutely thrilled to receive this award.”
Created as part of her Key Stage 3 Art lessons, the impressive piece took Elsie approximately 10 hours to complete. The inspiration for her artwork came from the celebrated self-taught landscape and portrait artist Ben Hughes.
Elsie’s passion for art is set to continue, as she has now chosen to pursue the subject at GCSE level.
Working across the Cabot Learning Federation’s (CLF) Arts curriculum network, this initiative was created to help showcase all the wonderful artwork being produced across the federation.
All academies had the opportunity to put forward their own Artist of the Year, with finalists’ work displayed digitally in an online exhibition. CLF staff, students and the wider community were invited to visit the virtual gallery and vote for their winner.
The gallery earned 14,000 views and 1,250 votes were cast.
In recognition of Elsie’s achievement, she was presented with a personalised leather art roll by Steve Taylor, CEO of the Cabot Learning Federation.
Heather Essadiq, CLF Curriculum Curator for Art and Design, said: “The wide range of work produced, at such high standards, is a testament to the creativity and hard work of CLF students. One collective community, supporting and raising the next generation of artists.”
