Dear SCWA Community,
As this remarkable term draws to a close, I am filled with immense pride reflecting on the remarkable achievements of our students in recent weeks.
Our Arden students from Years 12 and 13 demonstrated exceptional determination, leadership, and teamwork throughout their Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition. The culmination of two years of effort, their achievement stands as a testament to their unyielding determination and unity. Similarly, three of our Arden scholars marked their presence at Mastercard’s Future Employment Workshop, an opportunity they earned due to their excellent performance in the Young Enterprise initiative. Their valuable insights during discussions and their commendable representation of SCWA further emphasise their potential as future leaders.
Alongside these academic achievements, numerous students enjoyed unforgettable end-of-term trips to the Harry Potter Studio and Frozen the Musical. Such opportunities not only provide a well-deserved breather but also help our pupils build fond memories and strengthen their bonds with peers.
As we approach the term’s end, let’s take a moment to appreciate these successes and look forward to the forthcoming opportunities for growth in scholarship, fellowship, and leadership in the next academic year.
Best wishes,
Joseph Sparks | Principal, Stationers’ Crown Woods Academy
End-of-Term Information: Year 9 Options and Examination Result Arrangements
As we approach the end of the term, we would like to share some important updates with our community.
The academic term will draw to a close at 12:30 on Friday, 21 July 2023. Prior to leaving, all students will be provided with lunch, including those eligible for free meals. In the following week, parents and carers will receive information regarding the start date and arrangements for the next academic year.
We are also delighted to share an update about our Year 9 Options. Our team has made considerable efforts to accommodate each student’s subject preferences. Mr Walker, Head of School, who has been overseeing the Year 9 Options process, said: “We are pleased to announce that every Year 9 student has been assigned the four subjects they opted for. In light of this, parents and carers can expect a letter from the academy next week, outlining the details of their child’s assigned options.”
Furthermore, we will also be communicating with parents and carers of Year 11 and 13 students about the upcoming examination results collection. These letters will provide specifics about the collection process for Year 11 and Year 13 examination results and will cover post-16 enrolment details for Year 11 students.
Arden Students Triumph in Gold Duke of Edinburgh Expedition
On 10 July 2023, 30 Arden students from Years 12 and 13 embarked on a unique journey that would test their resilience and leadership. They gathered at Runnymede on the River Thames to commence their Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition. This expedition served as a qualifying journey for our Year 13 students, following a practice run on the Kennet and Avon Canal. For the Year 12 students, this expedition served as practice ahead of their qualifying journey scheduled for July 2024 on the Llandudno Canal.
After paddling against the current for over 70 miles, camping for three nights, overcoming disagreements, and pushing through tears, our explorers reached their destination at Abingdon, Oxfordshire. Ben Bullen from Ben Bullen Adventures, who accompanied the students, remarked, “Working with students from Stationers’ Crown Woods Academy is always a pleasure. This cohort has been exceptional, demonstrating excellent teamwork and support for each other throughout this challenging experience.” We extend our congratulations to all participants. Their achievement, marking the culmination of two years of hard work, is a testament to their grit and determination.
Maths Enthusiasts Thrive at the Greenwich University Festival
Nearly 70 of our talented Year 10 students recently spent a day at the Greenwich University Maths Time conference. Hosted at the Old Royal Naval College campus, the event, led by Dr Aoife Hunt, provided a deep dive into topics such as crowd dynamics, encryption, hyperboloids and space exploration.
This conference left students brimming with enthusiasm and innovative ideas. Mr Khan, Assistant Principal and the event’s organiser, remarked on the palpable passion for mathematics that the event kindled in our Year 10 students. We would like to thank The University of Greenwich and Dr Tony Mann, Director of the Greenwich Maths Centre, for facilitating this experience.
Arden Students Shine at Mastercard’s Future Employment Workshop
On 11 July 2023, a trio of Arden students had the opportunity to attend Mastercard’s Future Employment Workshop. Our school’s strong performance in the Young Enterprise initiative landed us this opportunity, with only seven students selected, three of whom were from SCWA.
The workshop saw our students participating in an interactive round-table discussion alongside CEOs from Mastercard and other prominent businesses based in the City. Topics of discussion ranged from what makes a good employer and motivation in the workplace, to challenges in finding employment and preparation for the workforce. Jennifer Michael, Managing Director of the project from Mastercard, praised our students’ contribution, saying, “It was a great privilege to have such intelligent, outgoing students from Stationers’ Crown Woods who contributed immensely. I believe they will be great employees for some of the world’s top companies.”
Year 7 Students Mesmerised by Frozen Musical Theatre Trip
On 5 July 2023, 35 of our Year 7 students had the opportunity to see Frozen the Musical at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. The performance was nothing short of spectacular, with its visually striking set design, exceptional singing, and the wonderfully crafted icy atmosphere of the ice kingdom. Our students watched in awe, completely engrossed in the captivating performance put on by the actors. Mr Smith, Assistant Principal, said: “The students represented our school commendably, showing excellent behaviour during the journey on trains and roads and in the theatre itself. They were a true pleasure to accompany, and their experience at the show is sure to leave lasting memories.”
A Magical Day Out: Year 8 Visit to Harry Potter Studio
On 7 July 2023, our Year 8 students embarked on a spellbinding journey to the Harry Potter Studio at Warner Brothers Studio, Watford. They divided into groups to participate in educational workshops, learning about the filmmaking process, potential careers, and the art of set design. Highlights included a sneak peek at film costumes and an immersive tour of various film sets like the Great Hall, Hogwarts classrooms, Gringotts Bank, and the Forbidden Forest.
Lunchtime involved Butterbeer and fun photos with Hagrid’s motorbike and a flying car. The day concluded with a visit to the gift shop for some magical keepsakes. Ms Heasman, Head of Media and Film, said: “Throughout the trip, our students displayed exemplary behaviour, earning praise from visitors and staff alike for their respectful manners. A magical day to remember!”
