The Basildon Academies

VOICEENGINEERING A BRIGHTER FUTURE

December 2019

It seems his goal met with success, because as Aimee-Jane in Year 8 said afterwards, “I loved the workshop because it helped me understand that engineers do more than just work with electrics. It was a fun and interesting experience.” Minal in Year 7 clearly also appreciated the environmental message and remarks, “The future energy quest challenge was fun. We came up with lots of ideas to help the planet.”

The students rose to the challenge and showed some amazingly imaginative ideas when asked to mind map future energy solutions; these included public transport with pedals under each seat and solar powered speakers which scare dolphins away from fishermens’ nets.

In a second activity, working in collaborative teams to share their skills, the students were tasked with adapting and improving the efficiency of an electric car. After the initial design and build, students tested and recorded the cars performance over a distance of 4 metres, aiming to decrease energy output but still be powerful enough to cover the 4 metre distance. They used voltmeters and plotted each test on a graph to compare the effectiveness of each trial to establish the best energy input to output ratio.

Education Communicator Paul was very positive about the way the workshop had gone and says it was “a pleasure to work with the students and they have all been fully engaged in the tasks set.” He goes on to explain the importance of getting students fired up about engineering and showing them that a lot of the environmental issues which are facing our planet right now, the kind of problems David Attenborough and others have so clearly bought to wider attention, can be tackled through imaginative engineering. He’s keen to break down the stereotypes surrounding the field, saying he wants future scientists to see that “engineering is a broader church than they first thought. A lot of people think about cars roads and buildings and very solid elements of engineering whereas the reality of engineering these days is more about chemistry and software.”

Paul was extremely pleased with the way the group tackled the problem solving and how they used their imagination to think more creatively around some very real engineering issues. “If they enjoy all of the elements involved in the workshop today they are engineers in waiting”, he said, and it looks as though he may have inspired more than one student to think about a technical career.

“In the future I want to become a designer”, Georgina in Year 8 says, “so taking part in the workshop gave me a good idea to take part in engineering activities.”

Georgie-Mai.B, Ellie.E, Poppy.A & Alliyah.S

Sidney.W & Abubakar.M

This was the key question posed to a group of Year 7 and Year 8 students by Paul Hollingsworth during the recent ‘Energy Quest’ workshop. In the event, run by Tomorrow’s Engineers and Learn by Design, students were asked to think about ways in which future innovations in renewable energy could make a positive impact on the pressures facing our planet.

How can a career in engineering help solve the problems facing our planet?

It looks like the future of the planet may already be in the safe hands of tomorrow’s engineers!

Anisha.B, Toyosi.B & Lorna.M

Aimee-Jane.G & Georgina.B

Paul Hollingsworth & George.E

Gary Smith

MESSAGE FROMHEADTEACHER

STUDENTS INSPIRED BY ANTI-BULLYING EVENTThe Basildon Academies Respect Ambassadors recently took part in an inspirational Anti-Bullying event at London’s Alexandra Palace.

Our Respect Ambassadors joined students from other schools to take part in interactive workshops. Students were also given the opportunity to ask questions to representatives from social media companies such as Facebook and Instagram.

“It was great to meet people from other schools because you got to know what their school life was like. One main thing I took from the experience is that I can help to spread the word that bullying is not acceptable and that nobody is alone.” Macy.M.F - Year 9

“The workshop mentors were energetic and positive. Our mentor for the Music Workshop was singer Molly Rainford, who was a finalist in Britain’s Got Talent! Overall it was a great experience and full of positive energy. If I had the chance I would definitely go again.” Jessica.W - Year 9

“I really enjoyed being there, it was a positive experience. The event showed me that there are many people fighting against bullying. There were moments that really touched people’s hearts.” Petra.F - Year 8

Amber.B, Jayden.L, Tessy Ojo (C.E.O of the Diana Award), Petra.F & Ms Kansaran

As we approach the end of the Autumn term I would like to thank you all for your continued support of the Academies.

Safeguarding our students is at the forefront of everything we do. Parents/Carers can access information via the following link www.escb.co.uk which offers guidance and signposts to resources on various safeguarding issues. Please contact our safeguarding officers if you have any concerns about your own child or another student at the Academies.

SAFEGUARDING

www.basildonacademies.org.uk/safeguarding

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Last Day of Autumn Term:Thursday 19th December 2019 Students finish at 12.50pm

Each year The Diana Award host a series of exciting events to bring the country together to tackle bullying. The theme of the day was ‘Change Starts With Us’, which gave a focus on helping students understand the importance of taking collective responsibility to stop bullying.

Each year The Diana Award host a series of exciting events to bring the country together to tackle bullying. The theme of the day was ‘Change Starts With Us’, which gave a focus on helping students understand the importance of taking collective responsibility to stop bullying.

“My favourite workshop was Street Art because we got to interact with our group. Listening to a young boy called Charlie, who was bullied, was very heart warming.”Luke.K - Year 10

“The Street Art Workshop was very enjoyable. Overall I found the whole experience magical.” Angel.J - Year 9

“The workshops were brilliant. It was nice to perform on stage with my friends.I learned that it’s good to listen and engage with others.” Abbie.D - Year 9

“I loved the diversity of the event. It was all fun and creative especially the Drama Workshop which brought laughter and love. It was really good and I would love to go next year.” Jayden.L - Year 8

“I was glad I had the opportunity to take part.I got to meet a few celebrities and gained further understanding of how to help people deal with bullying.” Ruhul.M - Year 11

First Day of Spring Term:Tuesday 7th January 2020

Rayan.A, Carrie Grant & Ruhul.M

Christmas Jumper Day: Thursday 19th December 2019

This month’s edition of BA Voice has articles that highlight our students supporting one another and demonstrating their future aspirations. It is great to see our students’ role modelling through their work with the Brilliant Club, the Anti-Bullying Ambassadors and raising money for charities.

I wish you all a restful Christmas break and a peaceful New Year.

Year 8 Parents Evening:Tuesday 15th January 20204.00pm - 6.30pm

Year 9 AP1 Assessments:Week commencing 13th January 2020

PLENTY OF LIGHT BULB MOMENTS FOR STUDENTS IN ‘THE BRILLIANT CLUB’ A group of Year 9 and 10 students have been given an exciting opportunity to experience university style learning for themselves when they embarked on the Brilliant Club Scholars Programme.

The Brilliant Club aims to introduce the world of Higher Education to students who traditionally might not consider applying to competitive UK universities. The aim is to break down the mystery surrounding the application process, and show students what they can expect, and achieve. The ground-breaking initiative gives students the support of a PhD level tutor over the course of a term, during which they complete a university-style module, culminating in a final assignment. As well as in-house tutorials, the students will benefit from trips to two highly selective universities to give them a taste of what might be ahead of them in the future.

MONEY RAISED FORCHILDREN IN NEEDBoth The Lower and Upper Academy held a non-uniform day to fundraise for this year’s Children in Need.

Our Lower Academy Community Champions held a successful cake sale during break time with only a few crumbs remaining.

STUDENTS ARTWORKDISPLAYED AT CHURCHA group of Lower Academy students recently used their artistic skills to create poppies for The Holy Family Church, Benfleet. The poppies were displayed outside the church to commemorate Remembrance Day.

YOUNG CARERSThe Basildon Academies support Young Carers. If you, or a family member needs support please contact Mrs Haynes, Young Carers Operational Lead; dhaynes@basildonacademies.org.uk - All contact will be treated in the strictest confidence.

The project was kick-started in great style for the students with a trip to the prestigious Goldsmith University in South London, which made a big impression on the study group. Crystal from Year 10 reports; “During the tour we were able to see the impressive buildings, facilities and surroundings. It was a chance to experience the lifestyle of a university student.” Jacob in Year 9 was also impressed by the welcome they received; “When we arrived at the uni we were greeted by the student ambassadors who then took us to the spacious lecture room. I have never been to a lecture before so it was an exciting time.” After their lecture on study skills had been delivered they took part in their first tutorial of the course, and learnt that their assignment was to be entitled ‘How to rebuild a country: dilemmas and decisions in post-conflict reconstruction’.

So what did the students make of their first tutorial? Jennifer, also from Year 9, was quick to see the value in what was offered and said; “We learnt things like academic skills and were pushed by our tutor to do better and expand our thinking during our session.” Lucianna in Year 10 is also enthusiastic about the course ahead of her, saying; “I am looking forward to the project. The tutorial challenged us to think and research post-war changes.”

All of the students who participated in the visit left feeling keen to make headway with their projects, and appreciated being able to take a view of the world of university study with fresh eyes. Valeria in Year 9 sums it up when she says; “The whole experience broadened my knowledge on universities and what they are like. I do feel like I will pick up a lot of skills as well from the programme we’re currently in. I definitely had fun and would go again!”

Thank you to all students and staff who donated. A grand total of £700.18 was raised.

Year 9 students in discussion with Brilliant Club Tutor Miranda Melcher

Well done to the following students:

• Paige.S - Year 7• Maisie.D - Year 7• Brooke.S - Year 7• Sumaiya.K - Year 7• Nayab.H - Year 7• Aaron.O - Year 7• Abbeygale.H - Year 9• Elisa.A - Year 9

CAMBRIDGE VISIT MAKES ‘MAXIMUM IMPACT’

CLASSROOM BECOMES COURTROOM FOR THE DAY

Sixth Form students Anthonia and Daniel recently had the chance to spend the day at Emmanuel College, one of the largest colleges of the University of Cambridge.

Year 8 English students recently had a chance to hone their skills in persuasive writing by participating in a mock courtroom scenario.

The visit was part of ‘Inspire2INVOLVE’ - a programme jointly organised by Villiers Park Educational Trust and Emmanuel College - and provided an invaluable opportunity for the two students to experience the historic college for themselves.

The Year 12 students were given a guided tour by Fellow Dr Corinna Russell and took the opportunity to ask her advice about their current pathways to university and the degree courses on offer.

Anthonia, who is studying A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology says she gained massively from the visit: “I would like to become a Doctor or a Scientist but I wasn’t sure what study options would help me meet my goals. I met with the Admission Tutor for Medicine, who was very encouraging.” She adds that his advice was “awesome!” She was also offered direct access to valuable support and guidance via email whilst she is considering her options for the future.

Daniel, who is studying Computer Science with an ambition to become a Games Designer, was really impressed with what he saw on his visit to the historical college, and its beautiful buildings and grounds; “The visit taught me a lot about what university life is like here. The environment is inspiring”, he says.

Upon successful completion the two students will receive an accreditation from Villiers Park Educational Trust recognising this fantastic achievement

During a lively and engaging Active Learning session, students took turns to play the accused and an attempt to convince the Judge of their innocence; they then had the opportunity to experience the process from the other side by sitting as members of the jury. Just to make things really interesting, the accused was none other than Dr Frankenstein who had his work cut out trying to explain why he was innocent of his heinous crimes!

The enthusiasm of the students was very evident throughout court proceedings, with students keen to share their ideas. It had also given them the opportunity to put their recent reading into practice, as Honey.B remarks, “Before the courtroom lesson we read the book and researched the character. I found this really interesting to learn about.” Sami.G also thought the change of format was great and kept things fresh, saying it was “a nice change” and that “we could learn and express ourselves more.”

So what was the final verdict from the student jury? The final word should go to Jayden.L who says, “I loved it and it was a really fun way to learn!”

With their tour still fresh in their minds, the two students got started on their INVOLVE project whilst still at Emmanuel College. The project, an idea of Anthonia and Daniel's choosing, aims to deliver an outcome which will benefit other students at The Basildon Academies. The title of their project is, very fittingly, ‘Maximum Impact’ and aims to offer GCSE students a comprehensive information resource for accessing support around exams, and in particular coping with anxiety and stress. “This is a great experience for us to take the lead in a university style project and to help students who are approaching their GCSE exams.” say Anthonia and Daniel.

STUDENTS WIN SPACE RACE CHALLENGESix of our budding engineering enthusiasts were recently invited to take part in a competitive Lego ‘Space Challenge’ at Ormiston Park Academy.

Organised by ‘Make Happen’ and technology specialist ‘JTRS’, our students worked in two teams of three, competing against each other and participants from other local secondary schools. The teams were being judged on their success in programming, engineering and, of course, that all-important teamwork.

Charyl, who took part in the challenge, explains, “Students were tasked to build Rovers to conquer ‘Space Race’ activities, such as rescuing astronauts and activating space stations.” The tasks got progressively harder over four stages: Building a scale model of the planetary surface exploration vehicle (the ‘rover’); building a new rover or adapting the original one to enable it to collect asteroids; working out how to generate enough power so the rover could lift a satellite and finally, toughest of all, working out how to pick up astronauts and take them back to the ‘rocket base’. Charyl is thrilled with her team’s success on the last challenge, saying proudly, “our winning team were the only ones to do this successfully.”

The winning team ‘Spectrum’, made up of Charyl, Lukasz and Cordelia received a set of ‘Mindstorms Technical Lego’ for the school and a place in next year’s grand final. They felt that being able to master all the various elements of the challenge was the key to success, as Cordelia says, “I think the tasks really helped my communication skills”, and Lukasz adds, “It enabled us to think logically and practice problem solving skills. We learned about programming and precision engineering.”

‘Team Basildon’ also did extremely well, achieving joint third place and narrowly missing out on a place in the final. Their team, made up of Alfie, Jamie-Leigh and Stefan, also felt they took a lot out of the experience. As Stefan says, “I enjoyed the competition because it involved lots of programming activities and I was able to learn new and interesting things.” Alfie adds, “I enjoy anything related to engineering and building. The design activity was a big plus for me.”

So what did the students think about the competition overall? Charyl, for one, can’t wait to do it all again! She says, “It was great day and we had so much fun. I’m sure competing in the final will be even more of a challenge!”

On the 3rd December our Year 11 Drama students had a day out in London which saw them stop off for some lunch in Covent Garden, visit to the Royal Opera House terrace before heading to the Fortune Theatre to watch Woman in Black. Watching the production of Woman in Black was part of the students ‘Component 3 Live Theatre Review’.

“The trip to see the Woman in Black was absolutely extraordinary, the atmosphere created was so intense. The fact we had both an academic and fun time was truly a day to remember.” Trent. E

“We had a brilliant day going to London to see the Woman in Black, it was made even better by having a tour and lunch in Covent Garden and fitting in some unplanned sights! I ate so much!” Chloe.D

YEAR 11 DRAMA STUDENTS VISIT LONDON THEATRE

Miss Stoddard

Lower AcademyTimberlog Close, Basildon, Essex SS14 1UX

Tel: 01268 552 536

Upper AcademyWickford Avenue, Basildon, Essex SS13 3HL

Tel: 01268 552 536www.basildonacademies.org.uk

SIXTH FORM STUDENTS ENTER THE BUSINESS WORLDSixth Form Business and Finance students recently visited the Chartered Institute of Highways and Transportation, a company responsible for helping to maintain the country’s rail and road infrastructures.

The students took part in a detailed Q&A session with the company’s Chief Executive Sue Percy, CBE. The group posed some great questions to Sue, such as “What changes do you think will happen to the transport sector in the next 40 years?” and “Will Brexit have an impact on the sector?”

“I had an amazing day, my favourite part was seeing the different types of bank notes from a long time ago at the Bank of England.” Gervyna.L - Year 12

In the afternoon, the students visited the Bank of England where they had the chance to look around the museum and understand, in real life terms, how changes in interest rates impact our everyday lives.

“I enjoyed the trip especially the conversation with the CEO as she was really down to earth and spoke to us in a way that it made us feel welcome. I also found the museum very interesting as I found out a lot of things about money and the history of the Bank of England that I never knew about. It was a great experience.” Weronika.C - Year 13

SCIENCE PROJECT IS OUT OF THIS WORLD

“It was interesting to learn about the temperatures of the planets and the order that they orbit the sun.”Lisa.M - Year 7

“The best bit about the project was learning how far the planets are from the sun and discovering that some planets have their own moons.” Hope.P - Year 7

“The project was really fun. We learnt about the elements that make up the planets and the difference in surfaces.” Cristian.C - Year 7

“The project was fun and challenging. I now know about the difference in size between each planet.” Amber.B - Year 8

Science Teacher, Miss Alger, was very impressed with the students’ quality of work and cannot wait to display the planets in her classroom; “They have committed themselves with great passion and have used every opportunity to make each planet as realistic as possible.”

Well done to our Year 7 and 8 students who have successfully completed their recent Solar System Project.

The series of Active Learning lessons have seen our scientists work extremely hard in researching the planets and recreating them as 3D models.

“This project was a fun and creative way to learn about the solar system. It was great to work as a team to design the planets.” Sinead.C - Year 8

The visit was a great opportunity for our students to learn how a ‘not for profit’ organisation functions and the crucial role the company plays in maintaining a high level of skilled professionals within the workforce.