The Knife Angel, made from over 100,000 seized blades, was created by the British Ironwork Centre to highlight the negative effects of violent behaviour and the need for change.

Councillor Anna Bailey, Leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “We hope the Knife Angel’s presence will spark conversations of knife crime and the devasting consequences on individuals, families and communities.

“The East Cambs Community Safety Partnership brings together partners to protect the local community from crime. Their work with schools in our district to raise awareness of knife crime and the implications is much respected and is replicated in other areas.

“The arrival of the Knife Angel during Knife Crime Awareness Week is an opportunity for a powerful message, highlighting the work happening every day to keep our young people safe. Impactful interventions from the CSP, police, youth professionals, parents, carers and communities can come together to create real change in young lives.”

Throughout the sculpture’s stay there is a heavy emphasis on education, with the East Cambs CSP working with local schools to facilitate visits, workshops and programmes supporting prevention and early intervention.

Lis Every, Chair of the East Cambs CSP said: “The students will gain a great deal from participating in these sessions and I know the CSP will continue to build upon their strong foundation with the heightened awareness of the Knife Angel.

“We are grateful that knife crime in Cambridgeshire is low compared to the national level, however, no one should underestimate the impact it has.”

The stunning sculpture will be located on Palace Green, opposite Ely Cathedral, from 20 May until 17 June. Fully accessible to the public throughout its stay, the sculpture is free to attend, seven days a week.

Anna added: “The sculpture has been on tour since 2018 and we are extremely proud to be the host for its first visit to Cambridgeshire; we would encourage everyone to visit while it is here and use this as a catalyst to start those difficult but essential conversations.”

The visit coincides with a knife amnesty, with the police encouraging people to surrender weapons safely, helping to prevent further harm.

Visitors attending the Knife Angel can find information for parking and toilets on the council’s website: https://eastcambs.gov.uk/services/parking-open-spaces-and-toilets/parking-travel-and-tourism

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County to welcome “powerful” knife monument

Cambridgeshire is set to host a 27-foot-tall monument created to raise awareness of knife crime and its devastating impact on individuals, families and communities.

The nationally recognised Knife Angel will be at Palace Green, in Ely, opposite the Ely Cathedral from 20 May to 17 June.

It will be free to attend, open seven days a week and accessible to the public throughout its stay.

The opening ceremony on 20 May will see speakers including High Sheriff Frances Burkitt, Police and Crime Commissioner Darryl Preston, Chief Constable Simon Megicks, Chief Fire Officer Matthew Warren and knife crime campaigner and spoken word artist Quinton Green.

The Knife Angel was created by sculptor Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre. It has been crafted from more than 100,000 knives and blades confiscated by police forces across the UK and serves as a powerful symbol of the human cost of knife crime and violence.

This will be the sculpture’s first visit to Cambridgeshire, which will coincide with a knife amnesty, encouraging people to safely surrender weapons and helping to prevent further harm.

Throughout the Knife Angel’s stay, there will be a strong focus on education and engagement, particularly with young people. Secondary school visits are scheduled for 2, 9 and 16 June, with workshops and programmes taking place on those days to support prevention and early intervention.

The project is being delivered by Soham Town Rangers Football Club in collaboration with partners including the Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner, Cambridgeshire County Council, East Cambridgeshire District Council and Ely Cathedral.

National Lottery funding has largely covered the costs of the Knife Angel and local businesses have also contributed, with recovery firm, Manchetts, transporting the Angel and local community group, Men’s Shed in Soham, making the picket fence which will surround it.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston said: “I welcome the Knife Angel to Cambridgeshire. Its message of anti-violence is clear and moving. Whilst we may not have the scale of knife crime that is seen in some parts of the country, sadly Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are not immune to these issues. Hosting the Knife Angel will illustrate to communities, in Ely and across the wider county, the devastating effect of knife crime. It’s also an opportunity to engage our communities, particularly young people, to make them more aware of the risks and consequences of knife carrying. I will continue to work with partners to support their efforts to prevent serious violence.”

Superintendent Paul Rogerson said: “Knife crime is thankfully low in Cambridgeshire in comparison with national levels. However, every single incident leaves lasting harm on individuals, families and communities and the Knife Angel is a powerful reminder of the real human cost behind every blade. By bringing the sculpture to Cambridgeshire, alongside a knife amnesty, we want to encourage people to think twice, surrender weapons safely and have honest conversations about how we prevent violence before it happens.”

The project will also support East Anglian Air Ambulance, who will be holding a range of activities throughout the Knife Angel’s stay in Ely. These will include delivering CPR and defibrillator training, as well as holding collections and opportunities for the community to learn more about the charity’s lifesaving work.

Tammy Swiderski, Community Fundraising Lead at East Anglian Air Ambulance, said: “We are honoured to have been chosen as the benefiting charity for the Knife Angel’s visit to Ely. The installation is a powerful reminder of the impact of serious violence and the role we all play in preventing it. As a charity, we bring the hospital to the patient’s side in the fastest time possible for the most seriously ill and injured people in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk and Suffolk, so this message deeply resonates with our crews. With no regular government funding, every mission is made possible by public support and working with local partners on events like this helps raise awareness of the importance of keeping this lifesaving service flying.”

The Knife Angel’s visit aims to spark conversations, educate communities about the consequences of carrying knives, and reinforce the message that violence can be prevented through collective action.

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The children attended the groundbreaking ceremony at the Cathedral Rise development site, where housebuilder Bellway is delivering the properties as part of the Orchards Green neighbourhood on the outskirts of Ely.

House captains from each year group at the school, which is near the new development, were invited to the site along with Bellway staff and representatives from groundworks company MIDA.

Headteacher at the school Bryony Surtees said: “Our pupils enjoyed attending the groundbreaking ceremony at Cathedral Rise. It was a unique and memorable opportunity for them so thank you to Bellway for inviting us to be part of the occasion.

“As new homes are built and people move in, our pupils who attended the groundbreaking will be able to say they were there right at the start of construction and I’m sure they will take a keen interest in seeing how it progresses in the years ahead.

“Cathedral Rise will be an important addition to the area and we look forward to welcoming children who come to live there as pupils here at our school.”

Bellway Eastern Counties Construction Manager Jessica Garton said: “Inviting children from the Isle of Ely Primary School to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at Cathedral Rise was an inspiring way to launch construction of these sustainable new homes.

“We are keen to nurture good relationships with the surrounding community throughout the construction process and thought it would be nice for the school to be part of this ceremonial occasion. We hope the children will always remember that they were here on the very first day of work.

“I would also like to thank our staff from Bellway and representatives of groundworkers MIDA for taking part on the day and turning over the earth to mark the start of this important project.”

Bellway is building one and two-bedroom apartments and two to five-bedroom houses at Cathedral Rise, with sales launching in the coming months. There will be 180 properties for private sale and 120 affordable homes for local people through low-cost rent or shared ownership. The affordable homes will include 14 bungalows.

All the homes will be heated with low-carbon air source heat pumps and each property will have an electric vehicle charging point.

Cathedral Rise will be the fifth phase of the wider Orchards Green project which is set to provide 1,200 homes for the area.

To find out more about Cathedral Rise, visit https://www.bellway.co.uk/new-homes/eastern-counties/cathedral-rise or call the sales team on 01353 260177.

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Ely College has been designated as a Department for Education RISE Behaviour and Attendance Hub, recognising the school’s exceptional performance in student attendance and positive behaviour management.

The prestigious appointment means Ely College will work alongside schools nationally to share best practices and support improvements in attendance and behaviour systems. The school was selected following a rigorous application process that highlighted its outstanding outcomes and evidence-based approaches.

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be recognised as a national hub school. This appointment reflects the dedication of our entire staff team and the positive partnership we have with students and families. Our attendance rates exceed national and contextual averages, of 92% while our suspension rates remain well below national levels at 2.7% versus 7.83% nationally.”

As a hub school, Ely College will provide support, guidance, and training to other schools seeking to improve their attendance and behaviour outcomes. This includes hosting visits, delivering professional development, and sharing the strategies that have proven successful locally.

Mr Warburton added: “Every student deserves to be in school, engaged in learning, and part of a positive community. We’re proud to share what we’ve learned with colleagues across the country to help more young people achieve their potential.”

The DfE’s RISE programme (Recognising and Improving School Ethos) aims to create a network of excellent schools that can support system-wide improvement in behaviour and attendance.

Ely College serves 1,640 students aged 11-18 and has shown consistent improvement in recent years, with its Progress 8 score rising from 0.34 to 0.65.  The college’s recent Ofsted report (March 2025) highlighted the “exemplary behaviour of many pupils” and that low level disruption was, “very rare”.

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These included ‘School Project of the Year’ for the Bishop Laney Sixth Form refurbishment at Ely College, and ‘Decarbonisation/Green Project of the Year’ for its Trust-wide Carbon Reduction Initiatives. The Education Property Awards, launched in 2025 by Nexus Media Group, recognise innovative projects transforming UK education spaces.

While the Trust did not win on the night, being named a finalist in both categories represents a major sector-wide recognition of Meridian Trust’s leadership and innovation.

The Bishop Laney Sixth Form refurbishment transformed an ageing tower block into a modern, accessible Post-16 learning environment, delivered on time, on budget, and aligned with Meridian Trust’s sustainable design ambitions. Following a £5 million investment supported by the Department for Education, the project reimagined Needham Tower as a high-quality sixth form hub serving more than 300 students, with state-of-the-art classrooms, collaborative study areas, social spaces, and inclusive design throughout.

Martin Hair, Director of Estates at Meridian Trust, said: “We’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved at Ely College. The project shows what can be accomplished when vision, collaboration, and community focus come together. It’s wonderful to see our Estates and school teams recognised nationally for their hard work.”

Meridian Trust has also made exceptional progress toward its target of becoming carbon net zero by 2030, investing £1.16 million in renewable energy and smart building systems. These initiatives (including the installation of almost 900 solar PV panels and new Building Management Systems across schools) generated over 950,000 kWh of clean electricity, reduced carbon emissions by more than 260 tonnes, and saved over £250,000 in energy costs.

Martin Hair explained: “Our carbon reduction journey is built on data, teamwork, and a genuine desire to make a measurable impact. Recognition from the sector is a huge morale boost and it reinforces that we’re moving in the right direction.”

Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust added: “Being recognised at the Education Property Awards is a testament to the remarkable work of our Estates team, school leaders, and partners. This is a proud moment for everyone involved. Our focus remains on creating inspiring and sustainable high-quality learning environments that genuinely change lives.”

In a sector where innovation often lags, this recognition signals Meridian Trust as leading the way and setting examples for others to follow.

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Seven teams from local schools — Ely St John’s Community Primary, Ely St Mary’s Church of England Junior, Isleham Church of England Primary, Isle of Ely Primary, Little Thetford Church of England Primary, and Wilburton Church of England Primary — took part in the Years 5 and 6 boys football tournament.

Played in a round-robin format, every team faced each other in 15-minute matches, with ten Young Leaders from Ely College volunteering as referees and scorekeepers.

After a series of close and exciting games, St John’s emerged as the overall winners, taking home the tournament cup, while St Mary’s 2s finished as runners-up. In addition, one player from each school was recognised for showing outstanding sportsmanship and received a medal.

Tournament organiser Julia Gilbert said:

“It was great to see the boys playing some excellent football. There was a fantastic team spirit shown by all the teams, and the boys looked like they were really enjoying themselves.”

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The gateway underpass at the Ely Leisure Village has been adorned with colour and flair by students in Years 9 and 10 from the college.

Street artist Kilo, lead artist at Splash & Dash Creations Ltd, worked with the students to teach street art skills and facilitate the development of the mural, with students painting their designs directly on the underpass wing near Costa coffee.

The installation was phase two of a successful and exciting partnership project with young people. The collaborative project has involved key partners City of Ely Council, Ely Community College, East Cambridgeshire District Council and Cambridgeshire County Council.

Lis Every, Chair of the East Cambs Community Safety Partnership said: “Working with the students in the design and installation of the artwork has been inspirational and seeing them engaging fully in the project has been so rewarding.

“Our thanks go to the City of Ely Council for their continued support and funding towards the project.”

Cllr Mike Banyard, The Mayor of Ely, added: “Engaging with young people and seeing their collaborative approach to claiming their local area as a place to be both inspired by and proud of has been a positive experience for everyone involved.

“The council welcomed the opportunity to continue to fund and support this worthwhile project.”

Phase one last year saw artwork installed inside the underpass and covering the wing nearest the green open space and walkways which lead to the leisure village. This year the students stepped up once again, adding their designs directly on the wing of the underpass.

Councillor Alison Whelan, chair of the Communities, Social Mobility and Inclusion Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council said: “After the hugely successful first phase of this vibrant and ambitious art project, I’m delighted we’re supporting this next phase, alongside our local partners.

“Providing opportunities for young people to have their skills and creativity recognised where they live, is one way we can really help them to thrive and their communities to prosper.”

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This year, almost one fifth of all A-Level results achieved by King’s Ely Sixth Form students are the top A* grade. Around half of all grades attained are A*-A, and almost three quarters of results are grades A*-B. The overall pass rate is 99.5%

An impressive 92% of the Year 13 cohort achieved an immediate place at their first-choice university or institution, not just in the UK, but across the globe. As a marker of their all-round, enriched education, pupils are going on to study subjects as diverse as Medicine to Fashion Design Innovation, and Maritime Engineering to Artificial Intelligence.

Sixteen students achieved all A* and A grades; eight of whom each achieved at least three A* grades.

Every King’s Ely student holding Oxbridge offers achieved the top grades to take up their places this year. Other popular university destinations include Durham, Edinburgh, Exeter, London (UCL), Newcastle, York, and Sheffield.

Year 13 leavers are studying a fascinating and vast array of degrees and courses – as ever, subjects in STEM, Humanities, Languages, and the Arts are strong. Two pupils are going on to study Medicine this year.

Polly Casey, who joined King’s Ely Senior in Year 9, secured her place at New College, University of Oxford to study Music after achieving four A* grades. Polly said: “I did work hard for my exams, but I never thought I would do as well as I have! King’s is an amazing place to study and there are so many things that I will miss, especially the Music Department. I feel King’s gives you the right balance of nurture and freedom to carve your own path, and for you to really be you.”

Leo Good achieved all A grades, securing him a place at University College London to study History. Leo, who has been at King’s Ely since joining Nursery in 2009, said: “I feel like all the revision and late nights have paid off, but I also have my amazing teachers to thank too. They have all been incredibly supportive and always there if I needed them for anything. I could not think of a better place to study than at King’s. I have been here for sixteen years, and I have loved every minute of it!”

Charlotte Senior is heading to the University of Edinburgh to study Mathematics after achieving all A* and A grades. Charlotte, who joined King’s Ely Senior in Year 10, said: “I am so excited for Edinburgh! I love King’s and I will miss my friends, my teachers, and the entire school community so much, but I also feel well prepared for the next chapter.”

Xander Tong, who joined King’s Ely Acremont Pre-Prep in Year 2, achieved all A* and A grades, and is going to be studying Physics with Astrophysics at Lancaster University. Xander said: “King’s has been amazing. I think what really stands out for me is that my teachers have all been genuinely interested in me as an individual, and not just about my studies and results, but in my personal growth too.”

Jonathan Shaw, Head of King’s Ely Senior, said: “Congratulations and well done to our Year 13s on some exceptional exam results. An impressive number of pupils have achieved three or more A* grades, but most importantly, many have exceeded their own personal expectations. As a year group, they have contributed in so many ways to school life and thoroughly deserve their success. They leave King’s, not only with some impressive academic qualifications but as well-rounded individuals who we are confident have the character and sense of responsibility to make a difference in whatever path they choose next. Thank you to the whole King’s Ely community who have supported and guided our pupils through to Year 13, wherever they started their journey.”

As well as offering almost thirty different A-Level courses, King’s Ely also enables pupils to study vocational Level 3 Diploma qualifications in Business Studies, and Food and Nutrition. This year, three quarters of students achieved at least a Distinction, a third of which were a Starred Distinction.

This year, thirty-two students also completed Extended Project Qualifications (EPQs) in addition to their A-Level subjects, which are equivalent to 50% of an A-Level. More than three quarters of students achieved an A*-B grade.

John Attwater, Principal of King’s Ely, said: “We are really delighted with our students’ exam results today. While it is gratifying to know that, as a school, we have exceeded all the national benchmarks for A-Levels by some way, it is even better that virtually all our students are now embarking on their first-choice future pathway, and all have exciting futures ahead. It has been wonderful to celebrate with them today and to see such a breadth of ambition fulfilled through their own hard work and the support of their teachers and other staff. I am so pleased that they will be keeping in touch with us and taking the King’s Ely ethos far and wide.”

Interested in finding out more about King’s Ely Sixth Form? A dedicated Sixth Form Open Event is taking place at the Old Palace on Saturday 11th October. To book your place, please call Admissions on (01353) 660707 or visit: www.kingsely.org  

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++ New building will feature state-of-the-art sensory room for students with diverse needs ++

Staff and students at Highfield Littleport Academy in Ely are excited to have marked the start of building work for the school’s extension, with students helping to ceremoniously break the ground.

The students were joined by Lynsey Holzer, CEO of The Active Learning Trust and Yvonne Skillern, Headteacher at Highfield Littleport Academy.

The new extension, funded through Cambridgeshire County Council, will support an additional 50 students with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), greatly improving the school’s capacity to deliver specialist provision and meet complex student needs.

The extension will feature a state-of-the-art sensory room, designed to provide a calming and stimulating environment for sensory exploration, which is essential for students with diverse needs.

The new space will also include specialised teaching spaces that facilitate innovative teaching and learning, ensuring that each child’s learning journey is uniquely supported.

A dedicated life skills area will be created to equip students with essential skills for independent living, integrating practical learning with everyday life.

The project will be completed by RG Carter and is due to be completed next academic year, with new students joining from 2026.

RG Carter also kindly presented Highfield Littleport, part of The Active Learning Trust, with a commemorative engraved spade to mark the occasion. This will be displayed in the new building.

Yvonne Skillern, Headteacher at Highfield Littleport Academy, said:

“This will be a fantastic resource for our learners and will mean that we can go a little way to help ease the demand upon schools for specialist placements.”

Lynsey Holzer, CEO of The Active Learning Trust, said:

“We are grateful to Cambridgeshire County Council for funding this project which will be transformative for many students, significantly increasing the support that we can offer to students with EHCPs.

“The new building and facilities will help ensure that students with complex and diverse needs can be fully supported in a nurturing and inclusive environment.”

Image: Lynsey Holzer and Yvonne Skillern with students (from L-R) Alexa-Mae; Simi; Dexter. Carter staff behind them are L-R:  Frazer Anderson – Quantity Surveyor; Harry Porter – Senior Quantity Surveyor; Steven Peacock – Site Manager; Ellen Ward – Assistant Project Manager.

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There were 4 categories- Yr 3 girls, yr 3 boys, yr 4 girls and yr 4 girls– and teams of up to 6 from the Isle of Ely Primary School, The Lantern Community Primary School, Little Thetford Church of England Primary School, Millfield Primary School, Robert Arkenstall Primary School and Wilburton Church of England Primary School ran the approximately 1500m course. 

20 Young Leaders from Ely College helped marshal around the course and at the finish line as well as with the recording of the final positions.

In the yr 3 girls race, Millfield were the winners with 2^nd and 3^rd places going to Little Thetford. 

In the yr 3 boys race, Wilburton took 1^st and 2^nd place with 3^rd place going to The Lantern

In the Yr 4 girls race Little Thetford were the winners, Robert Arkenstall 2^nd and The Isle of Ely 3^rd

In the Yr 4 boys race The Isle of Ely took 1^st place, Wilburton 2^nd place and The Isle of Ely 3^rd

The placings of all the children racing were recorded and the highest three placings from each school recorded for each race.  The school with the lowest overall ‘score’ over the 4 races was awarded Yr 3 & 4 Cross Country Team winner.  This year the winner was the Isle of Ely who narrowly beat Wilburton by 4 points.

Caroline Morton of ActivePlay Education said ‘It was a great morning and all the children did really well.  It was fantastic to see so many young people outside, running and enjoying themselves.  I’d also like to say a big thank you to Ben Crosbie and the Young Leaders at Ely College for hosting the event, laying out the course and for all their help on the day.  It meant for a very successful morning.’

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A West End-Worthy Production

Principal Simon Warburton praised the students, calling the show “worthy of the West End” and joking, “Let’s take it on tour!” The performances showcased exceptional acting, singing, and choreography, proving the dedication of the whole-school cast.

The musical’s youngest stars shone brightly, with Year 7’s Chloe Lee (Oliver) and Year 8 Alicia Clough (Artful Dodger) leading the cast. Joe Turner (Fagin), Evie Bennet (Nancy), and Eleanor Wallman (Bet) delivered powerful performances, supported by a talented ensemble.

A Celebration of Talent & Hard Work

This student-led production saw performers take charge of choreography, backstage operations, and set changes. Co-directors Jake Newton and Kate Arnold applauded the students’ commitment, as did Music Director Kate Arnold, who thanked parents, staff, and the professional pit band for bringing the show to life.

Reflecting on past productions, Year 11 students bid an emotional farewell, reminiscing about The Caucasian Chalk Circle (2024), Little Shop of Horrors (2023), and School of Rock (2022). Year 10’s Zac Tatum impressed as the menacing Bill Sikes, while Charlie Sigrist (Mr Bumble), Tom Le Gresley (Mr Sowerberry), and Findlay Paul (Charley) added humour.

Community Spirit & The Thrill of Live Theatre

Students described the final rehearsals as intensive yet rewarding, coming together during lunch breaks to perfect their performances. Asia Glory (Mrs Sowerberry) shared how the team bonded, while Ben Lithe (Mr Brownlow) reflected on their growing confidence after the dress rehearsal.

Director Jake Newton highlighted the magic of live theatre, where all elements come together just in time. Catrin Andrews (Widow Corney), performing in her final musical at Ely College, expressed gratitude to the teachers, PTFA, and backstage crew, emphasising:

“We’ve made so many new friendships this year. The song asks, ‘Where is Love?’—it’s here, in the heart of our school community.”

Media Contact: Kerri Vella, Ely College Communications Officer, kvella@elycollege.co.uk or 01353 652840

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Students from Ely Community College are creating a large mural in the underpass leading to the leisure and entertainment location, as a way of creating a positive image of young people and developing their skills in street art.

The collaborative project has involved key partners City of Ely Council, Ely Community College, East Cambridgeshire District Council and Cambridgeshire County Council.

Kilo, lead artist at Splash & Dash Creations Ltd, facilitated a series of after school workshops with the students, aimed at teaching the skills required to be able to paint a group mural, and working on basic spray paint techniques including filling in, fading colours together, working with complex shapes and outlining. 

Students, from Year 8 to Year 10, were tasked with developing their own original ideas, combining the best elements into a finished design and completing the collaborative painting. One student commented that they:“First started Graffiti club because I had just been to Birmingham where there were loads of cool graffiti murals and I thought it would be really cool to help make something like that in Ely.” 

Youth councillor at City of Ely Council, Will Novick, added: “It’s wonderful to see the college and local councils working together to create opportunities for young people to influence the city we live, work, and study in. This project will turn an unattractive underpass into a community project which will show the best of Ely.”

It is hoped the creation of the mural will instil enthusiasm and joy with all those who use the popular gateway underpass and inspire other young people to take part in supported projects.

Lizzi Houghton of Communities Service, Cambridgeshire County Council said: “This partnership project with young people in the driving seat has been made possible with the great support of all the organisations involved and will be an amazing showcase of young peoples imagination, creation and design for everyone to enjoy.”

The installation is taking place over the weekend of 21st and 22nd September, starting late morning and continuing into the afternoon each day. Everyone is welcome to call by and watch the installation taking place. Some areas of the underpass may be sectioned off whilst the work is taking place but it will remain accessible during the weekend.

Lis Every, Chair of the Community Safety Partnership added: “This excellent project was initiated by our local young people who wanted to ensure the underpass was a pleasant environment for the community using it.  The students from Ely College, with local partners and professional street artists will really transform this area.   

“The CSP were really pleased to support this which is funded by the City of Ely Council and community infrastructure levy committee as sub-group of City of Ely Council. We are grateful to all those involved – it is a real partnership approach. 

“We would like to hear of more ideas from young people and where possible work together to make them happen.”

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

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Principal Simon Warburton expressed his pride, saying: “We are delighted with the results of our Year 11 cohort, who approached their studies with incredible maturity and dedication. They deserve to be very proud of their achievements today.”

Among the college’s top achievers were:

• Lily H who achieved ten grade 9s and one grade 8.
• Tommy L who achieved eight grade 9s and one grade 8.
• Martina V who achieved eight grade 9s and two grade 8s.
• Anastasia A who achieved six grade 9s, one grade 8 and two grade 7s.
• William L who achieved six grade 9s and three grade 8s.

The college also celebrated students who made significant progress beyond expectations, including Cameron T, Lydia P, Alice H, Jakub O, Georgia H, and Natalie G.

Simon added: “At Ely College, we continually strive to be an exceptional school for an exceptional community. These fantastic GCSE results, combined with the superb A Level and vocational outcomes announced last week, are a testament to the hard work of our students, the support of their parents and our staff. It was a joy to share this moment with our students and families, and we wish them every success as they embark on the next stage of their journey.”

Martin Campbell, Executive Principal at Meridian Trust, added: “A huge congratulations to everyone celebrating their well-deserved success today. The students and their families should be incredibly proud of their accomplishments. The Trust is proud of Ely College’s achievements, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff who have supported these students throughout their time at the school.”

For more information about Ely College, please visit: www.elycollege.com. 

Press release from Ely College

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Almost half of King’s Ely’s GCSE results this year are grades 9-7 (the old A*-A), and more than three quarters of results are grades 9-5 (the old A*-B). The overall pass rate is 95%, with virtually all students achieving a pass or better in Maths and English Language.

These fantastic results not only reflect our pupils’ hard work and determination, but also their teachers’ and mentors’ expertise and commitment for them to succeed. They also come just a week after our Year 13 cohort once again secured places at their first-choice universities and institutions, not just in the UK, but across the globe. This year, a fifth of A-Level results achieved at King’s Ely Sixth Form were the top A* grade, almost half of grades were A*-A, and three-quarters of results were grade A*-B. The overall pass rate was 100%.

Mr Jonathan Shaw, Head of King’s Ely Senior, said: “We are delighted that the hard work of so many of our pupils has been recognised with some excellent GCSE grades this summer. Many have exceeded expectations, and we are very proud of our Year 11 pupils for their diligence and enthusiasm, both inside and outside the classroom. For many, these results have been achieved alongside a commitment to many aspects of school life, be it music, drama, or sport. I would also like to thank the teachers and other staff who have supported our pupils both academically and pastorally throughout their time at King’s. Success such as this is always the culmination of a superb team effort.”

More than a quarter of this year’s GCSE cohort achieved grades 9-7 in at least eight of their subjects, including one student who secured grade 9s in nine of their subjects, and one student who achieved seven grade 9s.

As is reflective of an all-round, enriched education, King’s Ely pupils have studied and achieved in a wide variety of GCSE subjects. Almost half of all grades in the following subjects were at least a grade 8 – Biology, Chemistry, Drama, History, Latin, Music, Physics, Religious Studies, and Textiles.

James Barber, who joined King’s Ely Senior in Year 9 from St Faith’s School in Cambridge, achieved all grades 9-7. He will be studying A-Levels in Physics, Chemistry, Maths, and Further Maths here at King’s Ely Sixth Form. James said: “I am very happy with my results. I revised lots and it all feels worth it now. I am looking forward to studying subjects that I really enjoy at A-Level. Career wise, I hope to go into engineering, maybe aerospace engineering.”

Sienna Burley achieved grades 9-8 in eight of her GCSE subjects. Sienna, who joined King’s Ely Prep in Year 8, is studying Biology, Chemistry, and Maths for her A-Levels, and she aspires to study medicine at university. Sienna, who started volunteering at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge this summer through the Young Persons Programme, said: “I am staying at King’s Ely for Sixth Form, and I am excited to study subjects that I love. I worked hard for my GCSEs, but I would have never got such good grades without the amazing support of my teachers. I am also looking forward to the Sixth Form socials!”

William Kirkup, who has been at King’s Ely since joining our Nursery in 2011, achieved all grades 9-7 in his subjects. He will be studying A-Levels in Classical Civilisation, Fine Art, and Film Studies here. William said: “I am considering a career in theatre set design, although that is not set in stone. I really enjoy my music and the music department here at King’s is exceptional, which is one of the reasons I am staying on for Sixth Form. I also love the fact that all our teachers know us as individuals, which means the support is strong.”

Twenty-five pupils from all corners of the globe also received their results today having studied the one-year IGCSE programme at King’s Ely. The two-term intensive course sees young people studying in their non-native speaking language, and the average number of subjects taken is six. King’s Ely is delighted to report another excellent set of IGCSE grades, with an overall pass rate of 94%. More than two thirds of IGCSE results were grades 9-6. Two students achieved grade 9s in all their subjects.

Mr Matthew Norbury, Director for International Students at King’s Ely, said: “Our IGCSE students arrive in England for the first time ever in September, and just seven months later they are successfully sitting their IGCSEs in an education system they have never experienced before. Every year I remain humbled by their achievements.”

Interested in finding out more about King’s Ely? A Whole School Open Event is taking place on Saturday 21st September. To book your place, please call Admissions on (01353) 660707 or visit: http://www.kingsely.org    

Press release from King’s Ely

The post GCSE Celebrations at King’s Ely appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Adam Steels, Head of Bishop Laney Sixth Form, said: “I am so very pleased for all our students, whether heading to university, into employment or onto further study through apprenticeships. They should all be proud of their achievements at Bishop Laney, as we are proud of them. We wish all of our students the very best for their next step”

Individual success stories from Bishop Laney Sixth Form include:

Ellie, who achieved triple Distinction* grades in Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care  will be taking up further study in early years provision through an apprenticeship. 

Caleb has achieved A grades in Mathematics and Product Design which will propel him to study Mechanical Engineering from September.

Charlotte’s A Level grades in History, Biology and Chemistry will see her commence her 5 year degree in Veterinary Medicine.

Leah takes her triple Distinction* grade in Sports & Exercise Science to university to further her studies in sport coaching and performance, whilst Emily’s Sports & Exercise Science grades see her on to a teaching degree, in secondary PE. 

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College & Bishop Laney Sixth Form added: “I am delighted with the outstanding results achieved by our 2024 cohort, which reflect our commitment to delivering an exceptional educational experience for our community.

“These achievements mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Bishop Laney Sixth Form. Renovations of Needhams Tower are well underway, transforming it into an inspiring learning environment and the new home for Bishop Laney, set to open in early 2025.”

If you wish to enquire about current opportunities within the sixth form, please contact  admissions@bishoplaney.org and 01353 652818.

Press release from Ely College

The post Bishop Laney Sixth Form students and staff celebrate Post-16 success appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The vast majority of our 95-strong Year 13 cohort have once again secured places at their first-choice universities and institutions, not just in the UK, but across the globe.

This year, a fifth of A-Level results achieved at King’s Ely Sixth Form are the top A* grade, almost half of grades are A*-A, and three-quarters of results are grade A*-B. The overall pass rate is 100%. 

These fantastic results not only reflect our students’ hard work and determination, but also their teachers’ and mentors’ expertise and commitment for them to succeed. As a marker of their all-round, enriched education, King’s Ely pupils are going on to study subjects as diverse as Medicine to Music, and Film Production to Finance.

Mr Jonathan Shaw, Head of King’s Ely Senior, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the A-Level results of our Year 13 pupils; they should feel extremely proud of their outstanding grades. Many individuals have exceeded their own expectations and will be particularly pleased with their results. However, as well as achieving some fabulous grades, they leave King’s Ely as extremely well-rounded individuals with the character and confidence to make a difference in whatever path they choose. I would like to offer my congratulations to both our Year 13 pupils for their hard work and determination, as well as our teachers for their teaching and guidance. I hope that families will be able to celebrate this important milestone. As a cohort, this year group has contributed in so many positive ways to school life and they will certainly be missed.”

All four King’s Ely students holding Oxbridge offers achieved the top grades to take up their places this year – Lily McCallum to study Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge; Kit Attwater to study Music at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge; Samuel Trueman to study Music at Queens’ College, Cambridge; and Elliot Dickson to study History at St Hugh’s College, Oxford. 

This year, twenty-four students achieved all A*-A grades, and forty-eight pupils earned all A*-B grades. Popular university destinations include Bath, Durham, Edinburgh, Exeter, London, York, and Newcastle. Our Year 13 leavers are studying a fascinating and vast array of degrees and courses – as ever, subjects in STEM, Humanities, Languages, and the Arts are strong. Four pupils are going on to study Medicine this year.

One of our budding Medics is Sydney Smith, who secured her first-choice place at Cardiff University. Sydney has been at King’s Ely since joining Nursery in 2008! She said: “I have wanted to study Medicine for several years now, and it was a huge relief this morning to see that I had achieved the grades I needed. I have been at King’s my entire life, so it feels surreal and sad to be leaving. It is an amazing school. Everyone is so supportive of each other, and I have been able to do so much alongside my studies, such as Sport, Music, Ely Scheme, and lots of different trips.”

Samuel Trueman achieved the grades he needed to be Organ Scholar at Queens’ College, Cambridge. Samuel joined King’s Ely Senior in Year 9 from King’s College School, Cambridge. He said: “I am so pleased with my results, and very relieved. I feel like all the hard work has paid off! The teaching at King’s really is fantastic. The class sizes are small, and everyone is known as an individual, which I feel makes the school community at King’s unique. The Music and Drama Departments are also exceptional.”

Sophie Haydn-Slater is heading to her first choice too – Oxford Brookes University to study International Hospitality and Hotel Management. Sophie, who joined King’s Ely Prep in Year 7, said: “The dream career for me is event management for a large hotel chain overseas or on a super yacht – basically a career that will allow me to travel. I have loved my time at King’s. It is an incredible place to be, and you must make the most of every opportunity here. I feel that I have done exactly that, from football to drama productions, I am leaving on such a high.”

Thomas Kirkpatrick will be studying Horology (the art of making clocks and watches) at Birmingham City University after achieving the grades he needed. Thomas, who joined King’s Ely Prep in Year 5, said: “When my grandfather passed away, he left me his Rolex watch. I was fascinated by how it worked, and this is what sparked my interest in horology. It is a very niche degree, but all my teachers have been so supportive, encouraging me to pursue what really interests me.”

As well as offering almost thirty different A-Level courses, King’s Ely also enables pupils to study vocational Level 3 Diploma qualifications in Business Studies, and Food and Nutrition. This year, 86% of students achieved at least a Distinction, a third of which were a Starred Distinction. From September 2024, King’s Ely will also be offering the Extended Certificate in Sport. These qualifications are equivalent to one A-Level, and they are taken alongside A-Levels.

This year, twenty-seven students also completed Extended Project Qualifications (EPQs) in addition to their A-Level subjects, which are equivalent to 50% of an A-Level. More than 70% of students achieved an A*-A grade.

Mr John Attwater, Principal of King’s Ely, said: “Our students’ achievements today underline the great value of learning in a community where everyone is known well, their talents are valued, and each other’s success is paramount. This year group and their teachers have exemplified that spirit and thoroughly deserve their celebrations today. We look forward to staying in touch with them as Old Eleans and to seeing them flourish in their lives ahead. This year, A-Levels have been marked strictly to pre-COVID standards with no quarter given for any effects of the pandemic lockdowns on children’s educational journey. I am especially pleased that our results continue to climb even by this measure and are well above where they were in 2019, the benchmark; this demonstrates King’s Ely’s continuing presence as a first-rate academic Sixth Form alongside our well-known strengths in the arts and co-curriculum.”

Interested in finding out more about King’s Ely Sixth Form? A dedicated Sixth Form Open Event is taking place at the Old Palace on Saturday 12th October. To book your place, please call Admissions on (01353) 660707 or visit: www.kingsely.org   

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely students’ excellent A-Level results appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Organisers Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS) had been on standby in case forecasts of stormy weather proved to be true – but a warm, dry day meant the sponsored assault course could take place.

The Lantern Ninja Dash had been rained off twice – in March and in May – but the challenge, a highlight for many of the 450 or so students at the school and Goslings Preschool, had been worth the wait, organiser Sinead Hurley said.

She added: “After a few false starts, it was great that the ‘Around the World’ Ninja Dash could finally go ahead. The kids really enjoyed the event, saying they couldn’t wait to see what next year’s theme would be. This made it all worthwhile.”

The sponsored race has so far raised £2856. Adding Gift Aid takes the total to about £3486, which will be spent on outdoor shelters for the school.

Budding ninjas aged between three and 11 got to put their speed and agility to the test, with a series of obstacles to conquer around the school’s back field.

Children were challenged to crawl under an “eel hive from Ely”, balance along the “Great Wall of China”, dodge bears and alligators in America, crocodiles in Africa, weave through the Amazon rainforest and hop across Antarctica, while avoiding “deadly snakes and spiders” in Australia! 

Straw bales allowed kids to scale the peaks of the Himalayas – but they had to watch out for the Yeti!

The celebrations continued into the evening, with the day branded as “Festive Friday – the Remix”, referring to the fact that the initial event had been postponed. Students enjoyed a non-uniform day in exchange for a donation to Ely Foodbank. 

As well as the Ninja Dash taking place throughout the day, FOTLS put on after school entertainment, including inflatables and refreshments.

FOTLS chair Meredith Hux Atkins said: “We are so grateful to our small but mighty team of volunteers, who stayed behind late on Thursday to set up, and were at school all day on Friday. There is so much that happens behind the scenes to ensure events like this are a success. We would also like to thank the school for their incredible support.”

Press release from Friends of The Lantern School

The post Third Time Lucky for Lantern Ninjas! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Voice 21 works with more than 1000 schools nationally, and Ely College was one of only 24 to have their oracy achievements recognised in the most recent round of applications.

The Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence award certifies and celebrates schools that are changing the way they educate by supporting students to find their voice – and as a result, are transforming their learning and life chances. To secure its recognition, Ely College had to demonstrate the quality of oracy education being provided across five areas of school life: their school’s vision, culture, curriculum, learning and impact on students.

A Voice 21 report, shared with the College, states “there is a strong vision for oracy which is held by the whole school community.” This ensures “students have a range of opportunities to develop their voices both inside and outside the classroom and are being supported to enhance their conversational skills with adults.” 

Samantha Rasmussen, Oracy Lead and Vice Principal of Ely College said: “Oracy is a vital skill, particularly in our post-pandemic world, and we have seen the incredible difference it can make to the learning and confidence of students at all ages and abilities in our school. We are thrilled to be the only secondary school in the East of England to achieve this award and one of only a handful of secondaries nationally. This has been a significant project for us over the last few years and it’s great to see all our efforts formally recognised.”

As a Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence, Ely College will support other schools in the community and across the country, showcasing how oracy teaching can impact their students’ future education and employment opportunities.

Oracy has been shown to be as important as reading and numeracy in improving life outcomes for children. According to The Skills Imperative 2035, communication and collaboration skills are one of six ‘Essential Employment Skills’.

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College said: “We are delighted to have been recognised as an Oracy Centre of Excellence by Voice 21. At Ely College, we are passionate about improving the quality of education and life in Ely to ensure the young adults who leave our care are prepared for the next stage of their education and are ready and confident to move forward as responsible and employable citizens. I am so proud of our Ely College team who have worked incredibly hard to place oracy at the heart of our teaching and learning.”

In its 2021 report ‘Speak for Change’, the Oracy All-Party Parliamentary Group highlighted the importance of oracy education to improve academic performance, underpin literacy and vocabulary, support wellbeing and confidence, and enable young people to access employment and thrive in life beyond school.

Kate Paradine, CEO at Voice 21, says: “I’d like to congratulate Ely College on becoming a Voice 21 Oracy Centre of Excellence. It’s a testament to the innovative and inspirational oracy teaching by staff across the College. This is already having significant impacts on students’ learning, and will be of huge benefit to them as they progress throughout school and in future education and employment opportunities. Ely College is part of the national oracy movement that is transforming the education system and preparing all students to use their voice to succeed in school and in life.”

For more information about Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form, please visit: www.elycollege.com.

Press release from Ely College

The post Ely College awarded prestigious national ‘Centre of Excellence’ award for Oracy appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

12 teams from 9 schools across East Cambridgeshire – Ely St John’s, Fordham, Isle of Ely, Mepal & Witcham, Millfield, Rackham, Robert Arkenstall, Stretham and Wilburton Primary Schools – all took part.   With the winners of the three leagues and the highest placed second team going through to the semi finals, Ely St John’s played Fordham 2s and Stretham played Mepal & Witcham for a place in the final.

The final between Ely St John’s and Mepal & Witcham went to a penalty shoot out when the score after extra time remained at 0-0.  Ely St John’s were the eventual winner!  Well done to all the teams that played that day -everyone played extremely well. 

In addition to the tournament cup, medals were awarded to a player from each team who showed the best sportsmanship and teamwork during the tournament!  The referees also awarded a medal to the player that showed the best sportsmanship in their league.  

The post Inter School Mixed Football Tournament for Years 5 & 6 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The National Lottery Heritage Fund. This event showcased the creative work completed by the students and artists involved, while also offering further creative activities and reflection
on the project.

In 2023 Babylon Arts was fortunate to secure funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for an 18-month project entitled ‘Inspired by Nature’, working with partners at The National Trust’s Wicken Fen site and Ely Museum. The aim was to develop creative approaches that enabled connection and engagement for people with low vision, young people and the wider public, thereby improving access to arts and heritage for more people. And we were also delighted to be able to involve Highfield Littleport Academy in a later hands-on, creative phase which culminated on Thursday 6th June.
All children at the school benefited from practical workshops in February and March 2024 with three professional artists, Lead Artist, Kaitlin Ferguson and Assistant Artists, Amy Wormald and Lyn Pryor, experimenting with a variety of printmaking techniques using natural inks from blueberries, beetroot and bark and taking into consideration nature, whilst
referencing fossils and those we may leave behind!

A significant and magnificent truly co-created artwork, ‘Deep Time – Imagining Ely’s Prehistoric Landscape and Ocean’ comprising of 4 printed wall hangings on muslin that incorporate imagery provided by the artists and the children has been installed at an impressive height in the school hall to serve as a legacy and a reminder of the fruitful and creative interactions that took place in the school during the residency by the artists.

On Thursday 6th June a Celebration Event brought together all the young participants, several parents and carers, teachers and the artists to enjoy the fruits of their labours and to engage in some further creative activity and evaluation.

The main highlight was that the children saw the finished artwork, ‘Deep Time’ for the first time and were very excited to
see some of their own drawings incorporated and all the pupils credited on the wooden plaque alongside! Other highlights of the project adorn the walls of the school where you can see framed prints made by the children and fired handmade clay fossils are on display in
the hall. During the event, children were given access to a Sensory Room where they enjoyed Kaitlin Ferguson’s film about Wicken Fen, accompanied by scented oils to stimulate their senses, a fossil digging station where they played amateur archaeologists, unearthing some 3D printed wooden fossils and a printmaking table where they produced a largescale
communal print by using fossil stamps that they had made themselves during the project.

“The finished artwork is fantastic, it depicts the students sensory and learning experiences perfectly,” said Yvonne Skillern, the Headteacher of Highfields Littleport Academy,

“It is great that every student from the most sensory learner to some of our artists of the future have been included in the project. It has been of huge benefit to our learners and we would love to repeat this sort of project again. A huge thank you to Babylon Arts for making
this possible”

The children and parents even provided creative feedback on their experience of the project on sugar paper leaves with which they could adorn a tree or via dinosaur footprints that could be placed on a pathway through nature, printed using real leaves and plants! Some of their comments included: “I want to be an artist”, “It made me feel proud of myself” and “This was the best day ever”.

Thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and to National Lottery Players for making this possible.

Press release from Babylon ARTS

The post Babylon ARTS and Highfield Littleport Academy Celebrate Nature, Art and Creative Collaboration! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The exhibition is a first for DEMAT and part of a programme of events designed to celebrate the diverse talents of their pupils.

Showing over 200 pieces of art, the successful artists, aged 5-11 years old, have been invited for a Private Viewing with their parents on 7th June.

The Art Exhibition will also be open to the public on Saturday 8th June from 9.30-12.00pm

Sally Fisher, Event Coordinator for DEMAT says “We are really excited to present our first ever art exhibition. The standard of entries has been extremely high and the enthusiasm of our schools, absolutely amazing. The exhibition has created a real buzz with pupils and parents alike and we’re delighted that over 30 of our schools are taking part”

St Mary Church

St Mary’s Street
Ely
CB7 4HF

Press release from DEMAT

The post Childrens Art celebrated in new City Exhibition. appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Young pupils from The Rackham C of E Primary School submitted their work along with over 21,500 students aged 4-19 from across the UK.

The artwork is judged by a panel of artists and arts professionals who select those to be displayed at The Royal Academy of Art – one of the world’s leading galleries.

Winston loves to paint, draw and model with clay at home and was very excited when he heard his painting had been accepted for both the online exhibition and to be displayed to the public on-site at the Royal Academy.

“When my dad told me, I started running around the house screaming madly!” Winston says.

Using poster paints, she mixed a very muddy brown then created the scene using a sponge. “I love playing rugby for Ely Tigers,” Wren says. “My favourite way to paint is crazy and it makes me feel happy.”

Wren’s work will join approximately 500 other curated pieces to be displayed in the Royal Academy online exhibition.

Now in its sixth year, the RA Young Artists’ Summer Show is a free, open submission exhibition for pupils studying in the UK.

Once their school has registered, students can submit just one piece of artwork along with a short description.

28 pupils from The Rackham Primary School in Witchford submitted work in a wide variety of forms including still life, portraits, textiles, mixed media and collage. The Rackham After School Club also entered with a collaboratively created quilt.

Assistant Headteacher and Art Lead at The Rackham Primary School, Mrs. Stephanie Deery, believes art is vital in allowing children to express themselves and explore ideas in creative and visual ways.

“Creating opportunities for the children to see that they are already ‘real artists’ is hugely important. Wren and Winston have really impressed us with their unique pieces of work. They had very different ideas and inspiration which shows that art can be about anything. We hope their success will inspire even more children to give it a try next year.”

Head Teacher Miss. Georgina Turner added:

“It has been a source of great pride to witness the enthusiasm and artistic talent that is abundant throughout The Rackham student population.

Joining this competition has enabled our pupils to broaden their understanding of potential careers within the creative industry. Congratulations to everyone who took part!”

Local Authority and Art Link Governor at the school Mrs. Emily Chase is thrilled to see pupils engaging with an internationally renowned gallery.

“It is so exciting to see the school value and provide creative opportunities that raise the aspirations of pupils. Taking part in the Royal Academy Young Artists’ Summer Show is such a great experience for all and an amazing achievement for those selected. I’m looking forward to seeing all the work submitted and viewing those selected at the exhibition!”

The exhibition will open at the Royal Academy of Art in London on Tuesday 16th July and will also be available to explore online at: www.youngartists.royalacademy.org.uk. All entries submitted by The Rackham pupils will also be displayed in the school hall.

“Submitting work at this level is such a brave thing to do,” says Mrs. Deery. “We are super proud of all our children who submitted work for putting themselves out there and giving it a go!”

Press release from Rackham C of E Primary School

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Thomas Strudwick, who is in Year 10 at King’s Ely Senior, has been crowned the ‘Intermediate Class’ winner of this year’s Young Organists’ Competition. The contest is organised by the School Organists’ Association, which was launched in 2020 to support organists and organ teachers in UK schools. 

Thomas, who is a former Ely Cathedral Chorister and who is heavily involved in the music scene at King’s Ely, submitted a video of him playing Buxtehude’s ‘Praeludium in C’ on the organ at Ely Cathedral.

Thomas, who also plays the piano and cello, joined King’s Ely Prep as a Year 4 pupil. He only started playing the organ in October 2022. Thomas said: “I am very surprised but extremely pleased to have won!”

Describing his winning piece, Professor Edward Higginbottom, the music scholar, organist, choirmaster, and conductor who adjudicated the competition, said: “A very fine performance. It had rhetorical swagger where needed, tight ensemble when that was required, brilliant passagework as the occasion arose, and an overall sense of improvisatory brilliance. Your fingers are in very good shape, not least in the lively trills. Excellent composure at the console. Many congratulations.”

In 2021, Thomas was commended in the Choir Schools’ Association (CSA) Willcocks Composition Competition. This was for ‘Sing to the Lord a New Song’, which he wrote himself earlier that year, and which was first performed as an introit at a Saturday Evensong at Ely Cathedral.

Mr Neil Porter-Thaw, who is Director of Music at King’s Ely, said: “Thomas’ musical journey thus far has been very impressive indeed. He works hard, and he is so passionate about his music. His feet are firmly on the ground, and he is always very modest about his achievements. I continue to be proud of his efforts and his dedication to become the very best that he can be.”

King’s Ely and Ely Cathedral provide a truly unique environment for young organists to develop their skills, including the offering of a Sixth Form Organ Scholarship. This outstanding opportunity is designed for a young organist seeking to apply for a University Organ Scholarship or Conservatoire course. It can also act as preparation for a gap-year Cathedral post. Former Ely Organ Scholars have gone on to prestigious University placements, including the Organ Scholarships of King’s, Girton, and Emmanuel Colleges in Cambridge, and most recently at Jesus College, Cambridge, where Miriam Reveley FRCO is the first female Organ Scholar in the College’s 500-year history.

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations. To discover more, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely student triumphant in 2024 Young Organists’ Competition appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Hundreds of photographers from across the globe entered this year’s ‘Beyond the Frame’ competition, which is organised annually by Norwich University of the Arts (NUA) and Canon to celebrate the creativity and skill of photography students aged 11-19. The theme of this year’s contest was ‘People, Places and Things’.

King’s Ely is proud to announce that Emily Freeman won the ‘age 11-15 category’ and Finnian Stroud scooped a ‘judge’s choice’ prize. King’s Ely students whose work was shortlisted are Sophie Haydn-Slater, Sixuan Meng, Hetty Hoyles, Austin Talbot, Sam Clarke, Wilfred Waters, Thomas Peters, Edward Bailey, and Eliza O’Donnell.

King’s Ely students have snapped their way to victory in ‘Beyond the Frame’ for several years running now. Last year, seven pupils were shortlisted, and Ella Martin won the ‘People’ category. Other pupils who have been successful in the competition in recent years are Freya Moss (2022), Ivana Peat (2021), Francesca Stevens (2021), Emily Parsons (2020), Paige Newell (2020), Lydia Goff (2020), and Gaia Giardinelli (2018).

Mr Antonio Longo, who has been Head of Photography at King’s Ely for nine years, said: “Beyond the Frame provides our students with a fantastic opportunity to compete against great schools and colleges worldwide. To have eleven students shortlisted this year is amazing and to have two students go on to win categories is a stunning achievement. I am committed to creating a Photography Department at King’s Ely that is a community filled with young and creative minds. My approach to teaching photography is to support young photographers with their technical and creative skills, and to encourage them to capture the world around them in a unique way, making the ordinary, extra ordinary. I am very proud of all the students and the whole department for its continued success.”

This year’s judging panel was made up of James Smith, who is Photography Course Leader at NUA; professional photographer, Ian Hippolyte; and leading photography retoucher, Emily Salmon. It was Emily who awarded Finnian a prize for his image.

Prints of all the students’ images are now on display to members of the public in the ‘Beyond the Frame Exhibition’, which is running at NUA’s East Gallery in Norwich until Saturday, April 27th. For more information, please visit: https://norwichbeyondtheframe.com/ 

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

A Whole School Open Morning is being held at King’s Ely on Saturday, May 11th. To book your family’s place or to find out more about the extensive opportunities available to students, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely  

The post Photography Competition Victory Continues for King’s Ely! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ely College have been ‘maximising the minutes’, packing in a host of trips, workshops and extra curricular experiences that saw one of their busiest terms yet. From entering robotic competitions, to Duke of Edinburgh timed tent challenges; parliamentary debates and a tour to oracy and confidence workshops – staff and students have showcased their passion for ‘extending the boundaries of learning’. The week culminated with their annual Science Festival, spearheaded by Year 8 students. 

Mr O’Neil, Teacher of Biology who organised the Science Festival commented: “We were very impressed at how diligently students worked to carry out their scientific investigations in lessons and collaborated to present their projects with such flair. Throughout school there has been a real buzz and we have excitedly waited for the opportunity to see the results of all the hard work that has gone on this term.”

After weeks of trail and errors, hypothesising and observing, students presented their findings to their families, staff and peers. It was a great opportunity for the students to showcase their scientific knowledge and creativity as well as learning new skills, building confidence, and working in teams to develop a love of science that will stay with them for years to come.

As part of the Meridian Trust curriculum, the college takes this time to develop a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) before their important subject choices and GCSE years. Year 7 and 8 students work towards their CREST Award – CREST is a national scheme that encourages young people to think and act like scientists and engineers. To achieve a CREST Award, students complete these hands-on projects. 

Principal, Mr Warburton, who opened the festival with Mr O’Neil was eager to get involved and safely demonstrated the impressive potato clock experiment. He commented: “We are very proud of our Year 8 students – the Science Festival is a tribute to our Trust values in action. Many thanks to the families and friends of the college for attending the day and supporting their projects at home.” 

The range of experiments and presentations on offer was impressive. Other stands run by students included how to create lava lamps using household ingredients, fruit batteries made out of lemons, designing mini catapults, floating tea bags and how to make fireworks glow different colours.

Press release from Ely College

The post Annual Ely College Science Festival caps off a busy week of trips, PLEDGES and much more! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Students in Years 9 to 13 spent weeks battling it out in a series of heats, all vying for a place at the school’s annual Instrumental Festival Finalists’ Concert, which was held in Ely Cathedral’s beautiful South Transept.

Musicians who made the finals this year were: James Barber, William Kirkup, Thomas Strudwick, Julian Mak, Maxime Prince, Lauren Booth, Sayuri Okunushi, Samuel Trueman, Polly Casey, Ian Mak, Lily McCallum, Anna Ost, and The Aeolian Trio.

The adjudicator on the evening was musician and organist, Andrew Reid, who is Director of Music at Little St Mary’s Church, Cambridge. Andrew is former Managing Director of Harrison & Harrison Organ Builders, former Director of the Royal School of Church Music, and a previous Director of Music at Peterborough Cathedral.

After much deliberation, Mr Reid announced Year 10 violinist, Julian Mak, as King’s Ely’s Years 9 to 11 Instrumentalist of the Year. Julian performed ‘Nigun from 3 pictures of Chassidic life’ by Ernest Bloch. Flautist, Lauren Booth, who is in Year 13, won the title of King’s Ely Sixth Form Instrumentalist of the Year. Lauren performed ‘Sonata in D Op.94, 1st Movement’ by Sergei Prokofiev.

Mr Neil Porter-Thaw, who is Director of Music at King’s Ely, said: “This year’s Finalists’ Concert was an incredible show of talent! Twelve individual performances were heard, as well as a piano trio and a cello duet. Mr Reid was completely taken aback by the quality and maturity of each performance, and he had a very difficult task of choosing a winner. Congratulations of course to Lauren and Julian, but well done to every single student who took part in the competition – you are all winners!”

Students who were highly commended in the competition were: Hugh Chippington (trombone), Ian Mak (piano), Gabriella Wu (drum kit), Alex Sturman (drum kit), James Allen (piano), James Allen (cello), Anna Ost (cello), Polly Casey (recorder), Danny Kim (saxophone), Harry Walker (trombone), Robert Reed (piano), Matthew Allen (violin), Dick Cheng (piano), and Thomas Strudwick (piano).

King’s Ely is renowned for its creative and holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

Music is one of the reasons King’s Ely came into existence in the first place, back in 970 AD. Today, over a third of students learn a musical instrument or receive vocal tuition. From the Boy and Girl Choristers of Ely Cathedral Choir to jazz and rock bands, orchestras, and its famous all boys’ a cappella group, the King’s Barbers, the quality, range, and variety of ensembles all attest to the school’s musical pedigree.

King’s Ely’s Senior Vocal Festival Finalists’ Concert is taking place in the Cathedral on Monday, March 11th at 7pm. Tickets are free, and everyone is welcome.

Other musical events coming up at the school include ‘A Night at the Hot Club of Paris’ Recital Series Concert on the evening of Wednesday, March 13th, and King’s Ely Senior’s ‘Concerto and Choral Concert’ at Ely Cathedral on Saturday, March 23rd. For tickets or more information, please visit: www.kingsely.org/news-events/box-office/

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please call (01353) 660707, email admissions@kingsely.org or visit www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely Instrumentalists of the Year are announced! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Established in 2017, each year students at Ely College set themselves the challenge of raising as much money as they can for their House Charities. This year with a change to the proceedings and an equal split of all the money raised, students set their eyes on the inaugural ‘Charities Day Cup’, with House pride & bragging rights up for grabs.

On Wednesday 20th December, every student contributed to this massive fundraising effort. Not just a normal non-school uniform day, this festive fun day is only possible because of the generosity of parents and carers who donated raffle prizes and resources, as well as money. Raising £5700 so far in online donations, meant that every student could spend cashless vouchers on the day at a huge range of stalls set up by their peers. 

In the lead up to the big day, students voted for their House charity for the year. It was a difficult process as so many worthy causes were on the table, but overall each House leaned towards a charity that help children. Students shared their thoughts and empathised with young people their age who face difficult challenges or life threating conditions. This year, Ely College will be supporting the following six charities, with an equal split of the funds raised:

• Arthur Rank Hospice – Scott House
• Spectrum Cambridge- Etheldreda House
• C9 Cancer Ward at Addenbrookes – Franklin House
• East Anglian Air Ambulance – Turing House
• Ely Food Bank – Seacole House
• Addenbrooke Charity Trust (ACT) – Bishop Laney Sixth Form

Students brainstormed fundraising ideas, planned and prepared their activities and stalls and the culmination of their hard work came together as they celebrated the end of term! The school was divided into event areas with tuck shops, a sports zone, a ping pong disco and even the return of the ever popular ‘stage door haunted house’! The Sumo Obstacle run was a big hit, as were glitter hair extensions, face paints and various delicious hot chocolate and cake sales.  As well as the traditional lucky dips and tombolas, we had some new ideas; the penalty shoot out against Mr H the T-rex was great fun!

Congratulations go to Seacole House, who earned the most vouchers and won the new Charities Day trophy. Charities Day is not just about the end of term celebration. Offering students the opportunity to earn their ‘Giving Pledge’, this day is one of the Meridian Trust’s well-established ‘PLEDGES and Future Days’, where students work towards their PLEDGES programme, broadening their skills and experiences that will aid them in the future.

College Principal Simon Warburton thanked everyone who supported the event, especially staff and form tutors. He said: “PLEDGES and Futures Days are so important because they play a vital part in helping our students to develop empathy as well as more tangible skills such as the teamwork and the responsibility that comes with event planning.”

“We are delighted with how the students have embraced their House Charities this year and look forward to running more fundraisers throughout the year. We want to thank our families for their support also. Given the current economic climate, the total raised is a testament to our wider community. We’ve always aimed to be ‘an exceptional College for an exceptional community’ and moments like this shows we are hitting that target. We wish you all a restful festive break.”

Press release from Ely College

The post Ely College Students Raise Over £5000! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The ATCL is equivalent in standard to the first-year recital of an undergraduate degree, but King’s Ely Sixth Form student, Sayuri Okunushi, has earned hers, aged just 18.

Trinity Performance Diplomas are the organisation’s most advanced performance awards. They follow on from grade and certificate exams, taking musicians up to a professional standard of performance and musical understanding.

Sayuri, who is from Tokyo, has been playing the piano since she was three years old. She joined King’s Ely’s International Year 11 programme in 2021, and is now studying A-Levels in Music, Mathematics, and Textiles.

Sayuri, who is in Year 13, said: “I love playing the piano! I enjoy challenging pieces the most, and I also love playing four hands duet, because I can collaborate with other people, which is fascinating. My most memorable performance on the piano since joining King’s Ely is playing my favourite Mozart piano concerto in Ely Cathedral.”

Sayuri also plays the cello, and this summer she sat her Grade 7 examination. Like several King’s Ely students, Sayuri attends the prestigious Royal College of Music Junior Department every Saturday to help further enhance her skills on the piano.

Sayuri said: “The Music Department at King’s Ely is one of the most important and enjoyable departments in school for me. The department was a key factor for my family and I choosing King’s Ely as a school. I came from Japan to not only learn English, but to also study real music in the UK. I am involved in lots of music activities at school, such as piano trio, orchestra, and string orchestra. Lots of students at King’s Ely are involved in these activities. I also study A-Level Music. I am planning to study music at a conservatoire or university. I have played the piano for 15 years, but it has mostly been about the performance, so I would like to study music much more deeply, such as its history and theory.”

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography, and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with countless opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

To discover more about King’s Ely, book your family’s personal visit, or your place at one of the school’s regular Open Events, by calling (01353) 660707 or visiting www.kingsely.org 

Press release from King’s Ely

The post ATCL Diploma for skilful King’s Ely pianist  appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

If so, you may be eligible to apply for a grant with The Bishop Laney Foundation.

We support young adults aged between 17-25 who live in the Ely and Soham area. If the below interests you, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us on our Facebook page or alternatively by visiting our website https://www.bishoplaneyscharity.org.uk/grants to download an application form.

Please share with anyone you may think would be eligible.

Press release from The Bishop Laney Foundation8

The post Grants Available from Bishop Laney Foundation appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Pupils’ hard work and determination, combined with unwavering support from their teachers and families, has resulted in a 95% pass rate, with almost a half of results at Grades 9-7 (the old A*-A). Their results successfully propel virtually all candidates onto the Sixth Form courses of their choice, with a large majority of students choosing to stay at King’s Ely for A-Levels.

These GCSE results come just a week after almost all of King’s Ely’s Year 13 students, who were aiming for university, achieved the grades needed to secure places at their first choice. This year, Sixth Form leavers will be studying at 46 different institutions, not just in the UK, but across the globe, and in courses as diverse as Medicine to Acting.

Jonathan Shaw, Head of King’s Ely Senior, said: “Congratulations and well done to everyone who received their GCSE exam results today. As a school, we are delighted with the very many individual stories of success, where pupils have exceeded their own personal expectations. Many have exceptional results by any benchmark, and we are very proud of their achievements. I am extremely grateful to our teachers who frequently go the extra mile to help pupils in their preparation for these exams, and to our parents for their patience and support throughout the exam season. 

“Exam results are only one aspect of school life, and I am conscious that many pupils excel in other areas beyond the classroom. Regardless of any individual outcome today, I am confident all pupils are prepared with both the values and skills for the next step in their educational journey. We are particularly pleased that the vast majority of Year 11 pupils are staying at King’s Ely to continue their Sixth Form studies; we will have our largest ever Sixth Form in this coming academic year. I look forward to welcoming everyone back in September and to those who are leaving, I wish them all the very best for the next stage of their studies.”

Two King’s Ely students have achieved all Grade 9s in their full courses this year – congratulations to Anna Ost and Charlotte Senior.

Sixteen pupils are celebrating achieving Grades 9-8 in at least seven of their subjects. Congratulations to: Harriet Bailey, Polly Casey, Ciara Comley, Yanki Ertem, Leo Good, Thomas Hensman, Anya Hjaltun-Rayner, Eleanor Kittoe, Edward Lacey, Wing Man Lai, Angus MacPherson, Alexander New, Sophie Parsons, Imogen Ryan, Zara Stevens, and Edith Thomson.

Edward Lacey joined King’s Ely Prep in Year 7. He will be studying Biology, Chemistry, and Religious Studies at A-Level, and hopes to go on to study Veterinary Science at university. Edward said: “I am very pleased with my results, and I am looking forward to Sixth Form here at King’s. It will be great to study subjects that I really enjoy, in a fantastic environment, and with teachers who are all so dedicated. I love the Sports Department here at King’s too, and I am looking forward to wearing a suit every day!”

Eleanor (Nell) Kittoe is studying History, English Literature, Maths, and Textiles for her A-Levels. She joined King’s Ely Prep in Year 5. Nell said: “I am not entirely sure what I want to do career wise yet, but probably something involving Textiles and/or English; something creative. That is what I love about King’s – everything is creative, the Textiles Department is amazing, the classes are small, and my teachers all know exactly how I learn best.”

Leo Good joined King’s Ely Nursery in 2009. He hopes to pursue a career in banking or law, and is studying Maths, Further Maths, History, and Politics at A-Level. Leo said: “I worked hard for my GCSEs, but I am still pleasantly surprised with my results. I am excited for Sixth Form at King’s. I am an Ely Scheme Outdoor Education Instructor here, so I am looking forward to continuing with that, as well as studying with great people in a brilliant environment.”  

As is reflective of an all-round, enriched education, King’s Ely students have studied and achieved in a wide variety of GCSE subjects. Creative subjects, for which King’s Ely is internationally renowned, were strong once again this year, with 100% of students securing Grades 9-7 in Music and Latin, and 100% of students achieving Grades 9-6 in Drama and Theatre, Textiles, and Fine Art.

Over half of students’ results in Chemistry, Biology, Maths, Further Maths, History, and Spanish were at least a Grade 7.

Thirty pupils from all corners of the globe also received their results today having studied the one-year IGCSE programme at King’s Ely. The two-term intensive course sees young people studying in their non-native speaking language, and the average number of subjects taken is six. King’s Ely is delighted to report another excellent set of IGCSE grades, with more than a quarter of results achieved being Grades 9-8.

Special mention must go to Allison Chiu, who achieved Grade 9s in all seven of her GCSE subjects, which includes Spanish; her third language. Kevin Cheung, Alina Savchuk, and David Lin achieved an average of Grade 8.8 across their GCSE subjects. Eighteen of King’s Ely’s IGCSE students are staying at the school for their A-Level studies. 

John Attwater, Principal of King’s Ely, said: “Every one of these results is a reflection of hard work and a return to exam conditions with no quarter given for the disruption these children faced in their education in Years 8 and 9. In this light, our cohort can be very proud of themselves that they have done at least as well as previous generations, and can look forward to their chosen Sixth Form studies with confidence. I am delighted that as term starts in September our Sixth Form will be full of such well-motivated and genuinely nice people, to be joined by others from all over the world seeking the King’s Ely experience.”

King’s Ely received an ‘excellent’ rating in all areas following its latest ISI Inspection, recognising the highest levels of academic rigour, pastoral care, and opportunities outside the classroom. To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

Photo credit: King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely GCSE Results 2023 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Notable performances were made by students of all abilities including Jason Angove; Thomas Assheton; William Botcher; Ella Brown; Logan Bye; Sarah Cross; Danny Dean; Tabitha Dyer-Stephens; Freddie Emms; Elsie May Enrico; Madison Ford; Emily Franklin; Finley Froment; Callum Hardy; Louise Hardy; Noah Jewkes; Leah Johnson; Phoebe Lupton-Pike; Noa Matsushita; Jessica McGrath; Ceri Moseley; Max Orpwood Coyle; Zofia Parada; Leo Peberdy; Jacob Trangmar and Bethany Wood, who achieved the top grades across all of their subjects.

Headteacher, Jon Hampson, said, “We are delighted that students of all abilities have received excellent results which reflect their hard work and commitment. We congratulate them and wish them every success for the next phase of their education or training.”

Press release from Soham Village College

The post Soham Village College GCSE Results 2023 appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Teachers and staff at King’s Ely Sixth Form are especially proud of the Year 13 cohort’s results, since COVID measures during their GCSE year meant that it was their first time sitting public examinations. 

This year, a fifth of A-Level results achieved at King’s Ely are the top A* grade, almost half are A*-A, and three-quarters are grades A*-B. The overall pass rate is 99 %. Almost all candidates aiming for university this year gained places at their first-choice institutions. 

These results not only reflect the 94 students’ determination and resilience, but also their teachers’ and mentors’ expertise and commitment for them to succeed. As a marker of their all-round, enriched education, King’s Ely pupils will be going on to study subjects as diverse as Engineering to Acting, and Medicine to Fashion Design – at universities and institutions, not just in the UK, but across the globe.   

Jonathan Shaw, Head of King’s Ely Senior, said: “We are extremely proud of our Year 13s, who have achieved some excellent A-Level grades. Results Day is always approached with a little trepidation, but for this year’s cohort there was the additional pressure of sitting public exams for the first time, due to the cancellation of their GCSE exams in 2021. We are therefore particularly delighted with today’s results. Many of our students have exceeded their own personal expectations. Above all, they are a delightful cohort who will leave King’s Ely with the character, confidence, and sense of responsibility to make a difference wherever they go next. Congratulations to our pupils for their hard work and determination, to our teachers for their preparation and guidance, and to our parents for their unwavering support.”   

All three King’s Ely students holding Oxbridge offers achieved the top grades to take up their places this year – Alice Wallace at St Hilda’s, Oxford to study Classical Archaeology and Ancient History, Ben Collier at Peterhouse, Cambridge to study Medicine, and PiaoPiao Li to study Philosophy at Magdalene, Cambridge. 

Twenty-three students achieved all A*-A grades – Thomas Bateman, William Biggs, Thomas Coates, Ben Collier, Joseph Coppin, Elliot Dickson, Georgia Gordon, Finlay Griffiths, Freddie Hills, Jonathan Iles, Fidel Lau, PiaoPiao Li, Alexandra Marshall, Connor Marshall, Daniel Millard, Emily Morris, Lauren Peck, Sophia Peters, James Schoenberg, Kathryn Snell, Eloise Suiter, Alice Wallace, and Haoxuan Xu.

Alice Wallace, who achieved three A* grades, has been at King’s Ely since joining Nursery in 2008. She said: “I am so pleased with my results! I did work hard, but it still feels quite surreal to have got three A*s. I have been at King’s for fifteen years so there is so much I am going to miss about the school. King’s has such an infectious spirit and everyone is so supportive and encouraging of each other.”

Thomas Bateman, who also achieved three A* grades, is one of only twenty-eight students out of around four-thousand applicants to secure a place at the Manchester School of Theatre to study Acting. Thomas, who joined King’s Ely Prep in Year 3, said: “I am so happy with my grades, and so excited for Manchester! I aspire to be a professional actor and this dream is now a step closer to becoming a reality, thanks to the huge amount of support I have received throughout my years at King’s. Everyone here is incredible, especially the Drama Department. I would not be who I am today without King’s.”

William Biggs also joined King’s Ely Prep in Year 3. He achieved three A*s and an A, and will be studying Natural Sciences at the University of Bath. William said: “I feel like I did put in a lot of effort and hard work, but I still feel incredibly lucky to achieve grades as high as I have. I am not entirely sure what I want to do career-wise yet, but I think it will probably be in scientific research. King’s is such a nurturing and enriching place to study. The extra-curricular scene here is huge, which I think is important. I feel that the school has provided me with everything I need to flourish.”

As well as offering almost thirty different A-Level courses, King’s Ely Sixth Form also enables pupils to study vocational Level 3 Diploma qualifications in Business Studies, and Food and Nutrition. This year, eleven students completed the two-year Level 3 Diploma in Business Studies, achieving five Distinction* and six Distinction grades. Two Year 12 pupils also completed the one-year course and achieved Distinctions.  

Approximately a quarter of this year’s Year 13 cohort also completed Extended Project Qualifications (EPQs) in addition to their A-Level subjects, which are equivalent to 50% of an A-Level. Almost half of the grades achieved were A*, and around three-quarters of grades were A*-A. 

John Attwater, Principal of King’s Ely, said: “This is a challenging year for students with much more competition for university places and less latitude in A-Level grades than we have seen since 2019. In this national context, it is great to see such all-round success, both among the academic high-fliers and also the exciting options achieved by those who were most disrupted or affected by COVID lockdowns during their GCSE years.” 

Interested in finding out more about King’s Ely Sixth Form? A dedicated Sixth Form Open Event is taking place at the Old Palace on Saturday 7th October. To book your place, please call Admissions on (01353) 660707 or visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely Students Celebrate Fantastic A-Level Results appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Adam Steels, Head of Bishop Laney Sixth Form, said: “We are delighted with these results which reflect the continued growth and success of Bishop Laney Sixth Form. These results mean our students are completing their studies with some of the highest grades ever achieved at Bishop Laney.”

“I congratulate the students on these results and thank staff, parents and families for the part they played in realising these aspirations.”

“Our students leave us today not only heading to Universities up and down the country from Cardiff to Newcastle and many places in between; but also to take on high-quality apprenticeship roles, whether those be in London, or closer to home at Addenbrookes’ Hospital, or here in Ely.”

Individual success stories:

Maria Akritidou achieved two A*s and an A Grade across her three A Level subjects of Art, Pscyhology, and Sociology; and will take up a place at the University of East Anglia to study Psychology. 

Caydn Perez-Bent combines Computer Science and Maths A Levels grades of A and B with a starred Distinction in Business to join Sky, on their engineering degree apprenticeship programme.

Sam Lindop will be heading to the University of Sheffield, to study aeronautical engineering following his impressive performance in Maths, Physics and Computer Science. 

Kiera Clifford secured a double Distinction grade Diploma in Applied Science and will be taking up an apprenticeship with the NHS at Cambridge University Hospitals. 

Katie Froment achieved A*AB in her A Levels and will continue to pursue her love English Literature by studying it in Cambridge from September. 

Ziggy Poli will be building on excellent achievements in Maths, Further Maths, and Psychology, all at A* and A grade, by taking up a university place studying Maths at the University of East Anglia.

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form added:

“I am thrilled with the results that our 2023 cohort have achieved. The combined success of students gaining top grades alongside a number of our students gaining degree level apprenticeships means that we are fulfilling our commitment to provide an exceptional educational experience for our community.”

“These results herald a new and exciting phase in the life of Bishop Laney Sixth Form – we commence the renovations of Needhams tower this term to become an inspirational place of learning and the new home for Bishop Laney for January 2025.”

If you wish to enquire about current opportunities within the sixth form, please contact  admissions@bishoplaney.org and 01353 652818.

Press release from Bishop Laney Sixth Form

Photo credit: Bishop Laney Sixth Form

The post Bishop Laney Sixth Form Students Celebrate Post-16 Success appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

More than one hundred musicians and dancers, from Year 4 at King’s Ely Prep through to Year 13 at King’s Ely Sixth Form, starred in the Glastonburyesque extravaganza, which was one of numerous events held towards the end of term, to celebrate another thriving year at the school.

A huge concert Saddlespan stage was erected on The Paddock at King’s Ely Prep for the festival, with Ely Cathedral looking as majestic as ever as a backdrop. The event was organised by the school’s Music, Dance and Drama Departments, and was free to attend. Parents and carers, grandparents, Old Eleans, teachers and support staff, Governors, friends of the school – people of all ages grabbed their picnic baskets and deckchairs and came together to support pupils and staff as they performed their hearts out.

Just some of the bands and groups which performed were Samba Band, Wicked Choir, Saxophone Quartet, Concert Band, Jazz Band, King’s Barbers, Flying Fiddles, King’s Ely-Te, Rock Band, Open Dance Club, and not forgetting the ‘StrictELY Come Dancing’ competition!

The entertainment kicked off at around 2.30pm and continued right through until dark. Pupils performed as individuals, in groups, or as both – some of them singing and dancing under a Saddlespan stage for the first ever time, and some of them taking to the stage for what was likely be their last ever time at King’s Ely. 

Neil Porter-Thaw, Director of Music at King’s Ely, said: “There have been some very special moments during my 28 years at King’s Ely, however the sheer amount of music and dance celebrated on one stage at this festival is without a doubt the highlight so far. I am so proud of all the students who took part, and they should all be hugely proud of themselves. Such an event cannot happen without the support and dedication of so many people. From our fabulous Music, Dance and Drama staff teams to our custodians and ground staff, thank you. If there ever was an event that showcased what makes the school Uniquely King’s, this was it.”

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography, and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with countless opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

To discover more about King’s Ely, book your family’s personal visit, or your place at one of the school’s regular Open Events, by calling (01353) 660707 or visiting www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely  

Photo credit: James Linsell-Clark Photography

The post King’s Ely pupils’ creative talents shine in ‘A Festival of Music and Dance’ appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

During the Summer term, pupils from the 2023 Upper Class at Highfield Ely Academy have been working with local Ely sculptor, Emma Taylor to create a fantastic art work inspired by eels and eel traps. Thanks to the support of the Art Fund and Ely Museum, their sculpture, Shadows of the Past, is now on display for all to enjoy.

Emily Allen, Community Engagement Officer at Ely Museum, says;

“Eels have long played a role in Ely’s economy, diet and folklore. it therefore seemed only fitting to create a sculpture inspired by these important, yet mysterious creatures and we are delighted with the beautiful sculpture the Highfield pupils have created”

Made possible due to funding from the Art Fund, Ely Museum was delighted to work with the Upper Class 2023 at Highfield Ely Academy on this project. Following a visit to the museum to explore the variety of materials seen on display, and inspiration taken from the eel catching tools and amazing Anglo Saxon metal work, it was decided they would make a metal sculpture.

Working with local sculptor, Emma Taylor, a beautiful design inspired by the eels that were once plentiful in our waters and eel traps, known as hives or griggs, came to life. Each pupil created their own metal work eel, which delicately weave in and out of the eel trap they collectively created. Usually made of willow and designed to trap eels inside, this eel hive takes inspiration from the traditional weaving techniques which have been reimagined in metalwork by the pupils.

Emma Taylor, sculptor, says;

It has been a pleasure to be involved with the eel sculpture project with Highfields School and Ely Museum. Each student did a fantastic job learning the skills and techniques necessary to each create the copper wire eels featuring in the sculpture and also weave a section of the eel trap which forms the structure of the final artwork.

We encourage you to pop in to see this fantastic sculpture created by Highfield Ely Academy, next time you are passing by the museum, find it on display in the shop area of the museum entrance on the corner of Market Street and Lynn Road.

Paul O’Brien, teacher at Highfields, says;

“4t was brilliant to see our students picking up a new skill, wire weaving, so quickly. | think they have all gained confidence from taking part in this project and they have also learned how to persevere and to complete a challenge. It’s a real honour and a privilege for our students to have a piece of their work on view in the Museum.’”

Some of the Highfield Ely Academy pupils added;

“I can’t wait to bring my family here and show it to them” and “So, if I come back here in 20 years, it will still be on the wall? Wow!”

To find out more about upcoming events, activities and exhibitions at the museum, and to join our mailing list, please visit http://www.elymuseum.org.uk

Press release from Ely Museum

The post Eel Inspired Sculpture Installed at Ely Museum appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Chanrè Bond, who is Head of Hockey at King’s Ely, scored four goals during the international tournament, which took place at the prestigious Nottingham Hockey Centre. Miss Bond was the joint second highest goal-scorer in the tournament for the Over 45s age group.

The England Over 45s won all six of their matches in the tournament, including against Germany in the semi-finals, and against Spain in the finals, when they won 4-0; two goals of which were scored by Miss Bond. The squad also recently won the Four Nations Tournament in Swansea, meaning that they have won two gold medals this year!

Miss Bond, who was born in Cape Town and has been teaching at King’s Ely since 2005, said: “Playing Hockey at an International level, with a group of dedicated, hardworking, and inspirational athletes (and winning gold!) is the best feeling ever.”

Miss Bond is a shining example of the specialist teaching and coaching that pupils receive at King’s Ely. She will also be trialling for the 2024 Hockey World Cup in Auckland, New Zealand, later this year.

Sport is an important part of life for students, staff, and families at King’s Ely. The school runs a committed and competitive programme. As well as embracing the sports of rugby, football, hockey, netball, and cricket from the earliest of ages, King’s Ely also makes room for rowing, athletics, swimming, cross country, shooting, archery and more, in order to offer students as many opportunities as possible. Pupils can compete locally, regionally, and nationally. King’s Ely athletes enjoy their sport, and they achieve an impressive level of success and accolade. Sports Scholarships are available. Planning permission has also recently been granted for the school to build its second full-sized, all-weather sports pitch. This demonstrates King’s Ely’s commitment to providing students with the very best of sporting facilities on which to hone their skills.

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely Sports Coach helps England win gold at World Masters Hockey Championships appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Thanks to Ely College’s partnership with the Isle of Ely Rowing Club (IoERC) and the East Anglia Youth Rowing (EAYR), the crews had an amazing opportunity to spectate, rig boats next to Ivy League and Oxbridge World Champions and row at such an historic and prestigious event.

The Henley Royal Regatta is up there on the calendar with the Olympics and World Championship competitions for elite rowing teams. Over 700 crews from around the world raced this unique course as part of the week-long event, with only 26 winning silverware and bragging rights for another year. Whilst the crews weren’t competing, the weather conditions and 1500m course presented a technical and physical challenge to the rowers and coxes alike.

The three Cadets and the other members of their quad team are now looking forward to a busy summer schedule of regattas both locally and further afield, and we look forward to following their progress.

More information and photographs here:

https://www.elycollege.com/hrrnews-rowinghrrhttps://www.elycollege.com/hrrnews-rowinghrr

From Ely College and 1094 Ely Squadron Royal Air Force Air Cadets

The post Ely College students attend Royal Henley Regatta appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

In 2009 the first ‘Dorset Walk’ was launched with 30 students from Ely College walking 40 miles along the Jurassic Coast. The group managed to raise £6,000. It was, however, the experience and the sense of achievement that set the seed for hundreds more people to follow.

Now in 2023, the 15th annual walk is due to set off in just a few weeks. The total amount raised by the foundation is now in excess of £450,000 with the number of people impacted and involved up into the thousands.

With the organisers being predominantly secondary school teachers and the majority of the fundraisers are secondary students, a powerful aspect of the charity is that healthy young people know they are taking an active role to support those people who are less fortunate and need their support. In addition to this, the foundation is creating opportunities and challenges allowing these young people to push their boundaries and further their ambitions.

The charity is very much about making a difference to people and individuals. The biggest achievements to date include the transformation of the Woodlands Gardens at Hinchingbrooke Hospital Huntingdon and our current project, the Lakeside Retreat in Pidley. The retreat will provide free respite breaks for families and people affected by cancer.

The charity is always keen to support and fund other causes and has donated to support counselling, respite care, bereavement support, health care, wellbeing support, research amidst a whole spectrum of other causes.

In addition to the walk, each year we host a range of different fundraisers including: the 10 hours of sport; golf society fundraisers and netball tournaments. We are always looking to involve more people, more schools and have an even bigger impact.

Fifteen Years is a big milestone for us and to mark the event and celebrate all of our achievements so far as well as look to the future, we are hosting a Celebration Ball in Ely. We are very much looking forward to getting together with the supporters who have given their all to make the charity the success it is today.

Damien the founder said,

“The biggest sense of pride for me is what the charity does to people that take part in our events. Introducing young people to charity and seeing the sense of pride they experience when they realise the difference they are making is a wonderful feeling.”

“There are now so many people involved in what we do. The emotional and physical commitment from each of them is so incredibly rewarding.”

“I am excited to see the charity continue to grow into the future. Most of all, I hope that my children will continue to support me, to drive the charity forward, in memory of their grandfather, who they unfortunately never got to meet.”.

To find out more about the charity or if you would like to get involved/donate all information can be found at: http://tmwf.co.uk

or you can email us at themalcolmwhalesfoundation@gmail.com

Press release from The Malcolm Whales Foundation

The post Charity Walk – 15 Year Anniversary for The Malcolm Wales Foundation appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

This partnership has provided students with first-hand rowing experience on the River Ouse and established an ongoing pathway for those wishing to join the local rowing club, with a considerable number of students enrolling and participating in competitive racing.

Bolstered by funding from Love Rowing and The Boat Race Fund supported by Gemini, and a new strategic partnership with East Anglia Youth Rowing (EAYR), the college recently expanded this unique opportunity to six local schools. On June 8th, 2023, Ely College co-hosted an aspirational rowing event at the Cambridge University Boat House on the River Ouse.

The event, running from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm, was designed to inspire students to try rowing, nurture a passion for the sport, and potentially uncover a new hobby. Participants were divided based on their rowing experience and engaged in a variety of activities such as Boat Race student athlete talks, a land-based rowing machine competition, a water safety talk, a technical skills session, and a coxed quadruple scull (four rowers with two oars and a cox) racing event.

The day was enriched by the presence of student athletes from Oxford and Cambridge University Boat Clubs; Barbora Hlachova and Louis Corrigan from Oxford, and Cameron Spiers, Iris Powell, and Rosa Millard from Cambridge.

Cameron Spiers shared his reflections on the day: “It was great to see so many young people try out rowing for the first time, everyone was getting stuck in and having fun. I spent some time out on the launch and was very impressed by how focused everyone was. Hopefully, some people will have found a new hobby that they’ll stick with.”

Echoing this sentiment, Barbora Hlachova added: “it was fun getting to share our love of rowing with kids who will maybe race in the Boat Race one day! I even got to try out coxing – that was a highlight (and a dream come true…being over 6 ft tall, it was a dream I was slowly giving up on.)”

Jason Coe, who heads the Ely College rowing programme, expressed his gratitude for the support provided by Love Rowing and a recently announced second round of funding from the Boat Race Fund, as well as the visiting university athletes: “It was an absolute privilege to be able to row from the Cambridge University Boat House and meet with the student athletes…The students willingness to get out on the coaching launch, cox boats, and provide tours alongside the general conversation was a pleasure to see.”

He added: “This was our first ever aspirational rowing event and it felt like a huge success, with over 60 students getting an experience of rowing on the River Ouse from the landmark Cambridge University Boat house. This alongside the opportunity to meet and speak with 5 high performance university rowers truly made for a wonderful and rewarding afternoon.”

“The confidence, enthusiasm and desire to improve was noticeable across all students many of whom were rowing for the first time. We are so pleased we could invite Neale Wade Academy, Soham Village College, Cromwell Community College, North Cambridge Academy and Littleport & East Cambs Academy. None of this would have been possible without the input from IOERC and EAYR on the day, but also without the ongoing support from Gemini, The Boat Race Company & Love Rowing.”

Siobhan Cassidy, the Interim Chair of the Boat Race Company Ltd, who also attended the event, was delighted by the vibrancy she witnessed: “It was a fantastic afternoon and wonderful to watch everyone in action, great to see children who had never tried rowing before, get out on the water, race and have lots of fun! Huge thanks to Jason and all the other teachers and rowing coaches who made the day such a success. I hope the young people taking part know they have now become rowers and are part of a wonderful sporting community!”

This event underscores the effective collaboration between these amazing partnerships; welcoming in more schools to strengthen the offer and widen the circle, illuminating a bright future for the young rowing enthusiasts in and around Ely. It offers these young people a thrilling introduction to the world of rowing and the myriad opportunities it holds.

To find out more about Ely College, please visit: www.elycollege.com. 

Press release from Ely College

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Anthony, who took up his new position earlier this term, has joined the team at Lantern Community Primary School with a wealth of experience in the education sector.

After completing a four-year combined Biology and QTS degree, Anthony relocated to Cambridge in 1999 and has taught in a variety of schools in the area from Reception to Year 6, both single and mixed age groups. 

He spent three years working alongside Cambridgeshire County Council as an Advanced Skills Teacher for the Early Years, providing both LA CPD and targeted support to schools across the county.   

For the last eight years, Anthony has been Headteacher at Hatton Park Primary School in Cambridge, which is also part of Meridian Trust. 

Speaking about his appointment, Anthony said: “I’m thrilled to have been appointed as the Headteacher of Lantern Community Primary School. This is a very exciting time to be a part of the school’s community and I am very much looking forward to continuing to build on our successes highlighted by Ofsted and for The Lantern to be the best that it can be. 

“As part of Meridian Trust, I am proud that collaboration and teamwork are seen as central to continual improvement. The Lantern is a great place to teach in and to learn in!

“Thank you to all our colleagues, pupils and their families for the warm welcome and support I have been shown so far. I’m looking forward to lots of summer events over the next few weeks where I can put more faces to names and learn more about our wonderful community.”

Lantern Community Primary is a 4 to 11 school with a roll approaching 400 pupils, that provides comprehensive education for children in the Ely area. 

Press release from the Cambridge Meridian Trust

The post New Principal Appointed at Lantern Community Primary School appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Bishop Laney Sixth Form currently accepts 150 students per year group, but this expansion will allow the school to create a further 50 places per year group, taking the total intake from 300 to 400 places. 

The sixth form will also receive capital funding from the Government’s £140 million ‘Post-16 Capacity Fund’. This will enable a £5 million renovation and upgrade of ‘Needhams Tower’ to become the new home of Bishop Laney Sixth Form, as well as providing new classroom space for students and staff at Ely College.

Richard Spencer, Executive Principal said: “We are delighted that our application to expand Bishop Laney Sixth Form (Ely College) has been accepted. The accompanying investment will significantly improve our facilities and spaces at Ely College, as well as provide us with the capacity to offer more students access to an excellent sixth form experience locally. We will be sharing details of the plans in due course and are very grateful for all the support we have received in this application.”

This news follows a successful application by Ely College and Meridian Trust in November 2022, which noted the anticipated rise in demand for school places in East Cambridgeshire, and was supported by Ms Frazer as the local Member of Parliament. 

Responding to the announcement, Lucy Frazer MP said: “Ely College is a fantastic educator of many young people in my constituency, so I am delighted by this news. The new funding announced this week will enable 100 more pupils every year to learn important skills that will set them up for the world of work. It also prepares our area for the anticipated increase in demand for student places.”

The planning process is underway, with works anticipated to run from early 2024, with a target for completion of early 2025. More details will follow in the coming months, but the College have shared an initial concept design (pictured below).

The renovated tower will be ‘net zero’ energy consumption and will be fully accessible with lift access. The College also aims to re-lay the car park area and provide additional spaces to alleviate the pressure.

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form said: “At Bishop Laney Sixth Form, we aim to provide a thriving college experience within a centre of academic and professional 16-19 excellence. This vital funding will allow us to bring this opportunity to many more young people locally and wouldn’t have been possible without the success of our brilliant team at Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form. A lot of hard work has gone into this project, and I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to getting us to this point.” 

For more information about Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form, please visit: www.elycollege.com. 

Press release from Ely College

The post Bishop Laney Sixth Form Receives £5 Million Funding for Expansion and Refurbishment appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Bouncy castles, face painting and a performance by the Ely Hero Award-winning Lane Academy are all on the agenda, as well as numerous games and stalls – including the chance to soak Lantern School headteacher Anthony Aguda with a wet sponge while he stands in the stocks!

The fair on June 24th is free to enter and activities have been kept as cheap as possible to accommodate all members of the community, Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS) chair and mother-of-six Meredith Hux Atkins said.

“We know times are tough – so we wanted to ensure no one missed out. Many of the activities will set you back just 50p to £1. We want to raise money for our wonderful school while keeping things affordable for our community.”

For the first time, the fair is offering a tantalising array of external food vendors, with Cambridge Samosa Company, Pig-Cassos, Pimp My Fish and Tipsy Trotter Gin ‘n’ Fizz Bar confirmed – as well as a refreshments stall run by event hosts FOTLS.

People will be able to take part in a tombola and a super summer raffle, with prizes including a Nintendo Switch, vouchers for Horsley Hale Farm Glamping, Church Farm, Treetops, South Angle Farm Park, Barracuda Activity Day Camp, The Hive, Grain Culture and Cineworld, as well as numerous toys, gifts and handmade items.

Mother-of-three Fiona Williams, who organised the raffle, said: “Our local businesses, artists and makers have been incredibly generous. We are very grateful for their support in donating such wonderful prizes, especially in such tough times. Every penny we raise from this fair goes directly to the school – so we really appreciate it.”

Those attending the fair will be able to look inside a fire engine, and for the first time, a tractor from G’s will be on site for young and old to enjoy.

This is the first Lantern Summer Fair since 2019.

Meredith said: “Many of the younger kids at the school have never been to one of our fairs. It’s so lovely to be able to put events back on again – not just for our kids but for the whole community. This is traditionally our biggest fundraiser of the year, so please do come along and support it.”

FOTLS would like to thank Tesco in Ely for providing some of the refreshments and Pocock and Shaw for sponsoring our advertising billboards.

The Lantern Summer Fair runs from 12pm to 3pm on June 24th at the Lantern School, Nene Road, Ely.

For more information see www.facebook.com/events/217736164329638 

You can buy raffle tickets at https://friends-of-the-lantern-school.sumupstore.com

Press release from FOLTS 

The post First Lantern Summer Fair Since Pandemic Promises Affordable Fun appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The Committee is made up of just 8 Parents.

Highfield is a local Special Educational Needs School covering Ely and the surrounding areas.  All pupils have an Education, Health and Care Plan (previously known as Statement of Special Needs) for a significant, severe or complex learning difficulty which means their needs would not be met in mainstream education.  Many pupils have additional medical, sensory, communication and physical disabilities.

The need for fundraising:

In order to address the varied and complex needs of pupils at Highfield, the HFPA raises funds for equipment, services and facilities that cannot be met by statutory funds. Our fundraising has been especially challenging during recent years, as we have been unable to put on many of the events that we depend on to raise vital funds, due to Covid, recent rise in cost of living etc.

Our appeal:

Our latest fundraising project is to purchase 20 iPads with Grid 3 technology. This is a complete communication solution that enables the user to have a voice, control their environment and live a more independent life. It is designed for anyone with complex communication or access needs and includes a wide range of resources that the user can control with touch, switch, eye gaze and pointing devices. This technology will give a voice to many young people who attend Highfield who have previously not had one.

The 20 iPads with the technology pre-loaded will cost £10,000 which, as a small committee of around 8 parents and family members who have children who attend the school, is a huge target for us to raise, and therefore any support the community are able to offer in reaching our goal would be hugely appreciated.

So far, we have raised over £2,000 and hopefully a grant for £5,000.

If you would like to donate click here

Press release from Highfield Friends and Parents Association (HFPA)

The post Highfield Friends and Parents Association Fundraiser appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Barclay Greenway and Georgia Gordon, who are both in Year 13 and studying Biology at A-Level, have achieved Silver and Highly Commended, respectively, in this year’s British Biology Olympiad (BBO).

More than 13,000 students from 800 schools worldwide participated in the contest. Barclay’s Silver award places him in the top 10% of UK students who entered.

The BBO is designed to challenge and stimulate students who have an interest in Biology. Pupils are presented with topics and ideas which they are not familiar with, so they compete with their problem-solving skills and understanding of core principles.

Co-curricular opportunities are high on the agenda at King’s Ely, and the BBO is a great example of how enrichment helps to place pupils’ studies in a wider intellectual landscape. Other enrichment opportunities at King’s Ely Sixth Form include talks by visiting speakers, either to the whole Sixth Form or to smaller subject-specific academic societies, student-led discussion evenings, and visits and trips organised by academic departments.

In 2022, 42% of GCSE results at King’s Ely were Grades 9-8. 50% of all STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) subjects were at Grade 9. 46% of A-Level results were at A*-A, with students securing places at their first-choice institutions, the majority of which were Russell Group Universities.

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely  

The post King’s Ely duo on fine form in British Biology Olympiad appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Ella Martin, who is in Year 11 at King’s Ely Senior, has been Highly Commended in this year’s Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) Supporting Excellence Awards. 

Ella’s achievement is in the ‘Khadija Saye Photography Award’ category, which recognises the ‘best photography portfolios by UK boarding school students’. The award is named in honour of the former Rugby School boarding pupil and respected international photographer, who tragically died in the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.

When describing Ella’s portfolio, judges said: “A powerful portfolio of portraits demonstrating a strong range of technical skills.”

All three of Ella’s images were created for a sustained project, entitled ‘Portraiture’, as part of her GCSE coursework. Ella said: “I wanted to experiment with a wide range of studio lighting and mixed media to enhance my models.”

Ella’s achievement was announced at the BSA Annual Conference for Heads, which took place in Bristol. Now in their sixth year, the BSA Supporting Excellence Awards celebrate the successes, hard work, and dedication of boarding schools and the individuals within them.

This success comes just weeks after Ella discovered that she had won a prize in the 2023 ‘Beyond the Frame’ Photography Competition, which is organised by Norwich University of the Arts (NUA). Now in its sixth year, the annual competition is open to photography students aged 11-19 from across the globe. 

This year, there were 650 entries from 176 schools located in 26 different countries. These entries were whittled down to 50 shortlisted candidates, of which seven were King’s Ely students: Ella, Elliott Hilsden, Sam Clarke, Willis Xu, Euan Henry, Lia Kunis, and Thomas Bateman.

Ella won the ‘People’ category of the competition. Her image was chosen by photographer, filmmaker and educator, Cat Gundry-Beck. Commenting on Ella’s winning image on King’s Ely’s Instagram page, Cat wrote: “Congratulations to Ella, such beautiful work!”. 

In a statement posted on the NUA website, Cat said: “The standard of work on show was incredible and produced such a diverse range of images. The sense of play and experimentation was unbelievable, with people finding influences from so many different places.”

In March, King’s Ely Sixth Form student, Jessica Harding, was crowned the International Winner of the ‘2023 ILFORD PHOTO Student Photographer of the Year Competition’- again, beating hundreds of young photographers from around the world. Chosen by a panel of photography professionals, Jessica’s win means that a King’s Ely pupil, under the guidance of Head of Photography, Antonio Longo, has now enjoyed success in this competition for five years running.

Mr Longo, who has been Head of Photography at King’s Ely for eight years, said: “I am extremely proud of Ella, Jessica, and all our students who were shortlisted in these competitions. I have been committed to creating a Photography Department at King’s Ely that is a community filled with young and creative minds. My approach to teaching photography is to support young photographers with their technical and creative skills, and to encourage them to capture the world around them in a unique way; making the ordinary, extra ordinary.”

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely  

The post Winning streak continues for King’s Ely Photography Department! appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Their teacher Penni, has built strong relationships with the students and has followed their individual interests to help them have lessons that are engaging and great fun.

The class teachers have been so impressed by the progress that the students have made. Growing both in their musical understanding, ability and in their confidence. All of the students managed to give a performance to their class at the end of the Spring term – which was an amazing achievement. One pupil even wrote his own song lyrics. Amazing progress and effort.

We used the Good Vibes Local, Great Little Giveaway donation to give our staff some training in musical experiences for our sensory learners, particularly making and appreciating music.  This was a hands-on session with the students having experiences and staff observing and learning at the same time. The one-day session was organised by jessiesfund.org.uk

Press release from Supporters of Highfields Littleport Academy (SOHLA)

The post GVL Great Little Giveaway: Supporters of Highfields Littleport Academy (SOHLA) appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The fun-filled challenge, organised by Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS), included jumping over straw bales, crawling under a cargo net, navigating tyres and weaving in between slalom poles.

Over 400 students from the Lantern School and Goslings Pre-School were excited to test out their ninja skills, with each participant receiving a finisher’s medal.

Headteacher Anthony Aguda said: “How wonderful to see the children and staff enjoying an opportunity to be involved in some extra exercise! Thank you so much to everyone involved for making it happen – the Ninja Dash spin on a fun run was a great idea. Sunshine, smiles and worn out children!”

By yesterday afternoon the Lantern Ninja Dash had raised over £3100 – smashing the original £2500 target.

Organiser Liz Heselwood, whose daughters Isla, seven, and Eva, five, attend the Ely primary school, said: “It was great seeing the kids being active. A fun time was had by all.”

Every penny raised by FOTLS goes directly towards the school. The charity is currently fundraising for much-needed outdoor equipment to benefit the children. 

FOTLS chair Meredith Hux Atkins, whose daughters Julie, 10, Caroline, seven and Hannah, five, attend the Lantern, and Seraphina, three, attends Goslings, hailed the event as a great success.

She said: “In the past we’ve put on fun runs but we wanted to try something different this year. It was fantastic seeing the children’s faces when they came out onto the field and saw the obstacle course. It wasn’t a competitive race – it was about participation and everyone who took part was a winner.”

FOTLS would like to thank Green & Purple for contributing to the cost of the medals.

You can sponsor the Lantern Ninja Dash at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/LanternNinjaDash2023

Press release from Friends of The Lantern School

The post Ninja Dash a Hit at Ely Primary School appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The school was inspected on March 7th to 8th 2023, where inspectors found no change to the school’s overall judgement – a rating it has proudly held since 2017. 

The report celebrated the positive behaviour of pupils, the success of a newly introduced system for identifying and supporting pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), and the range of opportunities available for pupils to develop their wider learning.

Headteacher at Isle of Ely Primary School, Bryony Surtees, said: “I am delighted that we continue to be rated as a ‘Good’ school. This reflects the fantastic commitment and hard work of the staff, and it also celebrates the success of our children.” 

She continued: “The pupils’ enthusiasm and love of learning shone through and clearly impressed the Inspector. Thank you also to our parents, for their continuing support and involvement.”

The report praises pupils’ enjoyment of the curriculum, stating “pupils show they are ready to learn, listening attentively to their teacher and working hard in class”. 

The school’s methods of assessing learning were also identified by the inspector as an area of success. The report highlighted that observation or knowledge, adaptation of teaching methods, and regularly checking comprehension enabled pupils to “learn content securely”.

Reading was another area of focus in the report, with the inspector commenting “reading is at the centre of the school’s curriculum. Leaders ensure that staff have the training and resources to teach phonics to good effect”.

It continued “Pupils willingly spend their lunchtimes in the library, losing themselves in storybooks.”

Effective safeguarding measures at the school were also highlighted in the report, with the inspector observing that “leaders, including governors, oversee safeguarding with drive and determination.”

The report also praised the school’s commitment to providing a diverse range of extra-curricular clubs for pupils. The inspector stated that “pupils strive to help others, taking on roles and responsibilities to help effect change. For instance, the house captains oversee fundraising events to support charities” highlighting how participation in these clubs helps pupils to develop important leadership and interpersonal skills.

Chief Executive Officer at The Active Learning Trust, Lynsey Holzer, said: “We are thrilled that Isle of Ely Primary School has once again been awarded a ‘Good’ grading from Ofsted. This is very well-deserved and is recognition of the hard work and dedication showed by Mrs Surtees and her entire team, who ensured the school offers children a safe, supportive, and fun learning environment. Congratulations to you all!”

To find out more about Isle of Ely Primary School, visit: https://isleofelyprimary.org

 Press release from The Active Learning Trust

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Paul, who is in Year 13, beat 152 of the UK’s most able junior players in the competition, which was held at Brocket Hall in Hertfordshire, from April 3rd to 5th.

Paul placed first with a total of 214, -5, for the Par 73, three-rounds. This qualifies him for the Faldo Series Junior Tour Grand Final, which will see him playing against the world’s most talented junior golfers in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates (UAE), in the autumn.

Paul joined King’s Ely Junior in Year 7, and he lives with his family in Newmarket. Paul is Captain of Golf at King’s Ely, and he is a member at Gog Magog Golf Club in Great Shelford, Cambridge. Paul usually practises or plays golf every day, and he first started having lessons when he was six years old. He plays off +2.6.

Speaking about his win, Paul said: “It is an incredible way to kick off the season! I was really pleased to achieve three solid rounds with the bonus of gaining world ranking points, and a trip to the Grand Final in UAE in September.”

It is certainly going to be a busy summer for Paul, as he is studying for his A Levels in History, Psychology, and Physical Education (Academic). He will also be playing in The Open Qualifying Series in June, and the Junior World Championships in San Diego in July. Everyone at King’s Ely wishes Paul well for what looks set to be a very exciting competition season ahead.

To find out more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit www.kingsely.org.

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely golfer qualifies for Faldo Series Junior Tour Grand Final appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Eleanor (Nell) Kittoe, who is in Year 11 at King’s Ely Senior, was awarded first place in the ‘Eveningwear Teenage’ category of the 2023 Stitch Festival Dressmaking Competition, with her exquisite jacket, pictured.

Nell was one of nine GCSE and A Level Fashion and Textile Design students at King’s Ely to have their creations shortlisted in this category. Garments made by Nell, Rosa Snell, Kevin Meng, Phiona Loi, Kiki Tang, Disa Hellyer, Chloe Skoulding, Alexa Milne, and Sayuri Okunushi, all featured in the finalists’ catwalk at the Stitch Festival, which was held at London’s Business Design Centre. All shortlisted pieces were modelled on the catwalk by the students who made them or by their friends, before judges announced Nell’s garment as the winner.

Nell, who joined King’s Ely Junior in Year 5, said: “I am so happy to have won! I felt proud to wear something that I had designed and created on the catwalk, although it was quite nerve-racking too. I was nervous about damaging the piece but thankfully it was fine!”

Thousands of crafts lovers attended the Stitch Festival, which took place from March 23rd-26th. King’s Ely was proud to have two stands at the event. In 2022, John-Oswald Crichton, who was in Year 13 at King’s Ely at the time, won the same category as Nell. John-Oswald is now studying Fashion Design Innovation at the University of Leeds.

Nell’s jacket is mainly made of hessian potato sacks, and the design is inspired by oyster shells and seaweeds which caught her attention on a holiday to Île de Ré in France. Each student had to write a paragraph of information about the garment they had produced, including the use of both creative and technical processes, and they had to provide photographs documenting their pieces.

The Stitch Festival Dressmaking Competition featured six categories this year, including a new menswear category. Entrants were encouraged to be as innovative as possible and judges were looking for personal flair, as well as beautifully executed techniques, stitching and finish.

This year’s judging panel included David Morrish of Kingfly Embroidery, hand knit designer, Jeanette Sloan, Josie Hawes – founder of Fabric Godmother, and Elisalex de Castro Peake, co-founder of By Hand London.

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post Creative King’s Ely pupil is a cut above the rest in London Fashion Design Contest appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

A taxing 24-hour Ergothon was held in school to raise money and awareness for the Tearfund charity’s relief efforts for people impacted by the Turkey-Syria Earthquake, and for King’s Ely Boat Club’s fundraising for a new coxless quad for the girls’ rowing programme.

The challenge was organised by Captain of Girls’ Boats, Mollie Chamberlain, Captain of Boys’ Boats, Aron O’Connor, Head of Rowing, Craig Ward, and other members of the School Boat Club community.

At first, it was thought that a few intrepid students and staff rowers would sign up for the event, but more than 80 pupils, family members, staff members, and friends of King’s Ely ended up participating. As a result, two rowing machines were in constant use in the school’s Old Palace Gymnasium from 5.30pm on Friday, March 24th through to 5.30pm on Saturday, March 25th.

Participants covered a whopping 620,000 metres and have, to date, raised £3,045.

Mr Ward said: “This was a fantastic event, which highlights the power that the Boat Club and King’s Ely as a school have in bringing people together for a great cause and overcoming barriers to succeed. Music was a key motivator during the challenge, as was the support of everyone involved, whether taking part or cheering on. A large turnout in the last hour saw the event almost transform into a sprint relay! As the end drew near, spirits rose even higher, and the prospect of a good night’s sleep became a reality. Our Captains of Boats, Mollie and Aron, hopped on for the final two minutes after being present for the full 24 hours, and finished the event to rapturous applause! As the clock hit 5.30pm, the challenge was complete – 620,000 metres rowed, and a lot of persistence shown!”

Mollie and Aron said: “We would like to thank everyone who took part, as well as everyone who supported us behind the scenes. We are immensely grateful for all the donations and how generous people have been. This was a tough challenge for everyone who took part, but it was worth it!”

Hayley Mortimer, Deputy Head Co-Curriculum at King’s Ely, added: “The teamwork, support and motivation that was demonstrated by all was so inspiring to witness. As a school, we encourage pupils to showcase their leadership abilities, and both Mollie and Aron are excellent role models to all. A superb event supporting two excellent causes!”

Donations can still be made by visiting: www.gofundme.com/f/ksebc-boat-fundraiser

Press release from King’s Ely  

The post King’s Ely Rowing Community Clocks Up 620,000 Metres and £3,000 in Gruelling 24-hour Charity Challenge appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Jessica Harding, 18, has been crowned the International Winner of the ‘2023 ILFORD PHOTO Student Photographer of the Year Competition’, beating hundreds of young photographers from across the world with her poignant black and white image, pictured.

Chosen by a panel of photography professionals, Jessica’s win means that a King’s Ely pupil, under the guidance of Head of Photography, Antonio Longo, has now enjoyed success in this competition for five years running.

Jessica is local to the Ely area, and she has been a student at King’s Ely since joining King’s Ely Junior in Year 5. She said: “I am so delighted to have won the competition – I could not be happier! To have my image recognised by such a high-profile organisation is incredible, and it is amazing to be able to see my image publicised.”

ILFORD PHOTO says that hundreds of entries were received this year, all shot on ILFORD or Kentmere black and white films, and then printed in the darkroom. The theme for 2023 was ‘A Different View’ and Jessica captured her image on ILFORD FP4 Plus film. She printed it on ILFORD MULTIGRADE RC Deluxe Pearl paper. This year’s International Runner-up Prize went to Jose Wantland from Orange Coast College, based in California.

Speaking about her winning entry, Jessica said: “This image was always one of my favourites from that shoot, which was for part of my A Level Photography coursework. I was shooting black and white images of different markets in London on my digital camera for my academic work but decided to take my uncle’s old film camera with me for the day to try and shoot some ‘different views’ as well! This image was shot in Portobello Road Market. I had already developed a love for capturing images through reflections in mirrors, so when I noticed the view of this man staring at the vintage telephones on one of the market stalls, I knew I wanted to capture it. I love the way that the shape of the mirror created a great rectangular frame for the reflection of the man, and the shallow depth of field created that lovely soft edging to the reflection. It gave the piece an ‘image within an image’ feel which I loved!”

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

Jessica said: “The Photography Department at King’s Ely is incredible. Having not undertaken GCSE Photography, I was amazed to find out what I had been missing out on. Mr Longo lets us have our independence whilst carrying out our academic work, however he is always there to help if we need assistance, whilst also giving us so many extra opportunities to explore the subject and further our creativity.”

Jessica is studying Photography, Biology and English Literature for her A Levels. She said: “My favourite thing about photography is creating images which inspire people and of which I can be proud. In the case of film photography, I love the anticipation in waiting to find out whether what I saw in my viewfinder when taking the image is what comes out on that roll of film once it has been developed. Once I have the negatives and get into the darkroom, I am in my element. I could spend hours in there!”

A statement on the ILFORD PHOTO website reads: “The high quality of teaching from lecturers and educators was reflected by the difficulty that the judges had in choosing the winning image for this year’s theme of ‘A Different View’. As always, choosing the winner was not easy and we spent a long time as a panel discussing the final images. We are pleased to announce that the winner, and recipient of the title of ‘ILFORD PHOTO International Student Photographer of the Year 2022/23’ has been awarded to Jessica Harding from King’s Ely School.”

For winning, Jessica will receive £200 worth of ILFORD PHOTO products, and get her image framed.

King’s Ely students who have achieved success in the ILFORD PHOTO competition in the last five years are: Elly Hakansson-Harvey (2022), Lucas Edevane (2021), Paige Newell (2020), Luna Guo (2019) and Orla Simpson (2018).

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org 

Press release from King’s Ely

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From Reception to Year 6, the school (which is part of Meridian Trust) had Matildas, Dumbledores, Christmasauruses and everything in between! The children delighted in explaining their clothes and accessories, and some lovely conversations occurred where children introduced others to new books and new ideas for things to read. 

In classes, the event was celebrated by a range of activities. Year 6 Picasso class designed and wrote book recommendations for their favourite authors. Year 5 Da Vinci class took part in the official World Book Day Live Lesson, in which Michael Rosen explained the processes he goes through when creating a new story. Year 3 Hockney class drew maps and then created multiple different stories using the map to show how powerful they can be in storytelling. Taylor Shaw – the school’s catering company – joined forces with DFPA to provide the children with a ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ themed lunch, which proved very popular. 

At the end of World Book Day, during the whole school assembly, the School Council celebrated costumes that they thought were especially well thought-out – well done to everyone at Downham Feoffees Primary Academy!

Press release from Little Downham Feoffees Primary School

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Lauren Peck, who is in Year 13 at King’s Ely Sixth Form, has been awarded a Scholarship to study BMus (Hons) – Classical Saxophone at the London conservatoire in September 2023.

She also received offers of a Scholarship at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and a place at Trinity Laban in London. 

Lauren started playing the saxophone when she was around nine years old. However, she is not just an able saxophonist, as she plays the clarinet, flute, and piano too. At King’s Ely, Lauren is Joint Head of Concert Band, and is a member of Saxophone Quartet, Jazz Band, Orchestra, Chapel Choir, Chamber Choir, and Flute Choir.

Lauren, who joined King’s Ely Sixth Form in Year 12, said: “I am so pleased to have been chosen by the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and I am excited to start the course in September 2023. To receive a Scholarship is an honour for which I am hugely grateful.”

For her audition, Lauren had to prepare two pieces from set lists given by the Conservatoire, as well as a contrasting piece of her choice. She said: “In the audition, I had 20 minutes with the Guildhall accompanist to rehearse before performing the pieces to a panel of four Guildhall tutors. I had to do some sightreading and a quick aural test, followed by some questions. I also had a separate interview with the Head of Wind, Brass and Percussion.”

Lauren’s course will include clarinet and flute lessons. At King’s Ely, Lauren is studying Music, Chemistry and Further Maths for her A-Levels. She aspires to be a professional musician. 

Lauren said: “I would like to be involved in performance, teaching and community outreach as a professional musician. The breadth of opportunities that I have been given at King’s Ely have certainly developed my musicianship. For example: solo and ensemble performances, working with an orchestra and professional conductor, assisting with the Junior School Band each week last term, and playing baritone saxophone and clarinet in the pit band for the Senior School Musical, ‘Legally Blonde’.”

Outside of school, Lauren is a member of Aldeburgh Young Musicians (Britten Pears Arts), which is a progressive artist development programme for young musicians, based at Snape Maltings Concert Hall in Suffolk. The programme is part of the national network of Centres for Advanced Training (CATs), and Lauren has been a member for five years, thanks to financial support from The Leverhulme Trust.

Lauren said: “I started learning to play the piano with my mum when I was about six years old, but when I heard a saxophone being played in an assembly at my primary school when I was in Year 4, I immediately wanted to learn how to play it. I love the versatility of the saxophone and I enjoy the social side that comes with playing an instrument. Playing an instrument requires a lot of dedication and practice, and so you develop resilience, perseverance, and a personal drive to progress. I also find sharing and creating music with others rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable. I would recommend learning an instrument to anyone.”

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations. Music is one of the reasons King’s Ely came into existence back in 970 AD and today over a third of students learn a musical instrument or receive vocal tuition. From the Boy and Girl Choristers of Ely Cathedral Choir to jazz and rock bands, orchestras and its famous all boys a cappella group, the King’s Barbers, the quality, range, and variety of ensembles all attest to the school’s musical pedigree.

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

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This was their second whole school musical, following on from the huge success of last year’s ‘School of Rock’ production. The three sold out nights on the 19th, 20th and 21st January, showcased the musical and technical talents of all ages. As well as the incredible actors on stage, the cast were support by dedicated and amazing student-led teams of lighting and sound designers, costume, prop makers and hair and make-up artists. 

Mr Warburton, Principal at Ely College commented: “I was so proud to see the culmination of months of rehearsal.  The quality of the show was of the highest order and the professionalism of the stage management gave the impression we were sat in the west end and not Needham’s Hall. We are so blessed to have students with a desire to perform, and a large staff group who love to give them the opportunities and time to put on shows of this calibre.  The whole of the community can and should be very proud of The Little Shop of Horrors 2023.”

Director and Music curriculum lead, Jonathan Newsome said ‘The level of performance from each and every student was quite extraordinary and a proud moment for all those involved in working with the performers from page to stage. Their commitment to rehearsals throughout the term shone through.  Everyone has worked tremendously hard to create this show and it has been worthwhile.”

Early on the decision was made to hire in the set. After a dedicated fundraising effort by the students themselves, this considerable investment in the staging, spurred on the cast who took to the floor impressively in full costume and truly immersed themselves in the character for that moment under the spotlight!

Joseph Chapman and Jade Mearns carried the audience along in 1960’s nostalgia as they performed classic tunes from the blockbuster musical. James Wallman was the soulful voice of the dreaded Audrey II. The orchestra pit band played the hits and demonstrated the musical talents of our Bishop Laney Sixth Form musicians Paddy Bennett and Joe Cousins.  Both the student cast and crew came on stage to take a bow after the wonderfully effervescent finale medley. 

Director and Drama curriculum lead, Catherine Seymour commented: “The most satisfying element of this show was witnessing the development of the students during the process. For some, this was their first production whether on the stage or behind the scenes in the stage management team, as costume designers, or as sound or lighting technicians.  The students had an incredible time working as a team during rehearsals and their performances were outstanding. Thank you to everyone who came to see the show and supported us”.

Press release from Ely College

Photo Credit Ely College

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Building on the successes of the last three years which has seen over 250 students ‘take up the oars’, this award will not only give more student the chance to experience rowing for the first time on our stunning local waterways, but also establish new programmes and partnerships. No longer just a taster, they hope to incorporate more competitive aspects as well as Holiday Camps, a Post-16 intensive course and a summertime Trust wide rowing regatta.

“This successful bid will allow us to extend our reach further” commented Jason Coe, Assistant Principal at Ely College. “With a view to developing competency and longer term engagement, we’ll welcome our Bishop Laney Sixth Form students to join us, with the potential for them to become youth leaders.”

Love Rowing, the charitable foundation for British Rowing, announced funding for 25 projects across the UK, with a focus of bringing more people into the sport of rowing. Sally Corander from Love Rowing commented: “… this year we are supporting more projects than ever before! These funded initiatives will provide young people from low income household families, ethnically diverse community groups and people with disabilities the opportunities to learn to row and enjoy the benefits the sport brings.” Love Rowing received a record number of very strong applications for the grant round which made the review process extremely difficult.

“Working across Meridian Trust, we hope to extend our ‘Chance to Row’ programme to more schools in the region. We already have strong links with The Boat Race Company, the university teams and East Anglia Youth Rowing; the latter also being successful in this round of Love Rowing grant bids. We look forward to teaming up with them and sharing good practice.”

Jason Coe also commented on behalf of the College and IOERC: “Both myself and Richard Maxey are delighted to have secured this further funding to broaden opportunities and exposure to rowing across East Cambs. Love Rowing’s support will enable us to give a diverse range of students a chance to engage in a sport not only that has competitive pathways but undoubtably brings about social, emotional and mental wellbeing benefits. Whilst the college programme continues to grow, this bid allows us to share our experience across our wider community, something crucial to all of us at Ely College.”

Press release from Ely College

The post Ely College secures £2960 ‘Love Rowing’ grant to build on their successful ‘Chance to Row’ programme. appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Stuart Patman, Achievement Lead for Ely College and organiser of the trip said: “What a way to finish the term! Spending the build-up to Christmas in the Italian Alps with plenty of snow, Christmas lights and lots of skiing.”

“It is so nice to be back running such trips after Covid. Coming out of the Mont Blanc tunnel into Italy and hearing the excitement from the students put a big smile on my face. They were almost giddy from those first views of the mountains, exclaiming “Real snow, proper snow! Nothing like we are used to at home!” 

After a day or two of finding their feet on the beginner slopes, students have shown determination and perseverance, making steady progress throughout the week, building up to more challenging runs and exploring the mountain. 

Mr Patman added: “Hopefully the experience has been something to remember, something to inspire and something to take further in life.”

A lot of tired but happy faces are set to return on Friday, undoubtedly with some great stories and accomplishments to talk about for years to come!

Press release from Ely College

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Almost 30% of all energy used in the UK is wasted, so the Trust has launched the imaginative campaign to encourage its schools, staff, and students to become more sustainable and support their plan to become Net Zero by 2030.

‘Captain Carbon’ has burst into life across the Trust’s 28 schools following the UN Climate Change Conference (COP27) and will ask the schools to work together to create an action plan that helps to reduce wasted energy. 

Within the context of rising energy prices and budget pressures in the education sector, despite the government’s Energy Relief Scheme, the campaign will also help to make sure the school’s budgets are used most effectively to invest in improving the education experiences for its young people. 

‘Captain Carbon’ will ask schools to join the fight by focusing their actions on:

• Turning it off
• Turning it down
• Keeping it closed
• Keeping it under control

Martin Hair, Director of Estates and Facilities at Meridian Trust, said: “We all know we need to play our part in becoming more sustainable and reaching the UK’s target of becoming Net Zero by 2050.

“As a Trust, we have already been successful in securing almost £4million through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund to complete various energy and carbon saving projects across eight of our school sites. This work includes a data driven approach to maximising our impact, by removing gas boilers and installing air source heat pumps, solar PV, insulation and improving Building Energy Management Systems.

“This work will help to remove at least 600 tons of carbon emissions each year from our carbon footprint.

“Captain Carbon’ is designed to be a fun and imaginative way to bring all our schools together to focus on an incredibly serious issue affecting our planet and placing significant pressure on school budgets. 

“We hope the campaign will help to establish good sustainable behaviours, making sure things, such as lights in classrooms are turned off when they are not being used, and that windows remain closed when heating systems are working.”

The campaign comes after the Trust’s annual energy budget rose by more than £2.5million year-on-year following the recent energy price rises. 

Martin added: “The recent energy price rises have added a further dimension to our plans. Not only are we now investing in a more sustainable future, but we also need to make sensible decisions that allow our school leaders to use their already stretched budgets to provide high quality experiences and opportunities to support every child achieving their potential. 

“We would much rather be using our budgets to provide better opportunities for young people than heating old and inefficient buildings and systems.” 

Alongside ‘Captain Carbon’, the Trust has applied for further funding from the next phase of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Fund, where it hopes to implement substantial energy efficiency projects across more of its schools. The Trust is also completing a Christmas shutdown competition to encourage schools to reduce energy usage during holidays.

For more information about the Captain Carbon campaign, please visit: meridiantrust.co.uk/captain-carbon

Press release from Meridian Trust

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The school, part of Meridian Trust, was inspected by Ofsted on 5th and 6th October 2022 and inspectors found there has been no change to the school’s overall judgement as ‘Good’ – a rating it has had since 2014.

The report, published earlier this week, celebrated the positive behaviour of pupils, the success of the newly introduced trust curriculum, and the range of opportunities for pupils to develop their learning beyond the boundaries of the curriculum. 

Inspectors praised the school leaders’ ‘clear and ambitious vision for the school and its pupils.’

Benita Sherrington, Deputy Headteacher, at The Lantern Community Primary School, said: ‘’We are incredibly proud of this Ofsted report, which shines a light on the hard work and successes of our colleagues, our pupils, and their families. 

At The Lantern Community Primary School we provide our pupils with a warm, happy, and safe environment in which they can flourish, and we are pleased that the report reflects this and celebrates the exciting opportunities we offer our pupils to extend their learning outside of the school curriculum.” 

The report praises pupils’ enjoyment of the curriculum: ‘Pupils enjoy learning at The Lantern Primary School. The newly introduced trust curriculum focuses on pupils having secure understanding in core subjects such as reading, writing and mathematics.’ Inspectors commented that ‘pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are well supported to access the whole curriculum.’

Behaviour was another area of focus in the report with inspectors commenting, ‘the school is an orderly, calm, and supportive environment. Pupils behave well.’

The report continues, ‘Pastoral support for all pupils is strong. Staff know their pupils and families well. Respect is shown between pupils and adults. Bullying is rare, and when it does happen is dealt with swiftly and appropriately. Pupils know who to talk to if they have any concerns. Pupils feel safe and are kept safe.’

Another area of success identified by inspectors was the academy’s extra-curricular curriculum. Inspectors reported: ‘There are many opportunities for pupils to develop their talents and interests beyond the taught curriculum. These include clubs, trips, visitors, music, art and sporting activities.’

It continues: ‘Leaders’ work to encourage pupils’ wider development is regular and of high quality. Cultural, religious, and ethnic communities are explored through curriculum themes. Pupils demonstrate understanding and appreciation of difference.’

Lesley Birch, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Meridian Trust, said: “I would like to congratulate all our colleagues at The Lantern Community Primary School and across the Trust for their hard work in achieving this superb Ofsted report.

“We are proud that the school is demonstrating our Meridian Trust values and our commitment to providing a high-quality education for all at the heart of our local communities.” 

The Lantern Community Primary School joined Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust in 2017, which merged with Cambridge Primary Education Trust to become Meridian Trust in April 2022. 

Meridian Trust received recognition in the report for its swift actions ‘to support and enhance school policies, leadership and the curriculum’ and their ‘clear plans to facilitate in-house and trust support for all staff.’ 

For more information on the school please visit www.lanternprimary.org. 

Press release from The Lantern Primary School

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Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College commented “What a wonderful evening! I’d like to express my heartfelt thanks to the PTFA for their amazing efforts in bringing this event to life. I know how much work went on behind the scenes and I’m in awe of their relentless commitment to supporting our college community” 

Bev Saddington, Chair of the college PTFA said “Despite the poor weather, we still had an amazing turnout.  It was lovely to see the college ‘jam-packed’ with so many from the community enjoying the festive atmosphere.  Huge thanks to our PTFA for their hard work; as well as the stallholders, local businesses and, of course, our parents.  

The evening raised over £2,500 which will be used to support students’ learning.  

Raffle tickets winners were drawn on the night, but will also be listed on the college’s social media channels early next week (for anyone who had to leave early). Winners are encouraged to pop into the school reception next week to collect their prizes.

Press release from Ely College

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In June and July this year, Ely Radio was privileged to work with some Year 9 students from Highfield Littleport Academy. Colm, one of our Presenters, hosted 6 workshops, teaching the students how to mix music, present and record shows. Colm thoroughly enjoyed the workshops, his words on completion of the workshops were “Thank you to everyone at Ely Radio for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of these workshops”.

Feedback from the school and young people that took part was brilliant. Nicholas, one of the students said his best thing was “Learning to mix songs and how to be a DJ” and Callum said, “Thank you so much I really liked and enjoyed this”.

Acting Chair of Good Vibes Local CIC, Andy Pearson, said “Being able to go out into the community and carry out workshops such as this is rewarding, we could not have done it without the grant from the Community Reach Fund and without the assistance from the wonderful staff at Highfields Littleport Academy and of course our volunteers”.

Ely Radio, hope to add some of the clips of the students’ recordings to their station, so why not listen in to us?

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Press release from Good Vibes Local CIC

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The College, which is part of Meridian Trust, prides itself on extending the boundaries of learning. Principal of Ely College, Simon Warburton said “our vision is to provide an education that’s inspiring and equips students with the skills they need to succeed beyond the classroom and today has been a perfect example of that.”

Mr Coe said “I’m thrilled that we’ve been able to offer this opportunity to our students and I’d like to thank everyone who’s been involved in making today happen. I’m also delighted that our ongoing partnership with local rowing club, Isle of Ely is proving so successful. Over 180 students so far, have been able to try rowing, thanks to this partnership. Rowing is a sport that most students wouldn’t have ever considered before, so it’s a wonderful opportunity.”

As part of the day, student athletes from Oxford and Cambridge Boat Clubs ran interactive workshops, covering topics, such as achieving a balance between academia and sport and lessons to be learned from success and failure.

Alannah Burdess is a Classics Undergraduate at Oxford University and a Cox for the University Boat Club. “It’s fantastic that students at Ely College are being introduced to rowing at a relatively early age. My advice to them? Keep going and most importantly, remember to have fun. Even at a competitive level, we always try to have fun. Being active every day and working towards a common goal with the squad has undoubtedly had a positive effect on all aspects of my life, so it’s great to be able to share my rowing journey with these students and hopefully inspire them to find a passion for the sport”

The Boat Race Bursary, funded by Gemini has been awarded to the college, enabling Assistant Principal, Jason Coe and his team to immerse students in a sport which has historically been perceived as financially, physically and even mentally inaccessible to most.

Furthermore, thanks to a partnering programme with the local rowing club, Isle of Ely, students have been able to access regular expert coaching and use rowing equipment from the club. 

Athletes included Cam Spiers, CUBC (Goldie 2021, 2022) 

Elena von Mueller CUBC (Blondie 2021, 2022) 

Julia Lindsay – OUWBC Student Athlete (Blue Boat 2021, 2022)

Alannah Burdess – OUBC 

Siobhan Cassidy, Board Member of The Boat Race Company Limited and stroke seat of the winning Cambridge Blue Boat 1995 said:

“The Boat Race Bursary, funded by Gemini, is delighted to support Ely College Rowing Club under Jason Coe’s inspirational leadership. The collaboration between Isle of Ely Rowing Club, Ely College and the British rowing community makes this project incredibly special.

“We founded the Bursary to drive projects just like this one. We believe that sport can build a better future for all. We support coaches, leaders and experts in the heart of their local communities to open our sport up to young people who may have never considered rowing before. We would like to thank Gemini for funding this valuable work. 

“Oxford and Cambridge athletes swapped stories with the Ely College rowers about their shared experiences both in and out of the boat. We came away from today feeling inspired. It reminded us of how we started out on our own rowing journeys and how far that experience has brought us, together. We look forward to sharing the water with this new generation of junior rowers.”

A spokesperson for Gemini said: 

“The projects we have chosen to sponsor provide life-changing opportunities to make sport and rowing both inclusive and accessible to young people who would otherwise be excluded. The popularity of the sport has grown tremendously over the years, and we are excited to help grow the sport further by bringing it to a more diverse and inclusive audience.”

Ely played host to the 2021 Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, due to concerns over social distancing amid the Covid-19 pandemic. This was the first time the iconic race had taken place outside of London since the Second World War and this lasting partnership shows the legacy of this event in inspiring a new generation of rowers in Ely. 

To find out more about Ely College, please visit: http://www.elycollege.com. 

Press release from Ely College

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The academy, which is part of The Active Learning Trust (ALT), is an area special school co-located with Littleport and East Cambs Academy (LECA), providing education for pupils aged two to 19 with significant and complex learning difficulties. 

The curriculum is different to comprehensive schools and tailored to the needs of students who all have Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), many of whom will have physical, behavioural, sensory, communication or medical needs.

Oliver Woods, a student at the school was given the opportunity to study a GCSE at Littleport and East Cambs Academy (which is also part of ALT), becoming the first student to complete this significant achievement.

Oliver is now going to Cambridgeshire Regional College – Huntingdon campus with his first day on Monday 5th September. He is studying a Supported Learning Entry Level course which will improve his English and Maths skills as well as preparing him for adulthood.

Yvonne Skillern, Head of School for Highfield Littleport Academy, said: “We are so proud of Oliver’s monumental achievement!

“Oliver began studying Maths at LECA as part of his tailored timetable nearly four years ago. Despite his additional learning needs, a leg surgery and the disruption caused by the pandemic, he has worked extremely hard and achieved a grade 3 GCSE in Maths and was very close to a grade 4.

“All of the staff are delighted with Oliver’s success and wish him well at college. Oliver has realised the true vision of the academy and we look forward to supporting other students with opportunities like these and working even more closely with LECA in the future.”

Craig D’Cunha, Acting Chief Executive Officer at The Active Learning Trust, said: “On behalf of the Trust, I would like to extend my congratulations to Oliver and the school for this excellent achievement. 

“To do this under normal exam circumstances would have been a significant achievement, but to do this after the last few years of disrupted learning and changes to exams makes it extra special.

“We continue to be so impressed by all the students and team at Highfield Littleport Academy which has created strong links with our fellow Trust schools. This has promoted a high-quality education provision so that all students can maximise their potential for learning irrespective of their different needs.”

In its first Ofsted inspection since opening in September 2017, Highfield Littleport Academy was rated ‘Good’ in all areas.

For more information about the school, please visit: www.highfieldlittleport.org/

Press release from The Active Learning Trust

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This year’s GCSE examinations were marked by external assessors for the first time since 2019. The percentage of Grade 9s, which is equivalent to higher than an A*, achieved by Year 11 students at King’s Ely has risen from 16% to 24%. 

The percentage of Grades 9-8, which is the equivalent of an A*, has risen to 42% this year, from 35% in 2019. The percentage of Grades 9-7, the equivalent of A*-A, has increased to 59%, from 56% in 2019. 95% of results this year are Grades 9-4, which is the equivalent of A*-C.

Three King’s Ely students have achieved all Grade 9s – congratulations to Lauren Booth, who earned twelve Grade 9s, and to Liam John Lau and James MacGillivray, who both achieved eleven Grade 9s.

Eight students achieved at least ten Grades 9-8 – Thomas Alderton, Robert Banwell, Raphael Bisson, Hugh Chippington, Opher Gate, Elizabeth Grimsey, Rufus Hillier, Sophie Hillier, Lily McCallum, Elizabeth Newman, Sydney Smith and Jack Tisi.

Jonathan Shaw, Head of King’s Ely Senior, said: “We are extremely proud of our Year 11 pupils for a fantastic set of grades. Despite the challenges of the last two years, we are delighted that 42% of all grades were Grade 8 and 9. This is a tremendous achievement and a just reward for all the hard work by the pupils and their teachers. Many pupils have excelled, with over 23% of all grades awarded being Grade 9. As a year group, they have been fully involved in school life, performing in concerts, starring in plays and leading on the sports pitches. Well done on these excellent results.”

Lauren Booth, who has been at King’s Ely since joining King’s Ely Acremont Pre-Prep in Year 1, said: “I’m so pleased with my results and I’m also relieved. I didn’t sleep at all last night (August 24th) as I was so nervous. I can’t wait for Sixth Form now!” Lauren is studying Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Music for her A-Levels and is staying at King’s Ely for Sixth Form. She hopes to pursue a career in engineering and/or music.

Thomas Alderton achieved ten Grade 9s and one Grade 8. He joined King’s Ely Acremont Pre-Prep in Year 2 and is staying at King’s Ely Sixth Form to study Maths, Further Maths, Biology and Chemistry at A-Level. Thomas, who hopes to study a degree in biochemistry, said: “It has been such a long time since we have been assessed in this way, so I felt nervous about my results. I’m very pleased with my grades, it feels like all the hard work and revision has paid off. I’m really looking forward to all the new experiences in Sixth Form and studying subjects which I am passionate about in greater depth.”

Lily McCallum joined King’s Ely Acremont Nursery when she was a baby and is staying on for Sixth Form to study Spanish, Maths, Biology and Chemistry at A-Level. Lily achieved nine Grade 9s and two Grade 8s.

Hugh Chippington joined King’s Ely Senior in Year 9 and is staying on for Sixth Form to study all STEM A-Levels. Hugh has wanted to be an aeronautical engineer since he was aged 7. 

As is reflective of an all-round education, King’s Ely students have achieved strongly in a range of GCSE subjects. Creative subjects, for which King’s Ely is internationally renowned, were strong once again this year, with 100% of students achieving Grades 9-7 in Music, Textile Design and Photography.

The pass rate in Mathematics is 100% and able mathematicians also achieved highly in the challenging Further Maths GCSE examination, with 88% of the students who took this qualification achieving Grades 9-7. But Maths is not the only STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subject in which students have excelled this year. In Biology, Chemistry and Physics, nearly 50 % of all GCSE results were the top Grade 9.

John Attwater, Principal of King’s Ely, said: “It is easy to forget how disrupted the current GCSE generation’s education was in the crucial Year 9 and Year 10 stages where the foundations are laid for the exams they have just taken.  Set against this backdrop, the humblest pass can be viewed as a real achievement demonstrating resourcefulness, adaptability and trust in the team around you, all things which will serve these students well in years to come and in some cases even more important to them than the subjects themselves.  That this has been met and exceeded by so many throughout the country should make us all optimistic for the future.  Well done to them, and at King’s especially our thanks go to teaching and examination staff, parents, friends and other supporters, and to the exam boards who have done really well to give students the best chance to show what they can do.”

Twenty pupils from all corners of the globe also received their results today having studied the one-year IGCSE programme at King’s Ely. The 25-week intensive course sees young people studying in their non-native speaking language, and the average number of subjects taken is six. After just two terms of face-to-face teaching, King’s Ely is delighted to report another excellent set of IGCSE grades, with the overall average being a Grade 7 (the equivalent of an A) across all subjects.

Special mention must go to four students who achieved an average of Grade 8 or above across their six subjects – Yixiang He, Hoi Lam Lee, Lok Hin Ong, and Fares Obeid. Fares achieved five Grade 9s and one Grade 8 in his six subjects, while Anders achieved three Grade 9s and three Grade 8s. Both Anders and Fares are looking forward to starting their A-Level studies at King’s Ely next month, as is most of the Year 11 cohort.

Matthew Norbury, Director for International Students at King’s Ely, said: “I am immensely proud of not just the one-year IGCSE results but also the achievements of our international students taking mainstream GCSEs and indeed A-Levels. Each year, students whose first language is not English and who have often been in the UK for only one or two years are able to demonstrate superb effort and determination and match this to high aspirations.”

King’s Ely received an ‘excellent’ rating in all areas following its latest ISI Inspection, recognising the highest levels of academic rigour, pastoral care, and opportunities outside the classroom. To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely Pupils Achieve Superb GCSE Results appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College, said: “These really are an exceptional set of results for an exceptional year group. Today marks the end of compulsory schooling for our 196 Year 11 students who, when the COVID pandemic struck, were just one term into their Year 9 studies. We could not be prouder of the maturity and determination that they have shown over the past two years; this group of students have not let their circumstances affect their determination to succeed.

These results have been made possible by the willingness of students, staff and families to overcome challenges and work together to ensure that they were as ready as they could possibly be for the summer examination series.   

We aspire to support students to be successful, confident and responsible – I think we can all consider that this has certainly been achieved this year. The Ely College staff are looking forward to welcoming our students back into college this morning to celebrate the results of their hard work and dedication. We wish this amazing group of students the very best success for their future studies and careers.” 

Four students are celebrating particularly excellent results.  Nola Guy, Alex Cheng, Tymek Niewodniczanski and Jan Dietrich all achieved an astonishing ten grade 9s (the highest possible grade) across their subjects.  

Sheer hard work and dedication also paid off for Charlotte Beck for her nine grade 9s and congratulations are also due to Rachel Lee and Ella Dunham who secured a hugely impressive eight grade 9s each.  We are all particularly proud of the achievements of Seth Meek, Abigail Alston, Gopika Nair and Eloise Holgate for securing grades far in excess of their forecasts.

Richard Spencer, Executive Principal at Meridian Trust said: “Huge congratulations to everyone celebrating well-deserved success today. The students and their families should be very proud of all they have overcome to secure these results. Meridian Trust is very proud of the superb results secured by Ely College, and I’d like to extend my special thanks to the wonderful staff who have supported our young people so well.”

For more information about Ely College, please visit: www.elycollege.com. 

Press release from Ely College

The post Ely College Celebrates Fantastic GCSE Results appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Of the 94 students in King’s Ely’s Year 13 cohort, 29 pupils have achieved all A* and A grades in their subjects and 56 students have secured all A*-B grades. This year, 22% of A-Level grades are A*, 46% of results are A*-A, 75% are A*-B and 89% are A*-C.

Today’s results mean that, once again, King’s Ely students have secured places at their first-choice university or institution, not just in the UK but across the globe. As is reflective of an all-round education, pupils will be studying subjects as diverse as Earth and Planetary Science to Illustration and History to International Horseracing Business.

Jonathan Shaw, Head of King’s Ely Senior, said: “We are very proud of our Year 13 students, who have achieved some fantastic grades. This year’s cohort were under a particular amount of pressure given the circumstances of the last two years, and so today’s results will be a relief and cause for celebration. Many of our students have exceeded their own personal expectations and, after a nervous wait over the summer, will be extremely happy with the outcome. As expected, the vast majority of our students have secured the grades needed for the next step of their education. However, above all, we hope our students will leave King’s with the skills, the character, and sense of ambition to make a difference wherever they go. Congratulations to our pupils for their resilience, to our teachers for their teaching and guidance, and to our parents for their support.”

This year’s A-Level examinations were marked by external assessors for the first time since 2019, from when the percentage of A* grades achieved at King’s Ely has risen from 14% to 22% and the percentage of A*-B grades has improved from 59% to 75%. 

King’s Ely’s highest achiever this year is Eleanor MacGillivray, who is off to Trinity College Cambridge to read Mathematics. Eleanor, who joined King’s Ely Junior in Year 6, achieved four A* grades in Chemistry, Further Maths, Maths and Physics.

Philip Papafilippou and Chris Yi have secured three A*s and one A grade. Sarah White, Amelia Shaw and Camilla Robson have achieved three A*s.

Annie Moore is heading to the University of St Andrews to study Arabic and French (with a year abroad). Annie, who joined King’s Ely Junior in Year 8, achieved an A* in Spanish, an A* in Politics, and an A in French. Annie said: “My ideal career after university would be to work for the UN in a job where I can continue to speak and learn different languages. My love of languages has been nurtured amazingly by the MFL Department at King’s. Our teachers are all so supportive of us and genuinely care about us as individuals, which I think really matters.”

Philip Papafilippou is heading to the University of Bristol to study Mechanical Engineering after achieving A* grades in Further Maths, Maths and Physics, and an A grade in Chemistry. Philip, who joined King’s Ely Senior in Year 10, said: “I was so nervous about opening my results, but I have done so much better than I thought I would have done. I’m extremely happy! My teachers have all been so supportive; I feel that they have genuinely believed in me since the very day I started.”

John-Oswald Crichton, who joined King’s Ely Junior in Year 6, achieved an A* in Textiles, an A* in Maths, and a B in Biology. He is going to be studying Fashion Design Innovation at the University of Leeds.

Sarah White is also off to the University of Bristol, but she will be studying English Literature. Sarah, who joined King’s Ely in Year 7, achieved A* grades in Fine Art, English Literature and History. Sarah said: “I am so excited to be pursuing a creative degree thanks to my creativity never having been restricted at King’s. Individuality is key here and I am grateful for that.” 

As well as A-Levels, King’s Ely also offers vocational Level 3 qualifications in Food and Nutrition and Business Studies. 88% of marks in modules taken this summer were at least a Merit. Approximately a quarter of Year 13 students also completed the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) this year, which is equivalent to half an A-Level. 70% of students achieved an A* or A grade.

John Attwater, Principal of King’s Ely, said: “In a year of almost unprecedented demand for university places, I am delighted that our fantastic leaving students have been so successful in getting the grades they need and finding such an exciting array of courses, institutions, and career paths to move on to. That is reflective of their own creativity and hard work but also, I hope, the confidence, ambition, and imagination that their time here at King’s has brought them. We wish them the very best for what I know will be valuable and fulfilling futures.”

An open event for prospective Sixth Form students is being held at King’s Ely on Saturday 8th October 2022. To book your place or for more information, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

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Adam Steels, Head of Bishop Laney Sixth Form, said: “I want to congratulate all our students for their excellent achievements today. Over the last two years, they have overcome many challenges that were beyond their control. The commitment they have continued to show in their studies has been amazing and we could not be prouder.

“We believe our students should have the opportunity to achieve their ambitions, which is why we are proud to offer a very wide range of both A Levels and technical programmes. 

“Our approach has been very popular with students and families, resulting in our sixth form growing by 200% since 2017. All our applicants to Russell Group and other leading Universities have been successful in achieving their places, and many other students are preparing to start higher and advanced apprenticeships in the coming weeks. 

“We will be available to support and assist anyone who should need it in the coming weeks, and I wish everyone the best of luck in their future endeavours.”

Individual success stories:

Caleb Nelson-Shearing, secured the highest possible starred Distinction grade in his Diploma in Sport & Exercise Science, and in combining that with A Level Geography is planning to take up a place at studying Exercise and Sport Science in September at the University of Exeter. 

Finn Pieters, achieved A Level grades including an A* in Biology; and will be taking up her place in York to start a biology degree in the coming weeks.

Ruby Ashman, combines starred Distinction in Applied Science and an A-grade A Level in Sociology. Like Finn, she is heading north and intends to take up a university place studying Psychology at the University of Leeds. 

Will Nurse, will be building on excellent achievements in Media and Business, all at Distinction and starred Distinction grade, and the success of a recent work placement, heading to Manchester and combining media and business to study brand communications and advertising.  

Ella Cousins, achieved A and B grades at A Level and will now join the NHS on a higher apprenticeship programme.

Sofia Beveridge, achieved Distinction and starred Distinction grades. She will now commence an advanced apprenticeship in supporting teaching.  

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College & Bishop Laney Sixth Form added: “It is a pleasure to be celebrating with our staff and students today. The students and their parents recognise what a great experience Bishop Laney offers. 

“These results reflect their resilience throughout this period of unprecedented turbulence and all students, and our amazing staff should be extremely proud of their accomplishments.  We wish them the very best success for the future.”

If you wish to enquire about current opportunities within the sixth form, please contact the sixth form on admissions@bishoplaney.org and 01353 652818.

Press release from Bishop Laney

The post Bishop Laney Sixth Form Celebrates Students’ Post-16 Success appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Rebecca, aged 21, has been selected for the Hockey Wales Women’s Team after impressing coaches at the Women’s Junior World Cup, held in South Africa.

On July 16th, Rebecca also played for Hockey Wales Women against South Africa. Wales beat South Africa for the first time since 1920 with a 1-0 victory. The match marked Rebecca’s senior international debut.

Rebecca attended King’s Ely from Year 5 through to Year 13. She is from the Newmarket area, she went on to study Sports Science at Durham University, and her father, Kevin, is Head of Physical Education at King’s Ely Senior. 

As well as being a key member of King’s Ely’s 1st Hockey Teams, Rebecca also played National League Hockey for Cambridge City alongside Helen Richardson-Walsh, Olympic Gold Medallist. Aged 16, Rebecca was playing for England Hockey. It was not just Hockey that Rebecca excelled in at school though; she represented the school in Netball, Tennis, Rounders and Athletics too, including at English Schools Cross Country and Track and Field level.

Speaking about receiving her first international cap, Rebecca said: “It was such a memorable day getting my first international cap for Wales. Playing at home in Cardiff in front of friends and family was amazing! It was a great experience playing against South Africa and even better to get a win in the first game of the series. Overall, the matches were great preparation for the Commonwealth Games!”

Rebecca is one of just 36 athletes chosen to represent Hockey Wales at the Commonwealth Games – 18 players for the Women’s Squad and 18 players for the Men’s Squad. Olympic Bronze Medallist, Leah Wilkinson, will captain the women’s side.

All major sports are offered at King’s Ely, along with an impressive array of other activities, helping every pupil to realise their sporting potential. Rowing, Athletics, Golf, Cricket, Hockey, Tennis, Rugby, Netball, Yoga, Pilates, Equestrian, Clay Pigeon Shooting and Football – there are sports and activities for everyone.

The Birmingham Commonwealth Games kicked off on July 28th. To find out more, visit: www.birmingham2022.com

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post Old Elean, Rebecca, to Represent Hockey Wales at 2022 Commonwealth Games appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

King’s Ely’s ‘Mentor Match Programme’ has been running for several years now. However a recent campaign to involve a larger number of mentors has resulted in more Year 13 students than ever safely drawing on the knowledge and experience of professional graduates through the scheme. 

Mentors include King’s Ely parents, King’s Ely alumni and friends of the school. There are also professionals who have no ties to the school, but who want to support those preparing to embark on their future career paths. Mentors come from a wide variety of fields, including medicine, law, business and academia, to name just a few.

One of King’s Ely’s new mentors is Monika Olanrewaju, who is an Architectural Designer at award-winning RIBA Chartered Practice, NP Architects in Cambridge. Monika heard about Mentor Match through a member of staff at King’s Ely and having passed the necessary safeguarding assessments, she has been supporting Year 13 student, Gabe Boon, for the last twelve months.

Gabe, who joined King’s Ely Junior in Year 7, will be receiving his A Level results in a few weeks’ time. He has received several conditional offers to study Architecture at University.

Monika, who holds a BArch, an MA in Typography and Graphic Design, and who is also a trained interior designer, said: “My first involvement with King’s Ely’s Mentor Match Programme was in 2021. I thought it looked like a great opportunity to help inspire and support the younger generation. Having contributed to successful internships in previous practices, I was keen to explore Mentor Match to expand my outreach and encourage students to pursue architectural education.”

Monika, who has worked in three other European countries before settling in the UK, is now in the process of being fully registered with the Architects Registration Board. She added: “Mentoring is rewarding as it fosters diversity and inclusion within the industry in general. It has been a really good experience to mentor Gabe. I am excited to see him succeed in studying and continue doing what he enjoys most and have a fulfilling career. Mentoring programmes have a significant impact on both participants and mentors. I must say I learnt a few skills in the process, such as listening and leadership. I would strongly recommend other professionals to get involved in local mentoring programmes and to foster young talent.”

Through the programme, mentors support Year 13 students and the King’s Ely Sixth Form and Higher Education Team by exploring career avenues, the choice of universities and degrees, relevant work experience and internship placements. Their help is also available to students after they have left King’s Ely, supporting them with that essential transition into work.

Gabe, who has just completed his A Level studies in Physics, Mathematics and Product Design, said: “Monika has guided me through the process of applying to University by providing resources to help me learn more about architecture as a profession. One of my most valuable lessons from Monika has been the way in which to approach art, which turned out to be any way. Before King’s Ely connected me with her, I had kept my artistic side mostly in the back seat and rarely practised it. However, within a few Teams meetings, Monika had encouraged me to experiment by drawing anything and everything, which significantly improved my ability and confidence. When deciding which Universities to apply to, Monika’s network of connections with other architects and students across the country was incredibly helpful and reassuring. More importantly though, she wasn’t telling me which was ‘the best’ University to study architecture at. Instead, she was asking me about my interests and tailoring her suggestions to those. When it came to helping me with my portfolio, Monika knew almost exactly what admissions teams would be looking to see, which has given me a massive advantage in my application that I am truly grateful for. Most importantly, she helped me clarify a lot around the subject with general and specific questions, which has made me far more aware of architecture and its challenges. She was more than willing to share her expertise and experience with me, for which I am truly grateful.”

If you are interested in supporting the Mentor Match Programme at King’s Ely, please contact Gill Smith, Director of Higher Education and Graduate Careers, by emailing: gillsmith@kingsely.org

A Sixth Form Open Event is being held at King’s Ely on Saturday 8th October. To book your family’s place or for more information, visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely Sixth Form Students Reap Benefits of Mentor Match Programme appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Liz Bassett joined Ely St John’s Primary school in Ely in January 2012, having previously been the Head Teacher of Fen Ditton Primary school from 2007.

Liz began her teaching career in 1988 and Cllr Bryony Goodliffe, Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council’s Children and Young People’s Committee said: “I know I speak for the whole of Children’s Services when I say a huge ‘thank you’ to Liz for her tireless work over so many years. Hundreds of children have benefited from her caring and inspirational leadership, emerging ready to face the adult world and the challenges it brings. Her contribution to the local authority and the wider community will be missed too – her influence has stretched far beyond the school gates. I wish her the very best for her retirement.”

Liz’s contribution to Ely St Johns has been considerable and she has ensured a strong focus on student well-being as well as student academic attainment and has pioneered a nurture programme and positive approach to behaviour management within the school. Liz is a musician and member of the local Morris community and her focus on music has impacted not only the school but the wider Ely community.

Liz has supported instrumental learning in the school with all students in year 3 learning the recorder and many going on to learn another instrument and continue this into their secondary school education. For the final school concert, Helen Allen, a peripatetic music teacher who also organises the local youth orchestra arranged for past pupils who had started their musical journey at St John’s to return to the school with their instruments and play ‘The Final Countdown’ as a fond farewell. Helen noted that ‘Liz has been the driving force behind music in St John’s throughout her time in the school’. 

Matt Leach, Chair of Governors at Ely St John’s said “we wish to thank Liz for her fantastic contribution to the Ely St John’s school community over the last ten years.  We wish her all the best for her retirement, although we are pleased to hear that she will be continuing to support local education as a governor of a local school.”  

Liz will be succeeded in September by John Henson, the current Deputy Head.

Press release from Ely St. John’s Primary School

The post Retiring Headteacher Ely St Johns Primary School appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Oliver, who is in Year 8 at King’s Ely Junior, joined top athletes from prep schools across the UK to compete in the Championships, which were held at The Pingles Stadium in Nuneaton on July 4th.

Oliver, who is moving up to King’s Ely Senior in September, ran in the Under 14 Boys’ 800m race. He not only came first, but also achieved a new personal best by crossing the finish line in a superb 2 minutes and 9 seconds.

A pupil at King’s Ely since joining King’s Ely Acremont Nursery as a baby, Oliver qualified for the Championships after winning the same category at the Regional Heats in Bedfordshire, where he also broke the competition record by 2 seconds.

Sport is an important part of school life at King’s Ely. The school runs a committed and competitive programme. As well as embracing the sports of rugby, football, hockey, netball and cricket from the earliest of ages, King’s Ely also makes room for rowing, athletics, swimming, cross country, shooting, archery and more in order to offer as wide an opportunity as possible. King’s Ely athletes are offered the chance to compete locally, regionally and nationally. Pupils enjoy their sport and achieve an impressive level of success and accolade.

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post King’s Ely Athlete Achieves First Place and New Personal Best at National Prep Schools’ Championships appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

The light-hearted awareness-raising event at the former Ely Magistrates’ Court used role play to talk about serious issues such as knife-crime and county lines. It also gave young people the opportunity to learn more about the workings of a court, including various job opportunities available, and what to do if they come across a crime.

Students were also informed about the new webpages on East Cambridgeshire District Council’s website that contain a breadth of information for local young people, parents, teachers, carers and anyone involved with young people.

This ranges from how to report a crime anonymously to signposting to other organisations that can help or provide advice.

The 13 and 14 year olds, who all requested to attend the event, also had the opportunity to witness an arrest for a crime. They then worked alongside police officers and a practicing judge to find out what happens next before helping to come up with an appropriate sentence.

Councillor Lis Every, who chairs the Community Safety Partnership, said: “The Community Safety Partnership is delighted to organise this event bringing in so many partners to work with our young people.  They have benefitted from hearing about the justice system and how it works and it has been a real opportunity for them to tell us what their concerns are.  We all enjoyed a lively and informative day.”

Chief Inspector Paul Rogerson, added: “The Local Police Team are really excited to be part of this Community Safety Partnership event. It’s so important to speak with young people about how our criminal justice system works and the role we all play as citizens. We used the time to explain how Police officers work with the Courts to bring people to justice. It’s also a good opportunity for us to listen to their concerns and chat about crime in East Cambs.”

Judge Jonathan Cooper, said: “This engagement event is very important. Young people need to know what happens in our courts. This day will help them see how police, courts and other agencies work together to keep the public safe.” 

And specifically, on knife crime…

“Carrying a knife or any kind of weapon is counterproductive. It makes the carrier more likely to be attacked, and any injuries far more likely to be deadly. Carrying a knife, even supposedly to protect yourself, is a crime as soon as you walk out of your front door. This event reassures students and their families that police, courts and our partner agencies take public safety really seriously. That means making sure we have a joined-up approach to stopping knife crime at source.” 

On county lines…

“This way of running supply chains for drugs will often exploit children at every stage. It’s really important for young people to spot when they or their friends might be in danger. They need to know who to tell. This event helps children know that effective protection is one phone call away.” 

Press release from the Community Safety Partnership

The post Ely Students Have Their Day in Court appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Launched in 2012, the School Games Mark is a government-led award scheme, facilitated by the Youth Sport Trust to reward and recognise the school’s engagement (provision and uptake) in the School Games against a national benchmark and to celebrate keeping young people active.

In order to attain the Bronze Award, Lantern Community Primary School had to fulfil stringent criteria in the areas linked to the five School Games outcomes. This was achieved by demonstrating a range of physical activity and school sporting achievements during the 2021/22 academic year. 

Achievements included setting up and implementing a successful playground leaders scheme with Year 5 and Year 6, competing in girl’s football competitions with local primary schools, working with specialist sports coaches to improve the provision, and attending the first Trust-wide swimming gala.

On receiving the award, Sioux Cooke, Headteacher at Lantern Community Primary School, said: “We are extremely proud of our pupils for their dedication to all aspects of physical activity and school sport, including those young volunteers, leaders and officials who made our events possible.

“Our school is committed to using the School Games to try and engage those young people who haven’t previously been active or represented our school. It is then hoped that these positive experiences encourage our pupils to try out new activities beyond school.

“This award is a true testament of the school’s strong ethos and the commitment of our staff to providing school sporting activities that educate our young people on the positive benefits of exercise and supporting their all-round development.  

“Thank you to our school community and Witchford Schools Partnership for guiding us and providing our pupils with some fantastic opportunities. I would also like to say thank you to Miss Wyatt for all her hard work and contributions to this award – we look forward to continuing to grow with School Games Mark in the future.”

To find out more about Lantern Community Primary School, please visit: www.lanternprimary.org/

Press release from Lantern Community Primary School

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Esmeralda Salgado, who is Head of Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) at King’s Ely, has won Silver in the prestigious award scheme’s ‘Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School’ category.

Esmeralda, who joined King’s Ely in 2009 and has been teaching languages for 20 years, is one of 80 Silver Pearson National Teaching Award winners in the UK. Esmeralda is now in the running to win a gold award later in the year. Recognition of this once in a lifetime achievement will be broadcast on the BBC’s ‘The One Show’ as part of a week-long celebration of teaching, which sees famous faces honouring award winners every night in the run up to the ceremony.

Esmeralda, who was presented with her silver award at Ely Cathedral during King’s Ely Senior’s Prizegiving Service on May 27th, said: “As an MFL Teacher, I am truly honoured and humbled to receive this award, which is not only national recognition of my work, my MFL Department’s work and my school, King’s Ely’s work, but most importantly, recognition of the hard work, enthusiasm and dedication of all MFL Teachers in the country! I am extremely grateful to the Pearson National Teaching Awards team for giving me this incredible opportunity to celebrate outstanding teaching and learning throughout the UK.”

Esmeralda, who was born and raised in Albacete, Spain, has taught languages to students from Key Stage 2 through to Key Stage 5. She is an Advanced Skills Teacher and alongside her role as Head of MFL, has been King’s Ely’s Digital Lead for two years. Esmeralda was instrumental in helping her colleagues develop their online teaching skills when the pandemic struck in 2020. In the classroom, Esmeralda implements informed evidence practice in everyday lessons to foster confident, fluent, independent and creative learners, who have a strong growth mindset. Her goal is the driving force behind the King’s Ely MFL Department, and it is at the core of the Teaching and Learning Steering Group at King’s Ely, to which she belongs. Her approach to teaching informs the school’s Digital Learning Strategy and Languages Curriculum. It is underpinned by Rosenshine’s principles of instruction and research on second language acquisition. 

In her current position and in her previous role as an Advanced Skills Teacher in the Medway Learning Authority, Esmeralda has supported and coached colleagues within MFL and other curriculum areas, especially NQTs and struggling teachers in Medway schools. She helped them develop their own teaching and learning strategies and boost their confidence, and as a result, that of their pupils.

Esmeralda also has a blog – https://mflcraft.blogspot.com/ – which has been viewed 172,000 times and has become a go-to platform for members of the MFL community, not just in the UK, but across the globe. Esmeralda regularly speaks at national language events and conferences, and she hosts webinars on different aspects of teaching and MFL. 

Jane Thomas, Vice Principal Academic at King’s Ely, said: “Esmeralda is one of the most talented, committed and positive teachers I have ever worked with. She is an amazing problem solver and has a ‘can do’ attitude to everything; this was brought home to me more than ever when during the January-March lockdown last year she took on the teaching load of a colleague who was off with long Covid, meaning that at times she was teaching classes of 50 + pupils and ensuring they continued to receive quality feedback on all their work. Alongside this she also mentored members of her team who were at short notice teaching courses unfamiliar to them.”

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: “Congratulations to Esmeralda Salgado on this incredible achievement, and for the hard work and dedication which led up to it. Winning this award is impressive, well-deserved and shows Esmeralda’s commitment to helping students achieve their full potential.”

The Pearson National Teaching Awards are open to every school across the UK. The awards were established by Lord Puttnam CBE in 1998 and are managed by the Teaching Awards Trust, an independent charity. The vision of the charity is to recognise and celebrate excellence in education. For more information, visit: www.teachingawards.com 

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please go to: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

The post Passionate King’s Ely Teacher Recognised with National Award appeared first on Spotted in Ely.

Nadine Long, a class teacher at Highfield Ely Academy, set her pupils the task of making a list of all the famous people they wanted to write to. 

Pupils then posted the letters out to family, friends, and celebrities across the world alongside a picture of Flat Stanley, inviting them to have an adventure with the character. 

Incredibly, the school, which is one of Cambridgeshire’s Area Special Schools and part of The Active Learning Trust, heard back from Dame Judy Dench, Jeremy Clarkson and Windsor Castle – which was signed off on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen by Susan Rhodes, the Queen’s Lady-in-Waiting. 

Adam Daw, Head of School at Highfield Academy, said: “The responses we have received so far have been fantastic. It’s been so exciting for our pupils to experience and has taught them great life skills, particularly around the personal touch and value of writing a letter to someone. 

“Letter writing is a big part of our literacy curriculum at Highfield Ely Academy, so it’s great to see our pupils being taught this topic in a fun and engaging way. Thank you to our staff for thinking of such a brilliant initiative and for bringing creativity into the classroom.”

Jeremy Clarkson’s Diddly Squat Farm Shop also kept Flat Stanley for more adventures and took pictures of him whilst filming the popular TV series –  ‘Clarkson’s Farm’.

Inspired by Diddly Squat Farm, Highfield Ely Academy is creating its own space for animals through its very own farm on-site. The school is expected to house a range of farm animals such as chickens, guinea pigs, rabbits and goats for pupils and the local community to enjoy – and is due to officially open later in the year.

Pupils have also created their own display board and map in the classroom to showcase all the people they mailed Flat Stanley out to. 

Taylor said: “We liked writing the letters and going to the Post Office to post them.”

Lewis said: “The most exciting bit was when the letters came back.”

Aaron said: “I like Flat Stanley and sending people letters.”

For more information about Highfield Ely Academy, please visit: www.highfieldschoolely.co.uk/

Press release from Highfield Ely Academy

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Babylon ARTS commissioned artist Cary Outis to lead the sessions, tie-dyeing three sections of five  metres of cotton muslin that will make up the body of the eel. Over the two days, 60 students got to work binding the material using beads, marbles and rubber bands, which was then submerged into the indigo solution, to create circular patterns once dried out and unbound. The students also used tie-dyeing on thicker cotton, which will be used to create individual flags to proudly wave as part of the parade procession.

Cary said, “The children were fantastic, getting stuck into the activity and having fun with it! Tie-dyeing is a very freeing process which allows the children to be creative without many restrictions. It was inspiring to see how they all came together to get the huge project done so quickly. I can’t wait to see ‘Eel-izabeth’ on the day in all her glory!”

The pupils have been invited to attend the parade to see and walk-beside the carnival eel that they helped to create. Chief Executive of Babylon ARTS, Claire Somerville said “We are so pleased to have Littleport Primary involved in the project, and thank the Kingfisher and Nightjar classes and their teachers for their help in making our new carnival eel. Thanks to a grant from the Arts Council / Cambridgeshire Community Foundation Jubilee Fund, we can offer free transport to the parade for pupils involved and would encourage them, as well as local residents to attend the celebrations to see the final result.”

The Eel Parade will start from the Cathedral at 10.30am on Sunday 5th June and will wiggle its way down the High Street and Forehill to the river, where it comes to a stop in Jubilee Gardens, where Visit Ely have organised food stalls and entertainment. 

Anna Bennett, Elys Tourism and Town Centre Manager added “We are so excited and pleased to be able to deliver to Ely’s community and our visitors, the Jubil-EEL parade! The last time the Eels paraded down our High Street was in 2019, so we’ve had a long wait! We are also thrilled to welcome EEL-izabeth to our parade and together with the glorious bunting and flags that will adorn the route, I think we will do Her Majesty The Queen proud!”

Press release from Babylon ARTS

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Eleanor, who is in Year 13 at King’s Ely Sixth Form, is no stranger to academic achievements, particularly when it comes to Maths and other STEM subjects. However, Eleanor has just secured her highest Mathematical accomplishment to date – a gold medal in the 2022 European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO), in which she was placed first out of 123 European contestants and sixth worldwide.

Eleanor, who is from the Bury St Edmunds area and who is Head Girl at King’s Ely, was one of only four girls chosen to represent the United Kingdom in this year’s EGMO. She travelled to Eger in Hungary during the Easter holidays to compete in the prestigious competition, in which the UK team was placed ninth amongst official European teams. Eleanor’s teammates all received bronze medals.

Eleanor, who joined King’s Ely Junior in Year 6, said: “Representing the UK at EGMO was an incredible experience and one that I will never forget. Ever since I read an article about a British girl starring at EGMO when I was in Year 9, getting a medal in the competition was something I aspired to, but never thought possible, so to win gold is an amazing feeling. I’m very grateful to everyone who has supported me – an enormous thank you must go to everyone at the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust!”

Eleanor has also recently travelled to Agros in Cyprus to represent the UK in the Balkan Mathematical Olympiad. She achieved a silver medal and was the highest performing female mathematician in the competition. Eleanor is also the only female selected for the squad in the International Mathematical Olympiad, the final team for which is revealed at the end of May.

Audrienne Bezzina, Head of Maths at King’s Ely Senior, said: “A gold medal in a competition as big as the EGMO is no mean feat, but to get the highest mark in Europe is just amazing. We are so proud of Eleanor – she is a talented mathematician, but she is also determined and so hardworking. She really deserves this success.”

Eleanor is studying Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics for her A Levels, and has recently been offered a conditional place to read Mathematics at Trinity College, Cambridge. Eleanor said: “The Maths Department at King’s Ely has always been extremely generous with their time. I feel very lucky to be so well supported.”

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

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The academy, which is part of Meridian Trust, had the accolade of being rated ‘Good’ across all five key areas within Ofsted’s framework – quality of education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development, leadership and management and early years provision.

This was the academy’s first full inspection since joining Meridian Trust in 2017 and the overall grade gives the village community a school to really be proud of.

The school was praised for nurturing its pupils to become successful, well-rounded and happy learners, with the report stating: “Pupils learn in an environment that supports them to have aspiration for their futures. Pupils enjoy the interesting learning in lessons. They are excited to share what they know. Pupils value the wide range of clubs and activities such as sports and creative clubs. These help them become confident learners.”

Principal at Downham Feoffees Primary Academy, Susan Jaques, said: “Over the last few years, we have all worked extremely hard and invested a lot into improving our school offer, which I am delighted to see has been reflected in this Ofsted report. 

“This is not just great for the school, but also for the community, as the village once again has a school they can truly be proud of and place their trust in.”

“The support we have received from the community and Meridian Trust has helped us to create a caring and ambitious learning environment, where pupils feel listened to, safe and cared for. 

“This is a wonderful achievement for the school and I would like to thank everyone connected to the school for their support in helping us to achieve such a positive outcome.”

Staff at the academy were praised for their devotion to their roles. The report stated: “Leaders are quick to identify and support the needs of individual pupils, including those pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Leaders seek advice and support from external professionals. They make sure that pupils with SEND receive appropriate support.”

Inspectors, who visited the academy on 22nd and 23rd February 2022, stated that: “The trust, academy council and school leaders have formed an effective partnership. Together they have made the right decisions to bring about the many improvements evident throughout the school.

“Leaders have considered the wellbeing of the staff and taken on board feedback before making decisions that impact their workload. Staff appreciate this and are proud to work in their school.”

Another area which received praise in the report was the pupils’ enthusiasm for learning and kindness to each other. Inspectors found that: “Pupils are exposed to many high-quality texts through their learning. They use these to practise and develop their wider reading skills. Pupils understand the importance of reading. They like to read the high-quality texts provided for them.

The report continues: “Pupils feel listened to, safe and cared for. They are kind to each other.

“Pupils play happily at playtimes. They have fun using the wide range of outdoor play equipment, including sensory and music resources.”

Mark Woods, Chief Executive Officer of Meridian Trust, said: “Susan, supported by her colleagues in the school and across the Trust, has done a brilliant job in ensuring that Downham Feoffees Primary Academy extends the boundaries of learning, offering an enriching education both inside and outside the classroom. 

“I would like to congratulate all our colleagues at Downham Feoffees and across the Trust for their hard work in achieving this excellent Ofsted report. The school is proud to be the heart of the village community.”

For more information on the academy please visit www.downhamfeoffees.org/

Press release from Downham Feoffees Primary School

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The academy, which is part of The Active Learning Trust, is an area Special School providing education with specific educational needs.

The report, which was published following a visit from Ofsted inspectors in March 2022, praised Highfield Littleport Academy for its “wide variety of experiences to enhance pupils’ learning” and “well considered curriculum.”

The report stated: “There are a wide variety of experiences to enhance pupils’ learning and for them to enjoy. Activities such as learning outdoors, links with the mainstream school for some lessons for pupils in KS4, and residential visits are available.”

It continued: “Leaders have implemented a typically well considered curriculum. Leaders have taken account of what pupils need to know and be able to do to be successful when they leave school. Pupils’ learning covers a wide range of subjects and experiences and is planned in suitably small steps so that pupils’ needs are met.”

Yvonne Skillern, Head of School at Highfield Littleport Academy, said: “We are delighted with the report and subsequent rating of Good from Ofsted. This is a reflection of a number of years’ hard work from all of the team.

“Since opening we have managed growth in school numbers, developed an engaging and individualised curriculum for our learners as well as navigating our way through a global pandemic. 

“The report demonstrates that we know our school well and areas for improvement are already on our school development plan and underway.”

“The report is testament to all the effort and enthusiasm of a staff, and I want to thank everyone who has played a part in our success.”

Pupil support was also highlighted as a strength following the visit. The report acknowledged: “Pupils are well supported in lessons. Pupils are in different learning ‘pathways’ which ensure their individual educational, social and communication needs are met. These pathways are designed around the abilities, ages and stages of pupils’ learning. Pupils grow in confidence and gain the skills they need. Many pupils who may not have enjoyed their previous educational experiences do so at this school.” 

The report also recognised the support of the school governors and trustees, adding: “Governors and trustees are knowledgeable. They have an accurate picture of what is being done well and what needs to improve further.”

Stephen Chamberlain, CEO of The Active Learning Trust, said: “I am so proud of all the team at Highfield Littleport Academy. Together, they have delivered an excellent education to ensure our young people can feel properly prepared for life as active learners in the 21st Century. Congratulations to everyone who played a part in this superb Ofsted report.”

Highfield Littleport Academy teaches over 120 pupils between the ages of 2 and 19 years.

For further information about the academy, visit: https://www.highfieldlittleport.org/

 Press release from The Active Learning Trust

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Lauren, previously Vice Principal at Milton Keynes Academy, started her new role after Easter and is proud to be leading the school into its next stage of development.

Her appointment arrived at a time when the school, which opened in 2017, was being led by Interim Principal, Colin Taylor, following the departure of the previous Principal in Autumn 2021.

Principal Lauren Phillips said: “It is a privilege to have the responsibility to help a school that is situated in a great community and clearly has a huge amount of potential.

“There have been some recent challenges and instability the school has had to deal with, particularly through the pandemic, and I, with the support of a new and energised leadership team, are dedicated to embedding a new direction.

“Our new vision for our students is very simple. To enable all our students to reach their full potential, encouraging them to grow into successful, caring and respectful young people.

“The school is in such a fantastic building with superb facilities, and I want to harness this to cultivate a family atmosphere here at Littleport and East Cambs Academy which everyone is proud to be part of.”

The school is part of The Active Learning Trust and the Trust’s motto of “Active learners, Active leaders, Active citizens” will underpin the opportunities for LECA students to develop their academic and personal progress during their time at the academy.

Other recent appointments at the school include a new SENCO and Assistant SENCO to build on the programme of support available to students with SEND.

Stephen Chamberlain, CEO of The Active Learning Trust, said: “Lauren Phillips is an experienced and talented school leader and we welcome her to both the school and our multi-academy trust.

“With her driven and initiative-taking approach Lauren has already made a positive impression in the school and the community.

“She and her senior leadership team, with the support of the Trust, will work relentlessly to ensure the community of Littleport get a school they can be really proud of.”

Lauren said some highlights over her 17 years working in teaching and education have been setting up the North Hertfordshire Teaching School Alliance and her secondment as part of a school improvement team which led rapid change at a Stevenage school to remove them from special measures.

Lauren has relocated to live in Cambridgeshire and has a range of interests outside of work which include choral singing.

With this love of singing, Lauren is keen to build on the wide range of extra-curricular activities to help nurture passions and interests that will transform the rest of students’ lives.

Press release from Littleport and East Cambs Academy

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Isobel, who is in Year 11 at King’s Ely Senior, is not only going to benefit from the many opportunities that the leading arts organisation provides to young people, but she has already been cast for their production of ‘A Kiss for Cinderella’, a new musical which is being performed in a London theatre in August.

Isobel, who is a familiar face on the Performing Arts scene at King’s Ely, said: “I am incredibly excited to be a part of NYMT. I have been doing musical theatre my whole life and I have performed in some amazing places, but to be selected for something as big and important as NYMT is truly an honour, especially considering that I hope to pursue a career in musical theatre. It is such an incredible opportunity that I will wholeheartedly make the most of.”

When asked what she enjoys most about musical theatre, Isobel said: “I just love performing! Being on a stage, whether that be dancing, singing or acting my heart out is where I feel I belong. I do hope to continue my passion on to adulthood and make it as a professional musical theatre actor or just theatre actor. But even if this does not prove to be possible, I will always keep musical theatre in my life, whether job or hobby.”

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

Isobel said: “The Drama Department has helped me so much to mature as a performer. When I first arrived at King’s, I was anxious and didn’t really put myself out there but being a part of productions in school has really helped my confidence and theatrical skills. There is a strong sense of family in the Drama Department that has not only helped me connect with like-minded people who also love performing, but also helped me learn valuable skills that will help me in my pursuit of a musical theatre career. I am a much stronger performer because of all of the incredible support from the King’s Ely Drama Department.”

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

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Under the new Meridian Trust, 23 CMAT primary, secondary and special schools have come together with five CPET primary schools, educating approximately 17,000 pupils.

These schools include Ely College, Downham Feoffees Primary Academy and The Lantern Primary School.

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Teaching School Hub, based at CPET’s Histon and Impington Brook Primary School, will also become part of Meridian Trust.

The voluntary merger was finalised following a comprehensive public consultation carried out by both Trusts. The outcomes of the consultation were formally presented to the Trustee Boards of CMAT and CPET and the voluntary merger approved by the Regional Schools’ Commissioner.

Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust, said: “We are absolutely delighted to confirm the voluntary merger of CMAT and CPET which will fundamentally increase our capacity for providing high-quality teaching and learning and delivering an even stronger pupil experience.

“Collectively we operate schools across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire and have forged strong links within these communities which we can build now on, supported by CPET’s considerable leadership expertise in primary education. 

“The name change itself marks an important step as it has become clear in recent years that the previous CMAT name no longer fully reflected the growth and geographical reach of our Trust over our first 10 years. We all felt it was key to keep the word Meridian within our new name as it has a clear connection to our inception.

“Meridian was chosen because the Greenwich Meridian geographical reference line passes through the village of Swavesey, the location for CMAT’s first school back in 2011, and it also runs through Somersham, where one of CPET’s primary schools is situated. This presents a golden thread both geographically but also through time.”

The former CPET schools to join Meridian Trust are Hatton Park Primary School, Histon and Impington Brook Primary School, Histon and Impington Park Primary School, Somersham Primary School and Trumpington Park Primary School.

Lesley Birch, Deputy CEO of Meridian Trust, said: “This is a very significant step for CPET and one that will deliver huge benefits for our children and staff. As a result of the voluntary merger we will provide high-quality primary education for more children across the region, based on CPET’s successful 10-year model of primary school improvement, with pupils benefitting from the combined expertise and capacity of CPET and CMAT primary leaders at a time of significant recent growth within both Trusts.

“There will also be more subject specialism, within and across phases, allowing children to receive an all-through, all-inclusive curriculum: this will especially benefit primaries already feeding into Meridian Trust secondaries. We can also offer enhanced SEND/special school provision for those children with additional needs, by virtue of CMAT’s capacity and expertise, and we anticipate more, and improved, opportunities for children through intra-Trust challenges.

“There has always been a great amount of common ground between CPET and CMAT in terms of moral purpose, values and ambition. All staff will benefit from greater leadership, career profession and professional development opportunities, and wider sharing of knowledge and expertise.”

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Teaching School Hub supports more than 300 schools, making it the third largest hub in the country, with a range of professional development for teachers at all stages of their careers.

Visit: www.meridiantrust.co.uk

Press release from Meridian Trust

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This exciting decision will see Fairstead House – a leading independent nursery, pre-preparatory and preparatory school for children aged 0-11 based in Newmarket – join forces with King’s Ely – a thriving independent all-through school for children aged 2-18 based in Ely.

This strategic move formalises a longstanding relationship between both schools and builds on their shared commitment to the excellent education and family ethos for which Fairstead House and King’s Ely are renowned. 

With considerable changes in the independent education sector, where rising costs and regulatory demands have forced many smaller independent schools across the land to close or endure forced takeovers, the Governors at Fairstead House are looking forward to both the security and opportunities that the merger and a stronger overall entity will create.

Nicholas Longford, Chair of Governors at Fairstead House, said: “For some time, the Governors have been considering how best to preserve and develop the long-term future of Fairstead House in the context of considerable changes in the independent sector. The merger will allow both schools to continue to grow and prosper, which will in turn create greater scale and additional, beneficial opportunities going forward. The similarity in ethos and educational philosophy of our schools and the relative proximity of their sites, in the context of the general trend of school consolidation, makes the merger a natural, obvious and achievable one. This is a wonderful and exciting opportunity for Fairstead House. It opens a new chapter in our history to secure the long-term future of our unique school as part of a successful, growing, financially secure foundation, whose ethos and educational philosophy already match those of Fairstead House.”

The process towards merger was initiated by King’s Ely as part of its strategic plan to partner with another successful local pre-preparatory and preparatory school. Discussions first started in April 2021.

Under the agreement, while both schools will come under the oversight of a single Governing Body, which will include two Governors from Fairstead House, each will retain its identity, name, uniform, badge and day-to-day autonomy. Fairstead House’s Acting Head, Michael Radford, will have a position on the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) at King’s Ely and vice versa for the Principal of King’s Ely, John Attwater. 

David Day, Chair of Governors at King’s Ely, said: “I am delighted that Fairstead House will be joining the King’s Ely family of schools. This move opens a new chapter in both our schools’ histories and will give many opportunities for collaboration while strengthening independent education in our region.”

Press release from King’s Ely

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John-Oswald Crichton, 17, was one of eight Fashion and Textile Design students at King’s Ely to be shortlisted in the national Stitch Festival Dressmaking Competition, which was held as part of the Stitch Festival at London’s Business Design Centre from March 3rd – 6th

John-Oswald, who is in Year 13 at King’s Ely Sixth Form, was voted the winner of the ‘Eveningwear Teenage’ category of the competition with his stunning garment, pictured. The judging panel was made up of four dressmaking and textile experts – Esme Young, Lisa Comfort, Nerrisa Pratt and Mark Francis. John-Oswald’s dress was modelled on the catwalk at the festival by Thea Allinson, who is also in Year 13 at King’s Ely.

John-Oswald joined King’s Ely Junior in Year 6. He is studying Textile Design, Mathematics and Biology for his A Levels, and he hopes to study Fashion Design at the University of Leeds. 

Speaking about his win, John-Oswald said: “I am delighted to have won, especially in a category which had so many strong entries! It was such a fulfilling experience to see my garment on the catwalk. It was great to see it move on the human form, as well as seeing the reactions from the crowds. I don’t think I will ever forget the experience!”

John-Oswald was shortlisted alongside Maria Jago De La Cuerda, Emilia Decker, Kitty Carr-Lake, Disa Hellyer, Elanda Cundy, Chloe Skoulding, and Meghana Gurung. Each student had to provide information about the garment they had produced, including the use of both creative and technical processes. All the designers’ shortlisted garments were on display at King’s Ely’s stand at the festival, alongside lots of other striking pieces made by pupils.

John-Oswald was also proud to exhibit his winning piece – and another garment he made – at the ‘For Worship and Glory II Exhibition’ at Ely Cathedral. The Royal School of Needlework (RSN) exhibition opened in January, and King’s Ely’s GCSE and A Level Textile Design students were invited to showcase their work alongside RSN designers.

John-Oswald said: “Being a part of exhibitions like this is a really rewarding experience. It is so inspiring to have your designs alongside the work of highly skilled artists and experts from many different fields of design. The possibilities when it comes to textile design are endless. One day you can be doing sketches, then the next day you can be doing embroidery. There are so many ideas to explore. The Art Department at King’s is literally amazing – our creativity is challenged and nurtured every day.”

Like John-Oswald, Kitty Carr-Lake, who is also in Year 13, was thrilled to showcase her work at both the Stitch Festival and the ‘For Worship and Glory II Exhibition’.

Kitty, who is from the Lincoln area, joined King’s Ely Sixth Form in 2020 and is studying Textile Design, Product Design and Business Studies for her A Levels. She said: “Part of Textile Design is about telling a story and conveying messages which can sometimes leave a profound impression to the people viewing your pieces. I love the idea of this, so I always try to think outside the box and connect to the viewers by telling a story through my work. I love trying to break the limits I never thought were possible!”

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

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Sioux, who took up her new position earlier this term, has joined the team at Lantern Community Primary School with a wealth of experience in the education sector.

Sioux has held several Deputy Headteacher positions and previously provided English and Maths consultancy as part of the Primary Strategy working for Cambridgeshire Local Authority, which saw her working with schools across Cambridgeshire to share best practices and support other teachers in the area. 

Speaking about her appointment, Sioux said: “I am delighted by the opportunity to lead a school which holds such a special place in my heart.

I previously visited Lantern when I was providing consultancy to schools across Cambridgeshire. Although the school was only in its first phase and was much smaller than it is today, I loved the feel of the school and almost applied for a deputy headship there at the time, but I was offered another role. When I saw the position of Headteacher come up last year, it felt like the right time to come back to a school I’d always looked upon fondly.

Thank you to all staff, parents and carers for the warm welcome and support that they have shown me so far. I’m looking forward to lots of collaborative events and opportunities for our pupils coming up over the next few months and the chance to introduce myself more to the wider school community.”

Speaking on the new appointment, Executive Principal at CMAT, Richard Spencer, said: “We are delighted that Sioux has joined Lantern Community Primary School as the new Headteacher, and I look forward to seeing her leadership skills and knowledge build on the school’s existing strengths and successes.”  

Sioux has taken over from Benita Sherrington, who was Acting Principal at the school following the departure of David Lawrence at the end of the last academic year.

Richard added: “I would like to say a huge thank you to Benita who has done such a fantastic job in providing pupils at the school with a safe and nurturing environment over the last few months. Her commitment and enthusiasm to our pupil’s education have been unwavering and I’m sure she will work alongside Sioux to ensure the continued success of the school.”

Lantern Community Primary is a 4 to 11 school with a roll approaching 500 pupils, that provides comprehensive education for children in the Ely area. The school prides itself on holding a strong relationship with its community through its vision ‘Shining Lights in Our Communities’.

Press release from Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust (CMAT)

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Babylon ARTS held an online awards ceremony on Monday 7th February, in which the prize winners were announced from each of the six Key Stages, with work from children aged 4 to 19 years. 

The exhibition includes artworks in a variety of media from over 250 children and young people from eighteen schools across East Cambridgeshire. This is believed to be the most schools to have taken part in this annual exhibition, since it began 13 years ago. The exhibition features drawings, paintings, textiles, photography, ceramics and multi-media work and is supported by Tindalls Ltd and Ely Hereward Rotary Club.

The schools involved are; Bottisham Village College, Downham Feoffees Primary Academy, Ely College, Isle of Ely Primary School, Kings Ely, Lantern Community Primary School, Littleport & East Cambs Academy, Littleport Community Primary School, Mepal and Witcham Primary School, Millfield Primary School, Rackham C. of E. Primary School, Witchford, Shade Primary School (Soham), Soham Village College, Spring Meadow Infant & Nursery School, Stretham Primary School, Weatheralls Primary School (Soham), Wilburton Church of England Primary School and Witchford Village College.

Ely Hereward Rotary Club President, Christine Gascoigne announced the awards in the online ceremony via YouTube alongside Babylon ARTS’ Chief Executive Claire Somerville.

This year’s winners received vouchers for art materials, donated by Tindalls Ltd and Ely Hereward Rotary Club. The winners were: Ethan T (Millfield Primary); Rose (Owl Class, Lantern Primary); Kiera McManus (Stretham Primary); Grace Hammatt (Weatheralls Primary); Grace Palmer (Littleport Community Primary); Ewan McKenzie (Rackham Primary); Poppy (Wilburton Primary); Felicity Berrill (Isle of Ely Primary School); Lexi Ess (Downham Feoffees); Madeline Case (Bottisham Village College); Poppy Baddeley (Ely College); Ollie Beck (Ely College); Josie Fletcher (Witchford Village College); Alice Wallace (Kings Ely); Marley Axon-Coates (Bottisham Village College); Inna Martinova (Ely College); Elodie Pratt (Kings Ely); Jessica Harding (Kings Ely). 

Claire Somerville, chief executive of Babylon ARTS said “Congratulations to all of the prize-winners and everyone who has artwork in the exhibition this year. We’re proud to host the East Cambridgeshire Schools’ Art Exhibition at Babylon Gallery and are always impressed by the level of creativity and talent shown by children and young people across the district.”

A recording of the awards ceremony is available to watch on the Babylon ARTS website (www.babylonarts.org.uk).

The East Cambridgeshire Schools’ Art Exhibition is on now at Babylon Gallery until Sunday 27th February, open Tuesday to Sunday, 12pm to 4pm with free entry. 

Press release from Babylon ARTS

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It gives schools the fantastic opportunity to showcase their amazing environmental work for the benefit of pupils and the wider community.

This could include improving energy use, reducing paper, plastic or food waste, or maintaining the school grounds for the benefit of nature.

The council is even offering to fully fund the first year of the scheme to the first 10 schools in East Cambs which sign up.

On completion each school will be awarded Eco Charter status and fly an Eco Charter flag, helping it to demonstrate to Ofsted its commitment to the environment and the steps it’s taking to enhance students’ knowledge of sustainability and implement long-term behaviour change.

Developed in consultation with teachers and educators, the Eco Charter will be delivered in partnership with the Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT).

All primary and secondary schools in the district are being given the opportunity to sign up for the scheme and will receive resources and support to help them achieve it.

Cllr Julia Huffer, Chair of the Operational Services Committee at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “We are committed to helping create a cleaner, greener East Cambridgeshire.

“This new Eco Charter is the perfect opportunity for environmentally conscious schools who want to demonstrate their eco status, while meeting Ofsted’s requirements at the same time.

“I would encourage all schools that wish to create greener, happier, healthier places and a smarter future for their pupils and the wider community, to take part.”

East Cambridgeshire District Council declared a climate emergency in 2019 and in doing so agreed to explore a wide range of actions to improve the local environment and help mitigate climate change.

Its Environment and Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (EnvPlan) outlines the 20 commitments the Council is putting in place to reach its goal of being a ‘carbon net zero’ authority.

Interested schools are being invited to attend a free webinar hosted byEmma-Jane Danielsson, Climate Change Officer for East Cambridgeshire District Council and Heidi Latronico, Environment Education Lead at PECT.

The webinar will explain how the Eco Charter works and the support schools can receive. There will be the opportunity to answer any questions.

An invite to the webinar, which will take place after half term, has already been sent out to primary and secondary schools in East Cambs, however, if you missed it you can still sign up for the ECO Charter Webinar Event here.

For further information about the Eco Charter in advance of the webinar visit www.pect.org.uk/projects/eco-charter

Press release from East Cambridgeshire District Council

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Lucy Frazer, MP for South East Cambridgeshire has welcomed the news that schools in Cambridgeshire will receive extra support as one of 55 new Education Investment Areas under plans to Level Up education for disadvantaged children and young people across England. 

As part of the Government’s Levelling Up White Paper, 55 areas across the country will receive targeted support to help young people from all backgrounds receive the highest standards of education. 

Education Investment Areas will be prioritised for new specialist sixth form free schools – ensuring that talented children and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds have access to the learning they need to progress into training or higher education. They will also be eligible for retention payments to help schools maintain the best teachers in high priority subjects, and they will be able to access a new pilot programme improve pupil attendance. 

The Government introduced a new national mission to ensure that 90 per cent of children leaving primary school in England are reaching the expected standard in reading, writing, and maths by 2030.  

95 per cent of the areas selected as an Education Investment Area are outside London and the South East – with schools in the North, Midlands, East of England, and the South West set to receive the most support, levelling up education across England. 

Lucy Frazer MP said: “No child or young person should be limited by where they grow up – they should be supported to get a world class education and the skills they need to succeed at school and beyond. 

“The extra support Cambridgeshire will receive including funding to help schools retain the best teachers and priority for new specialist sixth form free schools is fantastic news.  

Throughout my time as the MP for South East Cambridgeshire I have pressed the Government for further investment for education in our area- and I am pleased that we will benefit under its plans for levelling up opportunity and life chances.”  

Press release from the Office of Rt Hon Lucy Frazer QC MP

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With over 150 students taking part, the decision to put Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ‘School of Rock’ on as a school production was an easy one; this is the first school musical in a while but it is fun, witty, involves fantastic music and provided a wonderful opportunity to get as many students involved in the arts as possible. Jonathan Newsome, Musical Director and Head of Music at Ely College continued on to say: “Such high levels of students participation and the commitment they have shown is a testimony to the vision and ethos of the college; to provide the most enriching educational experience we possibly can. The students have, in turn, shared this with our exceptional community over three show nights!”

Catherine Seymour, Head of Drama at Ely College also directed and produced the show and commented on the array of talent at the college: “We can honestly say it has been an absolute pleasure to work with such a talented, enthusiastic and inspiring group of young people. These kids are going to have their names in lights one day! They have shown exceptional resilience during what has been the most challenging of circumstances, supporting each other and coming together to put on this amazing production.”

The musical, based on the 2003 comedy film starring Jack Black, features new music written by Andrew Lloyd Webber as well as lyrics by Glenn Slater and script by Julian Fellowes. With Year 10 student Alfie McCreadie smashing the leading role, it follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn money by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. There, he turns a class of straight-A students into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band. While teaching these pint-sized prodigies what it means to truly rock, Dewey falls for the school’s beautiful, but uptight headmistress, helping her rediscover the wild child within.

Speaking of his decision to roll the show out to schools, Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “I’m delighted. I encourage teachers and their students to pick up their instruments, get going on the script and show the world everything they’ve got to give.” Ely College students have certainly taken this to heart and attacked rehearsals with an inexorable pursuit of ‘musical fusion’. 

With what was described as ‘roof raising energy’ and seats limited due to Covid measures, parents and community members lucky enough to get a ticket had rave reviews to offer as they came down from the highs of such a spectacular show: “[I emailed] to say how brilliant it was and how blown away we were with the level of talent, from the acting and singing to the musicians and the behind the scenes team. The children were all incredible and the hours that they have put in to achieve such a high standard was evident. The dedication of your staff is always something we appreciate and it is clear that those staff members involved in this production have gone above and beyond to organise every little detail.”

The musical is especially relevant as we navigate changing measures and restrictions; it places a huge emphasis on togetherness, the impact of live music and the importance of protecting creativity in schools. Mr Warburton, Principal of Ely College described the show as a “love letter to live music, the arts in schools and learning”. A real feel good, high energy, positive show, he added: “It champions every one of our students, it champions music and being part of something together, playing live and putting yourself out there.”

Show dates run from Thursday 20th January to Saturday 22nd January 2022. Tickets sold out back in November but everyone at the college is keen to build off the successes School of Rock has produced and look forward to more shows and musicals like it in the coming years.

More photos and the full cast list can be found on the Ely College website here: https://www.elycollege.com/news/?pid=3&nid=1&storyid=1255 

Press release from Ely College

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Lauren, who will be taking up her new position in March 2022, will be joining the team at Littleport and East Cambs Academy with a wealth of experience in the education sector. 

Lauren has seventeen years of teaching experience, working in schools across Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. This includes five months serving as an Interim Head of School at Barclay Academy, Stevenage, and Vice Principal at Milton Keynes Academy. 

Lauren holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Education and has just been awarded the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).

Speaking on the new appointment, CEO of The Active Learning Trust, Stephen Chamberlain, said: “We are delighted that Lauren will be joining Littleport and East Cambs Academy as the new Principal, where her leadership skills and expertise will be highly beneficial to students and the wider community. 

“Lauren has an outstanding track record of growing and developing schools and being engaged in the whole school community. The enthusiasm and passion Lauren has shown for delivering a high-quality education and learning opportunities to young people is inspiring, and we believe she will be extremely well placed in leading the school on its continual growth journey.

“We wish Lauren the best of luck upon starting her new role and greatly look forward to working alongside her and seeing how this appointment will build on the school’s existing strengths and successes.”

Alongside her teaching career, Lauren has a range of interests which include singing with several different choirs. In the past, Lauren has also sung with the Philharmonia Chorus in London and has performed in major venues across Europe.

Lauren will replace Colin Taylor, the current interim Principal at the school.

Stephen added: “A big thank you to Colin Taylor who is doing a fantastic job. Colin’s relentless commitment and professionalism ensure that each and every one of our pupils has a safe, engaging and creative education.”

Lauren will be visiting the academy throughout this school term and is looking forward to getting to know the community in preparation for the start of her new headship in the spring.

Press release from The Active Learning Trust

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Lauren Booth, who is in Year 11 at King’s Ely Senior and who joined King’s Ely Acremont Pre-Prep in Year 1, will be visiting the prestigious London music conservatoire every Saturday, starting this month, to study Flute.

Lauren has been playing the flute since taking advantage of taster sessions in Year 2 at King’s Ely Acremont Pre-Prep.

In July this year, she made school history when she achieved a 49/50 Distinction in her ARSM Diploma exam on the flute. This is the highest mark ever achieved by a King’s Ely student and according to Neil Porter-Thaw, King’s Ely’s Director of Music, is a mark very rarely achieved.

Lauren said: “My flute teacher is Liz Hargest, who has been teaching me ever since King’s Ely Acremont Pre-Prep. I love to express myself through my flute and explore all the styles and genres that I can play. I enjoy performing as it allows me to share the music with the audience.”

To say that Lauren is an active member of the King’s Ely Music Department would be a slight understatement. She said: “I’ve been singing for about five years, and have just started playing the piano, as well as playing the piccolo, which is in the same family as the flute, but flute is my main instrument. I’m also part of a few music clubs at King’s Ely, such as Piano Trio, Flute Choir, Chamber Choir, Chapel Choir, Nightingales, Concert Band and Orchestra.”

Lauren is the fourth King’s Ely student to be celebrating conservatoire success recently. Ally Bowerman is visiting the Junior Guildhall School of Music and Drama to study Voice; Mimi Hughes is visiting the Junior Royal Academy of Music to study Voice; and Polly Casey is visiting the Junior Royal College of Music to study the Recorder and French Horn.

King’s Ely is renowned for its holistic approach to education, and this is reflected in the school’s outstanding Visual and Performing Arts provision. Music, Drama and Theatre, Fine Art, Fashion and Textiles, Photography and Dance are each embedded in the culture of King’s Ely, with vast opportunities for pupils of all abilities and aspirations.

Music is one of the reasons King’s Ely came into existence back in 970 AD and today over a third of students learn a musical instrument or receive vocal tuition. From the boy and girl Choristers of Ely Cathedral Choir to jazz and rock bands, orchestras and its famous all boys a cappella group, the King’s Barbers, the quality, range and variety of ensembles all attest to the school’s musical pedigree. To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely  

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From raising funds for charities which support people less fortunate than themselves, to making and donating food for some of the Ely area’s most vulnerable people, King’s Ely is delighted to have supported many community initiatives this festive season.

One project the school was pleased to support again this year was the Ely Community Meals Christmas Lunch. Sous Chef at King’s Ely, Chris Woodfin, and other members of the Catering Team made and delivered more than two hundred servings of soup to volunteers who run the community lunch, ready for them to be served on Christmas Day. Ely Cathedral and a group of volunteers have been providing a Christmas Day lunch for twelve years now. This year’s lunch was served in a slightly different format due to Covid, but the team were determined to still bring festive food and cheer to those in need.

Girls in Withburga House, one of the day houses at King’s Ely Senior, with support from their Housemistress, Sue-Ellen Godde, decided they wanted to pack as many Christmas bags as they could with gifts and goodies for Ely Foodbank to then distribute during the festive season. The girls were proud to donate thirty five gift bags in total, which volunteers at the Foodbank described as “wonderful”.

Students, staff and families at King’s Ely Junior also supported the Foodbank by collecting a haul of food and drink items during the last few weeks of term. Boxes filled with everything from Christmas cakes to chutneys to tinned ham were donated to the Foodbank in time for its volunteers to share out among those in need. 

All pupils at King’s Ely Junior (Years 3-8) donned their whackiest Christmas costumes and accessories for Santa Runs around the school astro-turf during the final week of term too. Not only were the Santa Runs a feast of colour and fun, but families’ generosity also resulted in them raising more than £5,000 for King’s Ely Junior’s chosen charity, Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, which cares for babies, children and young people with life-limiting conditions, and their families.

Students in Years 12 and 13 also raised much-needed funds for charity by purchasing tickets for a Sixth Form Christmas Charity Dinner in the Monastic Barn. By enjoying a scrumptious formal dinner prepared by the school’s Catering Team, students raised more than £1,800 for Asthma UK.

Press release from King’s Ely

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Children and staff at The Shade love reading. We want our school library to reflect fully the diverse nature of our school and local community. Books are windows through which children see themselves and learn about the lives of others. This all helps them develop an understanding of the world and the different ways in which people live.

We would be very grateful if you would consider buying a book for our library which current and future pupils can enjoy, and from which they can learn. Please see a link to our Amazon wishlist to identify books that we would love to have on our bookshelves.

Thank you in advance if you feel you can support The Shade library: https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/2MJNIF9ZPGWFN?ref_=wl_share

We look forward to sharing news of our new books, and conversations about them, in the new year!

From The Shade Primary School in Soham

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Ally Bowerman and Mimi Hughes, who are both in Year 12 and are Sixth Form Ely Cathedral Choral Scholars, are visiting the Junior Guildhall School of Music and Drama and the Junior Royal Academy of Music, respectively, every Saturday to study Voice.

The talented pair join Year 10 student, Polly Casey, who has been studying both the Recorder and French Horn at the Junior Royal College of Music since the spring.

Neil Porter-Thaw, Director of Music at King’s Ely, said: “The audition processes for these junior conservatoires are fiercely competitive and rigorous, so to have three King’s Ely students at three different establishments is a fantastic achievement. No doubt our younger students will benefit from Mimi, Ally and Polly’s stories as many more King’s musicians are looking to follow suit.”

Music is the beating heart of King’s Ely and is one of the reasons why the school came into existence in the first place. Over a third of students learn a musical instrument or receive vocal tuition and the quality, range and variety of ensembles all attest to the school’s musical pedigree. The school calendar is jam-packed with student-led and professional concerts, workshops and masterclasses, all of which, together with the excellence of the school’s Cathedral Choirs, highlight how music is the soul of the King’s Ely community and testify to its inclusivity.

To discover more about opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org 

Press release from King’s Ely

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Thanks to the generosity of students, staff and families from King’s Ely Acremont Pre-Prep right the way through to Sixth Form, King’s Ely donated enough food and toiletry items to fill five cars and the school’s rowing truck, which Cathy Wright, Ely Foodbank’s Project Director, has described as “outstanding”.

Scott Mathie, who is Head of Year 9 and Teacher of Chemistry at King’s Ely Senior, oversaw the collection, which included everything from soups to tinned meat to pasta sauce. Mr Mathie was joined by a team of enthusiastic Year 13 students to deliver the goods to the Foodbank and its volunteers.

Karen Relton, Community Minister at the Countess Free Church in Ely and a volunteer with Ely Foodbank, also attended two of King’s Ely’s Harvest Festival Services at Ely Cathedral to speak to pupils about the vital support the Foodbank is providing in Ely and East Cambridgeshire, and a little about the work of the charity CAFOD, which is an international development charity.

Cathy Wright said: “Ely Foodbank sends a huge thank you to King’s Ely for the outstanding number of donations collected. Your food is certainly needed as we have seen quite a significant drop in donations recently, at a time when demand is growing. The food will be packed into parcels to help those who are struggling with the increase in the cost of living, those affected by the Universal Credit drop, and many of life’s situations that push a person to a point of needing the support of a Foodbank. We couldn’t do it without you!”

To find out how you can support Ely Foodbank, visit: https://ely.foodbank.org.uk/

Press release from King’s Ely

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The £400,000 project was carried out by Velocity Sports Ltd and Surfacing Standards Ltd and was started in July this year. 

Not only has the astro’s surface been replaced, but a new shock pad has been fitted, as has a new sports fencing system and dugouts.

The school’s 1^st XI Hockey girls were the first students to tread the new surface and they won their match against Wisbech Grammar School 4-0.

John Attwater, Principal of King’s Ely, said: “This is the first major refurbishment of our astro since its opening, and I am delighted that it has restored the facility to be one of the best in the region, and one which matches the commitment and ability of our students and sports coaches.”

Steve Wilcockson, Managing Director of Surfacing Standards Ltd, said: “As one of the leading sports pitch consultants in the UK, we were delighted to be appointed to design and project manage the refurbishment of the existing synthetic sports pitch at King’s Ely. It was evident from the initial meeting with the school that the focus was on quality. We have worked with many independent schools over the years, and I have to say that King’s Ely is most definitely one of the most beautiful schools we have had the pleasure of working with. The pitch looks fantastic and Ely Cathedral in the background makes such a stunning backdrop.”    

All major sports are offered at King’s Ely, along with an impressive array of other activities, helping every pupil to realise their sporting potential. Rowing, athletics, golf, cricket, hockey, tennis, rugby, netball, equestrian and football – the choices are endless. The working week, which no longer includes formal lessons on Saturdays, also enables pupils to participate fully in regional and national events. King’s Ely’s 1st XV boys’ rugby team recently enjoyed an unbeaten season and pupils have recently achieved success at the British Rowing Senior Championships and the National Equestrian Championships.

To discover more about sport and other opportunities at King’s Ely, please visit: www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

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To commemorate fifty years of being co-educational, (well, fifty-one years now but the school was unable to celebrate properly last year due to Covid-19 lockdowns), King’s Ely hosted a wonderful event recently where some of the first girls to join the school were invited back to take a trip down memory lane.

King’s Ely was delighted to welcome back Gaye Hayes (nee Corcoran), Jocelyn Howell, Marilyn Small (nee Reid), Lisa Casey (nee Allpress), and Cheryl Warin.

The ladies – also known as the “first girls” – were given tours of King’s Ely’s buildings and campus, where they were able to reminisce about their days at school, and see how much has changed since they left, including the purchase and renovation of the Old Palace.

King’s Ely’s Archivist, Elizabeth Stazicker, organised a fascinating display of archives and press cuttings from when girls first joined the school, which was followed by afternoon tea in the garden at Queen’s Hall, which is the home of King’s Ely’s Principal, John Attwater, and his family. The event concluded with Evensong at Ely Cathedral.

Other guests at the event included partners of the “first girls”; Hubert Ward, who was Headmaster at King’s Ely from 1970 until the early 1990s, and his wife; former teachers Bridget Pope and Angela Humphries; Mr and Mrs Attwater; several members of the Old Eleans Committee, including Kim Charter, Mark Wilkinson, Roy Wood, Mark Southwell, Marc Hawes and Rosie Holliday; and Heads of School, Ted Pepper and Eleanor MacGillivray.

Speaking about the event, Mr Attwater said: “It was wonderful to welcome back these pioneers from a hugely important part of our school’s history, perhaps the moment more than any other which set us on the path to being the modern, excellent and forward-looking school we are today. Everyone at the reunion was testament to their King’s Ely education and how King’s has always provided a foundation for interesting, diverse and happy lives.”

Today, King’s Ely educates more than 1,000 students aged 2-18, just under 500 of whom are girls. 

To discover more, please visit www.kingsely.org

Press release from King’s Ely

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The Lake District 10 Peaks Challenge was a one-day event which drew in 11 summits over a walking distance of 17 miles and saw CMAT staff encounter difficult terrain, lengthy ascents and steep descents along the way. 

The challenge required a great deal of endurance and strength from the brave group of staff who completed the Linear Route, which started in Buttermere and ended in Great Langdale.

Each member of staff walked to raise money and awareness for a particular charity based in the local area of a CMAT academy. The charities involved include Northamptonshire Mind, Sawtry Foodbank, Opportunity Playgroup, Ely Foodbank, and Wooden Spoon Charity. Any money raised will be split equally between these charities.

The estimated completion time of the challenge is around 12 hours, but the colleagues completed the journey in just 10 hours and 10 minutes, honouring the Trust’s 10th anniversary. They also bravely returned to work the following morning. 

Mark Woods, Trustee and Chief Executive Officer of CMAT, said: “We are proud to be celebrating 10 years of CMAT and providing high quality education for all in our communities.

“This challenge is just part of many activities which will be taking place throughout the year to celebrate our 10-year anniversary and mark this important milestone for the Trust.

“CMAT is at the heart of its local communities, and we want to give back to our communities for the support they have given us by raising money for vital causes which have become more important than ever during these challenging times.

“We hope everyone will get behind us and donate to these brilliant causes. Any form of support would be greatly appreciated.” 

To sponsor or donate to the fundraising initiative, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/cmat10peaks 

Press release from Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust

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The school was one of 70 in the country to be gifted a celebration tree, which was planted in a play area at the front of the school in a ceremony attended by Deputy Lieutenant for Cambridgeshire Lady De Ramsey.

The Betula ermanii tree was planted by children from the school, with the help of the Mayor of Ely, Cllr Sue Austen, Vice Chairman of Cambridgeshire County Council Cllr Sebastian Kindersley and Lady De Ramsey. Six children also read out their thoughts and feelings about the outdoor learning environment and how they see the importance of plants and trees for them to enjoy and learn from. Attendees enjoyed a rendition of a song about trees which the children have recently been practicing.

The QGC is a unique tree planting initiative created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022 which invites people across the United Kingdom to “Plant a Tree for the Jubilee”.

The QGC Celebration Trees initiative aims to highlight the educational aspects of trees and the significance of giving young people access to nature, encouraging wider engagement with the QGC across the school curriculum.

Lady De Ramsey, Deputy Lieutenant for Cambridgeshire, said: “I am delighted to be representing the Lord Lieutenant and planting a tree as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy.  It is especially exciting that schools have got involved in this wonderful initiative that will leave a legacy for the benefit of the community.”

Headteacher Annette Blewett said: “At Spring Meadow Infant and Nursery School we are very fortunate, excited and extremely privileged to have been selected to receive a special tree to plant in our school environment. Each child at Spring Meadow will learn even more about the importance of trees and the positive impact they have on our climate. We have a wonderful forest school area, which provides fantastic opportunities to explore and learn from as the seasons change. The children were very excited to meet some very important people who joined us to celebrate this special event.”

More than 200 children will now be able to study the species of the new tree and where it came from. They will also find out why The Queen, in her Jubilee year, wanted to make sure the next generation value the natural environment and the importance of trees.

Every school is being encouraged to get involved in the QGC by planting a tree for the jubilee. The Woodland Trust is providing free trees for schools; more information can be found at https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/plant-trees/schools-and-communities/.

The QGC is not just for schools – everyone is invited to take part and it is easy to get involved – whether you are an expert gardener or complete novice there is something you can do. This ranges from individuals planting trees on their private land, community planting projects, schools planting trees on their premises and businesses setting up tree planting projects with employees.

There is also plenty of help and advice available – including what types of trees to plant and how to look after them – at https://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/climate-change-energy-and-environment/improving-the-natural-environment/trees-and-woodland/queens-green-canopy-project or https://queensgreencanopy.org/.

Press release from Cambridgeshire County Council

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