Tewkesbury Academy students are World Record Breakers
Seventeen Year 9 students from Tewkesbury Academy have helped make history by taking part in an successful Guinness World Record bid alongside peers from around the world.
Alongside 10,515 cooks from across six continents and 42 countries, they participated in Jamie Oliver’s largest cookery lesson in multiple venues, smashing the previous record.
Their passion, energy, and love for food lit up the kitchen. Whether they were chopping, stirring, or tasting, Tewkesbury students played a vital role in this global celebration of food and skills — proving that young people can do incredible things when they come together.
At the heart of this record-breaking event lies a powerful belief that every child, everywhere, should leave school able to cook confidently and take care of themselves — no matter what life throws at them. That’s the mission behind Jamie Oliver’s 10 Skills Programme, which equips young people with essential life skills — from nutrition and knife safety to budgeting and more.
Helen Butt, Teacher of Design Technology at Tewkesbury Academy, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our students for being part of something so inspiring.
“Cooking is a vital life skill, and this event has not only given them a fun and memorable experience but also taught them the importance of healthy eating, confidence in the kitchen, and working together. What an achievement!”
Congratulations to all involved — Tewkesbury Academy students are officially world record breakers!
Fourteen Year 12 students from Tewkesbury Academy enjoyed an inspiring and insightful day at Cardiff University’s open day.
During the visit, students had the opportunity to explore a range of world-class facilities, engage in conversations with current students and lecturers, and gain a deeper understanding of the university application process.
For many, a tour of the student accommodation offered a valuable glimpse into the realities of university life.
A Tewkesbury Academy spokesperson said: “A huge thank you to Dr Griggs and Mrs Johnston for coordinating this educational visit.
“Cardiff University gave a warm welcome, and our students represented the school brilliantly.”
Tewkesbury Academy was delighted to welcome local businesses, education establishments, and valued friends of the academy to support our Year 10 students through a series of practice interviews this week.
As part of their career’s education, students had been preparing their CVs during lessons and received guidance on how to approach interviews and present themselves effectively. The event gave every student the opportunity to engage in a one-to-one interview with an experienced professional, who generously offered their time, insights, and recruitment advice.
Students rose to the occasion, presenting themselves with confidence and professionalism. The feedback from our visiting interviewers was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the students preparedness and attitude.
The interviewers, all experienced in recruitment and talent development, approached each session with kindness and encouragement, helping students build confidence and develop key communication and interpersonal skills
Sarah Baird, Careers Lead at Tewkesbury Academy, said: “We are incredibly grateful to all the professionals who volunteered their time to help our students.
“These practice interviews are invaluable in helping young people prepare for the world of work, and we are so proud of how well our students represented themselves and the school.
“The support from our wider community makes a real difference.”
Tewkesbury Academy extends sincere thanks to all who took part and looks forward to building on this successful event in future careers initiatives.
Ageas Insurance Ltd
Alan Bartholomew
Anne Bartholomew
Babcock International
Barclays
Department for Work and Pensions
GCC Employment & Skills Hub
Geometric Manufacturing
Gloucestershire College
Hartpury College and University
Joedan Windows and Doors Ltd
Kier Construction
Lakes Bathrooms
NHS
Ontic
SGS College
Skanska
Sphere Solutions Ltd
Year 10 students from Tewkesbury Academy had the exciting opportunity to attend the UCAS Discovery Day at Hartpury College and University — a vibrant event designed to inspire and inform young people about their future education and career options.
The morning was packed with engaging activities, interactive exhibits, and insightful talks from universities, apprenticeship providers, and employers from across the UK. Students explored a wide range of post-16 and post-18 pathways, from traditional university degrees to vocational training and emerging career sectors.
Hartpury’s stunning campus provided the perfect backdrop for students to experience a taste of university life. They had the chance to speak directly with student ambassadors who gave us a tour of the site.
The visit was part of our ongoing commitment to providing meaningful careers education and guidance, helping students make informed decisions about their futures.
Sarah Baird Careers Lead said: “We’re incredibly proud of how engaged and curious our students were throughout the event— they represented the school brilliantly.
“A huge thank you to Hartpury University and UCAS for hosting such an inspiring event.”
A group of Year 10 historians from Tewkesbury Academy recently took part in an engaging and thought-provoking history workshop hosted by the University of Gloucestershire.
The session, titled ‘The Truth is in the Telling’, focused on how different interpretations shape our understanding of historical figures.
Students explored the complex legacies of controversial individuals including Christopher Columbus, Fidel Castro, Queen Elizabeth I, and Margaret Thatcher. Using a creative Top Trumps activity, they evaluated each figure’s actions, significance, and impact through a critical lens.
Lucie Davis, history teacher at Tewkesbury Academy, said: “I was absolutely delighted with the way our students engaged with the workshop.
“They learnt that history is all about different interpretations and that we should question how history is presented in film, literature, and social media.
“We also explored the idea that historical interpretation is constantly evolving.”
A huge well done to Year 10 historians for representing the school with thoughtfulness and maturity throughout the session.
‘Significant improvements’ and ‘raised expectations’ at Tewkesbury Academy have seen the school earn a rating of ‘Good’ in all areas from education watchdog Ofsted.
A team of Ofsted inspectors spent two days assessing the school, during which time they met leaders from the school and its trust, spoke with parents and pupils, and carried out a ‘deep dive’ into a number of subject areas.
At the end of their analysis, inspectors concluded the school – which has undergone significant leadership changes since its last inspection, including a move to join the Cabot Learning Federation – is now rated as ‘Good’ for its leadership, behaviour, pupil development, sixth form provision and quality of education.
In her report, lead inspector Sara Berry said: “Tewkesbury Academy, with the support of the trust, has made significant improvements to the school. These changes are valued by many of the pupils, parents and carers and staff.
“Networks of support and challenge have enabled the school to make rapid improvements to the standard of education it provides.
“There is a clear drive from the school to continue the school improvement work that has been undertaken. The whole-school community is keen to be part of this ongoing work to benefit pupils.”
Inspectors went on to highlight the work done by school leaders to improve both the school’s provision and its impact and outcomes for students.
On student wellbeing, the report said: “Leaders have ensured the school is safe and that pupils have trusted adults to help them with any concerns that they may have. The school is clear that bullying is not tolerated. It provides pupils with routes to report concerns so that these can be addressed.”
On curriculum, it said: “The school has adopted and adapted the trust curriculum. This is bespoke and tailored to the needs of pupils at this school. For example, pupils learn about the rich local history of Tewkesbury. Pupils study a broad range of subjects at each key stage.”
On SEND provision, Ofsted said: “The school accurately identifies the needs of pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND). Teachers are provided with the information they need to adapt the curriculum effectively. Where these adaptations are provided, pupils with SEND learn as well as their peers.”
On attendance, inspectors said: “Attendance is a key priority for the school. The school closely tracks absence, identifying and addressing any barriers for individual pupils. This work is having a positive impact. Persistent absence has reduced and there are sustained increases in attendance. The school has the capacity and determination to continue this work to ensure the attendance of all pupils continues to rise.”
And on student outcomes, Ofsted said: “The school is ambitious for all pupils to achieve well. Pupils are increasingly successful in achieving qualifications. They receive the help and guidance they need to choose between future education, employment and training options that are appropriate for their ambitions. This means that most pupils and sixth-form students move successfully on to their next steps.”
Additionally, the report praises Tewkesbury for its ‘effective’ safeguarding, the ‘sense of belonging’ created by personal development opportunities, and the pride instilled in pupils through representing the school in sport and the arts.
They also noted careers-related activities which help to raise student aspirations, the ‘importance’ placed on reading standards, and pupils’ understanding of ‘tolerance and respect’ gained through lessons in British values.
Leaders within both Tewkesbury Academy and the Cabot Learning Federation have welcomed Ofsted’s findings.
Kathleen McGillycuddy, Principal at Tewkesbury Academy, said:
“We are very proud of our school and of our community. Tewkesbury is a great place to grow up and Tewkesbury Academy is a great place to go to school.
“This report reflects the work we are doing to give all our young people the very best we can and it has given us the determination to keep going.
“This is an important moment for our community and I’m really pleased for all my colleagues and all our pupils.”
Steve Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the Cabot Learning Federation, said:
“This is an excellent outcome following a period of sustained school improvement since the last inspection.
“Well done to the team at Tewkesbury Academy, which has worked tirelessly, and thanks to the community of parents, carers, and governors who have stuck by the school and supported it throughout.”
Picture: Jack Boskett Media.
Tewkesbury Academy Year 12 student Sidney Chandler is making waves in the rowing world after claiming victory in the Open Men’s J18 event at the Evesham Regatta.
Sidney, who trains at Gloucester Rowing Club, competed in both single and double scull categories and has been dedicated to the sport for four years. Training four times a week, Sidney’s commitment and perseverance have led to this significant achievement.
Speaking after the event, Sidney said: “I would like to thank my dad — it’s been a lot of hard work and effort. I have a great love of rowing, and this win means a lot to me.”
Sidney now has his sights set on reaching the national finals, including prestigious competitions such as the Ball Cup at the Olympic Lakes in Eton Dorney.
A Tewkesbury Academy spokesperson added: “We are incredibly proud of Sidney’s achievement. His determination and passion for rowing are truly inspiring, and we look forward to supporting him in his journey to the national stage.”
Year 7 students at Tewkesbury Academy enjoyed a vibrant and engaging introduction to Japanese culture, thanks to a special visit from students of Gifu Shotoku Gakuen Junior High School in Japan.
The Japanese students are spending time at the academy to improve their English skills and experience British culture first-hand, with their stay including a range of educational and cultural excursions.
As part of their visit, the Japanese students delivered a moving performance of Land of Hope and Glory to an appreciative Year 7 audience. This was followed by a series of interactive cultural activities, including origami, calligraphy, traditional Japanese games, and fun language challenges. The sessions offered a unique opportunity for both groups of students to connect and learn from one another in a lively, hands-on setting.
A highlight of the exchange is the home-stay element, where the visiting students live with local families. This experience offers invaluable insight into everyday English life and language, deepening their understanding of British customs and fostering international friendship.
A spokesperson from Tewkesbury Academy said: “It has been a joy to watch our students and our visitors from Gifu Shotoku Gakuen interact so warmly.
“Cultural exchanges like this are incredibly enriching—they not only support language learning but also broaden horizons and build lifelong memories.”
Students in Years 7, 8, 9, and 12 at Tewkesbury Academy were treated to an inspiring and thought-provoking visit from celebrated author Simon James Green. Following the success of his previous visit, Simon was warmly welcomed back for another engaging session.
Simon shared his journey to becoming an author, offering students a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process and the motivations behind his work.
He spoke candidly about his experiences growing up as a gay teenager and the lack of representation he encountered in books during his youth.
His talk focused on the importance of diversity and inclusion in literature. He passionately advocated for the presence of characters from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, emphasising how such representation fosters empathy, tolerance, and a deeper understanding of others.
Vicky Smith, Librarian at Tewkesbury Academy, said: “Simon’s message really resonated with our students.”
“He encouraged them not only to seek out stories that reflect their own experiences but also to read books that introduce them to different lives and viewpoints.
“His visit was both empowering and enlightening.”
Tewkesbury Academy was thrilled to welcome CTRL, a dynamic and inspirational band, who took to the stage to deliver an unforgettable experience for Year 7 and 8 students.
Excitement filled the air as CTRL gave a high-energy performance, debuting songs from their upcoming album that had students buzzing with enthusiasm.
But this was much more than just a concert – CTRL used their platform to engage with students on some of the most important issues affecting young people today.
In a powerful follow-up session, the band opened up conversations around mental health, bullying, and online safety. They also addressed the value of healthy relationships, the importance of respect and tolerance, and the need to celebrate diversity within our community.
Drawing from their own journeys, the band shared stories of resilience and hard work, inspiring students to stay focused on their education and to believe in their own pathways to success.
The afternoon ended on a high note, with students lining up for autographs and selfies with the band – a memory many will treasure.
Jamie Gowers, Head of PSHE at Tewkesbury Academy, extended a heartfelt thank you to CTRL for their time, energy, and impactful message. He said: “We’re incredibly grateful to CTRL for delivering not only a brilliant performance but also a deeply meaningful session.
“Their message truly resonated with our students – it was a fun-filled, inspiring afternoon that we won’t forget.”
