Following the successful application of a grant to the Royal Institution (RI), Tewkesbury Academy hosted two science shows on Super Cells, a CPD session for the Science team and a community show on Rocket Science.
The Royal Institution is a charitable organisation bringing the public and scientists together to share their interest and passion for science.
They align with our CLF values of HEART where we believe there should be equal access to science. They are most well known for their annual Christmas Lectures televised just after Christmas. This year Dr Chris van Tulleken reveals the revolutionary science inside our bodies when we eat, in the 2024 Christmas Lectures from the Royal Institution, supported by CGI, and information can be found here: https://www.rigb.org/christmas-lectures.
Years 7 and 8 were treated to “Super Cells” where the RI presenter, Usmaa introduced the idea of super spreading of a mystery disease with an Iron Wool map of Great Britain. With regular interaction and volunteers of Tewkesbury Academy Students, Usmaa took the students on a journey through exploring antibiotics on bacteria (and Daisy popping balloons); the “Yellow Soup” of Ge Hong (don’t look it up after lunch!); a demo of how much mucus a human body releases in 24 hours to the modern invention of Vaccines, and the work of our local legend – Edward Jenner. There were lots of active demonstrations and students were engaged and attentive.
Usmaa then ran a CPD session for our Science Department and introduced various resources for us to utilise.
In the evening, we were treated to a community show on Rocket Science. We began with dodging mini whoosh bottles into the audience*, then a demo to show the density of carbon dioxide where candles were extinguished.
With the help of 6 audience members, Usmaa demonstrated the power of friction on some phone directories (which were a novel idea to the students amongst the audience, let along the tug of war to try and separate them!).
A very brave George then ignited some butane flames, and we finished with an igniting a rock using electricity with a very loud bang (luckily not damaging any ceiling tiles!).
Dr Kennedy, Director of Science gave the following statement “I became a scientist as a direct result of watching the RI Christmas Lectures when I was a child.
“When I discovered the grant, I immediately applied and was thrilled to be offered the shows to our students and community.
“Usmaa delivered a fantastic interactive and interesting set of shows, and we look forward to exploring the lectures in lessons going forward.”
Tewkesbury Academy hosts Cheltenham district annual B team Futsal Tournament
This week, Tewkesbury Academy was a hub of energy and excitement as it hosted the highly anticipated Cheltenham District Annual B Team Futsal Tournament.
The event brought together over 500 talented players from Year 8 to Year 11 across local schools, each showcasing their incredible skills, sportsmanship, and school pride.
The action-packed tournament highlighted the dedication and determination of the young athletes as they competed fiercely while upholding the values of respect and teamwork.
Tewkesbury Academy’s own teams delivered exceptional performances, embodying the school’s core values both on and off the pitch. Their commitment to the game and positive attitudes shone throughout the tournament, making the school proud.
The tournament was not just about competition—it was a celebration of football, fitness, and community spirit. The event brought together students, teachers, and spectators, creating an atmosphere of sportsmanship and enthusiasm.
A huge thank you goes out to all the staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this event possible. Their efforts ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
A spokesperson for the event remarked: “This tournament has been a fantastic celebration of talent, teamwork, and the joy of sport.
“It’s wonderful to see students from so many schools come together to showcase their abilities and support one another.
“Events like this highlight the incredible sense of community and sportsmanship we strive to foster.”
Concentration, determination, a huge effort, and major sporting prowess were on full display as Tewkesbury Academy’s Year 10 netball team showcased their talent on the court.
In a closely-contested match against Prince Henry’s High, the team demonstrated exceptional teamwork and resilience.
After a tightly-fought first half, they stepped up their defence, making key rebounds and interceptions to take control of the game.
Their shooters delivered consistent precision under pressure, securing a well-deserved 18-12 victory.
A spokesperson for the team commented: “The school community is immensely proud of the team’s dedication and sportsmanship.
“A special mention to B Harris, who was awarded lady of the match. Congratulations on your fantastic performance!”
Well done to the entire team – keep up the great work!
Congratulations to Alfie, a Year 8 pupil at Tewkesbury Academy, who has achieved outstanding success in water polo.
Alfie competed in the prestigious Mike Glover Water Polo Cup, held at the Manchester Aquatics Centre.
Representing the Cheltenham Water Polo team, Alfie showcased exceptional skill and determination, securing a silver medal in his age group.
The team narrowly missed out on gold, losing by just one goal in a thrilling final.
A spokesperson for Tewkesbury Academy said: “We are incredibly proud of Alfie’s dedication and achievements in water polo.
“His performance at such a high-level competition is a testament to his hard work and passion for the sport. We look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next.
“Well done, Alfie, on this fantastic accomplishment. We wish you continued success as you make waves in the world of water polo.”
At Tewkesbury Academy’s after-school Make & Bake club, students enthusiastically rolled up their sleeves, tied on their aprons, and got to work creating culinary delights.
This week, the spotlight was on baking as the students prepared delicious flapjack cookies.
The young bakers demonstrated impressive skills in measuring, mixing, and baking, resulting in treats that had everyone’s mouths watering.
While the goal was to take the cookies home, it was still a challenge for students to resist the temptation to taste them fresh from the oven!
A spokesperson for the academy said: “We’re so proud of the students’ enthusiasm and creativity in the Make & Bake club.
“Activities like these not only help them develop practical life skills but also encourage teamwork and a love for learning.
“It’s wonderful to see their confidence grow with each session.”
Year 12 and 13 engineering students from Tewkesbury Academy recently had the opportunity to visit the prestigious Bugatti Trust Museum and Study Centre, located at Prescott.
The group was accompanied by two members of staff and participated in a day filled with exploration, education, and inspiration.
The students toured the museum’s fascinating exhibition, which displays the legacy of Ettore Bugatti, a pioneering engineer and designer renowned for his innovative contributions to automotive engineering.
Alongside the exhibition, the group attended an engaging STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) presentation that delved into Bugatti’s remarkable achievements and the principles behind his groundbreaking designs.
A spokesperson for the academy said: “This visit was an invaluable experience for our students, offering them a unique insight into the intersection of engineering, design, and innovation.
“The Bugatti Trust provided an inspiring platform to explore the historical and technical aspects of engineering while reinforcing the importance of STEM in shaping the future.”
This educational trip underscores Tewkesbury Academy’s commitment to providing its students with enriching experiences that complement their curriculum and develop their curiosity about the world of engineering.
Staff and students at Tewkesbury Academy joined the nation on Armistice Day, observing a two-minute silence to honour the courage and sacrifices of members of the Armed Forces, past and present.
Continuing a cherished tradition, students who are part of youth organisations such as the Cadets, Guides, Scouts, and Boys’ Brigade wore their association uniforms, symbolising respect and solidarity.
At 11am, the entire school community paused lessons to gather quietly on the academy’s tennis courts.
Sombre music and hymns created a reflective atmosphere, and a lone trumpeter played The Last Post before the school fell silent in collective remembrance.
Following the silence, cadets, joined by their Unit Leaders, held a parade that concluded at a memorial tree located at the front of the academy.
This tree honours the memory of Able Seaman Matthew Stuart, a former student who tragically lost his life on his 18th birthday while serving aboard HMS Argonaut during the Falklands War in 1982.
Matthew’s mother, a regular attendee of the event, described the occasion as deeply moving.
Kathleen McGillycuddy, Principal of Tewkesbury Academy, said: “Our annual Remembrance event is one of the most important in our calendar.
“The entire academy stands together in remembering those who gave their today for our tomorrows.
“We also remember our service families, our own loved ones, and our hopes for peace across the world.
“Our students were exemplary in their conduct and seeing them all together in solemnity is quite breathtaking. We are very proud of them as they pay tribute.”
Students and staff at Tewkesbury Academy proudly wore odd socks as part of Anti-Bullying Week, a nationwide campaign to raise awareness and take a stand against bullying.
Odd Socks Day, the official kick-off to Anti-Bullying Week, encourages students and staff alike to don mismatched socks in a powerful symbol of individuality, celebrating that differences make us unique and valuable.
A spokesperson for Tewkesbury Academy said: “Odd Socks Day is a fantastic way to promote inclusion and celebrate diversity within our school community.
“By wearing odd socks, we’re reminding everyone that our differences are strengths, and each person deserves respect, kindness, and acceptance.”
Tewkesbury Academy has congratulated the 50 dedicated runners both boys and girls who represented the school at last week’s Schools’ District Cross Country Championships.
Among the standout performances, special recognition goes to Jess S, who secured an impressive second place finish and has earned a spot in the upcoming County Championships in December.
Tewkesbury’s Head of PE, Mr Graham-Kevan, praised the students for their outstanding effort.
He said: “Cross country running is a true test of grit and determination, and all students demonstrated incredible perseverance and resilience.
“They pushed through the physical and mental barriers in some challenging weather and terrain.
“I was so proud of the effort shown by all students. Special praise goes to Jess for her fantastic achievement.”
Tewkesbury Academy looks forward to cheering on Jess and wishes her the best of luck in the County Championships.
Students at Tewkesbury Academy have demonstrated their generosity and community spirit by spending a day in non-uniform to raise funds for a vital cause.
The event was organised in response to the severe flooding that recently damaged the library of Tewkesbury C of E Primary School, one of the academy’s feeder schools.
Heavy rain caused the drainage system at Tewkesbury C of E Primary School to overflow, flooding the building and damaging books, furniture, and carpets in the library.
To help replace essential reading materials and equipment, Tewkesbury Academy students participated in a non-uniform day, raising over £800.00.
Kathleen McGillycuddy, Principal of Tewkesbury Academy, said: “We are really proud of our young people and their families who have raised these funds for Tewkesbury C of E Primary School.
“We were deeply upset that their library was destroyed in the recent floods – reading and literacy are so important to all of us – so it was only natural that everyone wanted to help.
“I’m pleased to see our values of responsibility exemplified here, and we hope all the youngsters at the primary school will soon enjoy lovely new books as a result.”
The funds raised will go directly to Tewkesbury C of E Primary School to replace the much-needed books and equipment lost during the flood.
