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Best Results Ever!

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 12:00:00 GMT

We are celebrating our best ever set of GCSE results. The number of students getting at least five A* - C grades is now 72%.

Including English and Maths this figure has gone up to 37% from 26% last year. This rate of increase is far higher than the national average. Students and staff worked incredibly hard to achieve this, where neccessary coming in during evenings, weekends and school holidays in order to fit in extra lessons. The many happy faces this morning as students came to collect their results shows that is was all worth it. But the hard work doesn't stop here. We intend to keep the pace so that we keep on improving.

Oliver Twist- The Drama Department

Tue, 6 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Oliver Twist- The Drama Department

Congratulations to all year 11 Performing Arts Students who completed their final performance Of ‘Oliver Twist ‘during half term.

With students working hard to complete their courses and revise for important end of year exams, the performing arts students finally performed their last show- the classic ‘Oliver Twist’ by Charles Dickens. Two groups of students were given the play to perform and had to decide how to stage the productions as well as complete areas of work backstage. Both groups worked hard taking on different approaches to the work and how best to use the space and resources of the drama department.
One group chose to perform the play in the round- making and designing scenery with support from Mr Gurney while the other group chose the more traditional proscenium arch staging approach and used basic props to reflect the time of when the play was written.

Both groups learnt a huge amount about the process, from having to audition for a role to having to work on poster designs and stage management.

Congratulations to all students who worked extremely hard, especially Yeni Razaq‘s very vivid portrayal of Oliver and Aflred De-Souza’s lively, but sinister portrayal of Fagin.
Well done to all students involved I and hope they go on to fulfil all their dreams and succeed in all they do.

Ms Catchpole
Acting Head of Drama

Student inspired by anti- knife crime talks

Tue, 6 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Student inspired by anti- knife talks

Over the last couple of weeks we have welcomed to the Academy, the Greenwich and Lewisham Young People’s Theatre, who visit schools and use drama and role-play to educate young people about the dangers of carrying knives.

During this time of focusing on the issue, the students here have, as always, been very impressive. They have repeatedly said that they hate violence of any sort and particularly detest knife crime.

On Friday the 2^nd July, all students at the Academy were spoken to by Mr Richard Taylor, father of Damilola, and also Mr Barry Mizen, the father of Jimmy who was tragically murdered in 2008. During their speeches, Mr Mizen and Mr Taylor spoke about their grief for their sons and the devastating effects of knife crime on their families. They told us about their joint campaign to encourage young people away from knife crime and spoke about some of the measures that can be taken to support this.

Richard Taylor stated:

“The community in Peckham is dear to my heart, and I am proud that the Academy and its students are saying a loud ‘no’ to violence. I’ve spoken to thousands of children over the years and the vast majority know the difference between right and wrong, but knives are a huge issue in today’s world. Ignoring the issue in the hope it will go away is not an option for any school, so I applaud the stance being taken by Harris Academy Peckham.”

Emmanuel a youth ambassador from the charity also spoke about his life in Brazil and being involved in gangs and the extreme violence associated with it. He emphasized that carrying weapons and being involved in gangs provided no future for young people.

The students were inspired by the speakers and listened intently and at the end they gave the speakers a rapturous applause.

Catharine Loxton, Executive Principal of Harris Academy Peckham, commented:

"I've spent most of my career here in south London and, if one thing's clear, it's that the vast majority of children detest violence. Our students held on to every one of Mr Taylor and Mr Mizen's words and we were pleased to have them at the Academy. Knife crime is a problem that exists in much of the UK, and there's sadly no miracle cure for it. But here at Harris Academy Peckham, we are playing our part in the fight against it."

Year 9 History Trip to the British Museum and Yoruba cultural performance

Tue, 6 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Year 9 History Trip to the British Museum and Yoruba cultural performance

On 30^thApril, forty-seven students from Harris Peckham travelled to the British Museum to see and work on the Kingdom of Ife exhibition about medieval Nigeria. The occasion proved to be a cultural feast containing priceless sculpted scarified copper and terracotta heads and other pieces imbued with religious significance.

The students were prepared for the trip by Olusola Oyeleye (director of a theatre company and engaged by the British Museum) and had, earlier in the year, worked on the rich legacy of West African culture as a preface to their KS3 unit on Black Peoples of the Americas.

Having been briefed by Nick Badcott from the museum’s Education Department, the students equipped with a special museum-issue notebooks, divided into two groups. The first group observed the magnificent collection of Benin bronzes drew sketches of many of the pieces and had a session with Nick about setting the pieces into their historical context.

The second group worked with Sola and an accompanying dancer and drummer on the importance of the Ife collection as part of a living culture. Our young historians recited a Yoruba chant prior to entering the collection.

After lunch the students in groups of five or six worked on different facets of West African culture with expert staff in the museum’s study rooms and presented work of high quality including a range of poems based on their understanding of life and traditions in Nigeria.

In order to reinforce the concept of a living culture our students worked with Sola and her musicians at Harris Peckham for four weeks to present a superb performance of traditional Yoruba singing and dancing for theY9 assembly on 26^th May. This was accompanied by the school’s incredible African drumming group led by Zed Morgan. Prince, Kenton, Adama and Cassandra added a power point presentation on African hairstyles and musical instruments.

The trip and subsequent performance helped many students to see West Africa in a new and positive light through the rich legacy of its medieval culture and helped Harris Peckham to forge an important relationship with the British Museum.

Bewl Water Easter Revision Session

Tue, 6 Jul 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Bewl Water Easter Revision Session

During the Easter break, 19 students from Year 11 elected to spend a couple of days from their Easter holidays at the Bewl Water Activity Centre in Kent.

The students spent 2 days in total combining revision sessions in Maths and English with the outdoor activities of mountain-bike riding and team-building challenges in an effort to secure the best results possible for themselves in their GCSE exams.

The revision sessions went very well, with the students being very keen to take advantage of the opportunity to work in a small group with none of the usual distractions surrounding them (the patchy mobile phone reception being a particular benefit) and being able to have regular tea and biscuit breaks. Or maybe that was just for my groups by the kitchen…

Of the outdoor activities, the mountain biking around Bewl Water was probably the most challenging for the students, some of whom could not ride a bike or had not ridden for a couple of years. For those who were more confident, actually riding around Bewl Water for long periods of time over the muddy, undulating terrain was a huge challenge. Bewl Water itself is a reservoir and is the largest inland body of water in the southeast on England, with a perimeter of 17 miles (a little over 10 kilometres). Given that the bike track does not stick rigidly to the perimeter, the total cycling distance was more like 25 miles (around 16 kilometres). Only two groups managed to get even halfway round, with one group actually completing the course (Jordan Bristol, Tosin Ogunbote, Ayoola Odeku, Anderson Owusu – Boateng and Yours Truly.

The team –building challenges were more in line with what you might see on an assault course, with tests of balance, co-operation and physical skill scattered around a small wooded area. Watching the students naturally starting to co-operate, having mature calm discussions about the problems presented, whilst using each other’s strengths to cover over any perceived weaknesses in the group was a genuine pleasure to behold.

I would to take the opportunity to thank the staff at Bewl Water for leading the activities and hosting us, the catering company that brought us some lovely food (although not enough tea bags…J) and Ben Morgan (Assistant Vice Principal for Maths and English) for organising the break. Thanks also to the teachers who gave up some of their holiday to run the revision sessions: - Natasha Goldson, Kathryn Nutbeem and Hannah Pham from the English department; Chris Reilly from the Maths Department.

Finally, and most importantly, a huge “Well Done!” to the students who took part so enthusiastically and whom where a credit to themselves, their families and the school. I wish them all the best for their GCSE exams.

Mr Dimmock

Year 12 students perform at the Royal Opera House

Sun, 23 May 2010 12:00:00 GMT

On Friday 5^th February 2010, year 12 Performing Arts students visited the Royal Opera House for the second time this academic year. The first visit was in October, students took part in an informal workshop, along with six other schools and were set a challenge; to create a dance piece based on their own personal journeys. After many weeks of creating and rehearsing the piece, the students arrived at the Royal Opera House, both nervous and eager to perform. We were all taken into the theatre and the students had time for a final practice before the performance. When it was their turn to perform they took to the stage with confidence and professionalism, the music started and they danced with energy, precision and most importantly, as a group. What was very evident from our students was a sense of originality, it was clear that the students had created the movement themselves and had really thought about making it personal. After all of the schools had performed, Wayne McGregor, one of this country’s best known choreographers, stood up to share his thoughts on the pieces. To our surprise he asked the Peckham Academy to take the stage again, as he wanted them to perform the beginning of their piece again to demonstrate how important a strong beginning is when creating dance. A definite high point to the day, one that I am sure they won’t forget! Later in the day the students had a tour of the building and got to sit and watch the Royal Ballet Company in rehearsal. At the end of the day many teachers from the other schools taking part, came up, leaving them feeling proud of what they had achieved and full of confidence for their next challenge.

Ms Horner and Ms Amoani

New HAAP uniform

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

This is the new uniform that students will be wearing from September 2010.

EXCELLENT Music Exams Success!

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

In January 2010, the music department entered the Independent Contemporary Music Awards graded music exams ranging from grade 1 to 7. A very large number of students attained fantastic scores. 15 of 16 candidates achieved distinction (90% or higher) and out of these 10 students gained Upper distinction (95% or higher). Congratulations to all students concerned. I even managed to gain my grade 8 as well!

Candidate		Grade	Subject
Gareth Boye Campbell	Year 9	1	Kit Drumming	81%	Merit
Joel Kearney	Year 8	1	Kit Drumming	93%	Distinction
Adrian Young	Year 10	1	Kit Drumming	97%	Upper Distinction
Timothy Morgan	Year 9	1	Alto Saxophone	97%	Upper Distinction
Richard Mensah	Year 11	1	Alto Saxophone	98%	Upper Distinction
Darren Stultz	Year 9	2	Alto Saxophone	91%	Distinction
Dean Stultz	Year 8	2	Clarinet	92%	Distinction
Ijaz Shillingford	Year 9	2	Kit Drumming	95%	Upper Distinction
Kayleigh Cooper	Year 10	3	Flute Performance	95%	Upper Distinction
Omodolapo Ukoh	Year 8	3	Pop Vocals	97%	Upper Distinction
Darren Stultz	Year 9	4	Kit Drumming	90%	Distinction
Kayleigh Cooper	Year 10	5	Guitar Performance	92%	Distinction
Billy-Ray Doyle	Year 11	5	Guitar Performance	95%	Upper Distinction
Joel Johnson	Year 12	5	Guitar Performance	98%	Upper Distinction
Ashley Zola	Year 11	6	Pop Vocals	99%	Upper Distinction
Jerdy Santos	Year 11	7	Pop Vocals	97%	Upper Distinction
Ray Lau		8	Musical Theatre	90%	Distinction

Ray Lau

Assistant Vice Principal / Director of Specialisms

Chelsea Football Club

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The Year 10 students have been training hard with their coach Mr Lee every Thursday afternoon. The sessions have been very popular and the effort, dedication and skill the students have shown has been outstanding. Mr Lee has transformed the Year 10 football team into a well organised, performing squad who have the potential to be the best team in Southwark. The display of teamwork, organisation, friendship and respect demonstrated amongst the players is due to the hard work and time Mr Lee has dedicated the students. His experience as a Chelsea Football Club Coach has been transferred to all the students he coaches. This has resulted in Ayomide Noble, Anton Williams and Mohammed Ahmed being invited to attend training sessions with the Chelsea Junior Football team after a very successful trial at the club. Congratulations boys you have done us proud . Keep up the hard work.

Mr Faure, Director of Learning

Year 8 students produce The Mummers Play

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The Mummers Play is a festive Christmas play mainly about St. George’s battles with the Turkish knight as well as the Dragon. Everyone took part, not necessarily all having a part in the play; other roles included designing and making props, costumes, marketing, script-writing and directing.We kept the idea and feel of the original story, yet made it their own. To do this was hard work, and meant staying after school to perfect the play.

The play was performed four times which may not seem like a lot but the team really got on the case. There were two performances in school, and two outside at two companies: Citi and Deliotte. All of the class went around school trying to sell tickets to adults, as well as students for 50p.

With the performances outside of school; two on one day, we tried to receive as much money as possible and a good job was made of this because over £200 was raised.

Three months later in February, a woman from Great Ormond Street Hospital came to collect the money we had raised and also held a Q&A session in our class, telling us a bit about Great Ormond Street Hospital. This made us even more happy that we had chosen to give the money to that charity, knowing that we were helping people and saving lives.

Later that day, there was an assembly where the whole of year 8 learned a bit about Great Ormond Street Hospital and the whole of Mr. Timms’ class were presented with a certificate and badge each.

The play wasn’t only a chance to express creativity, but also a chance to change someone’s lives for the better.

By Lauren Pemberton-Nelson 8RAO

BBC 2 Mastercraft

Tue, 2 Mar 2010 12:00:00 GMT

In January we started filming a programme for BBC2 called Mastercraft. We were chosen for the episode on stained glass window making.

Three member of the public were selected to learn the old craft, none of which had any previous experience. A mixed group of students from the Academy outlined what they felt they would like to see in a window designed for our reception area. They provided advice and sketches for the candidates. These were then translated into 3 very different interpretations. Mrs Loxton, Monty Don and an expert then had the very difficult task of judging. I think we chose the right one and it has certainly received a lot of very positive comments from our visitors. Please look out for it when you visit.

Parents’ Consultation Evening

Tue, 2 Feb 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Parents’ Consultation Evening

This will be held on Thursday 11^th February from 4.30pm-6.30pm in the Academy’s Main Hall. This will give you the opportunity to discuss your son/daughter’s progress so far this year, as well as finding out more about the new courses on offer. In addition students can make appointments with their Tutors to have their Consultation Meeting on this evening, if you and your son/daughter feel confident to make an informed choice. During this evening there will be two presentations at 5.00pm and 6.00pm to explain the options process.

An additional opportunity for parents and students to meet Tutors will follow in the week beginning 22^nd – 26^th February so that students can select their choices.

If you have any questions about option choices, please contact your son/daughter’s subject teacher, form tutor or Director of Learning.

If you have any questions about any of the issues covered in this letter, please contact Mr Benjamin (Assistant Vice Principal) or Mr Van Rooyen as appropriate.

Please click the link for further information:

http://www.harrispeckham.org.uk/userfiles/files/Options Letter '10 ver jan15.doc

Hair and Beauty department salon launch

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 12:00:00 GMT

Hairdressing at Harris Academy at Peckham

Summer 2009 saw the hair and beauty department more than double in size and student number.

We have offered NVQ Level 2 Hairdressing, very successfully, for the last 5 years to 6th Form College and outside students and it has always been the vision for the department to be able to offer a similar qualification to younger students.

With this in mind Subject Leader, Lesley Hoyle, designed and planned a fabulous new salon to be able to provide facilities to teach Salon Services to YR10 KS4 students.

Salon Services VRQ gives the students an in-depth look at the hair and beauty industries. They work on training blocks, each other and family members, gaining valuable experience, while also producing various assignments and workbooks.

It is a two year course with a different unit researched and learnt both theoretically and practically every half term. Students are well informed and have a greater understanding of what the industry demands and are better able to make a decision when 6th form comes around.

The hairdressing salon continues to go from strength to strength, offering professional hair services to academy staff and the public. This enables the students to gain valuable, realistic work experience so preparing them for the world of work.

On 26th January 2010 the Hair and Beauty department at Harris Academy at Peckham are hosted the official opening of the new salon where students demonstrated their skills in both hair and beauty to invited guests, such as Annie Sheppherd -Chief Executive of Southwark Council, Yolanda Houston-Headteachers Executive Business Manager,Governors - Bruce Noble and Peter Holmes, parents and other guests. Light refreshments on the evening were served courtesy of our Catering and Hospitality department.

Wednesday 13th January 2010 - The Academy will close at 13:30 today

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The Academy will close at 13:30 today due to the adverse weather conditions. Please continue to check this site for further announcements.

Year 11 English and Maths mock exams cancelled

Fri, 8 Jan 2010 12:00:00 GMT

As these are very important we have re-scheduled the two exams for Wednesday 13^th January and Thursday 14^th January as set out below.

Year 11 English Exam will take place on Wednesday during periods 3 and 4.

Year 11 Maths Exam will take place on Thursday during periods 3 and.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your understanding and support during this time.

Students provide a special treat for elderly club members

Tue, 5 Jan 2010 12:00:00 GMT

The elderly club members were treated to a free shampoo, set and blow dry by our year 12 and 13 students as well as a manicure and a hand and arm massage by our year 10 students, followed by some light refreshment and a film.

Freda Wellington was delighted with her pampering session after having a full hand and arm massage and manicure, she also commented that this was her third year coming to the Harris Academy at Peckham and as alway, the student were extremely professional

The 14 club members were then treated to a magnificent 3 course Christmas lunch prepared by our BTEC Hospitality Students which consisted of :

Starter:

Pumpkin soup

Salmon parcels in a bed of lettuce with a creme fresh fusion of dill.

Main course:

Roast Turkey or Pork served with roast potatoes, brussel sprouts,carrots and mini sausages wrapped in bacon

Dessert:

West Indian black cake or sponge apple crumble cake serve with cream or custard

followed by

Cheese and biscuits and tea or coffee

Joyce Thomas the club secretary has been coming to our academy for 5 years and she stated 'the lunch was superb just like what you would get in any restaurant. The service and students are super, we always have a wonderful time here'

Maureen Denny attended for the first time and said she loved every minute as she had never been pampered in her life and can't wait to come again.

The members of the club usually meet on a Monday at Peckham Settlement as its an opportunity for them to get out and meet other people. At the club they get involved in activites such as bingo and are given light refreshments such as tea and coffee while they have a good chat and catch up on the weeks events. Sadly many of the members live alone and this is the only time they get to socialise.

The day was thoroughly enjoyed by staff, students and especially our guests from the Peckham Settlement multicultural club who left the academy totally uplifted by their experience.

Well done to all the staff and students involved for all their efforts.

Wishing you all a Happy New Year

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Changes to Admissions for 2011

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Please click on the links below to view the consultation letter and the amended admissions policy:

Admissions Consultation letter.pdf

Consultation of Admissions Policy amended

2008/2009 Leavers Award Ceremony

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The 2008/2009 Leavers Award Ceremony was an evening of celebration. Students past and present were awarded for their outstanding achievements and the ceremony was filled with excitement and exuberance.

Our special celebrity guests on the night were comedians JCX 'n' Stix and the MOBO nominated grime group K.I.G.

K.I.G gave an energetic performance which was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone and wrapped up the evening perfectly.

We would like thank everyone that made the award ceremony such a success and our Governors’, Lord Harris, Bruce Noble, Vicky O'Keefe and Simon Gick who attended our very special evening.

HPV Vaccination Information

Mon, 5 Oct 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Click here to download letter written on behalf of NHS Southwark.

Southwark 's Black History Month Launch

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 12:00:00 GMT

This year continues the theme of Journey: past, present, future with an informed programme that explores heritage with some of the UK's leading Black historians,writers and presenters. Pupils from our Academy will also be providing entertainment on the day which will include workshops, music, dance, food and lots more for people of all ages.

The event is FREE and starts at 1pm and is guaranteed to be a fun filled day!

Booklets containing information on all the events occuring throughout Black history Month are available at our reception if you require any further information please contact Southwark council on 0207 5253569.

Harris Academy at Peckham is awarded the International School Award(ISA)

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 12:00:00 GMT

The British Council have awarded our Academy with the International School Award. In order for us to be eligible for the award we had to demonstrate the following:

an international ethos throughout the school which is included in the school development plan.
substantial curriculum based international activity and collaborative work
history of international activity over the past two years

The accreditation will stand for the next three years. We would all like to thank and congratulations the Academy’s international committee for their hard work.

Exam results up again at Harris Academy at Peckham!

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Following on from our glowing Ofsted report we are pleased to confirm our GCSE examination results have once again improved. Last year 50% of our students achieved 5 A*-C GCSE passes, this year we are pleased to announce that 61% of our students achieved 5 A*-C grades.

We are also pleased to announce that all our students that applied for University places have been accepted at their University of choice, this includes one student who has been accepted to study Medicine at Kings College University.

Cathy Loxton, Executive Principal commented ‘It's a wonderful achievement by the students and a testament to the hard work on the part of the staff. This is one of our best years and an improvement on last year.’

Peckham 'Insight' Newsletter

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Please click here to download and view the new Academy 'Insight' newsletter.

Swine Flu Update

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

All Headteachers

18th June 2009
Terry Parkin
Deputy Director of Children's
Services – Education
London Borough of Southwark
PO Box 64529
London SE1 5LX

www.southwark.gov.uk

Tel.: (020) 7525 5918
Fax.: (020) 7525 3987

Dear colleague

It will be announced later today that H1N1 (swine flu) has been confirmed today in four Southwark maintained schools, two in Dulwich, one in Nunhead and one in Rotherhithe. Although very few cases have been confirmed - six in total - significant absence levels are being reported suggesting a much higher incidence.

It is the view of the Health Protection Agency that we have reached the point where the virus is spread widely through our community and that closing schools at this point will do little to halt the spread of infection. Accordingly, schools will not be directed to close. Both the Council and NHS Southwark believe this to be the right course of action and support the HPA decision. We will ensure you receive their updated advice as soon as it is available.

An emergency centre for the distribution of anti-viral drugs is being established at Dulwich hospital. Drugs will be made available only to those diagnosed, those who have been in close contact with confirmed cases, family members at risk and other vulnerable people.

At this rate of spread it is likely we will see it in further schools in the coming days.

The advice from the HPA remains consistent: those with symptoms - resembling those of a cold, but possibly also with diarrhoea and vomiting -
should not attend school but should contact their GP for advice. Clearly, this could have a major impact on the attendance of both pupils and staff, and schools will need to ensure they have updated business continuity plans in place.

Governors of maintained schools do not have the authority to close schools outside of agreed holiday and training days unless in extremis. However, if governors believe the school cannot be safely staffed after all alternatives have been exhausted they have a duty to ensure the safety of their pupils. Business continuity plans should make clear what processes will be undertaken prior to deciding to close (which might include supervision in the hall of pupils, for example). Schools have been provided with an emergency contact number and email should it prove necessary to close for health and safety reasons.

It is my hope that although we are clearly experiencing a pandemic, the particular strain of virus seems relatively mild and is responsive to anti-virals
which seem to reduce both the severity and duration of the infection.

Please do not hesitate to contact me or Dr Ann-Marie Connolly the Director of Public Health, should you require further guidance or advice.

Yours sincerely

Terry Parkin
Deputy Director of Children’s Services - Education

Harris Academy at Peckham Ofsted Report 2009

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Harris Academy at Peckham is celebrating its excellent Ofsted inspection report. During our May Ofsted inspection, the inspectors said...

Harris Academy at Peckham provides a good standard of education
The Academy is improving rapidly under the new positive leadership of the executive principal
The commitment shown by the teachers and support staff to keep students safe in the academy is impressive
Throughout the academy, there is an extensive range of cultural, sporting and performing arts activities
Students make a very valuable contribution to the community, particularly through their work with neighbouring primary schools in the arts and business enterprise areas and much, much more......

Click on the link below to view the full Ofsted Inspection report....

UK MATHS CHALLENGE

Mon, 11 May 2009 12:00:00 GMT

This year has seen a marked improvement at a National level, when five Year 9 pupils got a variety of medals in the Junior UK Math’s Challenge
test which promotes independent thinking and logical problem solving.

The following students achieved Silver: Samson Adeduntan 9CJU, Joshua Kearney 9PLA;

Bronze: Jack Pfister 9XTR, Georgie Gerogiannis 9BMA and Mojtaba Tajmohammad 9XTR.

LOCAL STUDENT AMONGST THE TOP TEN IN THE COUNTRY

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:00:00 GMT

We have received a letter from the Chief Examiner at Edexcel informing us that Richard Rumble was amongst the highest scoring candidate’s in this summer’s GCSE drama examination.

Out of 60,878 entries, Richard was amongst the top ten students who achieved the highest overall marks

We send Richard, and his teachers Ms Catchpole and Ms Pajovic, our congratulations and best wishes for the future.

EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Ben Armstrong was awarded the Princes Trust Educational Achiever of the Year Award. Ben was a quiet, withdrawn student who felt like he never really fitted in. Things eventually got so bad, his attendance record dropped to just five per cent.

In the two years since Ben joined the XL programme at the Academy at Peckham he thrived and begun to show leadership skills. Ben has been an outstanding student who also completed 6 GCSE’s and obtained certificates and NVQ’s in 5 Vocational courses. Ben has also been chosen to represent the Princes Trust as an Ambassador where he is not only assisting his school but also other students around the country who face similar problems he has experienced.

He’s gone from hardly ever turning up to getting in early every day so he can wait outside his team leader’s office and greet him as he comes in. Ben used to be de-motivated and uninspired, but now he’s secured a place at sixth form and will be helping to run the next Team Programme at his school.

Ben Armstrong, Yabom Sesay and Mr Faure were invited as ambassadors for the Princes Trust to meet Her Majesty the Queen where they received commendations for their work and achievements. This event was made even more special as it was Ben’s birthday and he also received birthday wishes from Her Majesty the Queen.

AWARDS EVENING 2008

Wed, 4 Mar 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Our annual awards evening was held on 27th November 2008 and was a great success.

Students from year 10 were presented with their examination certificates as many had passed maths GCSE and a language GCSE a year early. The students who were in year 11 last year also attended and were presented with their examination certificates by Lord Harris of Peckham.

The guest speaker this year was Martin Jay, the breakshow show DJ from Choice FM. He gave a very motivational talk half way through the event and then presented last year’s Academy College students with their examination certificates.

The head boy, Edward Adejor, and head girl, Amie Mayers, from last year were presented with silver salvers by the chair of governors, Mr Noble. Every student who attended also received a copy of the year book; OPAL (Our Peckham Academy Life) for 2007- 2008. Congratulations to all of the students involved.

LEADERSHIP AWARD

Tue, 3 Mar 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Denzil Faure is the Associate Dean and XL advisor/Link Teacher at Peckham Academy and he was awarded the Princes Trust Educational Leadership of the Year Award at a prestigious event in London.

Working with disadvantaged and challenging students, he uses his role to help young people start believing in themselves, so they can go out into the world with a much better chance of succeeding in life.

He has provided a vast amount of useful opportunities for the students to be able to gain extra qualifications which will assist them in contributing effectively to their communities.

Drama success

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 12:00:00 GMT

Last year, we had 100% success with LAMDA examinations, 48 students obtained distinctions in their outstanding performances. This involved some of our feeder school students at Gloucester Primary school and Oliver Goldsmiths Primary school. Congratulations to the students and to Dawn Pajovic for their hard work.

Voice protection and projection community workshops

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

We are hosting a voice protection and projection workshops for the school and members of the local community. A small but committed group have been working with Christine Berg. She holds a Masters degree from the Central School of Speech and Drama specialising in Vocal studies. Christine is a vocal communication coach and also provides workshops to our BTEC drama and performing arts students.

These protection and projection workshops are a series of after school twilights that started on Mon 3rdNovember2008. The sessions so far attended have been interesting and enabled to discover how body alignment, breath, posture, gestures, resonance are vital for the better projection of voice. There will be another series of workshops starting from Jan 2009 for members of the community to participate.

Arts Partnership Success

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

We are working in Middlesex University and the Royal Academy of Dance hosting teachers as part of their Post Graduate Certificate of Education programmes across art, dance, drama and music.

In addition, we have been working closely with Peckham Shed on a drama collaboration project. Within dance, we continue to work with Akademi and Nzinga dance companies to provide workshops to our students. Zoo Nation who hosted the West End production of ‘Into the Hoods’ will be coming to do a series of Hip Hop workshops. In music, we are liaising with Stomp and the London Backbeat Orchestra to create a series of workshops.

Outreach Community Work

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

This term we have been busy in the community working with two of our feeder schools, Oliver Goldsmith and Gloucester. Both schools are embracing a creative curriculum, and as such I have been introducing 'learning through Drama' with a variety of workshops with different year groups. The Academy's in house theatre company, ‘In Translation' continues to go from strength to strength with growing numbers and two very exciting projects are in the pipeline for next term. Workshops with the BBC and a short film entry to a BBC Blast competition! This term we will be performing a pantomime to our feeder primary schools.

Dawn Pajovic,
Community teacher of drama.

Arts Award success!

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

The Arts Award is a national qualification which supports young people to develop as artists and arts leaders. Young people aged between 11- 25 can achieve Arts Awards at levels 1, 2 and 3 on the national qualifications framework.There are three levels; bronze, silver and gold. Each level increases the knowledge and skill development of the art forms and the leadership skills required. Congratulations to the 20 students who were successful at Silver level which is worth a GCSE grades A* to C using media as their art forms. Ed Bussett, Subject leader for Media.

The Winter of Concert

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

We have been working in collaboration with Highshore School producing a combined choir for the Christmas concert at the Globe Theatre.

This was held on Thursday 11th December 2008 as part of the Southwark Schools’ Winter of Concert celebration of languages. Students had to learn two contrasting songs performing this acapella (unaccompanied) in three part harmony. They rose to the occasion and performed exceedingly well. Congratulations to both schools for working together.

Elgar Clayton, Subject Leader for Music

Michael Grandison Dance Group

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Michael Grandison has recently set up his own dance group as after school on a Wednesday 4.-5.30pm. He delivers a session that focuses on a street dance and Contemporary dance fusion.

The club has attracted a huge amount of interest. His sessions are fun, and have also started to provide the students with opportunities to perform. Recently Michael choreographed a dance piece which as performed at the Performing Arts Evening Soiree. The piece was performed and received very well. Performing is an excellent way to develop the students self-esteem, confidence and team-building skills.

Autumn Evening Soirree

Thu, 4 Dec 2008 12:00:00 GMT

In the evening of the 4thDecember 2008, the year 11 BTEC music group hosted the Evening Soirree

in the school hall. The organisation, promotion and overall running were all done by the students and fulfil the coursework requirements. There were a variety of dance, drama and musical items across the performing arts faculty. We drew a good crowd of fellow students, teachers and parents who seemed to enjoy the evening’s entertainment. This was a ‘dry run’ for the main concert next term. We learned much on the evening and already identified areas we can improve on for the next event. Keep your eyes peeled for the promotion of our next Soirree and I hope you can join us. Thanks to Dujgui Diabate and Tom Singh for their technical expertise.

Lisa To(11ECL) and Rhys Robotham (11VNA)
BTEC Music students

African dance workshop - Nzinga dance organisation

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

African dance workshop - Nzinga dance organisation

In November 2008, Nzinga Dance Company came to the Academy to deliver a dance workshop in a Ghanaian style of African Dance. The workshop was taught to a group of year 8 and year 11 students by Deanna De Souza and accompanied by her live drummer.

The students developed an understanding of how important the relationship between the music and dance is. The students learned a set dance, which they performed to each other at the end of each session. The structure of the dance was determined by set musical cues, which was an excellent way of developing the students listening skills. They thoroughly enjoyed the workshop and inspired by the tutor from Nzinga dance so much that demanded that she come and work with them again !

Alicia Kleity, PGCE Teacher of dance

Music Technology & DJ Investment in the Sixth Form

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

A first for the academy college history, we are completing the BTEC National Award in Music and Music Technology in the sixth form.

It has been a great success so far and the performing arts faculty has invested considerable money. We now have 6 PC computers with Cubase 4, Reason 4 & Sibelius 5. There is a new recording studio with a variety of microphones, an electric drum kit and sets of CD and Vinyl DJ Decks. We are certainly enjoying using the equipment to create our own pieces and record each others’ work.

George Lewis & Stefano Bonku - Year 12 BTEC Music Students

Bollywood! Working with Akademi

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 12:00:00 GMT

In November 2008, a class of year eight students participated in an Indian Bollywood dance workshop led by Ash from Akademi Dance.The Bollywood piece had moving and grooving to a fast beat, combining classical Indian dance steps fused with modern jazz and hip hop. Students enthusiastically met the challenging opportunity to engage with a new form of dance and expressed their thanks and appreciation to Ash and Akademi Dance!

This followed the success of our partnership with Akademi in the Summer where our then year 10 BTEC class performed at the Lord Mayor’s dance festival.

Hannah Fitzgerald
Teacher of Dance

Certified Junior Award Stage Fighting holders Certified Junior Award Stage Fighting holders

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:00:00 GMT

The British Academy of Stage and Screen Combat (BASSC) Junior Grade award course was run over a three day residency over the October half term and two days the week after held with experts, Sam Khan and his assistant Kiera.

This involved unarmed combat from kicking, punching to throat holding to armed combat using swords! Congratulations to the following who passed the award with silver: Kieran Langman, Jade Munns (year 11), Andrew O’Shaughnessy (year 12), Luciano Chungong, Alex Torrado, Michael Grandison & Richard Rumble who passed with gold! “I chose to do stage fighting in school because I thought it would be a good experience and also it would be a valid qualification because I would like to go into acting as a career. I was learning with other year 11 and sixth form students. The people teaching us (Sam and Kiera) were very down to earth which made it, in my opinion much easier to learn. Some of the unarmed combat (for example strangling from behind) was a lot easier than learning than the moves in armed combat (different positions of the swords) but it was all fun to do! (Including playing with the swords)”

Richard Rumble
Year 12 - BASSC Junior Grade Gold Award holder

Dr Harold Moody – Black History project with Peckham Shed

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Peckham Shed has been working with us in a funded project by Southwark Council on a project featuring a famous local black person, Dr Harold Moody as part of Black History month in October 2008.

A play was constructed and Samson Adeduntan, Ayomide Noble, Michael Colvill, Linford Young, Nathanial Danderson, Coner Masters, Jordan Simmons and Mohammed Ismail took part as the actors. They also toured around the local primary schools. The project has been recognised as an excellent community cohesion project by the council and was recently assessed as a possible example of local excellent practice by the Department for culture, media and sport. Thanks to Lucy Bradley from Peckham Shed for co- ordinating the project.

Linzi Adams, Teacher of drama