Humanities

The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before. Geography and History explain how and why, and helps to prepare you for those changes.

Humanities

The world in which we live is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before. Geography and History explain how and why, and helps to prepare you for those changes.

Intent

It is our intent for the Religious Education element of our school curriculum to engage, inspire, challenge and encourage pupils, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to answer challenging questions. Religious Education contributes significantly to the values of the school and enables pupils to ask deep and often searching questions about their own faiths and beliefs, and the beliefs, faiths and opinions of others regarding pertinent contemporary moral issues. The teaching of RE makes links between the beliefs, practices and value systems of a range of faiths and world-views studied. The RE curriculum will help to develop responsibility and respect for all aspects of diversity, whether it be social, cultural and religious, and prepare pupils well for life in modern Britain.

Implementation

Ensuring a rigorous academic curriculum that is challenging, enriching and accessible.
Learning is embedded through the development of knowledge and skills over time. In KS3, the curriculum breadth supports learners’ knowledge and understanding of religions and non-religious beliefs, such as atheism and humanism.
Half-termly assessments are given at the end of each topic. Regular exam questions are given from year 7-10. Throughout each key stage, the learning deepens their understanding of religions and students are given opportunities to identify with teachings and see the impact these may have on their own lives. Planning is mapped coherently.
The planning allows for effective differentiation, marking and feedback, and stretch for all. Pupils have access to key terminology and sources of wisdom. Regular extended writing allows pupils to develop their language and vocabulary.
In Key Stage 4 the learning is built on from KS3 to deepen their understanding of the relationship between people and about common and divergent views within traditions in the way beliefs and teachings are understood and expressed. Students follow the AQA Religious Studies short course for GCSE. Students are given opportunities to explore the fact that religious traditions of Great Britain are, in the main are Christian but that they are also diverse and include other faiths, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism, as well as non-religious beliefs, such as atheism and humanism.
Students are also exposed to Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World, looking at current real world issues. There is scope to develop their ability to construct well-argued, well-informed, balanced and structured written arguments, demonstrating their depth and breadth of understanding of the subject. Students are given opportunities to actively reflect, investigate and make meaning of relationships, the world and God.

Impact

The RE curriculum will have a positive impact on the outcomes of every student. The impact of our curriculum can be measured through confident and well-rounded students who have access to a range of opportunities, attainment and achievement data and quality assurance activities.

These include:

Observing lessons
Lesson planning work trawls
Standards of learning in books/work trawls
Student engagement with lesson activities.
Student feedback questionnaires on understanding and engagement.
Analysis of data including: attendance/behaviour/destination.

Year

Topics covered Sept – Oct

Recovery curriculum adapted

Ultimate Questions

1. What is RE? Why should I study it?

2. Is there a God? Theist

3. Is there a God? Atheist

4. Do we all have a soul?

5. What happens when we die?

6. How do I know what right and wrong is?

Eastern religions- Hinduism – What role does God have in the world?

1. How did Hinduism begin?

2. Who are some of the Hindu Gods?

3. How do Hindus worship God?

4. What is Diwali and how is it celebrated?

5. What is Karma?

6. What are Hindu believes on Life after death?

AQA GCSE- Religious studies – Christian beliefs

1. What is the nature of God?

2. Why is the Trinity important?

3. Why is there Evil and Suffering?

4. What is the Story of Creation?

5. Who is Jesus? Incarnation and the son of God.

6. Why was Jesus crucified?

7. What was the Resurrection and Ascension?

8. What are Christian beliefs on life after death?

9. What is Sin and Salvation?

GCSE AQA- Religion, peace and conflict

1. Introduction to religion, peace and conflict,

2. What is terrorism and how do people protest?

3. What are the reasons why countries go to war?

4. Should nuclear and weapons of mass destruction be used?

5. What is the just war theory?

6. What is holy war? Can it be justified?

7. What is pacifism? What do pacifists believe?

8. What are the religious responses for the victims of war?

Topics covered Oct – Dec

Recovery curriculum adapted

Judaism- How did God support the Jews?

1. How did Judaism begin?

2. What is a Synagogue and how do Jews worship?

3. Who are the different types of Jews?

4. What is the story of Moses and the ten plagues?

5. Why is Passover important for Jews?

6. Judaism in history & The Holocaust

Philosophy and Ethics- Why is there suffering in the world?

1. What is Moral and Natural evil?

2. Can an all loving God exist alongside evil and suffering?

3. Why do crimes happen?

4. What are the different aims of punishment?

5. How are prisoners treated and what support is there?

6. Should the death penalty be legalised in the UK?

GCSE AQA- Relationship and family

1. What are Christian beliefs about Homosexuality?

2. Marriage

3. Divorce

4. Family

6.Planning and Contraception

7. Purpose of families

8.The role of men and women in society

AQA GCSE- Religious studies – Christian beliefs

1. What is the nature of God?

2. Why is the Trinity important?

3. Why is there Evil and Suffering?

4. What is the Story of Creation?

5. Who is Jesus? Incarnation and the son of God.

6. Why was Jesus crucified?

7. What was the Resurrection and Ascension?

8. What are Christian beliefs on life after death?

9. What is Sin and Salvation?

Home learning expected

Homework will consist of:

· Practice exam questions

· IT Projects

· Mind maps of recent topics

· Newspaper and media research of examples of topics in the news.

Homework will consist of:

• Practice exam questions

• IT Projects

• Mind maps of recent topics

• Newspaper and media research of examples of topics in the news.

Homework will consist of:

• Practice exam questions

• IT Projects

• Mind maps of recent topics

• Newspaper and media research of examples of topics in the news.

Homework will consist of:

• Practice exam questions

• IT Projects

• Mind maps of recent topics

• Newspaper and media research of examples of topics in the news.

Support at home/websites

What is RE? & Big Questions – Philosophy and Ethics

Lesson 1 – Some great videos from professionals saying why they are glad they studied RE. Used for options, but worth a watch.

Lesson 2 – BBC bitesize website has a good description of some of the arguments for the existence of God and criticisms.

Lesson 3 – Article about why people don’t believe in God.

Lesson 4 – Belief in the soul (religion and philosophy)

Lesson 5 – Afterlife. Watch series 1, episode 1 of ‘The story of God with Morgan Freeman’ on Netflix. He travels all over the world finding answers to big religious and philosophical questions. Episode 1 is ‘beyond death’. This also touches on lesson 4- the soul.

Lesson 6 – utilitarianism.

Situation ethics.

Eastern religions- Hinduism – What role does God have in the world?

Lesson 1 – How did Hinduism begin?

Video 2, video 3.

Lesson 2 – Who are some of the Hindu Gods?

Video 2.

Lesson 3 – What is Diwali?

video 2, video 3.

Lesson 4 – What is Karma?

video 2.

Lesson 5 – What do Hindus believe about life after death?

video 2

AQA GCSE Relationships and Family

Lesson 1- The diverse attitudes within Christianity towards same sex relationships

• Interpretations of Leviticus 20:13 and 1 Timothy 1:8-20

Lesson 2- The key features of a Christian marriage ceremony.

• The traditional symbolism within a Christian marriage ceremony.

video 2.

Lesson 3- To know varying Christian attitudes towards, divorce.

Lesson 4- How family life has changed in the twenty first century. Video 2.

Lesson 5– Family planning and contraception

• The different types of contraception.

• The Natural law/absolutist approach of Thomas Aquinas’ Five Primary precepts.

• The different beliefs about contraception: Roman Catholic, Church of England and Humanist.

Lesson 6– Role of men and women in society

•The traditional views on the roles of men and women.

•The religious teachings about the roles of men and women. Video 2.

AQA Religious Studies – Christian beliefs

Lesson 2 – The Trinity. Video 2.

Lesson 4– Creation

Lesson 5&6 – Incarnation. Video 2, Video 3.

Lesson 7- Resurrections and ascension. Video 2.

Lesson 8– Christian beliefs on life after death. Video 2. Video 3.

Intent

The Geography department at Whitley Academy are committed to engaging, challenging and supporting students in order to help them ‘be the best they can be’. We want to promote human and physical characteristics of places across the world that makes our planet unique. Our curriculum encourages students to become global citizens by giving them opportunities to develop the key geographical skills both inside and outside of the classroom. We want our learners to be inspired to continue their study of Geography beyond Post-16 and become ‘life-long geographers’.

Implementation

Staff apply their expert subject knowledge to plan a wide variety of interesting, fun and compelling learning activities for all students.
Each scheme of learning is designed to draw upon prior learning in order to progress further.
Teachers plan effective schemes of learning that build students’ knowledge, understanding and skills explicitly and progressively.
A robust and regular assessment structure to help students reflect on their previous learning and knowledge.
Systematic quality assurance approach to ensure the maximum impact of student knowledge and progress.

Impact

The Geography curriculum will have a positive impact on the outcomes of every student. The impact of our curriculum can be measured through confident and well-rounded students who have access to a range of opportunities, attainment and achievement data and quality assurance activities.

These include:

Observing lessons
Lesson planning work trawls
Standards of learning in books/work trawls
Student engagement with lesson activities.
Student feedback questionnaires on understanding and engagement.
Analysis of data including: attendance/behaviour/destination.

Year	7	8	9	10	11
Topics covered Sept – Oct Recovery curriculum adapted	N/A	Population What happened to the number of people on the planet? Why is the world’s population not evenly distributed? Where do people live in the UK and why? What has happened to the number or people on the planet?	Natural Hazards What risks are there in Coventry? How can risk be managed in Coventry? How do tectonic plates move? Why are there so many volcanoes at plate boundaries? Why are volcanoes so risky? What are the impacts of the Mount Pinatubo eruption?	People of the UK What are the urban trends in the UK? How diverse is the UK? How is the UK’s population changing?	Physical Landscapes of the UK How does the physical landscapes of the UK differ by location? What are the geomorphic processes that affects the shape of coastline? What are the coastal landforms?
Topics covered Oct – Dec Recovery curriculum adapted		Population Why has the UK’s population changed over time? What are the causes and consequences of an ageing population? Where do people in the UK come from and why? What makes people undertake long and dangerous journeys to the UK?	Natural Hazards Is it possible to predict a volcanic eruption? Does the UK ever have earthquakes? What happened during the Sichuan earthquake? How do the impacts of the Fukushima earthquake compare the impacts in Sichuan?	People of the UK What are the UK’s major trading partners? Leeds: A major city in the UK – case study Salford Quays: Economic growth & decline – case study	Physical Landscapes of the UK What are the characteristics of a river? How does the river vary from the source to the mouth? What are the landforms found in the upper/middle/lower course of a river? UK River Basin: Case Study – River Wye
Home learning expected		Independent learning – research tasks, consolidating learning (MS Teams groups set-up)		Independent learning –exam questions, knowledge organisers (MS Teams groups set-up)
Support at home/websites		BBC Bitesize KS3 Teach It Geography KS3 – Website		BBC Bitesize GCSE Geography – OCR https://www.s-cool.co.uk/gcse/geography

Intent

The History department at Whitley Academy are committed to engaging, challenging and supporting students in order to help them ‘be the best they can be’. Our goal is to enable all students to truly learn and understand some of the astonishing events, remarkable people and changes that have taken place in Britain and across the world. The curriculum is structured to nurture a love of History through the development of key historical concepts using evidence, interpretations, significance, change and continuity and cause and consequence.

Implementation

Staff apply their expert subject knowledge to plan a wide variety of interesting, fun and compelling learning activities for all students.
Each scheme of learning is designed to draw upon prior learning in order to progress further.
Teachers plan effective schemes of learning that build students’ knowledge, understanding and skills explicitly and progressively.
A robust and regular assessment structure to help students reflect on their previous learning and knowledge.
Systematic quality assurance approach to ensure the maximum impact of student knowledge and progress.

Impact

The History curriculum will have a positive impact on the outcomes of every student. The impact of our curriculum can be measured through confident and well-rounded students who have access to a range of opportunities, attainment and achievement data and quality assurance activities.

These include:

Observing lessons
Lesson planning work trawls
Standards of learning in books/work trawls
Student engagement with lesson activities.
Student feedback questionnaires on understanding and engagement
Analysis of data including: attendance/behaviour/destination.

Year	7	8	9	10	11
Topics covered Sept – Oct Recovery curriculum adapted	Victorian England Life during the 19th Century Inferring from sources about life in the 19th Century The Royal family during the Victorian Era Causes of the Industrial Revolution Consequences of the Industrial Revolution Life after the Industrial Revolution Factors that led to the population boom Victorian schools and education Life in a workhouse Differences between the rich and the poor	WW1 Why did war breakout in 1914? What triggered war in 1914? Why did the Schlieffen Plan fail? Why did people go to war?	WW2 Was the Treaty of Versailles fair? Who were the dictators? Why did the League of Nations fail? Did Hitler deliberately plan for WW2? How did Germany defeat France so quickly?	Entertainment and Leisure Development of Sport over time How did holidays and travel develop? How did music & dance develop over time?
Topics covered Oct – Dec Recovery curriculum adapted	Victorian England Leisure and entertainment in the Victorian Era Crime and punishment in the Victorian Era Diseases and medicines The importance of the Great Exhibition	WW1 What was life like in the trench? What weapons were used in trench warfare? How did the war affect ordinary people at home? How did ‘Poppy Day’ start?	WW2 How did the RAF win the Battle of Britain? The Blitz – Why did Germany target civilians? What was happening to Jews in Nazi Germany? Why did Germany build death camps? How did people survive the concentration camps?	Entertainment and Leisure How did children’s entertainment develop over time? How did theatre, stage and screen develop over time? How did blood sports develop over time? Local study Butlins Local study- Wembley
Home learning expected	Independent learning – research tasks, consolidating learning (MS Teams groups set-up)			Independent learning –exam questions, knowledge organisers (MS Teams groups set-up)
Support at home/websites	BBC Bitesize KS3 Teach It History KS3			BBC Bitesize GCSE History – WJEC

Doing something positive during the pandemic

Wellbeing bags donated by Caroline Freeman- Cuerden who wanted to do something positive during the pandemic. She kindly donated gifts to 20 of our most vulnerable students at Whitley Academy.
'Lockdown' Radio Plays from Students at Whitley Academy

Students were tasked with creating a Radio Play titled ‘Lockdown’. Eve – Year 10 and Eva - Year 7 have created something that captures the thoughts, feelings and emotions felt by so many of us during this time. We...
Student Leaders Newsletter February 2021

Please read this new edition of the Student Leaders Newsletter produced by the students for the students of Whitley Academy.
Thanks for the Food Parcels - Langar Aid and Hope Springs Church Coventry

Many thanks to Langar Aid and Hope Springs Church Coventry for their kind donation of food parcels for our vulnerable families. Also thank you to Cheylesmore Food Hub for their donation of breakfast bars for the Key worker students...
The Immersive Work Experience with InvestIN Education

My Journey on the Young Doctor Programme Written by Lily-Ann -Year 8 student Hello everyone, Today, I am going to tell you about my experience participating in the virtual Young Doctors Programme which took place on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th of...
Useful Websites

Winter Grant Scheme www.coventry.gov.uk/info/1/council_and_democracy/3811/winter_grant_scheme_questions_and_answers Increase in Mobile Data get-help-with-tech.education.gov.uk/about-increasing-mobile-data Mental Health Help www.mentalhealth.org.uk www.youngminds.org.uk Child Related Issues https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/our-services/childline/ Samaritans https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/ Safeguarding email monitored 24/7 Safeguarding@whitleyacademy.com
Reward Assemblies

Click here to view the Year 7 Rewards Assembly winners. Click here to view the Year 8 Rewards Assembly winners. Click here to view the Year 9 Rewards Assembly winners. Click here to view the Year 10 Rewards Assembly winners. Click here to...
Staying Safe over the Christmas Period

As well as giving the typical advice for Parents to ensure any and all new devices (phones/ computers/ games consoles) that are being given to children over Christmas are set up with parental controls to ensure they are being...
The Virtual Conversation with Mr Richard Murrell - Senior Director of the BBC News - an Unforgettable Afternoon Lesson for Us All

Written by Jamie – Year 8 student reporter and Mrs Nguyen On Tuesday 2nd December 2020, Richard Murrell, the Senior Director of BBC News, hosted an hour’s talk with all students at Whitley Academy via an online session on Microsoft...
Cheylesmore Food Hub

We are supporting a local food bank, we will also be doing a food collection over the next two weeks, so any non-perishable food items will be gratefully received. Students can leave their donations in their tutor rooms. Any Families...
UK Parliament Week 1st- 7th November 2020

Our Live Online Conversations with Zarah Sultana – The Coventry South MP By Eve and Lola – Year 10 Young Reporters We started our school week like normal until our tutor classes were made aware of the fact that from...
Remembrance Day 2020

Remembrance Day 2020 at Whitley Academy.
Poetry Writing Competition

In tutor time, students read a poem about Autumn and all students in Years 7-11 were invited to participate in a creative writing poetry competition. Several students showcased their original and imaginative views of ‘Autumn’. The entries were beautifully...
European Day of Languages at Whitley!

Written by Alesha S – Year 9 student reporter Have you ever wondered how many languages are spoken over the world? Over 7000, that’s right. European Day of Languages is a celebration of different languages and cultures world-wide. It first...
Breakfast club receives funding boost from Kellogg's

To celebrate 20 years of supporting school breakfast clubs, Kellogg’s has awarded Whitley Academy with £1,000 to enhance the club and help feed children in the morning. We were selected to receive this boost as Kellogg’s announce they are to...
Black History Month

We're celebrating Black History Month at Whitley! Take a look at this week's inspirational figure: Barack Obama. Presentation
Virtual Open Evening
US Embassy Debate

The Frankly Speaking Competition 2020 By Rhys, Lola and Eve – Young Reporters Journey Friday 28th February 2020 – the February half-term break week in Coventry… Barely able to keep our eyes open, we arrived in Coventry train station at 6:45am. We found...
Pre-loved uniform

We have a small amount of 'pre-loved uniform' that is available to purchase. If you are having financially difficulty and would like to purchase some of the uniform, please email admin@whitleyacademy.com with your request and sizes and phone number....
Rewards and End of Year Assemblies

Please see below reward and end of year assemblies. Congratulations to the winners! Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Year 12
New Health & Safety measures in place

See below some photos that demonstrate how we have adapted the school to meet current health and safety guidelines.
And the winner is....

Congratulations to winner Taylor B for his red velvet rainbow cake (pictured below). Runners up include: Erin S for her rainbow sweets Aarool B for his epic monologue Shagun V for her beautiful monologue Thanks to all the entrants!
A message to all students from our staff...
Year 13 Leavers video!

A message from Post 16 staff to say goodbye and good luck to our Year 13 leavers...
Year 11 Leavers video

A message from year 11 staff to those leaving this year...
WA Numeracy Day Challenge!

Today (13th May) is national Numeracy Day! Mr Tibke has set all Whitley Academy students a challenge to solve- click here.
Creative Arts Rainbow Challenge
Whitley Academy's careers fair

A Path to our Future Written by: Siah and Alesha – year 8 Young Reporters On Tuesday 10th March 2020, Whitley Academy hosted a Careers Fair in the Presentation Hall for Careers Week, with stalls from external providers, colleges and...
The Whitley Academy clean up!
A visit to the Lord Mayor's Office

An enlightening experience in the Lord Mayor's Office. By Ruby and Jamie – Year 7 Young Reporters On Monday 10th February 2020 a group of students from Whitley Academy paid a visit to the iconic and well-known masterpiece of building in...
My first day as a Sutton scholar

My First Day as a Sutton Scholar... Blog written by Alesha, Year 8 Young Reporter. Have you ever wondered what it’s like inside a university? I did until I got the opportunity to go to Warwick University as a Sutton Scholar. An...
"Experience Doesn’t Always Mean Success"- 2020 ESU Churchill Public Speaking Competition

By Lola and Eve Year 9 Whitley Academy student reporters When we boarded our school mini bus on Monday 27th January, we had no idea of what was ahead of us. An amazing evening filled with inspirational speeches and on...
KS3 & 4 Careers Fair 10th March

Whitley will be hosting it's very own Careers Fair on Tuesday 10th March with stalls from external providers, colleges and Universities in attendance. If you would like to get involved, please contact the event's organiser at: H.Duggins@whitleyacademy.com
Parentview

The school will be undergoing on Ofsted inspection on Wednesday 8th January. Ofsted are inviting you to express your views on the school by completing their online survey: http://www.parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/ Please find a link to the letter from Ofsted on our Letters and...
Our very own Annie Production- A Magical Show to be Remembered!

Written by Alesha and Vedhasa – Year 8 student reporters “The sun'll come out Tomorrow, so you gotta hang on till tomorrow, come what may! Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I love ya, Tomorrow! You're only a day away.” - From the song...
"An evening of joy and creativity"

The Evening Of Joy and Creativity Written by: Ruby and Hassan of 7OM* December 2019 On Tuesday the 3rd of December 2019, a Christmas fayre was held in the canteen of our school – Whitley Academy. When you walked through the school...
Christmas Jumper/ Non- Uniform day

Join in with our Christmas Jumper / Non-uniform day Friday 20th December!
£400 raised for Macmillan Cancer Support!

See below the thank you notice from Macmillan Cancer Support for the money raised by our school council.
A Visit from a Multi-Talented Personality: Susie McKenna

Written by Alesha, Siah, Vedhasa and Aarool, Year 8 Young Reporters ‘Tell me it’s not possible and I’ll always try to find a way’- Susie McKenna On the 11th of October 2019, the multi professional and motivational storyteller, Susie McKenna, made...
Frankenstein at the Belgrade

Some Year 9 students were lucky enough to go to The Belgrade to see a performance of ‘Frankenstein’ on Thursday 10 October. The novel, by Mark Shelley, is one that all Year 9 students read and study and it...
Year 10 Parental Engagement Evening

We hosted a Parental Engagement Evening on Monday 14th October, at 6pm – 7pm. This was aimed at helping Year 10 parents/carers support their child(ren) through their GCSE’s. Parents/carers are welcome to download a presentation from the evening, and the...
Join us for Post 16 Open Evening

Our Post 16 Open Evening is Thursday 17th October, starting from 6pm. It will be an opportunity for prospective students to meet our staff, and discover our fantastic learning environment and facilities. We have a celebrated history of Post 16...
'Open Mornings' for parents and carers

Parents/Carers, you are invited to take a look around our school 'in action'! You will be given a tour of the school in the morning, visiting lessons and witnessing what a typical day is like. Available on 2nd/4th October,...
Whitley Academy Opening Evening - September 12th from 6PM.

To all interested parents/carers, You are invited to come and see our fantastic school and facilities. There will be a presentation followed by a tour of the school to meet staff and students. The evening will start at 6PM in the...
Student successes on GCSE results day

We'd like to congratulate all students that collected a great set of GCSE results this morning, including Dillon (pictured above left), who achieved 2 grade 8s, 2 grade 7s, and several grade 6s. Dillon will become our Deputy Head...
First ever student from Whitley Academy successful with Cambridge application

Whitley Academy are delighted to discover that our Y13 Head Girl, Katie, has been accepted to read Economics at Cambridge. Katie becomes the first ever student from Whitley Academy to be successful with a Cambridge application. Since achieving 4 A*...
Exam success for many Post 16 students

Whitley Academy has had another successful year with Post 16 results. 95% have confirmed offers at university or apprenticeships, including Katie (pictured above centre), who achieved 4 A*s in Geography, Maths, Further Maths and Economics, and will be attending the...
An assembly of rewards for Year 7 pupils

Written by: Alesha, Pebbles, Vedhasa, Kim and Siah, Year 7 Young Reporters It was the last assembly of the year! An assembly full of achievements, trophies and prizes! Many of our friends had taken some time to settle in at Whitley...
Lots of fun at the annual Whitley Academy festival

We had lots of fun at our annual festival including epic sumo battles, cake tasting, and face painting! We hope pupils are enjoying a relaxing summer break and we'll see you again on September 4th for the start of...
Visiting the magical world of Harry Potter

Written by Kim and Siah, Year 7 Young Reporters On 5th July 2019, as a year-end reward trip, 26 Year 7 students visited Harry Potter World (Warner Bros Studios Tour London). There is some big Harry Potter fans in Year...
British Council International School Award re-accredited to Whitley Academy

Whitley Academy has been awarded the British Council’s prestigious International School Award in recognition of its work to bring the world into the classroom. The International School Award celebrates the achievements of schools that do exceptional work in international education....
Get extreme reading this summer!

Take a photo of yourself reading in an ‘extreme’ place (without endangering yourself)! Be as creative or imaginative as you like. We look forward to receiving your photos, which will be displayed in school at the start of term. Entries...
An unforgettable experience at Windsor Castle

Written by Alesha and Aarool – Year 7 Young Reporters Have you ever thought about visiting the largest castle in the world? The most majestic castle in the world? The most regal, yet still inhabited castle in the world? Yep!...
Lots of fun for primary pupils on Induction Day

On Wednesday 3rd July, we hosted our annual Induction Day/Evening for Year 6 pupils who plan to join Whitley Academy in September. This can be both an exciting and daunting day for children, so we endeavour to make it...
Join us in celebrating pupil artwork at annual exhibition

On Tuesday 9th July, we are hosting an exhibition of our Year 11 and Post 16 Art and Photography work, from 4pm until 6pm in the Presentation Hall. Please feel free to come check out the wonderful work!
Year 11 Prom Transport Notice

Please note that for anybody intending to follow the coaches leaving the school to go to the prom venue in vehicles such as limousines with the capacity to carry 8 or less passengers that these vehicles require a licence...
Whitley Academy Summer Festival

Come and enjoy the fun!
Pre-loved blazer & tie sale

Parents and carers, please make note of our 'pre-loved' blazer & tie sale on July 3rd.
Graduating from the Warwick Sutton Scholarship programme

Warwick Sutton Scholars is a two year programme at Warwick University, for highly able Year 8 and 9 students who come from backgrounds that are under-represented in higher education. The programme is open to schools from across the West...
Walking through the ages at the Tower of London and Houses of Parliament

Written by Alesha, Siah, Vedhasa, Aarool and Eve, Year 7 and 8 Young Reporters Have you ever imagined what it would be like to visit where the Prime Minister works? Or walk through the exact place where many historical Kings...
National Space Centre inspires Year 10 pupils

Written by Daizy, Year 10 student reporter On Monday 17th June, Year 10 pupils visited the National Space Centre in Leicester to learn more about scientists, including how some were battling against climate change, developing cutting edge transport, and fighting...
'Beauty of Nature' pupil photograph wins local competition

We are pleased to announce that Year 11 pupil Casey Meredith, has won the local heat of the Rotary Young Photographers' competition. Casey's photograph was picked from 40 entrants from different schools across Coventry, and depicts the ‘Beauty of Nature’....
A visit to the Birmingham BBC Visitor Centre: A Jungle of buttons and wires

Written by Alesha and Carter, Year 7 Student reporters We all take watching television programmes for granted, but only a few of us get to know what goes on behind the scenes. So when our group of Young Reporters got...
Year 8 pupils celebrate 'Japan Day'

On Friday 24th May 2019, Year 8 teaching staff celebrated the end of the spring term by hosting 'Japan Day' for our Year 8 pupils. This day is part of our enrichment program, outside of normal lesson time, where...
Notice regarding Coventry City Council ANPR enforcement car

We’re pleased to let you know that Coventry City Council now has its own ANPR enforcement car to tackle unsafe and antisocial parking around schools, and improve road safety for the city’s children. It will be operational from next...
Examination period and study leave

Parents and carers, please view a letter regarding the examination period and study leave expectations of our students.
Pupils develop key outdoor skills on DofE (Duke of Edinburgh's Award) Expeditions

As part of the Bronze and Silver levels of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme (DofE) offered at Whitley Academy, students are required to take part in Day Walks to gain knowledge and understanding of key outdoor skills. These...
Pupils enjoy unforgettable ski trip to French Alps

On 2nd March 2019, 35 students accompanied by 5 staff members embarked on what turned out to be an unforgettable ski trip to the French Alps. The group travelled by air to Italy, where the journey progressed onward to their final...
Taking time to reflect: A visit to the 'Knife Angel' in Coventry

Written by Alesha, Vedhasa, Siah, and Kim, Year 7 student reporters In March 2019, a group of pupils from Whitley Academy went on an inspirational trip to see Coventry's popular visitor, the 'Knife Angel'. We felt privileged to be chosen by...
Welcoming in the new season - A 'photo-story' by Kim and Alesha (Year 7 student reporters)

'Photo-stories' are a new initiative for our Year 7 student reporters. They contain photographs taken by the students themselves, set around a theme of their choosing, and are designed to improve their photography skills, as well as 'blogging', or 'having...
'Faraday Challenge Day' excites Year 8 pupils

On Monday 25th March, thirty six Year 8 pupils participated in the exciting and inspiring 'Faraday Challenge Day', hosted by the IET (Institute of Engineering and Technology) at our school. They worked superbly well in small teams, to see who...
Sitting down for lunch with the Lord Mayor of Coventry

Written by Alesha – Year 7 Student Reporter There are 7.7 billion people on this planet, however, only a few aim high and face the never-ending challenges to achieve their goals. One of these determined people is The Lord Mayor...
Revision race tracker for Year 11

Week 6 This week's winners are Emma Smith and Owen Goldstein Combined hours total
Year 9 Options Evening coming on Thurs 21st March

Year 9 pupils, which direction will you choose? It's Options Evening on Thursday 21st March 2019, starting at 6pm. There will be a presentation in the Auditorium, followed by an opportunity to look at courses on offer, and speak to members...
Big day of reporting for our Year 7 BBC Young Reporters

Written by Kim, Alesha, Siah and Vedahasa, Year 7 student reporters It’s our BIG DAY of reporting from the Year 7 BBC Young Reporters. We started Whitley Academy back in September 2018, having had little experience in media and reporting,...
Year 7 Africa Day - A day full of bright colours

Written by Alesha, Vedhasa, Alok and Yara – Year 7 student reporters On the 1st February 2019, our Year 7 pupils celebrated Africa Day. Usual lessons were transformed into African themed ones, full of dancing, speaking of African languages, and...
We're encouraging students to eat healthily in 2019

If you follow Whitley Academy on its various social media channels, you’ve probably noticed that our catering staff are encouraging students and staff to eat healthily in the early months of this year. We’ve found that the knowledge developed in...
A rewarding evening at the Rotary Youth Speaks competition

Written by Omonigho and Andreea – Year 8 student reporters On Friday the 25th of January 2019, 6 courageous Year 8 students went to Bablake Senior School to represent Whitley Academy in the Rotary Youth Speaks competition (with the help...
Whitley pupils become 'Dementia Friends'

On 30th January, a group of 38 pupils and Miss Hilditch took part in a session after school to learn about dementia and became ‘Dementia Friends’. The Dementia Friends initiative is a social action project from the Alzheimer’s Society...
A super start for our pupils at the 'Warwick Sutton Scholars' programme

Written by Ibrahim, Year 8 Student Reporter It was Saturday the 12th of January, when five fortunate students (accompanied by their teacher Mrs Nguyen) went to Warwick University for the launch of the 'Warwick Sutton Scholars' event. We had all...
Whitley Academy history found in Kettering barn

Back in 1984, an all white, two-seater car called "Abbey Cat", was built at the then "Whitley Abbey Comprehensive School" of Coventry, by 16 year-old pupils Peter Walker, David Wyer, David Black, and 17 year-old Stephen Campbell. After completion,...
Interested in Training to Teach?

Find out more by visiting us at one of our Train to Teach events or contact us by email for any further information on our courses or provision. 11th February 2019 : 3pm – 6pm : The Clayton Hotel, Birmingham...
Twitter Vice President inspires our pupils to be creative and determined to get dream jobs

Written by Alesha, Hannah, Victoria, Keira and Vedhasa, Year 7 Student Reporters, Whitley Academy Achieving true happiness and balance at work can be seen as a never ending challenge. This is something that Bruce Daisley (Vice President for Europe, Twitter)...
'Register and Be a Lifesaver (R&BE)' Charity Visits Post 16 Students

Post 16 students Ben and Nadra (Deputy Head Boy/Girl), along with Mrs Wright (Principal), were very proud to receive a certificate this morning from 'Register and Be a Lifesaver (R&BE)', an independent charitable trust delivering awareness raising presentations about stem...
Parents' Information Guide

We invite parents and carers to review helpful information about our school, such as pupil expectations, pupil support and guidance, and our curriculum experience by clicking the link above. The linked page also contains information published from an organisation called...
Year 11 Exam and Intervention Information

Note: For individual subject resources see relevant subject curriculum website pages. 'Intervention' is extra support provided to students outside the regular classroom setting. This can either be provided on a 1-1 basis or as group support. Mock Week 1 (Week Beginning...
Whole school production of 'Matilda' dazzles audience

A message from Mrs Stokes - Curriculum Leader, Performing Arts. Whitley Academy’s first whole school musical production in over 10 years, 'Matilda', was performed for an audience from our local community on Tuesday 18th December. Thank you for joining us...
Year 9 pupils experience a day at Warwick University

Last week, the University of Warwick arranged a taster day for a selection of pupils to teach them about what university life can offer. Several schools were in attendance, and on arrival our students were mixed into smaller groups...
Lots of fun at the Whitley Academy Christmas Fayre

Written by Keira and Hanna – Year 7 student reporters The evening of Tuesday 4th December was our very own Christmas Fayre at Whitley Academy. Our excitement started kicking in as soon as the first colourful posters were put up...
A memorable day debating at Warwick University

Written by Lara and Andreea, Whitley Academy student reporters. On Saturday November 24th, ten passionate and courageous pupils (and our devoted Mrs Nguyen) from our school met in front of the Chemistry Building at Warwick University, Coventry. We had come...
Come and enjoy our Christmas Fayre

Parents and carers, come and enjoy some Christmas fun next week at our Fayre! Starting at 5pm on Tuesday 4th December.
Retired Artist/Chairman of the Coventry Society, Paul Maddocks, illustrates Teacher Training Day’s lecture by Matt Bromley.

Thank you to Coventry Society Chairman Paul Maddocks, and education consultant Matt Bromley, for working together to create a fantastic piece of artwork inspired by our staff training day. Matt spoke passionately to our teaching staff about how to enhance...
End of term production 'Matilda' - tickets now on sale

Parents/carers, Tickets to our end of term production 'Matilda' are now available via Reception or ParentPay.
'Tapestry' perform to Year 9 and Year 10 pupils

On Thursday 15th November, we hosted a visit by the theatre-in-education tour 'Tapestry', devised originally by West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council. The group of performers explored the implications and consequences of extremist thinking and action. Originally devised and...
Year 12 students explore career opportunities at the National Space Centre

Written by Divya, Year 12 student. Recently, Year 12 science students visited the National Space Centre in Leicester. It was a fantastic day that showed the diversity of careers available in the scientific field as well as within the space...
Remembrance: A Day at the National Memorial Arboretum

"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them." 'Ode of Remembrance' poem from 'For the...
Three-phase roofing project completed

Following the recent completion of our three-phase roofing projects valued at over £1 million, we are really pleased to share this fantastic footage of our school captured from the sky. It showcases our new roofing, which we hope will...
A trip to Bletchley Park

Written by Holly and Lucy, year 9 student reporters Winston Churchill described the code-breakers at Bletchley Park as 'the geese that laid the golden eggs and never cackled'. For your information, Bletchley Park was a series of top secret buildings in...
A Workshop with Royal Designer for Industry, Mary Restieaux

Four Post 16 students went to do a textiles workshop in London at Mary Restieaux’s home this September. Mary Restieaux is a Royal designer for Industry and has had a good career in textile design, specialising in woven textiles. Over...
Life in Year 7 podcasts

Year 7 pupils have started producing some fantastic podcasts about life in Year 7 at Whitley Academy, you can listen to their first episode here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWQFttrk9_M
Showcasing 'i-Reporter' at the Kia Oval, London

Written By Eve and Lola – Year 8 student reporters On the 25th of September, three Whitley Academy student reporters (Lola, Ciaran and Eve) accompanied by their teacher Mrs Nguyen, and Miss Sharon Stokes, Head of BBC School Report, headed...
Pupil Art Cards

Small packs of cards featuring the fantastic artwork of our pupils are now available to purchase from our online uniform shop.
Initial Teacher Training Recruitment

Firstly, we would like to congratulate our cohort of trainees from 2017-18 on the successful completion of their training, it was a great year. It was a real privilege to watch these trainees professional development - they acted upon...
'Tokyo Fugue', Performance of a Lifetime

Written by Freya, Lola, and Diakite - Year 8 student reporters On Friday 7th September 2018, 'Tarinainanika' (an international physical theatre company based in Tokyo, Japan) delivered an unusually interesting performance to Whitley Academy pupils that opened our eyes to...
Open Evening on 13th September

To all interested parents and carers, Whitley Academy's Open Evening will be on 13th September this year, starting at 6pm. You are invited to come and see our fantastic school and facilities. There will be a short presentation, followed by...
Pre-loved Uniform Sale

A small amount of pre-loved blazers are available to purchase in school for £5. Additionally, there are other uniform items for sale but on a limited basis. Please see Miss Hilditch in the first instance.
Some outstanding results in new specification GCSEs

This is the first year that year 11 students have completed the new specification GCSEs in nearly all of their subjects, with grades 1-9 replacing the traditional letter grades (A*-U). There were some good results from pupils across a...
Students achieve the school’s best ever A-Level results in 2018 despite the new linear exams

Students have achieved the school’s best ever A level results this year despite the new linear exams. 44% of all grades achieved were A*-B with a 96% pass rate. Over a quarter of all students achieved A*-B grades in...
Expansion of our Educational Support Building

During the Summer break this year, we have worked on extending our educational support building with a modular classroom and counselling unit. This exciting new space will allow us to offer more options for pupils who need it, when...
Awards Evening at Whitley Academy

Written By Ava, Lola and Eve - Year 7 student reporters “There is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs” Zig Ziglar (Motivational Teacher) The Whitley Academy Awards Evening happens once a year which means it’s a great honour...
Post 16 Dates - A-Level Results Day and Year 13 Enrolment

A Level Results Day Results for the summer examinations will be available for both year 12 and 13 on Thursday 16th August. Year 13 can collect their results from 9:30.a.m. until 10:30a.m. Advice and guidance for UCAS or next steps...
A Day at the BBC Mailbox in Birmingham

29th June 2018 By Ava and Lola – Year 7 student reporters At 7:55am, eight lucky student reporters arrived at Coventry Train Station. We were prepared and ready to board the train to Birmingham. It was 8:22am by the time the...
Warwick Sutton Scholars - Year 1 Celebration Event

Written by Abdul – Year 8 student reporter On Saturday 9th of June, I went to the Warwick Sutton Scholarship Celebration event. The event was to mark the end of our first year at Warwick University. For your information, the Warwick...
Travelling through history in London

By Eve and Ava – Year 7 student reporters It was 8:00 am on Friday 25th May, and the rain was pouring down (typical British weather) by the time we arrived at Coventry train station. We were surrounded by our...
First World War Centenary Battlefields Tour

Written by Duncan Van Den Top – Year 9 student reporter “The cries of the wounded had much diminished now, and as we staggered down the road, the reason was only too apparent, for the water was right over the...
Whitley Academy Pupil Arts Exhibition

We'd like to invite all parents, carers, and members of the local community to view the fantastic art work of our students, at our annual Summer Arts Exhibition, on Tuesday 10th July, 4pm - 6pm. Please come along and support...
Multi-Sports Summer Camp

Last chance this week to book onto the Multi-Sports Camp which starts next Monday 23rd July. Note: *** This club is not run by Whitley Academy and interested parties should contact Jamie at jlmultisportsclub@gmail.com
A Morning at the BBC Coventry and Warwickshire Building

Written by Eve and Lola - student reporters Wednesday 13th June was a bright, sunny morning, and along with our amazing teacher, Mrs Nguyen, we headed off to the BBC Coventry and Warwickshire building for an appearance on the local...
A Visit from Shenzen, China

Here’s a snapshot of a visiting group of teachers from Shenzen, China, who came to see our school during the spring and summer terms. Each group spent 2 days at the school, as part of a 9 week study...
Post 16 Induction Day Notice - Thursday 28th June

All Year 11s (who have been made a conditional offer for Post 16) should meet Mr. Edwards in the Post 16 Common Room at 9am. The day will finish at 3pm. All students will receive summer homework for the three subjects...
A Day at the Cheltenham Science Festival

Tuesday 5th June 2018 Written by Duncan, Ciaran and Ben – Year 9 student reporters The day started off at the University of Warwick in the coach park, where we all met up. It was so great to see everyone and...
Japan Day at Whitley Academy

Written by Michelle, Ava and Keeley – Year 7 student reporters Friday 18th May 2018 was a school day with a difference for our Year 8 pupils. It was Japan Day, and all the lessons circulated around Japan - its...
A Roald Dahl Trip - Journey to the Oompa-Loompas Land

Written by Ava – Year 7 student reporter On 11th May 2018, 70 Year 7 students turned up at Whitley Academy ready to leave for the amazing day trip ahead of them. At about 8:10am, everyone boarded the two nice coaches...
We are Whitley podcast (episode 2)

Whitley Academy Post 16 students have been busy recording a series of podcasts aimed at sharing their experiences and aspirations with our younger pupils. You can listen to their second episode below.
A conversation with Roz Bird

Written by Omonigho and Eve, Year 7 student reporters On Friday 23rd March, many lucky students got the opportunity to meet Roz Bird, Commercial Director of Silverstone Park, where the British Formula One racing takes place! The opportunity was given to...
We're pleased to announce the launch of our new website

Whitley Academy is pleased to announce the launch of its new school website. Please tell us what you think; your feedback is most welcome. Included in the new website is an improved calendar, featuring key events and term dates at...
Marvellous Magistrate Court Mock Trial

The annual Mock Trial Competition is managed and run by the Citizenship Foundation. It offers our students the opportunity to access the criminal justice system through an active learning experience. It takes students out of the classroom and into...
We are Whitley podcast (episode 1)

Whitley Academy Post 16 students have been busy recording a series of podcasts aimed at sharing their experiences and aspirations with our younger pupils. You can listen to their first episode below.
Frankly Speaking Debate Competition at Benjamin Franklin House

Written by Lucy - Year 8 student reporter On Friday 19th March, Whitley Academy pupils were invited to take part in the Frankly Speaking Debate Competition at Benjamin Franklin House (US Embassy), London. We left Coventry at 7:11am, and arrived at...
BBC School Report 2018 - Live from Broadcasting House

Written by Holly and Melissa – Year 8/9 student reporters On Thursday 15th March, 16 Whitley Academy students and two teachers arrived at Coventry train station, feeling very excited for the big day ahead. Even though it was wet outside,...
A Peace-building Conference at the Ricoh Arena

Written by Diakite, Ava, Lola and Eve - Year 7 student reporters On Saturday 24th February 2018, six eager Whitley Academy students went to the Coventry Ricoh Arena, to watch and take part in the Peace-building Conference run by the...
An evening of debate at Bablake Senior School

Written by Lola and Eve - Year 7 student reporters On the 26th of January 2018, seven eager Whitley Academy students, divided into two teams, were about to change the mindset of the public, in a debate held at Bablake...
Journey of discovery for Year 7 at Africa Day

Written by Holly and Harshitha - Year 8 student reporters.
Students achievements recognised at KS4 Celebration Evening

On Thursday 11th January, we were invited to attend the Whitley Academy Celebration Evening for Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and 11 this academic year). It was 6:00pm, and the beautifully decorated green Canteen was packed with students and parents....
Annual Christmas celebrations enjoyed by pupils

On Tuesday the 19th of December at 5:00 pm, Whitley Academy hosted the annual Christmas Fair in our cafeteria, decorated for the snowy season, by the school lake. The bright Christmas decorations lit up the room, sparkling next to the...