Life at Studley

Students (particularly in Year 11) – ever thought about being a Police Cadet?

Now’s your chance!

South Warwickshire Police Cadets are particularly looking for Year 11 students to join them. Their recruitment process will not affect your preparation for your exams as recruitment is completed by March and you don’t start with as a cadet until September 2025!

Applications for Junior and Senior Police Cadet Schemes in South Warwickshire are now open until 28^th February 2025.

Warwickshire Police Cadets is for young people who wish to engage in a programme that offers them an opportunity to gain a practical understanding of policing, develop their spirit of adventure and good citizenship, while supporting their local policing priorities through volunteering, working with partner agencies and positive participation in their communities.

To become a Warwickshire Police Cadet, you must live or go to school in Warwickshire and be aged 13 to 16 years old on September 1^st 2025.

There is a Junior scheme for Cadets aged 13 to 16 years still at secondary school and a senior scheme for cadets aged 16 to 18 years.

To apply to become Senior cadet you must currently be a current year 11 student when applying and would be a cadet for 2 years, whilst in further education.

Senior cadets aged between 16 to 18 years old meet every Thursday evening between 6.15pm and 8.30pm at Leek Wootton. (apply in year 11)

Junior cadets aged between 13 to 16 years old meet every Wednesday evening in South Warwickshire at Leek Wootton. (apply in years 8, 9 or 10)

There is a recruitment drop in evening to meet the leaders and see a presentation on Tuesday 4^th February 2025 at Police HQ Leek Wootton slots with presentations at 18.30 to 20.00 hours.

Link to the applicant form for South Warwickshire Police Cadets https://forms.office.com/e/6fH08Gwi4M

Look what we’ve caught – delicious rope-grown mussels! Students be learning how to prepare and cook the mussels, learning new skills. Watch this space for the delicious results!

Geography students have embarked on an exciting journey without leaving the classroom by watching the latest season of Race Across the World. This thrilling series follows teams as they navigate challenging routes across continents, relying only on their wits, limited budgets, and local transportation.

The show provides a fascinating glimpse into diverse cultures, landscapes, and real-world geography, bringing classroom concepts to life. From bustling cities to remote villages, students observe how geography influences travel, culture, and daily life.

By following the racers’ adventures, students not only enjoy a gripping competition but also deepen their understanding of global connections and the challenges of navigating unfamiliar terrains. It’s learning that feels like an adventure!

Year 9 students showcased their creativity by baking focaccia bread decorated with artistic designs. Using ingredients like peppers, olives, tomatoes, garlic, and rosemary, they turned their bread into edible masterpieces.

From floral patterns to abstract art, the fun and vibrant designs highlighted the students’ imagination. This activity combined baking skills with creative expression, resulting in focaccia that was both delicious and visually delightful.

What a festive way to end the term with our annual Christmas Concert, performed to a sell-out audience. The evening showcased incredible talent, with performances from a variety of music and drama ensembles, as well as captivating acts by soloists and smaller groups who brought Christmas cheer through acting, singing, playing, and dancing.

A huge congratulations to all the students for their outstanding performances, and heartfelt thanks to the families and staff whose support and efforts, both in preparation and on the night, ensured the event ran flawlessly.

Year 9 students took the excitement to Rush AirHop Trampoline Park in Birmingham. Known as the ultimate play experience, it was an afternoon of pure joy as students bounced, flipped, and jumped their way through the trampolines. The energy was contagious, making it a day to remember.

Meanwhile, Years 10 and 11 got into the winter spirit at Planet Ice in Coventry. Ice skating with their peers brought plenty of fun, laughter, and a few tumbles along the way. Even the staff joined in the action, showing off some questionable skating moves to the delight of the students.

**Cambridge University Inspires Year 10 Pupils with Exciting Insight into University Life**

We were thrilled to welcome a group of representatives from the prestigious University of Cambridge to our school recently, where they delivered an inspiring and insightful session to our Year 10 students. The visit was part of a wider initiative aimed at helping our pupils envision their futures and understand the vast opportunities higher education offers.

The session was designed to give students a first hand look into life at one of the country’s leading universities. Students were introduced to a range of courses, from the humanities to the sciences, and learned about the impressive resources and facilities Cambridge offers its students. The event also provided valuable insights into university life, from the unique tutorial system to the wide variety of extra-curricular activities available, encouraging students to think about what they want their future to look like.

The atmosphere was one of excitement and ambition, with students eagerly asking questions and engaging in thoughtful discussions about their potential paths. Whether it was understanding how to apply, exploring scholarship opportunities, or discovering the wide range of support networks at Cambridge, the visit sparked the imaginations of our young learners.

As a school, we are committed to providing our students with the resources and opportunities they need to succeed, both academically and personally. By bringing in experts from renowned institutions like Cambridge, we aim to broaden our students’ horizons, helping them see that there are no limits to what they can achieve.

We are incredibly proud of our Year 10 students for their enthusiasm and dedication during this visit, and we hope this session has inspired them to aim high and start thinking about the bright futures ahead.

Stay tuned for more events and opportunities as we continue to support our students in their journey to success!

On Thursday, 16th November, 49 enthusiastic Year 9 students gathered for an exciting day of on-site training as part of their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award journey at Studley High School.

The day kicked off with students meeting their expedition assessors and getting an overview of what lies ahead during their expedition. The assessors gave a brief yet informative presentation, outlining the challenges and adventures students will face during their upcoming expedition.

After the presentation, the students eagerly split into their groups to begin working on their essential route planning and navigation skills. This hands-on session provided them with a practical insight into the skills they’ll need to successfully navigate the great outdoors during their expedition. It was inspiring to see the students collaborate, ask questions, and really engage with their task.

In addition to navigation, students also received a demonstration on how to use the Trangia – a portable stove that will help them prepare meals while out in the wild. The students then had the chance to plan their meals for the expedition, considering what they would need to pack and how to make sure they stay fuelled and energized throughout their adventure.

The atmosphere throughout the day was filled with excitement and anticipation. Students were not only gaining valuable skills but were also thrilled to be taking the first steps toward achieving their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award.

This on-site training marks the beginning of what promises to be an enriching experience for these students. We are incredibly proud of their enthusiasm and commitment, and we can’t wait to see how they grow as they continue their Duke of Edinburgh journey!

Stay tuned for more updates as these students take on their next challenges and prepare for their upcoming expedition!

On Monday, 18th November, Studley High School was buzzing with excitement as over 270 students and 50 staff members participated in our very first whole school culture event, Fright Night. This thrilling evening was designed to engage as many students as possible in a fun and collaborative environment.

The event was a resounding success, with students and staff coming together to solve puzzles and race against the clock. One of the highlights of the night was the successful location of Mr. Eost in the container, a task that required teamwork and quick thinking.

It was truly wonderful to witness the enthusiasm and cooperation among students as they navigated through various challenges. The energy and excitement were palpable, making it a memorable night for everyone involved.

We are eagerly looking forward to our next two whole school culture events, which will take place in the Spring and Summer terms. These events promise to be just as exciting and engaging, continuing to foster a strong sense of community and school spirit.

A huge well done to all who participated and contributed to making Fright Night such a fantastic event. Here’s to many more successful events in the future!

Last week marked a thrilling beginning to the Girls Shires Super-League for Years 7 & 8, with Studley and Ridgeway facing off in their first match. The competition was fierce in the benchball games, with both teams showing great skill and determination. After two intense rounds, the scores were tied, leading to a nail-biting tiebreaker.

Ridgeway emerged victorious in both tiebreakers, securing their place as the overall winners of this inaugural Super-League match. Congratulations to Ridgeway for their impressive performance!

We are eagerly anticipating the upcoming Year 9 and 10 competition, which will feature Studley, Ridgeway, and North Bromsgrove. It promises to be another exciting event!

Additionally, this half-term will see the boys competing in an Indoor Football tournament. Stay tuned for the next set of results and more thrilling updates from our sports teams!

On the 25th of October, Studley High School came together for a heart-warming cause, participating in the first house charity event of the year. Organised by Pegasus house captains and Miss Dimmock, the event aimed to raise funds for Breast Cancer Now, a charity chosen by the house captains due to its significant impact on many lives.

The school community showed incredible support, with students and staff donning pink clothing to raise awareness for breast cancer. The vibrant display of pink was a testament to the solidarity and commitment of everyone involved.

Adding to the excitement, a tuck shop was set up, offering an array of pink sweet treats and hot chocolates, which were a hit among the attendees. The combination of fun activities and a meaningful cause made the day truly special.

We are thrilled to announce that the event raised an impressive £1547.15 for Breast Cancer Now. This achievement reflects the generosity and spirit of the Studley High School community. A huge thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making this event a phenomenal success!

On Sunday, 10th November, our school community came together to honour the memory of those who have fallen in service to our country. We are incredibly proud of the following students who took part in the Remembrance Parade around Studley: Will W, Jess F, Bella O’C, Alexa S, Megan McK, Oscar W-H and Georgina L.

These students read the names of the fallen with confidence and respect, embodying the solemnity of the occasion. Will and Alexa had the honour of placing our school wreath, a gesture that symbolized our collective gratitude and remembrance.

Throughout the event, our students met several members of the community and represented our school with the utmost respect and professionalism. Their participation not only honoured those who have served but also demonstrated the values we hold dear as a school.

Thank you to everyone who supported and participated in this meaningful event. Your dedication and respect have made us all proud.

We are excited to share that our school has recently embarked on an important journey by becoming a part of the Eco Schools programme. This initiative aims to promote environmental awareness and sustainability among our students, staff, and community.

As we navigate an increasingly complex world, the need to address climate change and environmental issues has never been more critical. Our planet is facing unprecedented challenges, and it is up to us, the educators, parents, and community members, to inspire the next generation to take action.

The Eco Schools programme encourages schools to implement eco-friendly practices and engage in activities that benefit our environment. Our goal is not only to enhance the learning experience but also to empower our students to become responsible stewards of the planet. We have a group of enthusiastic student volunteers who have joined the school ‘Eco-Council ’and they have been working hard to encourage and improve recycling in the school.

As part of our commitment to sustainability, we will be participating in the November Cut Your Carbon Challenge. This challenge encourages everyone to take small practical steps to reduce their carbon footprint throughout the month. We invite you and your family to join us in this effort, as every small action can contribute to a larger impact. Students have been introduced to this in assembly and an information leaflet with ideas on how you can be involved issued. At the end of the month, we will be asking families to complete a short survey to let us know which actions they have taken so that we can assess the impact we have had as a whole school community.

We are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and look forward to collaborating with you on this vital initiative.

Students and their families joined us at Studley on Thursday 7th November to research their family history. As part of our Remembrance events, the History team arranged access to birth records, marriage certificates, war records and census data to help students explore the generations above them.

Mrs Smith led a workshop to show what records are available and the information found within them, and families then began to build their trees. Information quickly built up, with stories of migration, war service and medals and even some links to royalty! Most families spent time exploring the 19th Century, but one student got as far back as 1608. We hope that our families continue to explore their own personal histories.

The workshop will run again in the spring term for those who were not able to attend this date.

Our Year 10 students have kicked off the school year with an impressive project: creating custom-made hats. This task required them to design, draw, create patterns, and construct their hats using both hand and machine skills. The results were nothing short of fantastic!

Each hat was unique, reflecting the individuality and creativity of its maker. Students demonstrated excellent independence, creativity, and problem-solving skills throughout the process. From the initial design phase to the final construction, they showcased their ability to think critically and work meticulously.

This project not only highlighted their technical skills but also their artistic flair and innovative thinking. We are incredibly proud of the dedication and effort our Year 10 students put into this project. Their hard work has truly paid off, resulting in a stunning collection of custom-made hats.

Well done, Year 10! Keep up the amazing work! ✨

Our Year 8 students recently embarked on an exciting SHINE homework project that beautifully complemented their ongoing “Beautiful Beetles” art project. Given complete freedom to explore their artistic talents, students were tasked with creating an artwork using any medium on the themes of ‘Miniature Nature’ or ‘Animals’.

The results have been nothing short of spectacular! The variety of responses showcased an incredible range of imagination and creativity. From intricate pencil sketches and vibrant paintings to detailed sculptures and digital art, each piece reflected the unique perspective and artistic flair of its creator.

This project not only allowed students to express their creativity but also encouraged them to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature and animals in new and innovative ways. We are immensely proud of the effort and enthusiasm shown by our Year 8 students and look forward to seeing more of their work in the future.

Well done, Year 8! Keep shining!

Studley High School recently hosted its highly anticipated annual post-16 event for pupils from Studley and Ridgeway, which proved to be a resounding success, opening doors to a world of opportunities for our students. More than 25 exhibitors, including sixth forms, colleges, universities, and local businesses, graced the event with their presence, offering a valuable insight into the exciting prospects awaiting our pupils after they complete their high school journey.

The event was a multi-faceted endeavour, designed to provide our students with the knowledge and inspiration they need to make informed decisions about their future educational and career paths. The event was open to students in Year 10, and 11, along with their parents and carers, ensuring that the entire school community could benefit from the wealth of information and guidance on offer.

The heart of the event was the opportunity for our students to engage directly with a wide array of institutions and organisations. From the comforting familiarity of local sixth forms and colleges to the wide-reaching aspirations of universities, our pupils were exposed to the full spectrum of post-16 possibilities. The local businesses in attendance added a practical, real-world dimension to the event, offering a glimpse of what a career in various fields might look like.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presence of former Studley High School students who are currently studying at various sixth forms and in further education. These alumni served as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing what is possible with determination and the right choices. Their presence was a testament to the nurturing environment at Studley High School, where aspirations are encouraged, and dreams are supported.

The event also featured an exhibition of more than 25 providers from a wide range of sectors, all eager to engage with our students. Their enthusiastic participation was met with equal enthusiasm from our students, who were keen to explore their options and engage in meaningful conversations. The feedback from the exhibitors was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the level of pupil engagement and their enthusiasm for the event.

Here are a few quotes from our exhibitors:

“It’s always lovely to talk to the students, and everyone was very engaged.”

“It was a well-run evening, and there were some good people around where I was!”

“It was a fantastic evening with so much more to learn. Thank you to all, I just wish this was available when I left school!”

“The evening was helpful; I have learnt about careers that I hadn’t considered and now want to pursue this pathway”

The providers who attended the event included esteemed institutions such as Alcester Grammar School, Arrow Vale School, BakerHicks, the British Army, Cadbury College, DWP – Apprenticeships, HOW college, KSM Recruitment, Masefields Architects, Mills Pyatt, the National Trust, North Bromsgrove High School, , Redditch UTD Football Academy, RICS, the Royal Navy, St. Benedict’s Catholic High School, Saint Augustine’s High School, Stratford Girls’ Grammar School, Stratford College, Solihull College, Solihull Sixth Form, South & City College, Studley Castle, Taylor Wimpy, Tudor Grange Redditch, Warwickshire College Group, Warwickshire Fire and rescue, Worcester 6th Form, Worcester University.

This event not only provided students and their families with a chance to explore their future opportunities but also showcased the vibrant connections and relationships that Studley High School has cultivated within the local and wider community.

Studley High School is immensely proud of the successful post-16 event and is committed to nurturing the dreams and ambitions of its students. We look forward to the bright futures that await our pupils, and we are here to support and guide them every step of the way.

Studley High School’s Memorable Trip to Studley Castle

At Studley High School, we believe in providing our students with enriching experiences that extend beyond the walls of the classroom. Recently, our Year 10 Hospitality and Catering pupils embarked on an exciting journey to Studley Castle, an iconic landmark nestled in the heart of our community. This educational outing proved to be a memorable and insightful adventure for our budding culinary enthusiasts.
Our students had the unique opportunity to step into the world of hospitality and catering at one of the region’s most esteemed establishments. Led by the General Manager of Studley Castle, our pupils were warmly welcomed and immersed in an atmosphere of tradition, excellence, and hospitality.
The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the engaging talk and captivating tour led by the knowledgeable General Manager. With enthusiasm a

nd expertise, they provided valuable insights into the operations and management of a prestigious venue like Studley Castle. From the intricacies of event planning to the nuances of customer service, our students gained invaluable firsthand knowledge that complemented their classroom learning.
During the tour, our pupils had the chance to explore the historic halls, elegant dining spaces, and behind-the-scenes areas of the castle. From the grandeur of the banquet halls to the hustle and bustle of the kitchen, every corner of Studley Castle offered a glimpse into the dynamic world of hospitality and catering. As they navigated through the corridors steeped in history, our students were inspired by the dedication and attention to detail that define the castle’s renowned reputation.
Beyond the tangible lessons learned, this excursion provided our students with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship inherent in the hospitality industry. They witnessed firsthand the seamless orchestration of a myriad of elements, from culinary delights to impeccable service, all designed to create unforgettable experiences for guests.
Moreover, the trip to Studley Castle served as a catalyst for our students’ personal and professional growth. It ignited their passion for hospitality and catering, sparking their imagination and igniting aspirations for future careers in this dynamic field. By exposing them to real-world scenarios and industry professionals, we aim to equip our students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in a competitive and ever-evolving industry.

Our Year 10 photography students recently had the exciting opportunity to visit Coughton Court, where they explored a new environment through their camera lenses. This trip was part of their first project, which focuses on macro photography, still life, and various composition techniques.

During the visit, students were given a brief to capture a diverse range of photographs that they could bring back to class and incorporate into their ongoing projects. The students rose to the challenge admirably, taking hundreds of stunning photographs.

Miss Hughes, our Lead of Photography, was thoroughly impressed with the quality of the photos. She remarked, “The students were incredible, and the photographs they took are fantastic. I am so impressed that I will be creating a display in school dedicated to showcasing their amazing work.”

We are incredibly proud of our students’ hard work and creativity. Keep an eye out for the upcoming display, which will celebrate the talent and dedication of our Year 10 photographers!

For the last 9 years, Studley High School hosts a coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. This is a charity close to many of our hearts as we fondly remember those we have lost and those currently battling this terrible disease.

Macmillan Cancer Support offers help in several ways to people suffering from cancer and their families. Because Macmillan is a charity, they can only provide their range of services, from nurses to community volunteers, thanks to amazing supporters who donate money or fundraise.

This year 111 pupils donated a cake to the Macmillan Coffee morning, as well as staff and a huge contribution from the Hospitality and Catering team who had been baking and decorating all week. Cakes and slices were sold for 50p each, and as a school we raised the huge total of £536.35, of which we are immensely proud. Any leftover cakes were taken to a local care home to be enjoyed by residents, so nothing went to waste!

We were able to promote some friendly competition between the houses for contributions, with Griffin coming top with 45 students contributing.

The Macmillan coffee morning is the perfect platform to sell cakes entered in the Languages House Competition which runs alongside it, which celebrates European Day of Languages. European Day of Languages is a well-established opportunity to raise awareness about language learning and linguistic diversity. The theme for this year was “Languages for Peace” highlighting how linguistic diversity and language education can play a key role in promoting a culture of peace, living together and democracy.

Any European-themed bakes were automatically entered into the competition and prizes were awarded for the following categories: Effort, Showstopper and Originality. Congratulations to all our winners. Pegasus came first with 3 winners, well done!

A huge thank you to all staff and prefects involved in organising and supporting the event – it was a huge Team Studley effort.

Mrs V Morgan

Curriculum Area Lead- Modern Language

Exciting News from Studley High School: Future Chef Competition

We are thrilled to announce that students from Years 9, 10, and 11 recently participated in the national Future Chef competition, showcasing their culinary talents in an exciting and challenging environment!

The task? To create a delicious meal for two, beautifully presented and prepared in just one hour, all while keeping costs under £5. Four dedicated students put their skills to the test after school, impressing judges with their creativity and flair.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Our Year 9 students will have their turn to compete during their cooking lessons next week, giving them the chance to shine and demonstrate their culinary prowess.

From this round, we will select two talented students to advance to the next stage, where they will have the opportunity to cook at a local school or college. The journey culminates in the finals, set to take place in London in March 2025.

Stay tuned for updates on which students will represent Studley High School in this prestigious competition. We can’t wait to share their progress with you! Watch this space!

One of our students, Jessica S in Year 7 is an impressive member of the Redditch Swimming Club, which celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2023 and won the West Midlands Club of the Year award last year. She’s been part of the club for nearly three years and trains five times a week, often starting her days with early morning sessions at 6am.

In 2023, Jessica made significant achievements, winning a bronze medal in the 100m butterfly for her age group. She also contributed to the club’s efforts in a remarkable team challenge, where they collectively swam 125,000 meters, earning gold in the process. This initiative showcased their swimming prowess while highlighting the club’s dedication to community service, raising £2,000 for the RNLI lifeboats.

In addition to her swimming, Jessica is completing the Rookie Lifeguard program and is currently on Stage 1 Gold. She’s passionate about water safety and aims to complete her lifeguard training when she turns 16. Her commitment to learning about lifesaving techniques demonstrates her desire to help others and make a positive impact in the community. With her love for swimming and dedication to training, Jessica is well on her way to achieving her goals both in the pool and beyond!

Listed Below are links to our open evening promotional videos.

The school’s water/egg and spoon competition on Friday was a splashing success!

A big shout-out to everyone who participated and cheered on.

Griffin House soared to victory, collecting an impressive 325ml, with 65 spirited participants leading the charge. Not far behind, Phoenix House secured second place with a commendable 300ml and 54 eager competitors. Pegasus House wasn’t far off the pace, claiming third with 270ml and 55 participants, including a notably soggy Will W.

Here’s to all the fun and laughter that made the event so much fun!

Our Year 7 students have kicked off their food technology lessons on a deliciously high note this week.

The young chefs-in-training put their culinary skills to the test, whipping up an array of lovely couscous salads that were as pleasing to the eye as they were to the palate.

Their impressive efforts in presentation have not gone unnoticed, showcasing that these students have much more than just a sprinkle of potential. With such a strong start, Studley High may just be nurturing the future stars of the culinary world. Watch out, world – the future chefs of Studley High are on the rise!

In July, the Year 7’s headed off to Northampton for the residential. It was a fantastic opportunity for the students to engage in outdoor activities and build stronger relationships with each other. The three-day trip was filled with various challenges that tested their physical and mental limits. This was evident from the very first task… to make their own beds! Parents will be extremely pleased to hear that their children are now experts at putting bed sheets onto a mattress and duvet covers onto their duvets.

The activities timetable was packed full of opportunities such as kayaking, zip lining, raft building, bike riding and high ropes. What really stood out when completing these challenges, was not the fact that they completed them, but the support offered from their groups when there was any sign of a struggle. It was a real pleasure to experience the celebrations that took place once a friend had succeeded in something that they were initially unsure about!

The Year 7 residential trip to Northampton was more than just a series of outdoor activities; it was a journey of self-discovery and growth. Our students returned home not only with wonderful memories but also with strengthened friendships, enhanced problem-solving skills, and a greater sense of independence.

I was incredibly proud to hear nothing but praise from the residential activity leaders who all commented on how polite and fearless they all were. As a school, we are excited to see how these experiences will shape our students’ approach to both academic and personal challenges. We encourage parents to talk to their children about the trip and explore how these lessons can be applied in their daily lives.

Mr Ormerod – Head of Year

At the end of last term, we saw Griffin House crowned the winners of the annual house competition, beating Pegasus and Phoenix by over 1000 house points.

Griffin students had a fantastic afternoon participating in an array of activities. The event included Bubble Football matches that had everyone laughing (and falling over!), a bouncy castle and an inflatable assault course which highlighted Griffin House’s competitive nature. Additionally, the ice cream van served some fantastic refreshments, and the meet and greet with some alpacas was a memorable experience for students.

The weather cooperated and student behaviour was outstanding throughout the afternoon. Well done Griffin, hopefully we can do the same again this year!

Studley High School hosted it’s annual Sports Day on Friday 12th July and despite the weather trying to dampen the spirits, the students enthusiasm and engagement made for a fantastic day. This years’ morning events included the introduction of Old School Sports Day races like the sack race, egg and spoon and obstacle race. This was ran alongside other sports that had been successful in previous years.

Before lunch we took to the track for some Athletics where there were some stunning individual performances, notably a fantastic finish in the 800m between Charlie E and Josh H. The event concluded with a thrilling mass tug-of-war in year groups, which was the highlight of the day. Great to see so many students getting up and giving it a go regardless of the outcome. The overall house winner was Pegasus, but well done to all students who immersed themselves in the day superbly.