HWA Blog - 27.6.25
It has been another exciting week at Hollinwood Academy and there is so much to share.
Our year 11 students arrived bright and early ready to embark on their end of year, end of Hollinwood Academy, celebration to Alton Towers. They were all smiles as they departed for a two-day, thrill-seeking adventure in the park including an overnight stay. They were so excited and had so much fun. Thank you to all the staff who supported on the trip. This is a memorable occasion for all involved. We are really going to miss year 11.
School Diversity Week
This week we celebrated School Diversity Week. This is an annual celebration of LGBT+ equality in education. It is designed to make schools and colleges safer and more welcoming for pupils who are LGBT+ or have LGBT+ families. Classes took part in activities which included celebrating all of our unique qualities and this Friday were encouraged to wear a colour from the rainbow!
Careers day
On 24th June, Hollinwood Academy held its Careers Fair. Students showed great interest and engaged well. Several businesses expressed their interest into assisting in running sessions during the Spring term as part of our EHCP and Employability curriculum. The students asked various questions such as holiday entitlement, typical working days, and potential earnings. At the end, the students were entered into a draw hoping to win shopping vouchers. Winners will be announced Monday 14th July in the rewards assembly. Thank you to all of the businesses who gave up their time.
Careers Day - 27.6.25
Now let’s look at what has been happening in the classrooms.
Starting with Mrs Matthew’s class….
"What a busy term it has been for Year 6. As we approach the end of this academic year, I am thrilled to share the numerous accomplishments and enriching experiences that our learners have engaged in over the past few weeks.
The term began with a significant focus on SATs preparation, where the children demonstrated remarkable dedication and resilience. Their hard work truly paid off, showcasing just how capable they are. Following this, we had a wonderful opportunity for writing moderation, during which we exhibited some outstanding pieces crafted by the children. It was wonderful to see their creativity and skill come to life in their writing.
In history, students took a fascinating journey into the world of the Mayans. Using balloons and mod rock, we created striking Mayan masks while learning about the importance of cocoa beans in their society. The children explored the foods and traditions of the Mayans and compared them to our modern-day practices, deepening their understanding of cultural similarities and differences.
Our Super Learning Day was a highlight this term. The children engaged in activities to create gods’ eyes and wind chimes, which now beautifully adorn our new forest school area. This hands-on experience not only sparked their creativity but also fostered teamwork and collaboration.
In Mathematics, our Year 6 cohort has been expanding their understanding of decimals and ratios, and we are currently delving into algebra. Some children have been consolidating their knowledge of time and fractions, ensuring a solid foundation for their ongoing mathematical journey.
In English, we have adopted the Talk4Writing approach to delve into the enchanting world of Harry Potter. The children produced fictional narratives that skilfully built suspense and crafted newspaper articles. Currently, we are developing our non-fiction writing skills by examining balanced arguments. We've engaged in lively debates based on the model text, "Should animals be kept in zoos?" and are now exploring whether children should be entitled to access arrangements in schools. This topic has fostered invaluable discussions about inclusivity and the importance of supporting learners with barriers to education
Our guided reading sessions have been equally enriching, as we explored various aspects of disability, including the Paralympics and profiles of inspiring individuals with disabilities. We even studied a fictional text that has helped our students cultivate empathy towards others.
In Science, we have been investigating the dangers of drugs and cigarettes, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle. This has led us to conduct experiments on the melting points of white, milk, and dark chocolate, with the children currently drafting their findings in report format. This exercise not only reinforces their understanding of the scientific method but also teaches them about fair testing through independent and dependent variables
PSHRE lessons have prompted thoughtful discussions about personal values and beliefs as our students prepare for their next educational chapter and adulthood.
On a personal note, Mrs Matthew’s would like to express her heartfelt gratitude to the parents of this year's Year 6 cohort. It has truly been a joy to witness your children flourish. Their incredible progress is a testament to their hard work and perseverance.
The Year 6 team and the entire school are immensely proud of them, and we wish them all the best as they transition to Year 7 and beyond."
HMS - 27.6.25
And now to Mrs Whalley’s class...
"This term our students have been engaging in cycling activities as part of their Outdoor Education. The students have been working hard to overcome challenges, building resilience and teamwork skills along the way. It has been amazing to see their progress and enthusiasm as they explore their experience outdoor on two wheels.
In computing students have channelled their skills and creativity into designing a well-being app, pouring immense effort and dedication into the app. This has not only allowed the students to apply their technical knowledge but also engage with the concept of digital well-being, ensuring the app is both functional and thoughtfully designed to promote a healthier lifestyle. Well done 8DWY.
In Spanish, we have been learning useful phrases for when we go on trips/travels. To help them remember these new words and expressions the students have been creating little games such as snaps. This activity allows them to practice their vocabulary in a fun and interactive way.
In PE, our students took part in cricket, where they not only learned the skills of batting, bowling, and fielding but also built courage, teamwork, and confidence through active play and friendly competition.
This term, we have shifted our focus to health and fitness, helping students understand the importance of staying active.
In art we have been doing paper quilling. Students learned the delicate and intricate craft of paper quilling, using quilling tools to roll, shape, and glue strips of paper into creative designs. They developed impressive precision and creativity, making everything from colourful flowers to buzzing bees. We are proud to share that some of their quilled artwork was even submitted to One Love Manchester art showcase. An amazing recognition of their hard work and talent!
In addition to quilling, students have been working on body figure art, using shapes to build structured human forms. This activity helped them understand proportions, posture, and how to break complex figures down into simple components. It has been a fun and skill-building experience.
This term in music, our students have been practicing guitar and steadily improving their playing skills, developing confidence in chords and melody. Now, we have moved on to playing the drums. Learning to keep steady beats and explore different rhythms.
During super learning days, students have made hangings for the Forest school and also created work inspired by Art from around the world.
In food lessons, students have been developing their practical cooking skills by making a variety of dishes, including pasta and rice/curry. They have also been encouraged to work independently in the kitchen, building confidence in preparing and handling food safely.
Alongside the practical work, students have been learning about food groups and nutrition during theory lessons gaining a better understanding of how to make healthy, balanced food choices in their everyday lives.
Well done 8DWY, you have certainly had a busy week, we are very proud of your achievements."
DWY - 27.6.25
Now to our amazing SUPER STARs and HWA We are Creative STARs
Mrs Lerigo’s STAR of the week is Ivy for Giving us beautiful smiles, giggles and being so much happier in school.
Mrs Lerigo’s HWA We are trusting goes to Nico for being a good boy when we were practicing our sewing and trusting Miss Emma to help him.
Mrs Quinn’s STAR of the week Euan for enthusiastically and independently tidying.
Miss Quinn’s HWA We are trusting goes to Basil for happily singing the words to our good morning song.
Mrs Boothroyd’s STAR of the week is Louie for trying his hardest in lessons and for doing fabulous listening and requesting.
Miss Boothroyd’s HWA We are trusting goes to Nevaeh for trying her hardest during transition.
Mrs Bailey’s STAR of the week is Ziyan for being accepting of his peers and sharing nicely with them.
Mrs Bailey’s HWA We are trusting goes to Oliver for building positive relationships with new adults and adapting well to change during transition.
Miss Pietraszewska’ s STAR of the week is Diana for sharing what she did over the weekend. We loved hearing about your lovely weekend Diana.
Miss Pietraszewska’ s HWA We are trusting goes to Harrison for having lovely conversations with his friend Alfie—asking and answering questions thoughtfully. You are a great friend, Harrison.
Miss Oakley’s STAR of the week is Harry excellent work in Maths this week converting millilitres into litres. Maths expert.
Miss Oakley’s HWA We are trusting goes to Abdul for trying hard in circle time to say his opinion and always being respectful of others.
Mrs Matthew’s STAR of the week is for Blaire for being relied on to show new students around the school on transition days.
Mr Corrigan’s STAR of the week is Lewis for using his words to share how he is feeling.
Mr Corrigan’s HWA We are trusting goes to Mysha for great listening and independent walking on Outdoor Education.
Mr Corrigan’s WOW moment goes to Simisola for being a wonderful Phonics partner.
Mr Corrigan congratulates Matthew for being proud of his friends.
Miss Hulme STAR of the week is Isaam for always having a fantastic attitude to learning each day.
Miss Hulmes HWA We are trusting goes to Thomas for his great participation in lessons this week.
Miss Gittins’ STARs of the week is Brooke for always being patient and kind with others Miss Gittin’s HWA We are trusting star goes to Lewis is our star of the week for expressing his feelings and asking for help when he was feeling upset.
Miss Tootill’s STAR of the week goes to - David for a fantastic week and recognising the importance of personal hygiene.
Miss Tootill’s HWA We are trusting goes to Derry for trusting and supporting others during transition.
STARS of the Week (27.6.25)
Well done, everyone.
Important guests
We have had some very important guests visit us this week. Our very own Kian Lewis. Kian, now 20, started at Hollinwood Academy in year 7. He had some extremely challenging times and many barriers to overcome but he was a determined and I am so proud to share that Kian is now living independently and has secured his dream job working for the Bee Network. Kian has always had a keen interest in buses, and we are so happy for him. We would like to wish Kian much luck and success for the future. He promises to keep in touch.
On Wednesday, another two of our past students, Idress and Freddie, called by to share their successes with the team. Idrees is in the process of applying for the police. He has passed the interview stage and has come back to us to seek references in support of the next stages. Idrees hopes to successfully gain a dregree as part of this offer. Freddie has enrolled at Cheshire college for September and is doing an outdoor adventure support course. Freddie has always been very sporty and this is right up his street. We are so proud of you both and we were so thrilled to see you.
Have an amazing weekend everyone.
Miss Gordon
