Hollinwood Academy Blog Post - 06.11.2026
Welcome back everyone. It is officially Christmas movie season... although definitely not during lesson time! As we move through the term, there is a real sense of excitement across school, with plenty of activities, events and celebrations still to come before the Christmas break. I would like to wish a very Happy Diwali to all members of our school community who will be celebrating next week. We hope this special festival brings joy, prosperity and quality time with family and friends.
This week has marked the end of another busy and successful round of mock examinations. As I said before half term, and I will happily say again, our Year 10 and Year 11 students have been absolutely fantastic throughout the examination period. They have approached their mocks with maturity, resilience and determination, and we are incredibly proud of the effort, focus and commitment they have shown.
The support from staff during this time has been equally impressive. From preparing students and delivering revision sessions to supervising examinations and providing encouragement when it was needed most, colleagues have gone above and beyond to ensure our young people were able to approach their exams with confidence.
To support the large number of students completing Maths examinations, we also introduced Super Learning Mornings on Monday and Thursday. Monday's theme, The Big Number Natter, encouraged students to explore and discuss mathematical concepts in engaging and practical ways, while Thursday's Remembrance Day theme provided valuable opportunities for learning, reflection and discussion. These sessions have been a fantastic addition to the week and have shown the enthusiasm and positive attitudes our students bring to their learning.
Away from the examination hall, our Year 11 Photography students enjoyed a visit to The Monastery in Gorton as part of their Places and Spaces coursework. The impressive architecture and unique surroundings provided a wealth of inspiration, allowing students to develop their photography skills and capture images that will contribute to their coursework portfolios.
As always, I am incredibly proud of our children, young people and staff. Their hard work, dedication and positivity continue to make our school a wonderful place to learn and work. Thank you for all that you do.
Sharing the highlights…
Year 11 Photography Students Capture Stunning Images at The Monastery
On Monday 2nd November, our Year 11 Photography students visited The Monastery in Gorton, Manchester, to capture images for their Places and Spaces coursework portfolio. Following a previous visit to MediaCity, the students were keen to experience a contrasting architectural environment, and The Monastery provided the perfect setting.
The students received a warm welcome from the staff and had the opportunity to explore and photograph a range of impressive spaces, including the Great Nave, the beautiful Healing Garden, the distinctive purple walkways and the recently developed Growing Hub, where flowers and fruit are cultivated.
The students were fortunate to enjoy excellent weather throughout the visit, allowing them to make full use of the natural sunlight when photographing both the gardens and the Growing Hub. The quality of the setting, combined with the favourable conditions, provided a fantastic opportunity for students to develop their photography skills and produce high-quality images.
The students demonstrated a professional, respectful and mature attitude throughout the day and represented the school exceptionally well. They made the most of every photographic opportunity and produced a wide range of images that will support their coursework. Having captured a wealth of photographs, the students are now well prepared to edit and refine their work during their forthcoming mock examination.
The students should be incredibly proud of their efforts, and we look forward to seeing the final outcomes and celebrating their creativity and technical skills.
Hazel 06.11.2026
Sharing excellent work
This week, I have had the pleasure of seeing lots of wonderful work from across the school. A big thank you to all the children and young people who have visited my office to proudly share their achievements and excellent efforts.
I was particularly impressed by Xander and Logan, who showed me some fantastic maths work. Their hard work, determination, and positive attitude towards learning were evident in the standard of work they produced.
Well done to everyone who has shared their learning this week. It is always a pleasure to celebrate your successes and see the progress being made across the school. Keep up the excellent work.
Staff CPD and Professional Development
This week, staff have engaged in a range of valuable professional development opportunities to further strengthen our practice across the school.
A key focus has been a CPOMS refresher session, ensuring all staff remain confident in using our safeguarding and recording systems effectively. The training provided an opportunity to revisit best practice around recording concerns, maintaining accurate records, and reinforcing our collective responsibility for safeguarding children and young people.
In addition, staff have dedicated time to reviewing and updating EHCP STEP targets using the Autism Education Trust (AET) Framework, now known as the Neuroinclusive Education Network (NEN). These personalised targets will provide a clear focus for learning and development throughout the half term, helping to ensure that support remains meaningful, ambitious, and closely matched to individual needs.
It has been encouraging to see the thoughtful professional discussions that have taken place during these sessions, with staff working collaboratively to ensure the best possible outcomes for our children and young people.
Keep an eye on evidence for learning to view your child’s progress and development throughout the term.
Thank you to all staff for their continued commitment to professional development and to providing the highest quality education and support for our children and young people.
Super Learning Day: Number Natter
On Monday, students took part in our latest Super Learning Day with a focus on Number Natter. The session provided an engaging opportunity for students to develop their confidence with mathematics through discussion, problem-solving and collaborative activities. Students explored key mathematical concepts, shared strategies and practised applying their numeracy skills in a range of real-life contexts. It was wonderful to see such positive engagement, with students demonstrating resilience, teamwork and a willingness to challenge themselves. The morning was a great success and highlighted the importance of developing confidence and fluency in mathematics across the curriculum.
SLD Monday 06.11.2026
Super Learning Day: Remembrance Day
On Thursday, our Super Learning Day focused on Remembrance Day, providing students with the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by servicemen and women throughout history. Through a range of age-appropriate activities, students learned about the significance of remembrance, explored stories of courage and resilience, and considered the importance of peace, respect and community. Students engaged thoughtfully in discussions and creative activities, demonstrating maturity and empathy as they reflected on the experiences of others. The day provided a valuable opportunity to deepen understanding of this important national event and the values it represents.
SLD Thursday 06.11.2026
Let’s see what has been happening in the classroom...
In Mr Corrigan’s class….
English:
Our Talk for writing model text this half term is The Iron Man. We have embedded the key themes of the story this week and are discussing whether we think the character is dangerous or misunderstood.
Guided reading:
MCN 06.11.2026
Our comprehension texts this week in The Great Fire of London. We have been using the text to answer questions and predict what will happen next.
Maths:
Our maths topics this half term are Addition & subtraction and Multiplication and division. This week we have been subtracting 1s and 10s.
Science:
Our science topic this half term is Nutrition and diet. This week we have been looking at the five food groups.
DT:
Our topic this half term is Pneumatic toys. This week we have been investigating how compressed air can create movement.
Geography:
The question we are asking ourselves this half term is... Why do people live near volcanoes? This week we have been investigating the structure of the Earth and the movement of tectonic plates.
Computing:
Our topic this half term is Networks. This week we have been learning how devices are connected in school.
In Mrs Bottery’s class…
This week, 10HBY have taken part in two Super Learning Mornings. In the first, we looked at how maths is part of everyday life and applied our maths knowledge to some real-world situations. In the second, we focused on Remembrance Day, creating some artwork that can be left at cenotaphs in the coming week.
In music, the students have been composing their own piece of music using instruments of their choice. They have also created their own bands consisting of artists that inspire them, identifying their strengths and talents.
On Outdoor Ed, 10HBY visited the memorial at Heaton Park in preparation for Remembrance Day. We discussed the significance of the day and why it is important to remember the soldiers who lost their lives during wars and conflict. We explored key facts and how we participate by wearing the poppy and 2 minutes silence. The class demonstrated a great understanding when answering questions and reflected on the learning they have had in other lessons this week.
In science, the students have been linking their learning to Bonfire night. They have conducted an experiment to look at how different metal compounds react with heat and oxygen.
Some of the students sat their first mock exams over the last few weeks. We have been really impressed with how they have handled this new experience. Well done to you all.
HBY 06.11.2026
And finally, to Mr Challinor’s to see what has been happening in music…
Music at HWA: A Fantastic Start to the Year.
The Music Department at HWA has been buzzing with creativity, energy and musical talent this term. Across all year groups, students have been developing new skills, exploring different musical genres and technologies, and producing some truly impressive work. From composing soundtracks for distant planets to creating dance-floor anthems, there's been plenty to celebrate.
Year 7: Music Among the Stars
Year 7 students have been taking their first steps into digital composition by creating original music inspired by planets and outer space. Using GarageBand, they have experimented with different sounds, instruments and effects to bring their imaginative musical worlds to life. The results have been incredibly creative, with students producing soundscapes ranging from mysterious and atmospheric to exciting and adventurous.
Year 8: Creating Dance Floor Fillers
Year 8 have been stepping into the role of music producers, creating their very own dance-floor hits. By exploring riffs, drum loops and samples, students have learned how modern popular music is constructed while developing their own unique musical ideas. The classroom has been filled with funky beats, catchy hooks and plenty of creativity.
Year 9: Gaming Soundtracks and Digital Composition
Year 9 have been diving into the exciting world of video game music, exploring how composers have shaped gaming experiences from the 1970s right through to the modern day. Along the way, they have discovered influences from a wide range of musical genres and styles.
Using GarageBand, Chrome Music Lab and BeepBox, students have composed original soundtracks for their own imaginary games. The quality and originality of their work has been outstanding, with music ranging from retro arcade-style themes to cinematic adventures.
Year 10 Arts Award: Performance and Progress
The Year 10 Arts Award group have been making excellent use of the department's new instruments as they develop their musical skills. Alongside developing their practical performance skills, students have been exploring the importance of self-evaluation and reflection in music.
By carefully analysing their performances, identifying strengths and setting personal targets for improvement, students have demonstrated remarkable growth and maturity in their musical development throughout the term.
Year 11 Arts Award: Preparing for the Spotlight
Our Year 11 Arts Award students are working hard as they prepare for their final performances. As well as refining their own musical skills, they will soon be taking on the role of teachers, sharing instrumental techniques and musical knowledge with younger students across the school.
This leadership opportunity will allow them to demonstrate not only their musical expertise but also the confidence, communication and mentoring skills they have developed during their Arts Award journey.
HWA Choir: Ready for Young Voices
The HWA Choir are currently hard at work rehearsing for their upcoming appearance at Young Voices in February. Under the guidance of Miss Harrington, the choir has gone from strength to strength, developing both their vocal skills and confidence as performers.
The enthusiasm and commitment shown by every choir member has been fantastic, and preparations are well underway for what promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Looking Ahead
It has been an exceptional start to the year, filled with creativity, collaboration and musical achievement. We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm and dedication shown by our students and look forward to sharing even more exciting performances, compositions and musical successes in the months ahead.
SCR 06.11.2026
Now to our amazing SUPER STARs and HWA We are We are caring STARs
Mrs Bailey’s HWA We are caring goes to Leo - For fantastic work and engagement in our maths lesson this week. You are a number hunting expert
Mrs Bailey’s STAR of the Week is Rose - For taking care of her own needs by using the toilet independently in school this week. We are so proud of you
Mrs Lerigo’s and Mrs Sutcliffe's STAR of the Week is Elijah- for fabulous maths work this week, sharing lots of great ideas in our maths lessons.
Mrs Lerigo’s and Mrs Sutcliffe's HWA We are caring goes to Leon- for being a good friend and using his voice to say how he feels.
Mrs Thompson’s STAR of the Week is Elijah for excellent perseverance in Maths this week.
Mrs Thompson’s STAR of the Week goes to Kyren for demonstrating excellent communication skills with adults.
Miss Boothroyd’s STAR of the Week goes to Effy for having a positive first week back.
Miss Boothroyd’s HWA We are caring goes to Romy for helping her friend and using kind words.
Mrs McDonalds’ and Mrs Bramley’s STAR of the Week Diana for showing kindness to the new child that has joined one of the Primary classes this week.
Miss Lloyd’s STAR of the Week is Sofia for having a wonderful start in the school and getting to know her peers.
Miss Pietraszewska’ s HWA We are caring goes to Sienna for being a fantastic role model this week by listening carefully and always trying her very best. We are so proud of you, Sienna.
Miss Pietraszewska’ s STAR of the Week goes to Elsie for having a very good week, well done, Elsie.
Mr Corrigan’s STAR of the Week is Jack for trying his best to use calm words this week.
Mr Corrigan’s WOW moment Teddy Baker for great engagement on the carpet this week.
Mr Corrigan’s congratulates Eden for being proud of his friends.
Miss Hulme’s STAR of the Week is Korey- for taking his time to finish his dinner, for showing patience and trying not to rush.
Miss Hulme’s HWA We are caring goes to Gabriel- for being a kind and helpful friend by supporting others with their class work.
Mrs Boylan’s STAR of the Week goes to Holly for excellent engagement in our first week back to School.
Mrs Boylan’s HWA We are caring goes to Haroon for excellent behaviour all week.
Miss Davies’s STAR of the Week is the whole class for incredible communication in Magic box this week. I am so proud of the engagement, communication and turn taking skills shown in this lesson.
Miss Oakley’s STAR of the Week is Roma- For enjoying our sensory story all about bonfire night so much so that in her own time replicated reading the story using the props independently.
Miss Oakley’s HWA We are caring goes to Ohud- For excellent engagement in wiggle to squiggle this week, joining in with all the actions and movements.
Stars 06.11.2026
Well done to everyone.
Have a great weekend.
Miss Gordon
