Parents' Newsletters
Dear Families,
It’s been a wet and windy week at school, but the students have been fantastic and coped with the extremities of weather really well.
This week the Year 7 football team made it through to the last 16 of the English Football competition, this is the schools equivalent of the FA cup and an amazing achievement. They beat Millfield School 0-1 away in awful playing conditions. They have now been drawn away against Downend school in Bristol next week.
This week our Under 16 girls became North Devon Football champions, which is an amazing achievement.
As part of the Kings College London University research project on smartphones, we have a couple of research analysts visiting the school on Wednesday 11th February to conduct focus group meetings with staff, students and hopefully parents. They are looking for a focus group of eight parents to discuss their child’s general smart/simple phone use as well as the impact of the smartphone free policy. This would be a 50-minute face-to-face meeting at the school between 1-2pm.
If you would be interested in being part of the focus group, please email the smartphoneresearch@BRAUNTON.ACADEMY with your name and the year group of your children in school.
Best wishes,
Mrs F Bowler
Principal
Date for the Diary - Parent Engagement Group
The next meeting of the Parent Engagement group is on Wednesday 4th February 2026 from 5.30 to 7pm in the Conference Room at the Academy. It is the opportunity to discuss ways to improve engagement at the Academy in support of the Award we are working towards as a school. This group have brought about changes in the Parentmail messages to the new newsletter format, social media input and Gold Reader changes in Sparx. Please come and join us ready to give your ideas.
Whole School Messages
Please see our website www.braunton.academy for Whole School Messages, under Key Information.
Braunton Academy – Coffee & Chat Mornings
It was disappointing to have just two parents attend the last Coffee and Chat morning on 14th January based around Emotional Based School Avoidance, as we know this is becoming more of an issue for young people. The next Coffee and Chat morning will be led by Jane Wooley from the Family Intervention Team, who will talk and answer questions about helping families work together. The coffee morning is very informal, and you can drop in for as long or short a time as you wish. If you have young children, bring them along and if you let me know in advance, I can bring some students for them to play with whilst you enjoy your cuppa!
Forces Families:
Southampton Family Trust still have places left for their ADHD 8-week course for Royal Navy and Royal Marines families starting on Tuesday 20th January, on Zoom, 9.30 to 11.30 am. This course is suitable for parents of children with ADHD (diagnosed or suspected) aged 3-11.
You can download a copy of the booking form here: Royal Navy ADHD Self Referral Form .
Military Spouse Event run by a Woodyard trained Practitioner
Please Note all information for clubs and activities can be found on the school website.
Creative Writing Club
We are currently running two clubs: one after school and one at lunchtime.
Creative Writing Club - ‘The Main Chapter’
Tuesdays, after school: 15:30-16:30 in Rm 66
Creative Writing Club – ‘Drop in and Draft’
Wednesdays, lunchtime: 13:05 onwards, in Rm 66 Starts on Wednesday 28th January
Under 14 Football Match Team Line Up-
Schools Showjumping Team 2025/2026-
If you are interested in representing the school for showjumping this year, please contact our Team Manager Jane Evans on 07841 978498. The first event is due to be held in March. This is open to any level however the ability to ride a horse/pony is essential.
Catering
This is a polite reminder that we are a nut free school. Please ensure your child does not bring nuts or food containing nuts as part of their lunch. Many thanks.
Trips
Snowsports Trip Saturday 13th February 2027 – Saturday 20th February 2027
Full details here: Snowsports Trip-2027 Initial Letter
Year 11 News
Careers Round Up
Careers Update
Skern Training & Skills Agriculture Careers Open Evenings
Year 10 News
Work Experience
Met Office Work Experience
‘Forecasting your Future’ Virtual Work Experience
In this virtual work experience students are guided through the diverse careers available at the Met Office, helping them to visualise some of the job opportunities that their skills and talent could lead to in the future.
For further information follow the link below:-
Met Office Careers - Forecasting Your Future | Springpod
In-Person Work Experience at the Met Office
To apply for in-person work experience, students must have completed ‘Forecasting Your Future’, the Met Office online work experience listed above.
Netball Matches-
Netball Matches on Tuesday 27th at Park, return 5.45pm
Year 9 News
Year 9 Pathways Information Evening-
Thursday 26th February 2026, 5pm – 6.30pm in the Drama Hall and Isaac Hall
Dear Parents and Carers,
We are delighted to invite you to attend our Year 9 Pathways Information Evening. Year 9 students will soon be deciding which GCSEs and other qualifications to study next year. To support them, and you in this very important decision-making process, we would like to invite you and your child to our Information Evening on Thursday 26th February 2026, 5pm – 6.30pm.
At this event, you will be able to find out the answers to these questions:
· Which subjects are compulsory for students (the ‘core’ curriculum)?
· Which subjects are options? How many options are there?
· What academic and vocational courses are on offer?
· How do I submit my choices?
· The Options Pathway Booklet, which will guide you through your discussions and choices is available on our website under the ‘Curriculum’ section, where you can also watch videos from the Subject Leaders, explaining the courses we provide. We will also give a paper copy to Year 9 students at Pathways Evening.
On the evening, you will receive a welcome from Mrs Bowler and will then be taken through the Pathway choices by Mr Twohig, who will present our KS4 Curriculum. This will outline our guidance for ensuring that your child makes choices that will enable them to experience success in Year 10 and 11. Attendance is essential to discuss your child’s options and to ensure your child is making the correct choices for their future.
The Assembly for parents will take place at these slots, dependent on your child’s tutor (students do not need to attend as they will have received this information in school and can stay in the subject fair in the Isaac Hall).
Parent Information Assembly 1 - 5pm in Drama Hall
· Mr England’s tutor group
· Mrs. Bateman’s tutor group
· Mrs. Murphy’s tutor group
Parent Information Assembly 2 - 5.40pm in Drama Hall
· Ms. William’s tutor group
· Mrs. Pearce’s tutor group
· Ms. Ronckier’s tutor group
Mr Parsons will also speak to you about the careers support and guidance which we provide at the Academy, as well as Year 10 work experience opportunities. There will also be a number of colleges present who you can also speak with.
On the evening, you will be given the Options Form and have the opportunity to attend a subject fair, where you can speak to staff about the different courses on offer. This form will allow you to choose the subjects that your child will study in Years 10 and 11. The deadline for this form to be completed is Friday 6th March.
During tutor time and assemblies in forthcoming weeks, your child will also have the opportunity to engage in activities to provide information, advice and guidance around the choice of education pathways available. A selected group of our Year 9 students will also meet with key members of staff for additional guidance in the run up to the submission of their final choices.
We look forward to seeing you on Thursday 26th February 2026, 5pm – 6.30pm.
Best Wishes,
Mr Twohig
Vice Principal
Year 9 Parents Evening-
Year 9 Parents’ Evening booking system (SchoolCloud) will go live for appointment booking at 6pm on Friday 23rd January. Year 9 Parents’ Evening takes place Thursday 5th February 2026.
Netball Matches-
Netball matches at Park Tuesday 27th, return approx. 5.45pm
Key Stage 3 Questionnaire-
We would love if you could complete the following questionnaire on homework at Key Stage 3 for us to be able to monitor and evaluate its use. Many thanks for your support.
Mrs Woodhead
Key Stage 3 Homework Questionnaire for Parents – Fill in form
Year 8 News
Netball Matches-
Netball matches on Tuesday 27th at Park, return 5.45pm names on the board
Key Stage 3 Questionnaire-
We would love if you could complete the following questionnaire on homework at Key Stage 3 for us to be able to monitor and evaluate its use. Many thanks for your support.
Mrs Woodhead
Key Stage 3 Homework Questionnaire for Parents – Fill in form
Year 7 News
Netball Matches-
Netball Matches at Park on Tuesday 27th return approx. 5.45pm, names on the board.
Key Stage 3 Questionnaire-
We would love if you could complete the following questionnaire on homework at Key Stage 3 for us to be able to monitor and evaluate its use. Many thanks for your support.
Mrs Woodhead
Key Stage 3 Homework Questionnaire for Parents – Fill in form
Dear Families,
I hope you have had a lovely week. This week Year 9 have started their exams; the whole exams team have been very impressed with the way that students have conducted themselves and quickly adapted to the rules and regulations around formal exams. It is a great opportunity for them to practice at an early stage, and their results will be helping to inform Year 9 families and the school about their options for next year.
Next week Year 9 continue with their exams on Monday and then they are followed by Year 11 Modern Foreign Language students to complete their practice speaking exams before the real thing in a couple of months.
Over the next couple of weeks, we will be completing a review of Key Stage 3 homework, this will include surveys from staff, students and parents. If you have a child in Years 7, 8 or 9 you can access the survey by the link provided in the individual year group notices, we really appreciate your feedback as we start to review current practice and look at how we can improve our provision.
Best wishes
Mrs F Bowler
Principal
Whole School Messages
Please see our website at www.braunton.academy for
Whole School Messages under Key Information
Dear Parents and Carers,
ANNUAL SCHOOL INVACUATION
I am writing to inform you that we will be carrying out our annual school invacuation practice on the morning of Tuesday 3rd February 2026. This is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all pupils and staff.
An invacuation is a procedure used when there is a potential concern outside the school building or in the local community, and it is safer for students and staff to remain indoors. Just as we regularly practise fire evacuations, rehearsing this procedure helps ensure that everyone knows what to do calmly and confidently should we ever need it.
In preparation for this, pupils will have an online assembly on Thursday 29th January in their tutor group. During this assembly, I will explain what an invacuation is, why we practise it, and what students will be expected to do. This will be communicated in a reassuring way, so students understand that this is a practice, not something to be worried about.
For this drill, the scenario will involve an angry unauthorised adult on the school site. This is a common training example used across many schools and helps us test how swiftly and effectively we can secure the school building should there ever be a situation where remaining indoors is the safest option.
Please be assured that no students will be placed in any distressing situations. The drill is designed to be calm, well‑managed, and supportive for all involved.
If you have any questions about the invacuation procedure or the upcoming practice, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your continued support in helping us ensure the safety of our school community.
Best wishes
Elise Woodhead
Assistant Vice Principal – Inclusion
Free Online Drugs and Alcohol Awareness Sessions for Parents & Carers
By Safer Devon and South Devon and Dartmoor CSP. Please click on the link provided to join this free online training event for parents and carers.
Meltdowns & Shutdowns- Skills Workshop
Monday 19th January 2026
DOINK – Sexual health support for students in school
Two of our pastoral staff are now fully DOINK‑trained, meaning they have the skills and knowledge to offer sensitive, age‑appropriate emotional support and sexual health guidance to young people, this is a Devon and Torbay based service using the Eddy Stone Charity Trust (www.eddystone.org.uk).
This includes helping them understand safer sex, how to make informed and responsible decisions, and where appropriate, providing access to contraceptives. Our aim is always to promote wellbeing, safety, and confidence, while ensuring that young people receive accurate information in a supportive and respectful environment.
If you would like further information about this service or would like to refer your child, please contact Mrs Maxey or Mrs Rush in pastoral support.
Catering
This is a polite reminder that we are a nut free school. Please ensure your child does not bring nuts or food containing nuts as part of their lunch. Many thanks.
Trips
Snowsports Trip Saturday 13th February 2027 – Saturday 20th February 2027
Full details here: Snowsports Trip 2027 Initial Letter
Year 11 News
Year 11 Leavers’ Prom
Year 11 Leavers’ Prom – Friday 26th June 2026 at the Barnstaple Hotel 6.30 pm to 11.00 pm.
Tickets are priced at £32.50 (Reduced from £38.00 thanks to the fundraising efforts of our prom committee) and will be available for purchase from Monday.
Please read the individual Y11 parentmail letter sent by Mr Frickleton for full details.
NHS Discover Diagnostics Careers Event – 24th January 2026
Peninsula Imaging and Pathology Networks, with Healthcare Sciences, are pleased to announce their diagnostic careers event for students aged 14+ and their parents, (and anyone else who’s interested), at the South Cloisters, University of Exeter on Saturday 24th January 2026, 9am- 12pm and 1pm - 4pm.
These events showcase the incredible professions that make up radiography, pathology, and healthcare sciences, as well as the career progression opportunities available within the south west. At the start of each session, there will be a welcome seminar to open the event, followed by stall exhibits, and a chance to chat with professionals from across the specialisms. Next steps teams will also be on hand to provide information about entry pathways into these careers.
It's free to attend but places must be booked for each attendee by following one of the links:
Morning ticket: https://app.tickettailor.com/events/nhs36/1654610
Afternoon tickets: https://app.tickettailor.com/events/nhs36/1654710
Additionally, all our upcoming events can be found on our website: Discover Diagnostics careers events | Peninsula Diagnostic Network
University of Plymouth – Peninsula Pathways Workshops
As part of the Peninsula Pathways to the Healthcare Professions, the University of Plymouth offer support and guidance to potential students considering a career in medicine, dentistry, dental therapy & hygiene, biomedical science and medical science from backgrounds which are under-represented in higher education through various engagement in activities and events. They offer support via workshops and talks in areas such as study skills, reflective writing, ethics and debating, UCAT workshops and Mock MMI (Multiple Mini Interviews). All workshops are delivered online. For further information follow the link below.
Peninsula Pathways workshops - University of Plymouth
Oxford & Cambridge Information Days
King’s College Online Law Lecture Series
Below are details of an exciting opportunity for our students - applications are now open for the King’s College London Widening Participation Online Law Lecture Series (LLS) 2026.
This is their first Law outreach programme fully accessible to students across the South West of England, and they’re really excited to invite schools to take part.
This opportunity is open to year 11 students.
What is the Online Law Lecture Series? The Law Lecture Series is a free, national programme of live online lectures for students interested in studying Law and related subjects at university. Since launching the programme, King’s College have supported thousands of students across the UK to explore law as a subject and career.
Delivered by King’s College London academics, admissions staff, student ambassadors and legal professionals, the programme helps students build confidence, knowledge and ambition.
What will students gain?
Students will:
· Learn what studying Law at university is really like
· Explore a wide range of legal careers and pathways
· Receive guidance on applications, admissions and the LNAT
· Take part in weekly live Q&A sessions
· Join a national community of like-minded students interested in Law
Who can apply?
The programme is open to students who (as of September 2025):
· Are in Year 11, 12 or 13, or on a gap year, and
· Are attending (or most recently attended) a state (non-fee-paying) school
When & where?
· Live online lectures via Zoom Webinar
· Held on Thursday evenings
· Running from March – June 2026
· Accessible on a computer, tablet or mobile device
How to apply
👉Click here to apply
🗓️ Application deadline: Monday 9th February
Year 10 News
Work Experience
The year 10 work experience week is the week beginning Monday 18th May 2026. The deadline for students to enter their placement details onto Unifrog is Thursday 2nd April. Please could we ask that students arrange their work experience as soon as possible and enter onto Unifrog so all the necessary health and safety checks can be carried out in time. Please go to our Work Experience webpage for further instructions – link below. If your child needs help with finding a placement, please ask them to speak to Mr Parsons or Mrs Martin.
Work Experience - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Careers - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
University of Plymouth Work Experience
If your child is thinking about studying a medical, dental, biomedical sciences or medical sciences course at university, Plymouth University work experience programme allows them a taster of just what life as a student is like at their Faculty of Health. Their summer work experience programme run during June and July. Follow the link below for further information.
Faculty of Health work experience - University of Plymouth
Netball
Netball matches at Park Tuesday 20th, return approx. 5.45pm
Netball Matches at Braunton Vs WBS Thursday 22nd, finish approx. 4.30pm.
No Netball club this week due to matches
Year 9 News
KS3 Homework Questionnaire
We would love if you could complete the following questionnaire on homework at Key Stage 3 for us to be able to monitor and evaluate its use. Many thanks for your support. Mrs Woodhead
Key Stage 3 Homework Questionnaire for Parents – Fill in form
Netball
Netball Matches on Tuesday 20th at Park, return 5.45pm
Netball Matches on Thursday 22nd at Braunton finish 4.30pm
No Netball club this week due to matches
Year 8 News
KS3 Homework Questionnaire
We would love if you could complete the following questionnaire on homework at Key Stage 3 for us to be able to monitor and evaluate its use. Many thanks for your support. Mrs Woodhead
Key Stage 3 Homework Questionnaire for Parents – Fill in form
Lumi Nova
We’d like to share a fun, interactive way to support your child’s mental health, wellbeing, and self-esteem. Lumi Nova is a free, digital therapeutic tool designed to help children build confidence and emotional resilience, with no waiting times to get started. Please see the attached sheets for full details.
Netball
Netball matches on Tuesday 20th at Park, return 5.45pm names on the board
No Netball club this week due to matches
Year 7 News
Lumi Nova
We’d like to share a fun, interactive way to support your child’s mental health, wellbeing, and self-esteem. Lumi Nova is a free, digital therapeutic tool designed to help children build confidence and emotional resilience, with no waiting times to get started. Please see the attached sheets for full details.
Netball
Netball matches at West Buckland School Monday 19th return approx. 5.30pm. Names on the board
Netball Matches at Park on Thursday 20th return approx. 5.45pm, names on the board.
No Netball club this week due to matches
KS3 Homework Questionnaire
We would love if you could complete the following questionnaire on homework at Key Stage 3 for us to be able to monitor and evaluate its use. Many thanks for your support. Mrs Woodhead
Key Stage 3 Homework Questionnaire for Parents – Fill in form
Dear families,
Happy New Year! It is lovely to write to you at the start of this new term, the students have returned and are raring to go. It was fantastic to see so many of our Year 7 families at parent’s evening last night. We trust you found the evening a positive experience and an opportunity to discuss your child’s progress face to face with their teachers. Year 9 have also been busy this week preparing for their formal exams, students have been set several revision tasks from their class teachers with the exams starting next Thursday.
This week the Children’s Commissioner for England has published a new guide for parents called What I wish my parents or carers knew: A guide for parents on managing children’s digital lives. This guidance has been written in collaboration with young people across the country and we would urge parents to read and use this as a guide to support their child’s access to digital media at home.
On a similar topic this week I have sent out via Class Charts the smartphone survey to the students participating in the research by King’s College London, on behalf of the British and Irish Government. This is a short survey that students will participate with three times throughout the year.
Following the messaging about uniform before half term we have seen improvements this week, uniform is generally of a high standard at school but during last term we did see some erosion of our expectations. Thank you to our families for your support in this matter, it may seem minor to some families, but high expectations of how our uniform is worn really does have an impact on the wide school culture and learning environment within the school.
Best wishes,
Mrs F Bowler, Principal
Whole School Messages
Please see our website at www.braunton.academy for Whole School Messages under Key Information
Free Online Drugs and Alcohol Awareness Sessions for Parents & Carers
By Safer Devon and South Devon and Dartmoor CSP. Please click on the link provided to join this free online training event for parents and carers.
Reminder of Smartphone Policy
Braunton-Co-operative-Learning-Trust-Smartphone-Policy.pdf
Braunton Academy – Coffee & Chat Mornings
Next event Wednesday 14th January 2026
Reminder Key Uniform Expectations
Uniform - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Attendance: Late/Absent
Please ensure all absences, lates, appointments, etc. are recorded on ParentMail. Phone calls and messages will delay your child’s attendance being recorded accurately. Many thanks.
Messages for Students During the School Day
Please remember messages to students during the school day should only be required to be delivered in rare/emergency circumstances and must be received as early as possible, but no later than 3pm.
Please communicate after school arrangements prior to your child leaving home in the morning. If you feel regular communication of this nature is needed e.g. about changing arrangements, please consider providing a non-smart phone for your child to aid such communication after school.
Catering
This is a polite reminder that we are a nut free school. Please ensure your child does not bring nuts or food containing nuts as part of their lunch. Many thanks.
Competitions
MFL Speaking Competition
🎤 Think you’ve got the language skills? Prove it! 🌍
Pilton Community College is hosting an MFL Speaking Competition on Wednesday 4th March 2026 – and YOU could be part of it!
✅ Open to all secondary students in the South West
✅ Show off your foreign language skills outside the classroom
✅ Win prizes, certificates, and bragging rights!
What’s the challenge?
Prepare a 1–2 minute presentation on a topic of your choice (see Miss Ronckier for the options). Be creative, be bold, and make it original! 🎭
Judging criteria:
· Fluency & spontaneity
· Accent & range of language
· Presentation style & originality
🎉 Bonus fun:
During lunch, there’ll be entertainment in different languages! Want to sing or dance instead of competing? Talk to Miss Ronckier!
⚠️ Spots are limited.
👉 Ready to shine? Sign up NOW!
Clubs and Activities
Please Note as of next week all information for clubs and activities will be found on the school website.
Braunton Academy Climbing Club
Please see the new booking link below for climbing club this term:
https://radventuresoutdoors.setmore.com/classes/4adbf691-9b54-437b-88f1-02584a9a5f71
EcoClub Relaunched!
Tuesday lunchtimes, room 25, bring your lunch! Lots of great activities to get involved with. New members are really welcome.
MFL Competition Preparation Club
Every Thursday lunchtime in room 43, bring your packed lunch and let’s prepare for the Routes into Languages speaking competition together! Open to all year groups – if you want to perform foreign language entertainment over lunch rather than compete in the speaking events, come along and let me know!
KS4 Sophrology Club – Supporting Exams Wellbeing
As exam pressures continue to rise, many parents are understandably concerned about how their children cope; not just academically, but emotionally. At our school, we are proud to introduce a new initiative aimed at supporting students’ mental wellbeing and enhancing their exam preparation: the KS4 Sophrology Club. Tuesdays after school in Room 40 with Mrs Duthuit.
Year 11 DT GCSE Club
Every Tuesday in the DT ICT room until 4.30 pm
Homework Club
All years, every day after school in the library 3.15-4.15pm Monday- Thursday. Friday 3.15-4.00.
French Pen Friend Club
Every Friday lunchtime in room 43, bring your packed lunch and let’s write letters in French to send to two French schools and get a pen-pal friendship going! Open to all year groups.
Creative Writing Club
After school (15:30-16:30) in the Library. A great opportunity to explore all forms of creative writing with like-minded people from across the school. Limited spaces. All years welcome. Please see Miss Reed (Room 66) to sign up!
Music Clubs - Please see Mr Thomas at break or lunch to sign up
Tuesdays - Lunch Time - Choir Rehearsals
Thursday - Lunch Time - Music Club
Wednesday –Lunch Time and Thursday - 3:15 - 4:15 - School Ensemble
Friday - Lunch Time - Jazz Band
PE and Sports Clubs
Students playing Football on the AGP at lunchtimes must wear their shin pads with trainers or football boots. They do not need to wear PE kit.
Please find a link below to the PE page of the website where you will find the updated fixtures list for this year (near the bottom of the page).
Physical Education - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Trips
Snowsports Trip Saturday 13th February 2027 – Saturday 20th February 2027
Full details here: Snowsports-Trip-2027-Initial-Letter
Year 11 News
Careers Round Up
Careers Update
Bicton College
Bicton College have an open event on Saturday 17th January from 10am – 1pm. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in Bicton to explore the campus at their own pace and speak directly with staff about courses and student support.
Bicton College also have their next Taster Day on Monday 16 February, from 10am–3:30pm. This is open to students aged 14–16 and allows them to spend the day trying out one of their courses. It’s a great way for students to revisit a course they’ve already applied for, or to explore a new option before applying, as well as meet teaching staff ahead of starting their course. Follow the link below for further details.
NHS Discover Diagnostics Careers Event – 24th January 2026
Peninsula Imaging and Pathology Networks, with Healthcare Sciences, are pleased to announce their diagnostic careers event for students aged 14+ and their parents, (and anyone else who’s interested), at the South Cloisters, University of Exeter on Saturday 24th January 2026, 9am- 12pm and 1pm - 4pm.
These events showcase the incredible professions that make up radiography, pathology, and healthcare sciences, as well as the career progression opportunities available within the south west. At the start of each session, there will be a welcome seminar to open the event, followed by stall exhibits, and a chance to chat with professionals from across the specialisms. Next steps teams will also be on hand to provide information about entry pathways into these careers.
It's free to attend but places must be booked for each attendee by following one of the links:
Morning ticket: https://app.tickettailor.com/events/nhs36/1654610
Afternoon tickets: https://app.tickettailor.com/events/nhs36/1654710
Additionally, all our upcoming events can be found on our website: Discover Diagnostics careers events | Peninsula Diagnostic Network
Year 10 News
Work Experience
Please can we remind students/parents to start thinking about where students would like to go for their work experience placement starting on Monday 18th May 2026. The deadline to get the placement details entered onto Unifrog is Thursday 2nd April 2026. For all the information you need, please visit the Work Experience page of the website – link below. If your child needs help with finding a placement, please ask them to speak to Mr Parsons or Mrs Martin.
Work Experience - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Year 9 News
Monday 12th January- The school immunisation team will be visiting us to deliver DTP & MenACWY vaccinations to Yr9.
Year 9 Assessment Exams – Thursday 15th to Monday 19th January 2026
We would like to remind you that Year 9 assessment exams will take place Thursday 15th to Monday 19th January. These assessments are an important opportunity for students to demonstrate their progress and prepare for the demands of GCSEs.
For English, Maths, Science, Geography, History, and Languages, exams will be held in the Sports Hall under formal conditions to give students valuable experience of the environment they will encounter during their real GCSE exams. This practice helps build confidence and familiarity with the process.
Subject teachers will provide revision lists to support preparation, and we strongly encourage families to help students plan and complete their revision at home. Your support in creating a calm, focused environment and checking in on their progress can make a significant difference. We will be providing students with their exam timetables soon, so please encourage your children to plan their revision and study timetable. Thank you for your continued support in helping our students achieve their best.
Year 8 News
Monday 12th January. Year 8 A&B teams netball match at West Buckland School. Please see team sheets for those taking part and return times.
Lumi Nova -We’d like to share a fun, interactive way to support your child’s mental health, wellbeing, and self-esteem. Lumi Nova is a free, digital therapeutic tool designed to help children build confidence and emotional resilience, with no waiting times to get started. Please see the attached sheets for full details.
Lumi Nova Parent & Carer Information Sheet
Year 7 News
Gymnastics competition – practice for those signed up to the competition on Thursday lunchtimes in the Sports Hall.
Robot Club starts again on Thursday 15th January in the DT computer room.
Lumi Nova - We’d like to share a fun, interactive way to support your child’s mental health, wellbeing, and self-esteem. Lumi Nova is a free, digital therapeutic tool designed to help children build confidence and emotional resilience, with no waiting times to get started. Please see the attached sheets for full details.
Lumi Nova Parent & Carer Information Sheet
Dear Families
It is lovely to be writing to you at the end of the year having signed off the major school events last night with a fabulous winter concert. The Expressive Arts department yet again created a wonderful exhibition of our students' musical talents and this year we were joined by students of Southmead and Caen Primary schools as well as our usual contribution from the Braunton Community Choir. The summer and winter concerts are a fantastic opportunity for our students to demonstrate the hard work and dedication they do daily throughout the year to be able to perform to a crowd over 200 people. What I love the most is being able to chart students' development and confidence in their performances over their 5 years with us.
As well as the annual winter concert this week we have seen several house competitions both sporting and creative. Congratulations to Clodagh for winning the Christmas card completion and Peonie for winning the Christmas cake competition.
In staffing news this week, we have said a fond farewell to Mrs Craig who will not be returning to the Academy following an extended absence. Mrs Craig has been a key member of both the senior and maths teams and has made a significant contribution to the progress of students in the school especially in her role overseeing KS4 achievement and exams. We wish her all the best in the future. The Academy is currently working on plans to reallocate these responsibilities, and I will update parents on the progress of this after the holiday.
School reopens to staff on Monday 5th January with all students returning to school at 8:45am on Tuesday 6th January. We are returning on a B week.
On behalf of all the staff we wish our families a wonderful Christmas and New Year. We look forward to welcoming all the students back in January.
Best wishes,
Mrs F Bowler, Principal
Whole School Messages
New this Week – Let Afghan Girls Learn Asse
Last week Marmarin delivered a speech to each year group assembly, “Let Afghan Girls Learn”, telling us how girls in Afghanistan are not allowed to attend school. This was part of an assembly around understanding Fact, Fiction and Opinions around refugees. Students were surprised that in Britain we only have just 1% of the world’s refugees which makes up a tiny 0.6% of the British population, even though the media would have us believe otherwise! Students learnt about why refugees flee their dangerous countries, why they come to Britain and how we can support them.
Supporting Safe Mobile Phone Use Over the Holidays
The local police have contacted the Academy as they have become aware of some incidents where a concerning number of students at the Academy have received, and in some cases, shared explicit images on their mobile phones. They have asked the Academy to pass on the message below and advised parents to check their child's phones to ensure they are not storing inappropriate images. As we approach the Christmas break, we want to remind parents about the growing concerns around children’s use of mobile phones.
Increased screen time during the holidays can lead to exposure to explicit or illegal images, which can have serious legal and emotional consequences. Sharing explicit images of themselves or others can also result in criminal implications and long-term harm. Please take time to talk with your child about responsible online behaviour, monitor their activity, and ensure they understand that what they share online can have lasting consequences. Encourage them to think before they post, and remind them that if something goes wrong, they can always come to you for help without fear of judgment. Information poster attached with the newsletter.
Reminder of Smartphone Policy
Braunton-Co-operative-Learning-Trust-Smartphone-Policy.pdf
Braunton Academy – Coffee & Chat Mornings
Reminder Key Uniform Expectations
Uniform - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Borrowed Uniform
If your child has borrowed uniform from Pastoral, especially a tie, please check and return them promptly. We no longer have uniform for students to borrow, as a result of students not returning or collecting deposits.
Attendance: Late/Absent
Please ensure all absences, lates, appointments, etc. are recorded on ParentMail. Phone calls and messages will delay your child’s attendance being recorded accurately. Many thanks.
Messages for Students During the School Day
Please remember messages to students during the school day should only be required to be delivered in rare/emergency circumstances and must be received as early as possible, but no later than 3pm.
Please communicate after school arrangements prior to your child leaving home in the morning. If you feel regular communication of this nature is needed e.g. about changing arrangements, please consider providing a non-smart phone for your child to aid such communication after school.
Lost Property
Any lost property that has not been claimed by the end of each half term will be either disposed of or donated to charity. Please label all children’s belongings and encourage them to check lost property for anything they may have misplaced.
Catering
This is a polite reminder that we are a nut free school. Please ensure your child does not bring nuts or food containing nuts as part of their lunch. Many thanks.
Contact with School
Please use the email contact list on our website (link below) to help you direct your enquiries to the correct members of staff.
Specific Contact Options - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Airborne Viruses
As the colder months approach, we can expect to see increases in common airborne viruses. Illness is the biggest single reason for school absence; while some absences due to illness are unavoidable, many can be reduced through simple, proactive measures that minimise the spread of infections. Scientific evidence demonstrates that vaccination, disinfection (cleaning), handwashing, and ventilation can significantly reduce the transmission of infectious diseases.
Please take time to read the two links below to help us reduce the number of student absences this winter:
Is my child too ill for school? - NHS
Top tips on how to keep your child healthy at school – The Education Hub
Rotary Club Young Writer Entries
Thank you to everyone who entered the Rotary Club Young Writer competition - we had 35 entries to submit this week. Great work!
The Page is Printed 2026 Competition – Taunton Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre
The arts centre has publicised the following information on the competition:
Write in any genre: prose, poetry, script, a confession, a love letter, a list… be bold, be imaginative, but contain your entry to just one side of A4.
Unleash your creativity and let your imagination run wild! Whether it’s prose that transports readers to distant worlds, poetry that stirs the soul, a script that captivates with its dialogues, a confession that lays bare the depths of the heart, a love letter that resonates with passion, or even a list that surprises and intrigues – the possibilities are endless.
But remember, the canvas is limited to just one side of A4 paper. This constraint challenges you to distil your brilliance into a concise and powerful expression. It’s an invitation to be economical with your words, to craft something that lingers in the mind long after it’s read.
Our panel of judges will be looking for something that dares to be different and most importantly something that comes to life when it is read aloud.
Entries will need to be saved as a PDF and sent to Miss Reed by Wednesday 14th January 2026 to be entered.
Clubs and Activities
Year 11 DT GCSE Club every Tuesday in the DT ICT room until 4.30 pm
Homework Club All years, every day after school in the library 3.15-4.15pm
German Music Club Every Thursday lunchtime in room 43, bring your packed lunch and let’s listen to and study German songs together! Open to all year groups (and staff!)
KS4 Sophrology Club – Supporting Exams Wellbeing
As exam pressures continue to rise, many parents are understandably concerned about how their children cope; not just academically, but emotionally. At our school, we are proud to introduce a new initiative aimed at supporting students’ mental wellbeing and enhancing their exam preparation: the KS4 Sophrology Club. Tuesdays after school in Room 40 with Mrs Duthuit.
French Pen Friend Club Every Friday lunchtime in room 43, bring your packed lunch and let’s write letters in French to send to two French schools and get a pen-pal friendship going! Open to all year groups.
Creative Writing Club After school (15:30-16:30) in the Library. A great opportunity to explore all forms of creative writing with like-minded people from across the school. Limited spaces. All years welcome. Please see Miss Reed (Room 66) to sign up!
Music Clubs - Please see Mr Thomas at break or lunch to sign up
Tuesdays - Lunch Time - Choir Rehearsals
Thursday - Lunch Time - Music Club
Wednesday –Lunch Time and Thursday - 3:15 - 4:15 - School Ensemble
Friday - Lunch Time - Jazz Band
PE and Sports Clubs
Students playing Football on the AGP at lunchtimes must wear their shin pads with trainers or football boots. They do not need to wear PE kit.
Rugby
Year 7 & 8 – Wednesday after school until 4.15 pm
Year 9 & 10 – Tuesday after school until 4.15 pm
Please find a link below to the PE page of the website where you will find the updated fixtures list for this year (near the bottom of the page).
Physical Education - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Braunton Academy Climbing Club
Select Braunton Academy Climbing Club and your relevant time slot. Any questions please ask. Also, with this new system you can edit the booking yourself should you book the wrong the time slot (depending on spaces).
https://radventuresoutdoors.setmore.com
Basketball Club
Full details on last week’s newsletter. Booking: Email David direct at davidropersports@gmail.com to book your child's place.
Year 11 News
Careers Round Up
Careers - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Year 10 News
Work Experience
Please can we remind students/parents to start thinking about where students would like to go for their work experience placement starting on Monday 18th May 2026. The deadline to get the placement details entered onto Unifrog is Thursday 2nd April 2026. For all the information you need, please visit the Work Experience page of the website – link below. If your child needs help with finding a placement, please ask them to speak to Mr Parsons or Mrs Martin.
Work Experience - Braunton Academy - Aspire and Achieve
Year 9 News
Year 9 Assessment Exams – Thursday 15th to Monday 19th January 2026
We would like to inform you that Year 9 assessment exams will take place during the second week back after the Christmas break, from Thursday 15th to Monday 19th January. These assessments are an important opportunity for students to demonstrate their progress and prepare for the demands of GCSEs.
For English, Maths, Science, Geography, History, and Languages, exams will be held in the Sports Hall under formal conditions to give students valuable experience of the environment they will encounter during their real GCSE exams. This practice helps build confidence and familiarity with the process.
Subject teachers will provide revision lists to support preparation, and we strongly encourage families to help students plan and complete their revision at home. Your support in creating a calm, focused environment and checking in on their progress can make a significant difference. We will be providing students with their exam timetables soon, so please encourage your children to plan their revision and study timetable. Thank you for your continued support in helping our students achieve their best.
Year 8 News
None this week.
Year 7 News
Year 7 Parents’ Evening
We are pleased to invite all our Year 7 Parents to our Year 7 Parents’ Evening, which will take place on Thursday 8th January 2026 from 4.00-7.00pm. This evening provides a valuable opportunity to meet with your child’s subject teachers, discuss their progress, and explore how we can work together to support their learning journey.
Booking has already gone live and you can book these appointments using our online booking system ‘School Cloud’ which has already been sent to you. Looking forward to seeing you all there.
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