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    • Catalysing Success

      Published 12/03/25

      On Wednesday, 12th March 2025, Year 10 students from St Paul's Academy took part in Point 2 of the prestigious St Catherine’s Catalyst Program at Deptford Green Secondary School. This initiative, in collaboration with Addey & Stanhope and Bonus Pastor, is part of Oxford University’s outreach efforts to support and inspire students in their academic journeys.

      It opened my mind to specific subjects, and pathways into these. The critical thinking helped me understand different points of view on education.

      Y10 Student

      The Catalyst Program is a sustained contact initiative designed to provide tailored support at critical stages in a pupil’s education. By employing a ‘hub model,’ schools within the partnership take turns hosting events, allowing for a greater collective impact. This structure ensures that a larger number of students benefit from the program while also distributing the logistical responsibilities among all participating institutions.

      I enjoyed mixing with other schools and connecting through discussion to learn their insights into further education.

      Y10 Student

      The name ‘Catalyst’ reflects the program’s core mission: to accelerate positive change. The initiative aims to increase applications to top universities, enhance student motivation, and ultimately boost the success rate of university applicants. Through a series of structured engagements, students receive invaluable exposure to higher education opportunities and develop the ambition and drive necessary to achieve their academic goals.

      The program comprises four key points of contact:

      • Point 1: Autumn, Year 8 – Initial introduction to the program and university aspirations.
      • Point 2: Spring, Year 10 – Focus on academic development and university preparation (hosted at Deptford Green in 2025).
      • Point 3: Summer, Year 10 – Visit to Oxford University for an immersive experience.

      During the event at Deptford Green, students engaged in a variety of academic workshops, university application discussions, and interactive activities designed to encourage critical thinking and ambition. This experience provided them with a clearer vision of their future educational pathways and an enhanced understanding of the opportunities available at institutions like Oxford University. A special mention goes to Kemi, Hannah and Shatha for their insightful and thought-provoking responses in group discussions and to the leader of the program.

      The Catalyst Program continues to be a beacon of inspiration, guiding students toward their aspirations and helping to shape the next generation of university applicants. By fostering sustained engagement and collaboration among schools, it is playing a vital role in broadening access to top-tier education for all participants. We look forward to our Summer Term trip - we'll be visiting Oxford University for Point 3.

      I learnt about the different ways into education and that I can now study nursing as a degree apprenticeship. These experiences are invaluable for my future and I thank St Paul’s for providing these for me.

      Y10 student

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    • Students Explore T Levels at Shooters Hill

      Published 07/03/25

      On Wednesday, 5th March, thirteen Year 10 students from St Paul’s Academy attended an immersive T Level experience at Shooters Hill. The event provided an exciting opportunity for students to engage in hands-on workshops and gain a deeper understanding of the T Level programs offered.

      The day commenced at 9 AM with a Welcome Session, where students were introduced to the schedule and given an overview of T Levels by the Head of School and Tiana Reid the Marketing Director. This session highlighted the significance of T Levels in preparing students for industry-specific careers and higher education pathways.

      Throughout the day, students participated in three subject-specific workshops, covering Building and Services Engineering, Health and Social Care, Media and Production, and Early Years and Education. Each session consisted of a brief course introduction followed by a practical learning experience, allowing students to gain firsthand knowledge of the subjects.

      A lunch break was provided, giving students a chance to reflect on their morning activities and discuss their experiences with peers. It also provided time to speak with Alumni students and with the Careers Team giving guidance on the different pathways the students could enter by studying at Shooters Hill College.

       

      The afternoon continued with additional subject sessions, further enhancing students’ understanding of the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required for each field. The event concluded with a Panel Discussion, where current T Level students shared their experiences, offering insights into the structure, challenges, and benefits of the courses. This session also included a Q&A segment, allowing visiting students and staff to address any queries they had regarding the programs.

      This initiative aligns with the Department for Education’s commitment to promoting T Levels as a valuable alternative to traditional qualifications. By attending this event, St Paul’s Academy students were able to explore potential career paths and make informed decisions about their future education and training.

      The experience at Shooters Hill was highly beneficial, providing students with a clearer perspective on the opportunities available through T Levels. Events like these play a crucial role in helping young learners bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers.

       

      ‘The day was well explained in terms of what a T-Level was. I was then shown the campus and the different pathways I could study if I decided on a T-Level as my Post-16 Pathway. It was an engaging and enriching trip. Thank-you Shooters Hill.’ (Year 10 student)

       

       

       

       

       

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    • World Book Day Q&A Event

      Published 06/03/25

      In a captivating online session, Bolu Babalola, author of *Love in Colour* and *Honey & Spice*, inspired our top Bedrock Learning students with her insights on storytelling. We discovered that great writing starts with a deep love of reading, and that authenticity and joy are at the heart of every compelling story. Bolu shared her journey as a writer (and reader), the power of representation in fiction, and the importance of embracing our unique voices - urging us to write as often as we can.

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    • national apprenticeship week

      Apprenticeship Week

      Published 14/02/25

      St Paul's Spotlights Apprenticeship Opportunities

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    • Inspiring Futures

      Published 12/02/25

      Year 9 Options Fair at St Paul's Academy

      At St Paul's Academy on Wednesday 12th February, the Year 9 Options Fair for GCSE courses provided an invaluable opportunity for students and parents to explore future career pathways. This year, the event was enriched by the presence of Alumni who have ventured into diverse industries and careers, offering first-hand insights into their professional journeys.

      The Alumni shared their experiences across various career routes, including apprenticeships, university pathways, and vocational training. Industries represented at the event included media and marketing, financial services, public sector consultancy, as well as a prestigious Deutsche Bank Apprenticeship. Additionally, students had the opportunity to learn from professionals in brokerage and even an accomplished actor. STEM industries also played a crucial role in supporting the event, with representatives from the offshore industry and IBM showcasing career opportunities within the sector.

      The Year 9 Options Fair was designed to equip students and parents with essential knowledge to make informed GCSE choices that align with future aspirations. By engaging directly with professionals from a wide range of fields, students gained valuable awareness of potential career paths and the skills required to succeed.

      Moving forward, the Alumni will now become a key feature in the school's careers program, continuing to inspire and guide students toward ambitious futures. Their success stories exemplify how being part of the St Paul's Academy community can positively shape lives, as seen in the journeys of Kamaledine and Daniel (pictured below). Their achievements serve as a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and perseverance in becoming successful citizens beyond school life.

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    • Bank of England Visit

      Published 07/02/25

      The Bank of England led a keynote session yesterday to an incredible turnout from our Year 10, Year 11 and Year 9 — just under 150 students! Our young people were true ambassadors of the school, embodying our school values. Engagement was excellent, with students asking thought-provoking questions on everything from money laundering and counterfeit currency to careers and apprenticeship routes at the Bank. The staff were proud of all who attended.

      Many thanks to the Business Department who prepared students so well in lessons. Thanks to Mr Khan, Mr Kisitu, and the Business Team for supporting the event.

      -GD

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    • Inspiring Academic Excellence

      Published 24/01/25

      Year 10 Trip to Cambridge University, Gonville and Caius College

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