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  • WNAT musicians win scholarship support

    Published 08/12/25

    It was a case of thank you for the music, when six young musicians were awarded Instrumental Scholarships at a WNAT school.

    The Year 7 students at Springwood High School in King’s Lynn had been taking music lessons at their respective primaries before joining the school, and each successfully auditioned for WNAT Director of Music, Robin Norman, to receive one of the coveted scholarships.

    “For the audition, each had to perform a piece on their chosen instrument, and then face an interview where their musical journey so far was discussed, and also their hopes for getting involved in the extensive musical opportunities at the school,” explained Mr Norman.

    The full instrumental scholarships entitle the talented youngsters to free, weekly lessons on their instruments throughout Years 7 and 8 at Springwood, followed by a 50 per cent reduction on tuition costs during Year 9 – which continues all the way through to Year 13, should they choose to take Music qualifications at GCSE and A-Level.

    “Springwood has a rich musical history going back to the 1970s, and this has always been about nurturing musicians, and also providing opportunities to get involved in music at a local, regional, and national level,” continued Mr Norman.

    “We introduced two scholarship programmes at Springwood 12 months ago to help with these beliefs – one for existing musicians who have had lessons, and the other is open to students who have obtained one of the Arts Places through audition.

    “I am thrilled that these six young people have been successful, and I look forward to them progressing further during their time here at the school.”

    The scholarship winners are Ella D (piano); Imogen S (viola); Callie-May S (trombone); Edward W (trombone); Max M (trumpet); and Oreoluwa O (flute).

    They follow in the footsteps of last year’s scholarship students Verity Or, Mika V, Elizabeth R, Sophia D, Noah C, Amaya T, Isla M, Frances H, Fidan A, Gracella H, Amelia K, and Bridie Dy, who are all now in Year 8 at Springwood, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust. Their chosen instruments included piano, cello, clarinet, flute, saxophone, and violin.

    “At a time when many schools are restricting their Music and Arts provision, it is wonderful to see Springwood continuing to increase opportunities for young people in the town,” added Mr Norman.

    “We currently have over 200 students choosing to learn an instrument or singing within the school, with even more getting involved in Music extra-curricular activities.

    “I’m pleased to say that the same scholarships are also available across all four secondary schools within the West Norfolk Academies Trust – something we are incredibly proud of.”

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  • WNAT students learn life-saving skills

    Published 08/12/25

    Lessons in life-saving were on the timetable at a WNAT school, when students undertook vital first aid training – thanks to funding from the Town Council.

    An impressive 150 Year 9 and 10 students at Smithdon High School completed the sessions, which took place across a two-day period.

    “Over the past seven years, we have applied for several grants that have allowed us to have the most trained youngsters in first aid in the area,” said Alysha Moat, Assistant Head of Key Stage 3, who helped organise the event.

    “We applied for a grant from the Town Council, who kindly paid for all of Year 9 to take part. We want to have as many youngsters as possible trained as we can in the area.”

    The programme was delivered by RCR Services, which provides training in first aid, health and safety, and fire safety, and has been working with Smithdon for the past six years.

    Skills covered included basic first aid, as well as training in automated defibrillator use, Epi Pens, CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation), and how to treat cuts, bleeds, and burns.

    “This is an element of the Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education (PSHE) Curriculum,” continued Ms Moat.

    “This qualification has helped them with their GCSE subjects, such as Health and Social Care, their Duke of Edinburgh Awards, PSHE Curriculum, Science, and Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network (ASDAN), et cetera.”

    As well as receiving financial support from Hunstanton Town Council, the first-aiders were supported in person during the training by Mayor Cynthia Easeman and Deputy Mayor Mark Williamson.

    “The Mayor and Deputy Mayor both attended to see what the students were up to,” explained Ms Moat. “The Mayor said they both thoroughly enjoyed the time spent watching, learning, and chatting to the students.”

    “Events like this are massively important,” she added. “Completing the course allows students to learn life-long, valuable skills, and boost their CV, having a bigger impact on the students’ aspirations, attitudes, and behaviours in and outside school.

    “It also provides the local community with many more qualified people in first aid – a vital thing, considering the current crisis the NHS is in.”

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  • Class of 2025 feted at Awards Evening

    Published 08/12/25

    There were celebrations all round, when students returned to a WNAT school for a special awards ceremony held in their honour.

    The Year 11 Prize Presentation and GCSE Certificate Evening at Smithdon High School saw the Class of 2025 joined by parents, staff, school governors, family members, and friends, as well as representatives from Hunstanton Town Council, Hunstanton Heritage Centre, the Hunstanton Lions, and members of Hunstanton and District Rotary Club – all keen to celebrate the students’ successes.

    All the attending students received their GCSE exam board certificates, while there were also a number of other prizes, including 20 subject awards, which were based on nominations made by members of staff.

    “It is great to have the students return to collect their awards, and for us to find out what they have moved on to do at Sixth Form College or in Apprenticeships,” said Headteacher Amanda Gibbins, who presented each subject award winner with a trophy.

    The occasion also saw the introduction of two new awards sponsored by Hunstanton Heritage Centre, with the first History Award going to Charlie Leverett, and the first Geography Award to Harley Stuart.

    Also new this year was a cup sponsored by the Rotary Club of King’s Lynn, which was awarded to Isabel King for Hospitality and Catering; while Marie Jarvis from Hunstanton and District Rotary Club was on hand to present Bethany Green with the Rotary Young Citizen Award, in recognition of her fundraising work.

    Among the other prize winners was former Head Boy, Ethan Guymer, who was awarded the Hunstanton Lions Prize for Service to the School and its Community, with Assistant Headteacher Dan Ward making the presentation.

    “It was a pleasure to work with all these students over the last few years; it is great to be here tonight to celebrate all of your successes,” said Mr Ward, who also presented a Pastoral Leader Award to Niamh O’Donnell – her second honour of the night, alongside the Halls Exhibition Foundation Endowed Prize for Mathematics.

    The Mayor of Hunstanton, Councillor Cynthia Easeman, introduced the Mayor’s Award for the Smithdon Seven, sponsored by Hunstanton Town Council, which went to Ruby Chamberlain for demonstrating all aspects of the ‘Smithdon Seven’ – ‘Self-Belief’, ‘Ambition’, ‘Responsibility’, ‘Community’, ‘Prepared’, ‘Respect’ and ‘Pride’.

    In addition, a number of endowed subject awards were presented across the evening, with the Connie Martin Memorial Prize for English Literature going to Thomas Mills; while the Clare Shield for English Language went to Matthew Crossman; and Amber Holness received the Clare Shield for Art.

    Also receiving accolades were Reece Ward, who was given the George Raines Memorial Award for Sport by Head of PE Jamie Tilley, and Bonnie Parsons, who attained the Hunstanton Round Table Award for Physical Education.

    The final awards were made by the Chair of Governors, Robert Lodge, who presented prizes for top progress and achievement, with Freddie Ince announced as having achieved the best overall results, as well as receiving the subject award for Business.

    “We are so proud of all our students and their personal successes,” added Steve Chapman, Assistant Headteacher at Smithdon.

    “It is so important to us to celebrate with them, and to acknowledge the accomplishments of all their hard work.”

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  • Students cooking up a storm at Smithdon

    Published 08/12/25

    There were no soggy bottoms in sight when contestants from a WNAT school showcased their culinary talents in this year’s Rotary Young Chef Competition.

    The local heats of the annual event took place at Smithdon High School on Thursday 27 November, when ten of the school’s Year 10 Hospitality and Catering students rose to the challenge of creating a healthy dish for two on a budget of just £6.00.

    “The students get one hour and 40 minutes to create their dish and serve, ready for judging,” explained Food and Nutrition Teacher Becky Dibble, who teaches Food and Nutrition at Smithdon, and was a member of the judging panel, along with School Governor Debbie Parry, and Deputy Headteacher Sarah Robinson.

    “It is judged on skill level, food safety, personal hygiene, presentation, and taste.”

    Remaining cool under pressure, Jessica B took first place, impressing the judges with her lemon-crust, pan-fried chicken breast served with home-made pasta in a creamy sauce; while Grace B was runner up with her chicken souvlaki dish of Greek seasoned chicken on flatbread with salad.

    Jessica’s win has secured her a place in the District Final at West Suffolk College in Bury St Edmunds in February, where she will pit her skills against other students from across the county, in the hope of making it to the National Final – and earning a trip to Tuscany, complete with cookery course.

    She will be supported by King’s Lynn Rotary Club, who will pay for the ingredients needed for her next competitive creation.

    The Rotary Young Chef Competition has become a regular fixture on the calendar at Smithdon.

    “The competition is extremely important, as it boosts the competitors’ confidence, gives them a chance to show off the skills they have gained, and become more independent,” added Mrs Dibble. “They can add this to their CV, which can set them aside from other students.”

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  • TV producer inspires WNAT pupils

    Published 03/12/25

    There was great excitement when a former CBeebies producer shared stories from his television career with children at a WNAT school.

    Bruce Turner joined pupils from Years 4 to 6 at Gaywood Primary virtually via Microsoft Teams, as part of a series of Career Conversations organised by the Raising Aspirations Programme.

    Mr Turner, who was born with cerebral palsy, worked on the BBC children’s series Something Special, which celebrated the achievements and potential of youngsters with disabilities, before moving to Channel 4’s 24 Hours in A&E, and then Dragonfly’s Ambulance.

    He is also creative director of his own company, Proud Mary Productions, which makes charity appeal films.

    “Gaywood Primary School takes part in the Raising Aspirations Programme run by the Ambition Institute,” said Executive Headteacher Neil Mindham.

    “They hold frequent meetings online, where children get the chance to meet adults working in various careers, and chat to them about their jobs.

    “It is really exciting for the children, and gets them thinking about their lives beyond the classroom, and what careers they might have a passion for.”

    The session with Mr Turner was facilitated by Michelle Parry, who is one of the organisers at Raising Aspirations.

    “Bruce spoke about his career in the BBC, and also about the skills needed for him to succeed,” continued Mr Mindham. “He spoke a lot about his travelling and time spent away, which the children saw as an exciting opportunity.

    “Bruce spoke about the shows he has worked on, which some children knew about and were able to ask questions on.

    “The children found it interesting learning how a producer works with so many other important people to get TV shows to come to life. They were also interested in learning about his time at CBeebies – something that many children were familiar with.”

    Other Career Conversations taking place at the school over the past months have featured an author, a perfumer, a cardiologist, account managers, and even a TikTok star.

    “Throughout the rest of the year, we will get the opportunity to sign up to the next round of Career Conversations when they become available,” added Mr Mindham.

    “It is always an exciting time for children to learn about important careers, and finding out who we will be meeting.”

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  • WNAT pupils share love of music

    Published 02/12/25

    Music-making took centre stage when pupils from across the West Norfolk Academies Trust combined their talents to play and perform together at St Clement’s High School in Terrington St Clement – which is itself a member of our Trust.

    Students from St Clement’s were joined by younger children from feeder schools in the area for the WNAT Musical Instrument Tuition Initiative (MITI) Workshop, with participating primaries including Clenchwarton, Walpole Cross Keys, and West Lynn.

    “We had just under 70 primary school students participating, along with Year 7 students from St Clement’s, offering a wonderful opportunity for musical development, ensemble experience, and cross-school camaraderie,” said our Peripatetic Music Lead Benjamin Howell, who organised the event with the support of WNAT Peripatetic Music Team Members Eddie Seales, Robbie Germeno, Helen Johnson, and Nic Bouskill, as well as our Director of Music, Robin Norman.

    The workshop concluded with a performance for parents, carers, family members, and friends, where the young musicians had the chance to showcase their skills, and share what they had learned.

    “These workshops play an important role in nurturing the musical progress of our primary school instrumentalists,” added Mr Howell.

    “They provide the opportunity to rehearse and perform in ensemble settings, develop confidence, and come together as young musicians within the Trust.”

    Other MITI Workshops taking place earlier in the month were hosted by fellow WNAT high schools Marshland and Smithdon.

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  • Pupils welcome PC to WNAT school

    Published 01/12/25

    It was a case of ‘Hello, hello, hello’ when children at a WNAT school welcomed a special visitor into their classrooms.

    Police officer James Smith met with more than 360 pupils of all ages, from Reception to Year 6, when he spent the day at Gaywood Primary.

    “PC Smith led sessions with Years 3 and 4 on mobile phone and online safety, Years 5 and 6 on county lines, and Years 1 and 2 on ‘how the police help us’,” explained Executive Headteacher Neil Mindham. “He also paid a visit to our Reception class.”

    Formerly Safer Schools Officer within the Safer Schools Partnership, PC Smith is now one of two neighbourhood police officers working to engage, educate, and support children and young people across Gaywood, Faistead, and Reffley.

    “The children thoroughly enjoyed the interactive nature of the sessions – especially the question-and-answer opportunities where they could ask PC Smith questions directly about his job and uniform,” continued Mr Mindham.

    “The younger children in Years 1 and 2 particularly liked learning ‘how the police help us’ and seeing the officer in uniform. The older students in Years 5 and 6 found the information on county lines and online safety to be very relevant and engaging, appreciating the examples and advice PC Smith shared.”

    “Events like this are extremely important, as they establish positive relationships and trust between children and the police at an early age,” he added.

    “They benefit children by providing vital, age-appropriate safety education on topics like online risks and county lines, delivered by an expert.

    “Crucially, meeting an officer like PC Smith in a familiar, school setting helps demystify the police role, making officers approachable, and reinforcing that they are trusted figures children can turn to for help.”

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  • Pupils make music at WNAT event

    Published 01/12/25

    There was something for all musical tastes, from rock and roll, to blues and jazz, when around 50 young musicians came together to showcase their talents.

    Organised by the West Norfolk Academies Trust, the Musical Instrument Tuition Initiative (MITI) Workshop was hosted by WNAT member Smithdon High School in Hunstanton, and saw students joined by younger pupils from several feeder schools, including Snettisham Primary and Heacham Junior – both also part of our Trust – and Hunstanton Primary.

    “We had Smithdon students participating from across Years 7 to 11,” said our Peripatetic Music Lead, Benjamin Howell, who organised the event.

    “Students represented a broad range of instrumental areas, including strings, woodwind, brass, and percussion.”

    The musicians were divided into a String Orchestra and Wind Band, playing under the guidance of Mr Howell and Peripatetic Music Team members Eddie Seales, Mary-Ann Robinson, and David Maddison; while the event was also supported by our Director of Music, Robin Norman.

    “Students worked in two groups, coming together for a couple of combined pieces,” continued Mr Howell.

    “Throughout the workshop, the students explored a mixture of repertoire, featuring elements of rock and roll, boogie-woogie, and jazz.”

    The day concluded with a performance for family members and friends, where the musicians were able to display their new skills.

    “The final performance was well received, and attended by a number of parents, whose support was very much appreciated, as always, in encouraging the students on their musical journey,” added Mr Howell.

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  • Tough talking students in debating contest

    Published 01/12/25

    There was plenty to talk about at an inter-schools debating contest for West Norfolk Academy Trust students.

    Marshland High School hosted the event and teams from Springwood and St Clement’s High Schools all recently competed for the coveted winners’ trophy. There had been a number of internal rounds before the final teams were chosen for the event.

    Each group had three members, a proposer, opposer and chair and the winners on the night were from Springwood High School whose team chose the topic ‘is TikTok responsible for poor mental health amongst teenagers?’

    “We are incredibly impressed and proud of the commitment the students have shown in researching their topics and preparing their speeches using their own time. They showed great confidence in speaking so eloquently in front of their peers and judges, well done!” said Judy Webb, KS3 Coordinator at Marshland High School, West Walton.

    “The idea is to celebrate the power of ideas and the art of persuasive communication. We want students to develop their ability to express oneself fluently, confidently and to be able to articulate a clear argument, challenge ideas respectfully and think critically.”

    The judging team was Neil Mendham, executive Headteacher of Gaywood Primary and Tony Yates, a trustee from the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

    Trophies were presented to the winning team and certificates were given to everyone who took part in the event.

    All the teams, along with one from Smithdon High School,  will be taking part in the annual Rotary Youth Speaks Competition which is being organised by the King’s Lynn Trinity Rotary Club.

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  • One hundred birthday cards appeal for our school centenary

    Published 01/12/25

    Staff and students are aiming high for their school’s centenary and are making plans for a fantastic event to mark the milestone next July.

    Marshland High School hopes to hear from Sir David Attenborough, who turns 100 next year as well, as a house is named after him. Dame Jessica Ennis Hill also has a house in her name, and we will be contacting her as well.

    And the school also wants to receive 100 birthday cards in time for a special celebration party planned for next July. Former staff and students have been written to, along with the big names attached to two of its houses.

    Memories and photographs of former students and staff are also needed to help create a nostalgic evening of memories from across the decades.

    The school would like to hear from anyone with memories or photographs of past times at Marshland High, and they needn’t be ex-pupils.

    “We would love to hear from anyone with memories of the school, and the school council is going to reach out to different people connected to our school to ask for cards,” said Lydia Beatty, Head of PSHCE and Religious Studies and history teacher.

    Parts of the school date back to 1925, although there has been extensive work during the intervening years, including a new humanities block which opened in 2020 after a £1.2m investment.

    Birthday cards can be sent to: History Dept, Marshland High School, School Road, West Walton, Wisbech PE14 7HA. And a dedicated email address is also available: centenary@marshlandhigh.co.uk

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  • WNAT primary school hosts successful community support marketplace

    Published 27/11/25

    A community support marketplace held at Gaywood Primary School proved so successful there are already plans for another.

    A range of organisations were invited to take part in the inaugural event, which was designed to help families who may be facing barriers when trying to access support they need.

    “Families often face complex challenges - ranging from financial pressures and health concerns to educational needs and emotional wellbeing. Extra support agencies help bridge these gaps by providing specialist knowledge, practical assistance and early intervention,” said Lara Wardill, pastoral support, attendance and safeguarding officer.

    After discussions with Lex Smith, Early Help Community Worker in West Norfolk, the idea of creating a marketplace developed, and it was very well-supported, both by local organisations and families.

    “As the organiser, I really wanted to put together an event that gave everyone in our school community a chance to come together in a relaxed, stress-free environment. It was all about creating a space where people could feel comfortable and connect with local support services without any pressure.”

    Executive Headteacher, Neil Mindham said: “I was delighted that we were able to host this Community Marketplace Event in our school. Bringing together so many local services and organisations under one roof was a wonderful opportunity for our families to find out what support was available to them. We were incredibly proud of our partnerships with these teams and hope that everyone who came along felt welcomed, informed and inspired by the wealth of expertise in our community. This is something that we hope to host termly as a valuable ongoing resource for our families.”

    Extra support agencies help to bridge any gaps in health and welfare by providing specialist knowledge and offering practical help and signposting. Among those taking part were Mental Health Support Teams, Family Voice, Norfolk Family Hubs and the King’s Lynn Foodbank.

    “We fully intend to run it again. It is clear that this kind of event fills an important gap,” added Ms Wardill.

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  • No dodging this sport

    Published 26/11/25

    Taking aim and throwing a ball at your opposition is at the heart of Dodgeball, and pupils from across the West Norfolk Academies Trust made the most of trying out the sport.

    Gaywood Primary School hosted Dodgeball Fun for Key Stage 1 children and a total of ten teams took to the field to compete. The teams throw a ball at opposing members to eliminate them from the game during a series of rounds.

    Heacham Infant School, Walpole Cross Keys and Clenchwarton primaries, all members of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, took part in the first group alongside children from West Walton and Walpole Highway, from The Windmill Primary Federation.

    The second group saw West Lynn, Gaywood and Snettisham primaries from the Trust along with pupils from Terrington St John and Tilney St Lawrence, also of the Federation.

    “Both groups were incredibly close, with every team picking up wins, losses and draws throughout the morning,” said Matt Parkinson, of ICS Coaching which provided the session.

    “A huge thank you goes to all the staff from the participating schools for their support and positivity, helping to make the event such a success. Your encouragement and organisation created a wonderful atmosphere for everyone involved,” he added.

    The final round was contested by West Lynn who faced Walpole Highway in a great match which showcased fantastic spirit from both sides. The honours went to Walpole Highway who took home a medal and certificate, while medals were given to each participant.

    It’s the second year that the Trust schools have held sports competitions, with pupils and staff enjoying the challenge.

    “Sporting events really benefit the pupils as they promote physical and mental health, improve academic performance through focus and discipline. These events also foster essential life skills like teamwork, resilience and respect for rules” said Executive Headteacher Emma Hunt.

    “Participation in these events builds confidence and a sense of belonging, supporting pupils to develop an interest in staying active,” she added.

    Dodgeball sees players eliminate others by hitting them with a ball while dodging incoming throws. If a player catches a ball from the opposing team, the thrower is out and a player from the catching team can reinstate a player.

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