This week, our students demonstrated exceptional maturity, respect, and community spirit during the VE Day assemblies, reflecting the very best of the Turves Values. Their thoughtful attention, impeccable behaviour, and genuine engagement with the themes of remembrance and gratitude honoured the significance of the occasion. By showing such strong respect for history and resilience in understanding the sacrifices of others, they have made us all incredibly proud. Their actions this week serve as a powerful example of how the Turves Values guide and shape a caring, thoughtful school community.

This half term, the boys (Year 9) have been exploring the theme of freedom writing, studying influential figures such as Malcolm X and Harvey Milk and examining the impact their speeches had on audiences of the time. Drawing inspiration from techniques like direct address and repetition, the boys have started crafting their own speeches centred on the idea that silence is not enough—we must be actively anti-racist. These pieces will be presented in class, allowing the boys to apply the oracy skills that are deeply embedded in our curriculum.

We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible success of our very first Trust-wide Spelling Bee – a vibrant event that brought together pupils from all our schools, in a showcase of linguistic talent, nerves of steel, and community spirit.

Over 40 brilliant spellers from Key Stages 2 and 3 took to the stage, each tackling an impressive word list of more than 150 challenging entries. From phosphorescent to megalomaniac, cantankerous, chihuahua, frittata, and hieroglyphics, the competition tested not only vocabulary but also memory, focus, and composure under pressure.

The atmosphere was electric, with supporters gripped from start to finish, watching each round unfold on the edge of their seats. In an extraordinary finish, two winners were crowned – a testament to just how high the standard was. Huge congratulations to our co-champions: one from Etone College and the other from Bloxwich Academy Primary.

Both of them had to complete the tie breaker, spelling as accurately as possible a fearsome word which they had not been told in advance: ANTIDISESTABLISHMENTARIANISM. Both of them spelled it correctly!

This inaugural event marks the beginning of what we expect to become a favourite in the Matrix events calendar. A huge thank you to all the pupils, staff and supporters who made this possible. We’re already looking forward to next year’s Spelling Bee!

On Tuesday 29th April 2025, 24 of our talented Year 10 students had the exciting opportunity to attend the University of Birmingham’s annual Big Maths Quiz. Held in the magnificent Great Hall of the historic Aston Webb Building, this event brought together schools from across the West Midlands for a day of mathematical challenge and inspiration.

Our students were split into six teams of four and competed against over 50 other teams in a series of five challenging quiz rounds. The rounds tested a wide range of mathematical skills, including logical reasoning, estimation, and problem-solving. The competition was fierce, but our students worked with great focus, resilience, and enthusiasm, demonstrating excellent teamwork throughout the day.

In addition to the quiz, students attended a fascinating keynote lecture delivered by one of the University’s mathematics professors. This provided a glimpse into how mathematics is studied at university level and in other subjects like biology. 

We are incredibly proud of all the students who represented our school so well. They showcased not only their mathematical ability but also their teamwork, curiosity, and determination.