This Week in the Academy - 8th May 2026 | King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls' Academy

Welcome to the academies weekly newsletter, rounding up the events of the past week and keeping you informed of coming events and information to support you and your daughter in school and beyond.

This week we have:

Final Revision Push
Fundraising Fun
Year 12 Parents’ Evening
DofE Training Expedition
HPL Top Tips – Being concerned for society
Top Tips for Helping Neurodivergent Children Navigate the Online World

We hope you enjoy reading this weeks news!

Final Revision Push

As we approach study leave (Friday 15th May), this can be a stressful and emotional time for our Y11 and Y13 students. Your encouragement and support at home can make a real difference. Simple things such as helping your daughter plan revision time, encouraging regular breaks, and reminding her to look after her wellbeing can boost confidence and reduce anxiety.

We also encourage parents to remind students to check the school Instagram page, where staff have created short revision videos to support learning and reinforce key topics. These resources are designed to help students feel prepared and reassured as they head into study leave.

Fundraising Fun

Preparations for the Year 11 & 13 Prom are well underway, and fundraising efforts are truly in full swing. This week’s highlight, the “Sponge the Teacher” event, was a fantastic success, helping to raise a significant amount of money for this special occasion.

Students really got behind the initiative, bringing great energy and enthusiasm to the event. A special thank you goes to our brave volunteers – Mr Judd, Mr Pearce, and Mr Vorajee – who stepped up and took part in great spirits, much to the delight of students.

The fundraising momentum continued at lunchtime today with an exciting staff football match, which also raised funds for the prom. Students turned out in support to cheer on the teams, adding to the fantastic atmosphere and sense of community.

It has been a brilliant week of events filled with laughter, teamwork, and generosity. Well done to everyone involved for supporting the Prom and making these fundraisers such a success.

Year 12 Parents' Evening

A reminder to Year 12 parents and carers that Parents’ Evening appointments are now available to book in preparation for Wednesday 13 May. We encourage you to secure your slots in advance via Arbor.

Thank you for your continued support.

DofE Training Expedition

Year 9 Students Step Confidently Towards Their DofE Journey

This week, 48 enthusiastic Year 9 students successfully completed their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award training expedition, marking an exciting milestone on their journey towards the real expedition in June. The group demonstrated excellent teamwork, resilience and determination as they developed vital skills in navigation, campcraft and working together in the outdoors.

Throughout the training, students embraced new challenges, supported one another and showed great maturity, preparing them well for the adventure ahead. This experience has not only built confidence but also laid strong foundations for success in their assessed expedition later this term.

Well done to all involved – we are incredibly proud of your efforts and can’t wait to see you take on the real deal in June! 🌟🏕️

HPL Top Tips - Being concerned for society

✓ Model showing concern for society by having empathy for others.

✓ Encourage an interest in what is going on in the world and talk about events. Inevitably, most news stories involve the need for concern for others.

✓ Encourage care and compassion at home and consider ways in which this can become outreach to the local, national and international community.

✓ Consider the opportunities to discuss and act on issues which require caring more for society e.g., signing petitions regarding environmental issues.

✓ Consider the impact that loneliness can have on people. Encourage a discussion on this and how at work/school we can reach out to those who may benefit from our friendship and company.

✓ Ask your child what concerns them the most about topical issues. Listen carefully to their thoughts.

Top Tips for Helping Neurodivergent Children Navigate the Online World

Neurodivergent children are often drawn to technology, so early, supported experiences online are key. This guide explores how adults can model positive digital behaviour, set age-appropriate limits and create open, judgement-free conversations about online safety. It also highlights the importance of balancing screen use with offline activities to support wellbeing and development.

It also unpacks emerging challenges, including AI-generated content and the blurred lines between real and simulated interactions. With clear, practical advice on boundaries, critical thinking and safe communication, this guide helps educators and families build confidence in supporting neurodivergent children to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.