Dear Parents and Carers,

As we come to the end of the Easter term, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been another highly successful and rewarding period for our school community. Our students have been brilliant throughout the term, demonstrating commitment, resilience, and a positive attitude to their learning. We are incredibly proud of all that they have achieved.

I would like to extend a special message of encouragement to our Year 11 students, who are now entering the important revision period leading up to their GCSE examinations. We wish them the very best of luck as they prepare. To support them, the school will be offering a wide range of revision sessions over the holidays, and I would like to thank our staff for their dedication in providing these valuable opportunities.

It has also been fantastic to see students return from recent trips to Barcelona and Lyon, full of positive stories and memorable experiences. Opportunities like these are an important part of school life, and we are delighted to be able to offer them.

A reminder that on the final day of term, Friday 27th, school will finish at 12:10pm. School buses are expected to depart at approximately 12:15pm. This day will be normal school uniform.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support this term. We wish you and your families a restful and enjoyable Easter break.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Food Technology Department - Ringmer Village Show 28 March 

Let’s get baking – marble cake – baking competition for all ages. 

King’s Academy Ringmer has been invited to enter the Ringmer village show and bake for the "open cake making class", which is a baking competition, open to all ages. 

The set recipe this Spring will make a chocolate and vanilla marble cake. The recipe is attached here, or you can obtain copies from Mrs Budd in the Food room. 

If you would like to take part, have your cake displayed at the show and get the chance to win an award, you need to get baking next week.  Please deliver your finished cake to the Food room on Thursday 26th or to reception on Friday 27 March. We will then take entries over for display at the Village Show on Saturday morning. 

One of our yr.10 students currently holds the award for this category, which she won last year.  Let’s see if we can bring this trophy home again!

Please see the recipe for Chocolate Marble cake below – open to all age groups.

 

Ingredients

225g butter, softened

225g caster sugar

4 eggs

225g self-raising flour, sieved

3 tablespoons milk

2 tablespoons cocoa powder, sieved

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

Method

1. Heat oven gas mark 4/electric 180°/fan 160°

2. Grease and line a 20 cm (8”) round cake tin

3. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy

4. Beat in eggs one by one then fold in flour, milk and extract being sure to

      obtain an even mixture

5. Divide the mixture between two bowls, add the cocoa powder to one of the

      bowls and mix

6. Place alternate spoonfuls of the mixtures into the tin, repeat, placing

      alternative spoonfuls on top of each other

7. Using a skewer or a knife, swirl the mixture together gently, mixing it slightly

      but keeping the two different colours still visible (a marbled effect)

8. Bake at for 45-55 mins until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out

      clean.

9. Leave to stand in tin for 10 mins before turning out to cool completely.

 

Music Department – Piano Man Masterclass

On Wednesday 18 March, seven of our fantastic piano players from Year 7, 8 and 9 were joined via video link by Richard Meyrick, international piano soloist and teacher. This was a free masterclass in which students performed a piece and Richard gave constructive feedback on their playing. This was both an extremely exciting opportunity, but also one that requires real resilience as students have to try and improve their work on the spot. They also have to then try and perform the music straight away with the new changes, instead of having time to go away and practice as they might with a usual lesson. 

It was such a treat for our students to hear their own pieces being performed by a musician of such a high calibre, and I was really impressed by the positivity the students showed as well as being great ambassadors for the school. Well done to Martha, Olivia, Sam, Rosie and Bess for playing so well!

Ms Urquhart, Subject Leader for Music

 

The School Age Immunisation Service | East Sussex County Council

Missed a vaccination for teenagers and young people?

Please contact your local immunisation team for details of a clinic near you.

• Brighton and Hove 01273 696011 ext. 3789

• Chichester 01273 696011 ext. 8100

• Crawley 01273 696011 ext. 2043 

• Heathfield 01273 696011 ext. 2080

• Uckfield 01273 696011 ext. 4931

• Worthing 01273 696011 ext. 8533

Vaccination schedule for teenagers and young people-Sussex Immunisation Service

• 12 to 13: Your child should have been offered their Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine between the ages of 12 to 13.

• Age 13 to 14: Your child should have been offered their Tetanus/Diphtheria/ Polio (Td/IPV) and Meningitis ACWY (MenACWY) vaccines between the ages of 13 to 14.

• Age 16: By the age of 16 your child should have received their HPV, Td/IPV and MenACWY vaccines. (Males born AFTER 01/09/2006 ONLY should have been offered the HPV vaccine)

Frequently Asked Questions | Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio and Meningitis

Meningitis - Symptoms - NHS

Resources

• why vaccination is safe and important

• why vaccination is important and the safest way to protect yourself

Information for parents on the Td/IPV and MenACWY vaccination programme: 

• protect yourself from meningitis and septicaemia

• MenACWY vaccine

• 3 in 1 Teenage booster – Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio

• Td/IPV Vaccine (3 in 1 teenage booster)

Information on the vaccines:

• read the MenQuadfi patient information leaflet

• read the Nimenrix patient information leaflet

• read the Revaxis patient information leaflet

Redevelopment of the Eco Hub garden

It’s been a privilege to have Ali and Milly from the Railway Land Project, Lewes working with students in the Eco Hub Garden this term. The UK recognises the huge decline in biodiversity since the 1970’s and school grounds estates combined cover an area approximately the size of Birmingham city. Schools are being encouraged to improve the attraction for different species of native plants and animal species by increasing the habitat opportunities in their school grounds and increasing the biodiversity. 

We are incredibly fortunate to have been able to receive this fully funded project thanks to the Railway Land Project which, in turn, is funded by the National Lottery. Their aim is to leave a legacy that can be enjoyed and cared for by students and provide a sanctuary for these plants and creatures that will flourish here. Working outside and being in nature is proven to aid human mental and physical wellbeing, and whilst society is faced with these challenges, we hope we can create a space in school to encourage students' connection with nature and the outdoors.

We have been especially fortunate to have received voluntary help from the South East's pond expert, "Pete the Pond", accompanied by Mango the parrot, who not only provided us with his expertise, an amazing pond liner and new native pond plants, but he also helped the students dig out the huge hole with plant shelving and a bog feature.  It still looks quite raw and the project is not complete yet, but here are some in-progress photos of the work so far! Updates to follow. Please visit www.railwaylandproject.org/nature-links

MFL Department – KGA Global Stage Forum Video

Please follow this link to watch a recent KGA Global Stage Forum Video which has Mrs Taylor, Head of MFL plus a couple of our students talking as well as staff and students from all our other KGA schools.  It was shown to all KGA staff on our last INSET day.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IROUOeDR_7OTV0lkSi4xSC-ekhxcyIDO/view?usp=drive_link 

Apprenticeship Assembly and Workshop year 10 and 11 students

As part of preparing students for life after GCSE's this week, we had a visit from Lawrie Alford from LATC Apprenticeships, who delivered a dynamic assembly to our year 10 and 11 students.

This was followed by a workshop for students who wanted to find out more about apprenticeships, either after school or in the future.

The workshop was engaging and meaningful and covered the following:

• Where to look and apply for an apprenticeship

• Prepare for future apprenticeship applications

• What employers are looking for

• Mock Assessment / interview

Lawrie gave some fantastic feedback on the students that took part. 

''This was a really engaging group. Excellent involvement and thought-provoking questions, we covered a lot of ground. Brilliant example of students from Kings. It was an absolute pleasure''.

Please find some  resources Lawrie signposted the students to : https://www.amazingapprenticeships.com/resources/a-z-of-apprenticeship-standards/ 

Mrs Colbourne 

Careers Lead

https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship

Wave Swim School

At Wave Swim School, they provide fun, structured and affordable swimming lessons designed to help children build confidence in the water while learning key safety and swimming techniques. Their sessions are delivered in a welcoming environment and are suitable for a range of ages and abilities. They are held at a variety of centres both in and around the Lewes District, including Lewes Leisure Centre, Ringmer Swimming Pool, Seaford Head Pool, and Hillbrow Health and Wellbeing in Eastbourne. They will also be offering Swim School lessons at Seahaven Swim and Fitness Centre in Newhaven once it reopens in Autumn 2026.

What they offer:

• Interactive and engaging water safety lessons, led by friendly and supportive instructors 

• Affordable pricing from just £30 per month

• Lesson that cater to all abilities and ages: baby and toddler lessons available

Swimming is not only a valuable life skill but also a great way for children to stay active and build confidence. 

You can find more information on our website listed below:
https://waveactive.org/activities/swimming/wave-swim-school/  

Scout Adventures Broadstone Warren - part of The Scout Association

Egg-venture Fun Day at Broadstone Warren

Monday 6th April 2026, 10am-4pm

Families are invited to join us at Broadstone Warren for a fun-filled, Easter-themed day of outdoor adventure. For just £5 per person (free for under 5s), visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities suitable for all ages.

Included in the entry fee:

·  Egg hunt – follow themed clues around the site to win a chocolatey prize

·  Crafting – creative, Easter-inspired arts and crafts

·  Circus skills – try juggling or learn to use a diabolo

·  Target sports – take aim with archery

There will also be optional paid activities available on the day for those looking for extra adventure, as well as refreshments available to purchase.

The event is open to everyone – members and non-members alike – making it a great opportunity for families to enjoy time outdoors together.

Location: Broadstone Warren, Lewes Rd, Forest Row RH18 5JS

Parking: Free

Last entry: 2:00pm

More information: https://www.scouts.org.uk/national-events/egg-venture-fun-day/

 

Fun Abounds Trampoline Centre/ Sky High Trampoline Gymnastics Academy - Easter Holiday Camps

This is a local Uckfield charity - Fun Abounds / Sky High Trampoline Gymnastics Academy, offering affordable, inclusive Easter Holiday Camps for children of all abilities. The camps provide fun, active sessions and valuable support for families over the break.

Please see the flyer below and following link so parents can learn more or book online: https://portal.iclasspro.com/skyhightga/camps/1?sortBy=name

 

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope this message finds you well. We have had a very positive and productive few weeks in school, and I am delighted to share some important updates and celebrations with you.

World Book Day- Thursday 5th March

On Thursday 5th March, we will be celebrating World Book Day in school.

Students are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite book character or, if they prefer, they may wear their own clothes for the day. We hope this will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate reading and share favourite stories across the school community.

We are very much looking forward to seeing the creativity on display!

Our New Library is Officially Open!

We are thrilled to announce that our school library has reopened this week following an extensive refit and restructure.

Our goal was to create a fresh, accessible space that truly inspires a love for reading, and the result looks fantastic! The redesigned environment provides a welcoming, calm and engaging space for students to read, study and explore new texts. A huge well done and thank you to Mrs Colbourne and Miss Overton Harvey for all their hard work, vision and commitment in bringing this project to life. The transformation has been remarkable, and we are incredibly proud of the new space.

Staff Vacancies

We currently have a number of vacancies advertised. If you know anyone who may be interested in joining our school community, please do encourage them to apply or share the details with them. We are always keen to welcome talented and dedicated individuals to our team.

Further information can be found on our website.

Year 11 Update

Congratulations to our Year 11 students who have now completed their mock examinations. They have approached this important milestone with maturity and determination.

Students will now be preparing for their mock results ceremony, a valuable opportunity to reflect on their progress and next steps.

With just over eight weeks until the summer examinations, this is a crucial period of focused preparation. We are very proud of their efforts so far and will continue to support them as they move towards this next stage.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. It makes a tremendous difference to our school community.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Principal

 

World Book Day - Thursday 5 March 2026

Our New Library is Officially Open!

We are thrilled to announce that our school library has reopened this week following an extensive refit and restructure! Our goal was to create a fresh, accessible space that truly inspires a love for reading.

The new layout includes expanded fiction categories, eye-catching displays, and brand-new sections—including "Super Readables" and a dedicated area for popular book series. The student response has been incredible; there is a genuine "buzz" in the air, and it is wonderful to see our pupils so energised by reading for pleasure again.

Mrs Colbourne and Miss Overton Harvey 

Food Technology Department

• Year 10 Food students recently enjoyed a surprise lesson, preparing and cooking authentic Chinese dumplings made with advice from our Chinese teachers who visited school last week. Students were part of two teams who produced batches of beef, ginger and spring onion dumplings from their own prepared dough and filling.  Between them, they made enough dumplings for everyone’s lunch!

• Year 11 are still working hard on their GCSE practical coursework projects and have just completed their latest mock written exam. All students will soon be carrying out an individual cooking exam after half term – three products prepared in 3 hours. Good luck to everyone!

• Meanwhile, KS3 students have completed their current Technology unit and will swap over to either Food or Design Tech for the last three terms of this year.  Food students have enjoyed making a range of products this year, including homemade pizza, burgers, fruit smoothies, breaded chicken, curries, flatbreads and jambalaya. I am looking forward to working with the new groups after half-term, making some more healthy, balanced dishes.

King’s Academy Ringmer Journalism – The School Magazine

Over the course of this year's Super Curriculum sessions on Wednesday afternoons, myself and a group of brilliantly creative journalists have been creating the first ever King's Academy Ringmer student magazine: KAR Voices. 

The articles range from interviews with family members and friends we admire – to film, game and waffle reviews. These articles showcase the individuality of our students here at KAR, as well as a wide variety of writing styles and personalities through prose. 

We are all well underway with the second edition of KAR Voices that shall be coming out hopefully at the end of term two.  We will hopefully share the first version next term.

Thank you for your continued support

Mr Maund

Super Curriculum - Landscape Art 

In Landscape art, students have been inspired by David Hockney’s watercolours of Yorkshire and are creating their own version of The South Downs. We think these really capture our local landscape beautifully.

Mrs Colbourne 

3D Art Super Curriculum

The new cohort of 3D Art Super Curriculum students have been bringing recycled materials to life by creating brilliant bottle faces and creatures. Using old milk bottles, mod roc plaster modelling bandages, and a variety of vibrant paints, they have produced a fantastic array of quirky characters and fabulous fish.  Each piece is truly unique and we love the creative personalities.

Gardening Super Curriculum

Gardening Super curriculum students enjoyed a session cooking some delicious vegetarian puff pastry rolls. Some of these will be on sale at the Ringmer Repair Café THIS Saturday. Students used vegetables grown and picked from the school garden.  These included spinach, parsley, purple sprouting broccoli and calvero nero picked by students earlier in the day.

Spinach and broccoli rolls

• 1 can cooked brown lentils or chickpeas, mashed slightly

• 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped or grated

• 1 cup baby spinach, finely chopped

• 1 finely chopped onion

• 100g cream cheese (room temperature)

• Chopped herbs (parsley, chives, oregano)  or a teaspoon of dried mixed herbs

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or oat flour for gluten-free)

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)

• Optional ingredients can also include: grated courgette, finely diced red pepper,1 small carrot, grated (optional). The more veggies, the better the flavour.

Method

• Preheat oven to 200°C (fan-forced) and line a tray with baking paper.

• Chop the onion on a chopping board and cook in a frying pan with a tablespoon of olive oil until translucent and soft.

•  Drain the chickpeas from the can and pour into a bowl and mash with a masher.

• Wash and chop the spinach and broccoli and chop into small pieces, place in a pan of boiling water and cook until tender. Drain when soft.

• Chop the herbs finely

• In a large bowl, combine mashed chickpeas, chopped veggies, onion, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, seasonings and garlic. Mix well.

• Unroll the pastry and cut into thirds along the long edge to leave 3 equal sections.

• Spoon mixture along one long edge of each rectangle and roll, sealing with the back of a fork.

• Brush with beaten egg or milk for a golden finish.

• Bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden.

Year 11 Apprenticeship L3  Vacancy 

Apprentice Technician Powertrain Systems 

The role is advertised on the Chichester College website. Please apply via their website Current Vacancy Details ? CCG | Training

This vacancy closes on Thursday 5th March 2026 (website says 2nd, but this is being extended).          

This is an excellent opportunity to join Ricardo UK, a globally recognised strategic engineering and environmental consultancy, as an Apprentice Technician Powertrain Systems. Based at the Shoreham Technical Centre, the successful candidates will undertake an Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technician L3 Apprenticeship.

Please find more information here 

https://www.ccgapprenticeships.ac.uk/applicant/current-vacancies/current-vacancy-details/?id=babb9a0f-6a03-f111-8407-7ced8d6b8b34

 

Canteen / Chartwells Information - Special Pancake Day & Lunar New Year Menus

As these two celebrations happen during half-term week. We will be having a special pancake menu on 17th February 2026 and Lunar New Year on 19th February 2026. Please see the posters below with further information.

Canteen / Chartwells spending - Parentpay

Please can parents ensure that their child's Parentpay balances are topped up and ready for lunch each day.  A number of students attend the canteen each day and do not have sufficient money in their accounts to purchase items.  The canteen is unable to offer students credit on their accounts as quite often these are not paid off in a timely manner.

If you require a limit set on your child's account, this can be set up with the canteen. Just let reception know.

Reminder - Changes to Bus Fares

We have this week received the following information from East Sussex County Council with regard to changes in bus fares from February 1, 2026:

• East Sussex bus fares

From 1 February 2026, the reduced fares ESCC offered under the East Sussex Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) will no longer be available.

Most single journeys will still cost £3 or less, under the Government’s current national fare cap. We continue to work with local bus companies to keep fares low.

See routes with a £3 cap: GOV.UK - £3 national bus fare cap – South East operators and routes.

Bus fares are set by a combination of:

1. Central government policy

2. Commercial bus companies

3. Local council transport authorities.

To find the best fare for your journey, contact the bus company.

• East Sussex Freedom weekly ticket

The Freedom weekly ticket provides unlimited bus travel on all bus services in East Sussex for under 19s. Buy from the bus driver with proof of age.

Please note: From Monday 16 February 2026, the cost of this ticket will change to £20 for seven days of unlimited travel (currently £15).

• Bus company offers

Bus companies in East Sussex have their own fare offers, check which is best for you:

New information re; Changes to Bus Fares – Received from Compass Travel this week

The weekly Freedom Ticket in East Sussex will increase from Monday 16th February 2026.

Due to changes in funding through the East Sussex County Council Bus Service Improvement Plan, the weekly Freedom Ticket in East Sussex will increase in price from £15.00 to £20.00 per week.

 

Lindfield FC, Juniors - Girls Under 14 football team are looking for new players

Is your daughter interested in joining a local football team for under 14s?  They are recruiting new players now.

If they are interested, please contact them by telephone or WhatsApp:

Brett – 07890 651581

Helen – 07789 881969

Lewes Priory Cricket Club 

The Lewes Priory Cricket Club are holding winter nets through March.

East Sussex County Council Comms of interest to parents/carers

https://news.comms.eastsussex.gov.uk/9C06EF7FC4B7C4DC27D9AF745B9CF851F7CB67C5D59917E0A362A7152FB2B48E/4BB4CC2B2371556BC2CA0711DF049327/VIB 

Lewes Astronomical Society

The Lewes Astronomical Society, and the team behind the popular Lewes STEM Fair, are teaming up again to bring you Lewes Space Day, on Saturday, March 21st, 2–8 pm, at the All Saints Centre.

This will be an afternoon of performances and talks, with a fantastic line up of brilliant scientists and communicators. Prof Lucie Green, from UCL and a popular science broadcaster, is headlining a talk about Unveiling the Sun. There will also be talks from Dr Steven Banham about the search for life on Mars, Dr Eva-Marie Mueller on mysterious forces in the Universe, and Dr Penny Wozniakiewicz on collisions in the solar system.

Opening the afternoon is the inimitable and highly entertaining John Hinton, combining science, art, and humour in a family-friendly riotous performance that was a sell-out last time. There will be a café and bar, Bags of Books selling a range of family-friendly space-themed books, and (weather permitting) LAS will run solar observing sessions throughout the day.

Tickets are selling fast, and All Saints have a reduced capacity at the moment. So please grab your tickets here:

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/lewesspaceday

All the events are FREE for children and students, but pre-booking is still needed. Age guidance for each slot is on the ticket site.

3 x adverts – King’s Academy Ringmer

POST 1: RECEPTION, ADMIN AND ATTENDANCE ASSISTANT

14.8 hours per week, equivalent to 2 days a week – 7.4 hours a day, every Friday, plus either every Monday or every Tuesday, depending on the successful candidate’s availability.  

Required to start asap, permanent, TTO

Salary – KGA Pay Scale, Band 4, Points 4 to 6

Ie: £25201pa to £26473pa to be pro-rated as TTO

We are seeking a P/T Reception, Administration and Attendance Assistant to start asap.  Responsibilities will include managing the day-to-day running of the school reception and medical room and administering student attendance.  

What can we offer you?

• Leaders who create a positive working environment where teaching and learning is the priority

• An established, motivated and supportive department 

• Conscientious and hardworking students in a ‘very happy and safe school’ (OFSTED 2024)

• An effective behaviour for learning policy where ‘pupils behave well’ (OFSTED 2024) 

• A supportive and collaborative staff body

• An excellent CPD programme and opportunities for progression

• Two-week October half-term 

• Academy-wide staff benefits and discounts (My KGA)

• The opportunity to work in an Eco School

• A beautiful, rural environment situated approximately 12 miles from the coastal city of Brighton and Hove

King’s Academy Ringmer:

King's Academy Ringmer is a rural comprehensive with an ethos of "Honesty, Faith, Courage". Our most recent Ofsted statement states “the school has a culture of courtesy and respect” and “pupils are expected to work hard and commit to their learning."  Our results are significantly above the national average for all students.  We offer a broad, ‘exceptional’ enrichment offer through our Super Curriculum and students say “there is something for everyone." 

King’s Academy Ringmer is also an Eco School and winner of the Department for Education’s Sustainability award.  

King’s Group Academies:

King’s Academy Ringmer is part of King’s Group Academies.  At King’s Group Academies our vision is to provide ‘opportunity and success on a global stage’, which means we have a vision of a global community of pupils and colleagues whose connection broadens horizons and fosters understanding. Our values of ‘Honesty, Faith, and Courage’ drive our passion and ensure we collaborate within our UK communities and internationally, promoting global citizenship and cultural awareness. We believe that every pupil deserves a team of dedicated educators and staff who are deeply invested in their success, supported by positive partnerships with parents who hold us to the highest standards.

For full details and an application form can be downloaded directly from our website:

https://www.kgaringmer.uk/vacancies/support-staff-vacancies or contact Amanda French on either 01273 815460 or amanda.french@kingsacademies.uk quoting job reference P/518.  We offer a first-class working environment with supportive colleagues and opportunities for career development.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 12 March 2026 at 8.30am with the interview date on Tuesday 17 March 2026 (morning).

POST 2: LEARNING SUPPORT ASSISTANT

12 hours per week, equivalent to 2 days a week – 6 hours a day on a Thursday and Friday.

Required to start asap, permanent, TTO

Salary – KGA Pay Scale, Band 2, Points 2 to 3

Ie: £24413pa to £24796pa to be prorated as TTO

Learning Support Assistant for 12 hours per week (equivalent to 2 days a week) is required to start asap to work on a Thursday and Friday within the school to support students with additional needs.  Mainly based in the classroom, and working with small groups of students to support their individual and collective development, both academically and in their general wellbeing.  The successful candidates will support the SENCO and SEND department to help improve student outcomes and raise standards.  

The SEND department consists of 6 dedicated Learning Support Assistants. There are numerous opportunities for CPD, including training from Educational Psychologists, Occupational Therapists and many other professionals. We believe it is imperative to upskill and support our staff. Therefore, any training opportunities are encouraged. Admin time is allocated on timetables to complete tasks, training and plan for enrichment groups.

What can we offer you?

• Leaders who create a positive working environment where teaching and learning is the priority

• An established, motivated and supportive department 

• Conscientious and hardworking students in a ‘very happy and safe school’ (OFSTED 2024)

• An effective behaviour for learning policy where ‘pupils behave well’ (OFSTED 2024) 

• A supportive and collaborative staff body

• An excellent CPD programme and opportunities for progression

• Two-week October half-term 

• Academy-wide staff benefits and discounts (My KGA)

• The opportunity to work in an Eco School

• A beautiful, rural environment situated approximately 12 miles from the coastal city of Brighton and Hove

King’s Academy Ringmer:

King's Academy Ringmer is a rural comprehensive with an ethos of "Honesty, Faith, Courage". Our most recent Ofsted statement states “the school has a culture of courtesy and respect” and “pupils are expected to work hard and commit to their learning."  Our results are significantly above the national average for all students.  We offer a broad, ‘exceptional’ enrichment offer through our Super Curriculum and students say “there is something for everyone." 

King’s Academy Ringmer is also an Eco School and winner of the Department for Education’s Sustainability award.  

King’s Group Academies:

King’s Academy Ringmer is part of King’s Group Academies.  At King’s Group Academies, our vision is to provide ‘opportunity and success on a global stage’, which means we have a vision of a global community of pupils and colleagues whose connection broadens horizons and fosters understanding. Our values of ‘Honesty, Faith, and Courage’ drive our passion and ensure we collaborate within our UK communities and internationally, promoting global citizenship and cultural awareness. We believe that every pupil deserves a team of dedicated educators and staff who are deeply invested in their success, supported by positive partnerships with parents who hold us to the highest standards.

For full details and an application form can be downloaded directly from our website: https://www.kgaringmer.uk/vacancies/support-staff-vacancies or contact Amanda French on either 01273 815460 or amanda.french@kingsacademies.uk quoting job reference P/517.  We offer a first class working environment with supportive colleagues and opportunities for career development.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 12 March 2026 at 8.30am with the interview date on Monday 16 March 2026 (afternoon).

POST 3: PASTORAL OFFICER

Temporary to cover a period of maternity leave

29.6 hours per week (equivalent to 4 days a week – 7.4 hours a day), TTO

Required to start on 1 June 2026

Salary – KGA Pay Scale, Band 5, Points 6 to 9

Ie: £28239pa to £32061pa to be pro-rated as TTO

We are looking for an inspirational temporary Pastoral Officer to cover a period of maternity leave.  The successful candidate will support the Pastoral Team in the management of behaviour support, to include the administration of school suspensions, to support SLT in student reintegration, creating behaviour and achievement data, setting detentions and assist in the running of our Inclusion Room.  You will appreciate that because support staff have certain rights regarding the date on which they will return to duty, it is not possible to be precise about the period of this contract.  However, it is anticipated that it will run until 31 May 2027.

Applications are welcomed from a range of backgrounds, although experience of working with young people is an advantage, ie: education, social care, health and Police. 

What can we offer you?

• Leaders who create a positive working environment where teaching and learning is the priority

• An established, motivated and supportive department 

• Conscientious and hardworking students in a ‘very happy and safe school’ (OFSTED 2024)

• An effective behaviour for learning policy where ‘pupils behave well’ (OFSTED 2024) 

• A supportive and collaborative staff body

• An excellent CPD programme and opportunities for progression

• Two-week October half-term 

• Academy-wide staff benefits and discounts (My KGA)

• The opportunity to work in an Eco School

• A beautiful, rural environment situated approximately 12 miles from the coastal city of Brighton and Hove

King’s Academy Ringmer:

King's Academy Ringmer is a rural comprehensive with an ethos of "Honesty, Faith, Courage". Our most recent Ofsted statement states “the school has a culture of courtesy and respect” and “pupils are expected to work hard and commit to their learning."  Our results are significantly above the national average for all students.  We offer a broad, ‘exceptional’ enrichment offer through our Super Curriculum and students say “there is something for everyone." 

King’s Academy Ringmer is also an Eco School and winner of the Department for Education’s Sustainability award.  

King’s Group Academies:

King’s Academy Ringmer is part of King’s Group Academies.  At King’s Group Academies, our vision is to provide ‘opportunity and success on a global stage’, which means we have a vision of a global community of pupils and colleagues whose connection broadens horizons and fosters understanding. Our values of ‘Honesty, Faith, and Courage’ drive our passion and ensure we collaborate within our UK communities and internationally, promoting global citizenship and cultural awareness. We believe that every pupil deserves a team of dedicated educators and staff who are deeply invested in their success, supported by positive partnerships with parents who hold us to the highest standards.

For full details and an application form can be downloaded directly from our website: https://www.kgaringmer.uk/vacancies/support-staff-vacancies or contact Amanda French on either 01273 815460 or amanda.french@kingsacademies.uk quoting job reference P/519.  We offer a first class working environment with supportive colleagues and opportunities for career development.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 12 March 2026 at 8.30am with the interview date on Wednesday 25 March 2026 (morning).

 

Information applicable to all 3 vacancies below

King’s Academy Ringmer is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts within our Multi Academy trust are exempt for the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and, therefore, all applicants will be required to declare spent and unspent convictions, cautions and bind-overs, including those regarded as spent, and complete an Enhanced Criminal Records Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

We advise applying promptly for this post as we reserve the right to close and interview early if sufficient suitable applications have been received.

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope you have had a positive week. I would like to begin by reminding you that the Year 11 mock examinations start this week. These assessments are an important milestone for our students as they prepare for their final GCSE examinations. We wish all Year 11 students the very best and thank you for your continued support at home at this important time.

We are also extremely excited to welcome international students to KAR this week, as part of our commitment to cultural understanding and ensuring our students are truly world ready.

Please be aware that we will be hosting two international school visits:

• This week, we are welcoming a group of 10 students from China, who are buddied with students in Years 7, 8, and 9. They are here to experience British school life and to share their own culture with our students.

• On Thursday and Friday next week, our partner school in Lyon, France will be visiting with 20 students, each paired with a Year 10 buddy.

These visits are an exceptional opportunity for our students and reinforce our commitment to global learning. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Mrs Taylor for the significant work that has gone into organising and supporting these visits.

In keeping with our vision of ‘Opportunities and Success on a Global Stage’, we recently saw a small group of our students represent KAR at the Kings Group Academies Global Stage Forum, focused on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Mrs Simon-House and Mrs Taylor accompanied students to Kings Academy Binfield, where they met students and staff from across the Kings Academy Group. The day proved to be an inspiring and worthwhile experience.

The forum explored the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all. Through a series of workshops led by teachers from different schools, students explored these goals in depth, designed their own ideal countries, and developed actions to bring back and share with our wider school community.

We feel strongly that these goals should be visible across our school, celebrating what has already been achieved while recognising where further improvement is needed – both locally and globally. Our students represented KAR brilliantly, and everyone particularly enjoyed the creative finale, producing canvases that expressed their hopes for the future.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support as KAR moves confidently towards international cultural development for our students. We remain committed to providing outward-facing opportunities that broaden horizons and inspire ambition in all our students.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

MFL Department – exciting news

We are very much looking forward to welcoming our Chinese visitors – teachers and students who are here all next week from 2 to 6 February 2026.  We are proud to offer a free Mandarin lesson to our students on Tuesday 3 February after school.  To sign up, please email Mrs Taylor Claire.taylor@kingsacademies.uk or ask your son/daughter to pop in to room F04 to sign up.

 

 

Who do I contact at King’s Academy Ringmer?

Please see the flow chart below detailing who to contact at school.  Your first point of contact is your child's tutor. Day-to-day communication should not go through reception unless urgent.

If you have an urgent safeguarding concern, email: dsl@kingsacademies.uk 

Design Technology Department

Rotation 1 of year 7's have finished their final project for this year. 

Their second project focused on the work of Memphis and Morag Myerscough whilst learning valuable workshop skills. Bold patterns and vivid colours adorned their clocks to link to Memphis, then students picked a KAR value that resonated with them the most, to pose as an affirmation. Using Myerscough's one point technique in typography and colour theory techniques, they gave their chosen value a 3D effect.

Some brilliant work produced – well done Rotation 1, see you in year 8! 

Mrs Hepburn

 

Kings Group Academies Global Stage Forum - The Sustainable development Goals

We spent a very interesting day at Kings Academy Binfield (after quite a long and wet journey) last week with three students to meet other representatives and students from the different schools within the Kings Academy Group. This was a wonderful opportunity to collaborate on our international and sustainability areas. 

The forum focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The goals are 17 global targets with the aim of ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring prosperity for all. It's an ideal that takes commitment and understanding and, although work has started now, it will fall into the hands of our future generations.

Students took a deep dive into exploring some of the goals during workshops led by teachers from different schools, plus they created their ideal countries and took actions to bring them back to the whole school.

We definitely feel that we need to display these targets around our school and recognise what we have achieved in our country but also recognise the areas that need to improve both locally and globally. Our students were wonderful, and we all enjoyed the creative ending where we made canvases to express our hope for the future with some very nice acrylic pens!

Mrs Simon-Houuse and Mrs Taylor




 

Sussex Apprenticeship Bootcamp – Turning Potential into Placement

Dear students, parents and carers,

We’re pleased to share that our school/college is taking part in the Sussex Apprenticeship Bootcamp, a new careers programme designed to help students explore and prepare for apprenticeship opportunities.

This is a fantastic opportunity for Year 11, Year 13 and final-year college students who are considering apprenticeships as a next step.

 

---

📅 Programme Details:

• When? Tuesday afternoons, 4:00pm – 5:00pm

• Dates: From February 10th – March 24th (6 sessions excluding half-term)

• Where? Online – join live or watch on catch-up

If students are unable to join the live webinars, recordings will be available on a private Vimeo channel so they can access the content at a time that suits them.

The sessions include practical guidance on how to find apprenticeship opportunities, prepare strong applications, understand recruitment processes, and hear directly from employers and training providers.

If students are interested in taking part, they should contact the Careers Lead at our school/college, who will forward the full access details and schedule.

Kind regards,

Mrs Colbourne, Careers Lead

Sarah.colebourne@kingsacademies.uk

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

To make applications easier for parents/carers, we have changed the way that you can apply for free school meals. Applications are now processed online via East Sussex County Council. The criteria for being able to apply and for the online application please see the details below.

Free school meals for children in Year 3 and older

Older children may get free school meals if their parents or carers get any of these benefits:

• Universal Credit - GOV.UK – if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)

• Income Support - GOV.UK

• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) - GOV.UK

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) - GOV.UK

• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 - GOV.UK

• The Guaranteed element of State Pension Credit -GOV.UK

• Child Tax Credit - GOV.UK, only, if your annual household income (assessed by HM Revenue & Customs) isn’t over £16,190

[Anyone who gets Working Tax Credit - GOV.UK, won’t get free meals regardless of income]

• Working Tax Credit run-on – paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit

Children will get free school meals if they meet the criteria and are in school both before and after lunchtime.

Children eligible for free school meals on or after 1 April 2018 will remain eligible until they finish the phase of schooling (primary or secondary) they’re in on 31 March 2025 even if your circumstances change.

• Apply for free school meals online

Our Electronic Checking Service might be able to confirm entitlement. If not, you’ll need to show recent proof that you qualify. Meals cannot be given until eligibility is verified.

Apply online if your child goes to school in East Sussex.

Introducing Lily Stevanovic - Parent & Carer Practitioner from Me & My Mind

Lily from the ‘Me and My Mind’ team (part of East Sussex Mental Health Support Teams), would like to set up free sessions for parents and carers to support their child’s mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Lily offers workshops, themed coffee mornings, 1:1 drop-in sessions, online and recorded webinars and at times short courses on specific subjects. Firstly, she would like to know what would be most valuable for you and your child right now.

Workshops/coffee mornings could include things such as, “Taming the Worries”, “Tricky Mornings”, “Thriving Through Change” or getting advice and support on Children’s Wellbeing – workshop that covers 5 ways to wellbeing, sleep, food, digital media and much more. In secondary schools, she also supports parents/carers around exam stress with the Stress Less – Exam Workshop. 

Please click: https://forms.office.com/e/QYXhLwZ2NG or scan the QR code below to complete a 1-minute survey to find out what is on offer and to express your current support needs. You will find the same QR code on many school platforms. For further information or to find out more, speak to Gayle Tompsett, at the school.

Dear Parents and Carers,

A very happy New Year to you all.

It has been wonderful to welcome our students back this week. They have returned in positive spirits, and we have enjoyed a great first week of the new term.

We have quickly re-established our routines, ensuring that students continue to develop strong habits for learning. In the classroom, our focus remains firmly on ensuring that all students are fully participating in lessons. More widely, we are continuing to strengthen our sense of belonging and identity across the school community.

I have said to students in assemblies this week that we are privileged to be part of a school ‘where there is something for everyone’ with ‘high standards in the classroom’ that has created an environment where ‘pupils achieve well’. Following a very successful start to the academic year, my assembly therefore focused on how we now raise the bar.

I shared three key traits that can lead students to success:

• Commitment to what they are doing

• A strong work ethic

• Surrounding themselves with positive influences

We discussed how raising their level is about consistency over time and making small, meaningful improvements.

This week, we are pleased to welcome Lewes College as part of our Key Stage 4 careers assemblies, helping students to explore future pathways. In addition, our Key Stage 3 Super Curriculum begins a new round this term, offering students fantastic opportunities to further develop their well-rounded characters.

I am also delighted to welcome Joanne Bateman as our new Attendance Officer. Joanne will be in touch shortly regarding her contact details and how she will be working with parents and carers to support attendance.

Work Experience in the Creative Industries

Before the end of last term, some of our Year 10 art and photography students took part in an exciting new project delivered by DABBBLE, a new initiative focused on creative careers.

The aim of the project was to gather valuable feedback from students who are interested in careers within the creative industries. These insights will help DABBBLE better understand young people’s expectations and ensure that the student's voice helps shape the design of future work taster opportunities.

DABBBLE is a platform that connects young people aged 16-25 with real-world work tasters. By including younger perspectives through initiatives such as this, alongside focus groups, they continue to develop pathways that better prepare young people for their next steps.

You can find out more about DABBBLE here:

https://www.dabbble.app/about/

Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Work Experience in The Creative Industries

Some of our year 10 art and photography students took part in a new project run by a new initiative called DABBLE who came into school before the end of last term. Their goal was to gather valuable feedback from year 10 students who are interested in careers within the creative industries. These insights will help gain a better understanding of young people’s expectations and use their voices to guide the design of future work taster opportunities.

DABBBLE is a platform that connects young people aged 16–25 with real-world work tasters. By including younger perspectives through initiatives like these, as well as focus groups, they can continue to develop pathways that better prepare all young people for their next steps. 

https://www.dabbble.app/about/

Mrs Colbourne

Design Technology Department – Year 10

In Term 2, Year 10, we’re learning a new topic each week. This fast-paced learning provided many areas of the Design Technology curriculum; textiles, metals, smart materials, scales of production, papers and boards and mechanisms. Each week delivered a new topic with a mini make with an assessment to recap the content. Well done Year 10 on your great attitude to learning! 

Design Technology Department – Year 11

Year 11 have been doing a fantastic job with their NEA. They’ve worked hard to ensure they are prepared for their New Year start of making their final takes. 

It’s bitter-sweet seeing them advance in their learning, knowing they are due to leave Kings Academy and make their mark elsewhere.   Mrs Hepburn is incredibly in awe of their commitment and imagination. 

Final push, let’s go Year 11!

Please see below information on how to apply for Free School Meals 

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

To make applications easier for parents/carers, we have changed the way that you can apply for free school meals. Applications are now processed online via East Sussex County Council. The criteria for being able to apply and for the online application please see the details below.

Free school meals for children in Year 3 and older

Older children may get free school meals if their parents or carers get any of these benefits:

• Universal Credit - GOV.UK – if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)

• Income Support - GOV.UK

• Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) - GOV.UK

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) - GOV.UK

• Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 - GOV.UK

• The Guaranteed element of State Pension Credit -GOV.UK

• Child Tax Credit - GOV.UK, only, if your annual household income (assessed by HM Revenue & Customs) isn’t over £16,190

[Anyone who gets Working Tax Credit - GOV.UK, won’t get free meals regardless of income]

• Working Tax Credit run-on – paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit

Children will get free school meals if they meet the criteria and are in school both before and after lunchtime.

Children eligible for free school meals on or after 1 April 2018 will remain eligible until they finish the phase of schooling (primary or secondary) they’re in on 31 March 2025 even if your circumstances change.

• Apply for free school meals online

Our Electronic Checking Service might be able to confirm entitlement. If not, you’ll need to show recent proof that you qualify. Meals cannot be given until eligibility is verified.

Apply online if your child goes to school in East Sussex.

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

FOOD TECHNOLOGY TECHNICIAN

12 hours per week

Work pattern – 12 hours per week.  Currently, Wednesday and Thursday each week for 6 hours a day.  The work pattern is reviewed annually depending on the timetable.

Required to start asap, permanent, TTO

Salary – KGA Pay Scale, Band 2, Points 2 to 3

Ie: £24413pa to £24796pa to be prorated as TTO

We are looking to recruit a permanent P/T Food Technology Technician to start asap.  The successful applicant will provide technical and practical support to teaching staff in the Food Technology Department and will be required to undertake a Food Hygiene and Safety course and should have basic computer skills.

Work pattern – 12 hours per week.  Currently, Wednesday and Thursday each week for 6 hours a day.  The work pattern is reviewed annually depending on the timetable.

What can we offer you?

• Leaders who create a positive working environment where Teaching and Learning is the priority

• An established, motivated and supportive department 

• Conscientious and hardworking students in a ‘very happy and safe school’ (OFSTED 2024)

• An effective behaviour for learning policy where ‘pupils behave well’ (OFSTED 2024) 

• A supportive and collaborative staff body

• An excellent CPD programme and opportunities for progression

• Two-week October half-term 

• Academy-wide staff benefits and discounts (My KGA)

• The opportunity to work in an Eco School

• A beautiful, rural environment situated approximately 12 miles from the coastal city of Brighton and Hove

King’s Academy Ringmer:

King's Academy Ringmer is a rural comprehensive with an ethos of "Honesty, Faith, Courage". Our most recent Ofsted statement states “the school has a culture of courtesy and respect” and “pupils are expected to work hard and commit to their learning."  Our results are significantly above the national average for all students.  We offer a broad, ‘exceptional’ enrichment offer through our Super Curriculum and students say “there is something for everyone." 

King’s Academy Ringmer is also an Eco School and winner of the Department for Education’s Sustainability award.  

King’s Group Academies:

King’s Academy Ringmer is part of King’s Group Academies.  At King’s Group Academies our vision is to provide ‘opportunity and success on a global stage’ which means we have a vision of a global community of pupils and colleagues whose connection broadens horizons and fosters understanding. Our values of ‘Honesty, Faith, and Courage’ drive our passion and ensure we collaborate within our UK communities and internationally, promoting global citizenship and cultural awareness. We believe that every pupil deserves a team of dedicated educators and staff who are deeply invested in their success, supported by positive partnerships with parents who hold us to the highest standards.

For full details and an application form can be downloaded directly from our website: https://www.kgaringmer.uk/vacancies/support-staff-vacancies or contact Amanda French on either 01273 815460 or amanda.french@kingsacademies.uk quoting job reference P/514.   We offer a first class working environment with supportive colleagues and opportunities for career development.

King’s Academy Ringmer is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts within our Multi Academy trust are exempt for the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and, therefore, all applicants will be required to declare spent and unspent convictions, cautions and bind-overs, including those regarded as spent, and complete an Enhanced Criminal Records Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 21 January 2026 at 8.30am with the interview date on Monday 26 January 2026 (afternoon).

We advise applying promptly for this post as we reserve the right to close and interview early if sufficient suitable applications have been received.

Introducing Lily Stevanovic - Parent & Carer Practitioner from Me & My Mind

Lily from the ‘Me and My Mind’ team (part of East Sussex Mental Health Support Teams), would like to set up free sessions for parents and carers to support their child’s mental health and emotional wellbeing. 

Lily offers workshops, themed coffee mornings, 1:1 drop-in sessions, online and recorded webinars and at times short courses on specific subjects. Firstly, she would like to know what would be most valuable for you and your child right now. 

Workshops/coffee mornings could include things such as, “Taming the Worries”, “Tricky Mornings”, “Thriving Through Change” or getting advice and support on Children’s Wellbeing – workshop that covers 5 ways to wellbeing, sleep, food, digital media and much more. In Secondary schools, she also supports parents/carers around exam stress with the Stress Less – Exam Workshop.  

Please click: https://forms.office.com/e/QYXhLwZ2NG or scan QR code below to complete a 1-minute survey to find out what is on offer and to express your current support needs. You will find the same QR code on many school platforms. For further information or to find out more, speak to Gayle Tompsett, at the school.

Brighton and Hove child Bus Fare changes from January 2026

We have received information from Brighton & Hove Bus Company with regard to a change in child fares with effect from 1st January 2026. Please see below for further information:

From 1st January 2026, child fares will be available up until 31 August following a young person’s 18th birthday. This means child fares will continue to support those in further education and through the summer holidays.

To pay a child fare, young people aged 14–18 may need to prove their age if they aren’t in school uniform. To avoid the risk of being charged an adult fare, we recommend getting verified in advance.

Verification is quick and easy:

·         Use the in-app child verification, or

·         Get a Child BusID card, available from our travel shop on North Street, Brighton, or from the depot at 43 Conway Street, Hove.

Accepted ID for children aged 14–18 when buying child tickets on the bus:

·         In-app child verification

·         Child Key BusID

·         UK passport

·         UK driving licence

·         Sussex 3-iD card

For further information please contact us by phone on 01273 886200 or by email at info@buses.co.uk

Taekwondo lessons in Ringmer 

Tuesdays 4.30pm- 5.30pm (Term time only) 

Open to students in Yrs 7-9

Limited places available 

For further details: 07713949425

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope you have had a good week.

We are very much looking forward to our Winter Showcase on Wednesday 3rd December. This annual celebration is always a highlight of the school calendar, offering an excellent evening of dance and music that truly showcases the incredible talent of our students. Last year’s event was a brilliant success, and this year promises to be even better.

I am extremely sad that I will not be able to attend the showcase this year, as that evening I will be representing KAR at the National Schools Awards in the House of Lords. The King’s Group Academies have been nominated for the prestigious MAT of the Year Award - a recognition of the positive impact our Trust’s schools have on pupils and communities across the country. The shortlisting places KGA alongside some of the strongest and most respected trusts nationally, with the winner announced at the ceremony. It is an honour to be part of such an important moment for our Trust and a testament to the amazing children we have in our schools. Whilst always reflective on ways we can improve, it provides positive external validation that we are moving forward positively against a challenging national educational picture.

We currently have a vacancy for a Pastoral Officer, and we would be grateful if you could share this opportunity with anyone you feel may be interested in supporting the school and our students.

Last week, we were delighted to welcome colleagues from BHASVIC for the latest round of careers assemblies with our Year 10 and Year 11 students. These sessions play an important role in broadening students’ understanding of post-16 pathways and supporting them as they begin to plan their next steps.

Finally, a reminder that Friday 5th is an INSET Day. Only Year 11 students are required to attend, to ensure continuity for their upcoming GCSE exams and post-mock reflection.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of our school community.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Principal

Creative Writing Workshops

A group of students are working with best-selling children’s author Georgia Byng in a series of creative-writing workshops. Together, they are being guided through the process of developing compelling characters, inventive plot twists, and effective story structure. Through this collaborative approach, the students are bringing a short piece of writing to life.

 

A Healthy Sleep Guide for Parents

This week, Mr Weir delivered assemblies to KS3 on the importance of sleep. Here are the key points we shared with students – and how you can support good sleep at home.

Why Sleep Matters for Teenagers

During adolescence, young people need 8.5-10 hours of sleep each night, but most fall well below this.

Good sleep supports:

·  Better mood and emotional regulation

·  Sharper concentration and stronger memory

·  Higher academic performance

·  Improved physical health and immunity

·  More positive relationships and decision-making

The Teen “Body Clock Shift”

It’s normal for teenagers to feel sleepy 1–2 hours later than adults.

This is a natural biological change – not laziness.

5 Practical Ways to Support Healthy Sleep

1. Keep a consistent wake-up time

This stabilises their body clock, even on weekends.

2. Create a calm ‘wind-down’ window

Encourage 20–30 minutes of low-stimuli activities before bed (reading, shower, quiet music).

3. Reduce screen use before sleep

Phones and tablets delay melatonin release.

If possible: devices off or out of reach 30–60 minutes before bed.

4. Help them manage stress early in the evening

A quick chat about the next day, preparing bags, or writing a list can stop “overthinking” at night.

5. Keep their bedroom dark, cool, and quiet

A cooler room (around 17°C) and dim lighting help their brain switch into sleep mode.

But helpful routines can still make a big difference to when they fall asleep.

Our Message to Students

Sleep is a superpower that boosts learning, wellbeing and confidence.

Small, consistent habits make the biggest difference.

 

 

 

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

PASTORAL OFFICER

29.6 hours per week.  

Required to start asap, permanent, TTO

Salary – KGA Pay Scale, Band 5, Points 6 to 9

Ie: £26473pa to £28239pa to be prorated as TTO

We are looking for an inspirational Pastoral Officer to start asap to support the Pastoral Team in the management of behaviour support, to include the administration of school suspensions, to support SLT in student reintegration, creating behaviour and achievement data, setting detentions and assist in the running of our Inclusion Room.  29.6 hours per week, term-time only.  The hours are equivalent to 4 days a week but can be worked over 5 days a week.

Applications are welcomed from a range of backgrounds, although experience of working with young people is an advantage, ie: education, social care, health and Police. 

What can we offer you?

• Leaders who create a positive working environment where teaching and learning are the priority

• An established, motivated and supportive department 

• Conscientious and hardworking students in a ‘very happy and safe school’ (OFSTED 2024)

• An effective behaviour for learning policy where ‘pupils behave well’ (OFSTED 2024) 

• A supportive and collaborative staff body

• An excellent CPD programme and opportunities for progression

• Two-week October half-term 

• Academy-wide staff benefits and discounts (My KGA)

• The opportunity to work in an Eco School

• A beautiful, rural environment situated approximately 12 miles from the coastal city of Brighton and Hove

King’s Academy Ringmer:

King's Academy Ringmer is a rural comprehensive with an ethos of "Honesty, Faith, Courage". Our most recent Ofsted statement states “the school has a culture of courtesy and respect” and “pupils are expected to work hard and commit to their learning."  Our results are significantly above the national average for all students.  We offer a broad, ‘exceptional’ enrichment offer through our Super Curriculum and students say “there is something for everyone." 

King’s Academy Ringmer is also an Eco School and winner of the Department for Education’s Sustainability award.  

King’s Group Academies:

King’s Academy Ringmer is part of King’s Group Academies.  At King’s Group Academies our vision is to provide ‘opportunity and success on a global stage’, which means we have a vision of a global community of pupils and colleagues whose connection broadens horizons and fosters understanding. Our values of ‘Honesty, Faith, and Courage’ drive our passion and ensure we collaborate within our UK communities and internationally, promoting global citizenship and cultural awareness. We believe that every pupil deserves a team of dedicated educators and staff who are deeply invested in their success, supported by positive partnerships with parents who hold us to the highest standards.

For full details and an application form can be downloaded directly from our website: https://www.kgaringmer.uk/vacancies/support-staff-vacancies or contact Amanda French on either 01273 815460 or amanda.french@kingsacademies.uk quoting job reference P/512.  We offer a first class working environment with supportive colleagues and opportunities for career development.

King’s Academy Ringmer is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts within our Multi-Academy trust are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and, therefore, all applicants will be required to declare spent and unspent convictions, cautions and bind-overs, including those regarded as spent, and complete an Enhanced Criminal Records Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

The closing date for applications is Thursday 11 December 2025 at 8.30am with the interview date on Tuesday 16 December 2025.

We advise applying promptly for this post as we reserve the right to close and interview early if sufficient suitable applications have been received.

 

Family Tree Planting – Laughton Greenwood – Sunday 30 November 2025, 10am to 4pm

Laughton Greenwood would like to invite volunteers to their annual family tree planting event this Saturday.  Please use the QR code on the flyer below for more information and location details

 

Admissions Consultation for 2027-28

ESCC have asked us to share the following with our parents/carers – East Sussex County Council is consulting on the admission arrangements for community and voluntary controlled schools in the county for the 2027–28 school year. There are no proposed changes except to the Published Admission Numbers of two schools.

Some own admission authority schools are consulting on their admission arrangements. The links to these consultations can be found below:

Consultation on admission arrangements for 2027-28 | East Sussex County Council

Have your say on school admission arrangements for 2027/28 - East Sussex - Citizen Space

Transition into post-16; guides for families & young people

ESCC have asked us to share the following with our parents/carers - East Sussex have transition guides to support young people with SEND transition into post-16. These are practical resources to help young people, parent & carers feel confident and supported as they prepare for post-16 and beyond. The guides can be used independently, with families, or with support from professionals and returned to at any time.

School to Adulthood - Transition guide

Post-16 Parent Carer Booklet

Consultation Advice Line & Team Around the Family

ESCC have asked us to share the following with our parents/carers - Family First is changing how they support children and families in East Sussex; helping earlier, before problems escalate.

What’s new?

Consultation Advice Line (01323 464655): For early help and professional guidance, before issues become safeguarding concerns.

If more joined-up support is needed, a Team Around the Family Coordinator will bring the right professionals together.

Opening hours:

Mon–Thu: 8:30am–5:00pm

Fri: 8:30am–4:30pm

Further information can be found in the Family First briefing.

 

Lewes STEM Festival 2025 - 11am to 3pm on Saturday 29 November in Lewes Town Hall

The Lewes Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Festival aims to encourage young people to develop an interest in STEM by engaging them with the wealth of local STEM activity.

There will be a wide range of activities available suitable for children aged 5+ and adults, as well as opportunities for GCSE and A-level students to speak to local university students and explore their futures.

The festival is run by Curiosity Sussex, a small volunteer-led science education charity.

The festival will take place from 11am to 3pm on Saturday 29 November in Lewes Town Hall. It is free to attend, and no booking is required.

Please see the downloadable poster.

For further information contact curiositysussex@gmail.com

Holiday Skate Club 

The Skate Club is running their Holiday Skate Club again this upcoming break, and they would love to make parents aware if their children would enjoy something active, confidence-boosting and a bit different.

The sessions are designed for all abilities, including complete beginners and children who are neurodivergent or have SEN. Their focus is building confidence, resilience and having fun in a really supportive environment.

 

 

T H E S K A T E C L U B

www.theskateclub.com

Welcome to The Skate Club video