Kings Academy Ringmer News Feed - Weekly Newsletters

KAR Newsletter 20/03/2026

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:17:13 GMT

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

Heat oven gas mark 4/electric 180°/fan 160°
Grease and line a 20 cm (8”) round cake tin
Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy
Beat in eggs one by one then fold in flour, milk and extract being sure to

obtain an even mixture

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

bowls and mix

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

alternative spoonfuls on top of each other

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)

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

clean.

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

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

Information on the vaccines:

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

KAR Newsletter 13/03/2026

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:31:04 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

It has been another busy and rewarding week in school, with students embracing a wide range of opportunities both in and beyond the classroom.

Our Change Ambassador students enjoyed a very worthwhile visit to Lewes Priory on Tuesday morning, where they met with Priory’s Eco students. The visit included a tour of the school and its environmental work, a Q&A session between both schools, a debate, and some upcycling crafts.

It was a valuable opportunity for our students to share some of our own sustainability and climate achievements, while also reflecting on the challenges we face, many of which were similar in both schools. During the debate, students thoughtfully explored both the positives and negatives of AI, presenting their ideas with maturity and confidence. The morning concluded with an upcycling activity, where many students used ring pulls to create keyrings and bracelets. Priory are keen to come and visit our school, and we look forward to welcoming them in the future.

This week also sees our MFL visits to Barcelona and Lyon, and we wish all students and staff involved a wonderful experience. These visits are a fantastic chance for students to live out our vision of becoming well-rounded individuals, while gaining opportunities and success on a global stage.

This evening, we are pleased to welcome Year 11 parents and carers for our second Route to Success Evening, where we will offer further support and guidance ahead of the GCSE examinations. We are very proud of the effort Year 11 students have shown, particularly in their recent mock examinations, and we look forward to working together to help them continue to succeed.

We would also like to congratulate our Year 11 geographers, who represented the school brilliantly on their recent geography field trip to Seaford Beach. The trip enabled 29 students to complete the required physical fieldwork enquiry ahead of Paper 3. Students collected data to investigate the question: “Is coastal management effective in Seaford?” Their conduct and engagement were excellent throughout.

Well done too to our Year 10 students, who were working through their Art and Photography mock examinations last week. It was wonderful to see such motivation, creativity and determination, with students working hard and showing real commitment to their studies.

Finally, last week some of our Year 10 and 11 students, accompanied by their parents, attended an insightful Oxbridge Conference at Roedean School in Brighton.

The conference aimed to raise awareness of the opportunities available for undergraduate study at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, to help students understand the admissions process, learn how to build a competitive application, and gain insight into undergraduate life from current students. Following the presentation, the panel offered invaluable advice during a detailed Q&A session. It gave our students a meaningful insight into the unique academic environments of these universities and a realistic preview of undergraduate study.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Principal

Lewes Priory Eco Visit

Some of our Change ambassador students visited Lewes Priory to meet with their Eco students on Tuesday morning. The visit included a tour of the school and their Eco work, a Q and A session between both schools, a debate and some upcycling crafts.

It was a good opportunity to share some of our Sustainability and Climate achievements and talk about our challenges, some of which were similar in both schools. The debate had us discussing the positives and the negatives of AI. Students discussed their points thoughtfully and shared them with the other team. Food for thought! We finished with an upcycling activity – most students used ring pulls to make key rings and bracelets. Priory are keen to come and visit our school. We look forward to hosting them. Mrs Simon – House

Oxbridge Conference at Roedean

Last week some of our year 10 and 11 students along with their parents visited Roedean School in Brighton for an insightful Oxbridge conference.

The conference aimed to increase awareness of opportunities available for undergraduate study at the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, to understand the admissions process and how to build a competitive application, and gain insight into the undergraduate experience from current undergraduates.

Following the presentation, the panel provided invaluable insights during a detailed Q&A session. It offered our students a profound look into the unique academic environments of these two universities and a realistic preview of undergraduate life.

Mrs Colbourne, Careers Lead.

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

LEARNING SUPPORT ASSISTANT

30 hours per week, 5 days a week (6 hours a day)

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 30 hours per week, 5 days a week, is required to start asap to work 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 comprises 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/520. 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)

Closing date for applications is Thursday 26 March 2026 at 8.30am with the interview date on Friday 17 April 2026.

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

Holiday Skate Club during Easter

The Skate Club. We’ll be running the Holiday Skate Club during the Easter holidays in March and April, and we’d love to help spread the word to parents in case their children would enjoy something active, confidence-building and a little bit different.

I’ve attached a poster with all the key details. If possible, we’d really appreciate it if you could share this with parents, whether through your newsletter, parent communications or on your noticeboard.

Direct booking link for parents:
https://app.joinin.online/#/app/joinin/organisation/shop/week%20calendar/6688/e99803c9-cf2d-44b6-95ca-8fe88629b258

MOHAIR CENTRE EASTER HOLIDAY PLAYSCHEME - FUN AT KIDDING TIME (5-11yrs)

The Easter School Holidays will soon be upon us!

Monday 30th March
Tuesday 31st March
Wednesday 1st April
Thursday 2nd April
Tuesday 7th April
Wednesday 8th April
Thursday 9th April
Friday 10th April

(They are closed for Good Friday & Easter Monday though!)

It's Kidding time, and we will have lots of lambs to look after. We still have lambs to bottle-feed, perhaps some new kids?  Lots to do. We will be looking out for any goats  kidding, hoping to catch them as they give birth! The children will be helping with all that needs to be done, as well as adopting a lamb or Kid for a bit more time handling, as long as they are strong enough. We will be trying to get Goatie Girl 1 & Goatie-Girl 2, to walk on a lead. We will be building up to Easter too, a few Easter Treats, before Good Friday, Easter Day and Easter Monday, crafts to explore as well and lots of Easter fun! There will be Forest School in the afternoon as normal.

Please find the PROGRAMME here.
The PARENT HANDBOOK  here.
The REGISTRATION FORM  here.

Easter Drama Holiday Club

The club runs from Tuesday, April 7 to Thursday April 9 at Friston Forest. They have 10 fully funded places available for young people in East Sussex who receive free school meals.

It’s a small, supportive three-day drama programme focused on building confidence, creativity and teamwork through outdoor drama activities.

More info and sign up form is here: https://eequ.org/book/forest-drama-and-conservation-workshops-with-make-good-trouble-cic-3064

KAR Newsletter 27/02/2026

Mon, 2 Mar 2026 10:20:55 GMT

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:

Central government policy
Commercial bus companies
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 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 also an Eco School and winner of the Department for Education’s Sustainability award.

King’s Group Academies:

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

King’s Group Academies:

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

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

KAR Newsletter 06/02/2026

Mon, 9 Feb 2026 08:04:15 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

I’m delighted to share some highlights and important updates from our school community.

This week we were very proud to welcome visitors from our partner schools in China and France. In total, 30 students have taken part in this international exchange, and it has been wonderful to see the friendships, confidence, and cultural understanding that have grown from this experience. We marked the end of their visit in our final assembly on Friday, where we enjoyed musical performances from both our own students and our Chinese visitors, as well as thank you speeches from our French guests. It was a special celebration of collaboration and community, and I'm very proud of our many student mentors in Years 7-10 who were fantastic hosts.

Our Year 11 students continue to work with great focus as they prepare for their examinations. This is such an important time for them, and we really appreciate the continued support you are giving at home. It truly makes a difference.

We also held a very busy and successful Year 9 Options Evening, with students beginning to make important decisions about their future courses. Thank you to all the teachers who gave up their time to talk through GCSE options with students and families, and to parents and carers for your engagement and support with this process.

Finally, a reminder that Friday 13th is an INSET day. This is an important day for staff across the whole Trust to take part in training, helping us to continue improving and providing the best possible education for our students. School will be closed to students on this day.

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

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

MFL Department

We are very much enjoying hosting our Chinese classmates this week! You will see all the photos soon, but in the meantime, here are a few photos of what we have been doing in school this week.

Our guest teacher, Renée has taught some lessons in the language department. Renée also taught a lesson after school on Tuesday. This multi-age group enjoyed mastering their numbers, and indeed their Kung-Fu skills!

Renée also teamed up with Miss Budd’s food tech department and cooked some Chinese dumplings together.

After school, our buddies are doing a fantastic job, playing games with their partners and answering all of their questions. It is great to see such positive friendships being formed, and barriers dropping away.

Mrs Taylor, Head of MFL

Lewes Children's Book Group

Lewes Children's Book Group are holding their usual Book Swap on Saturday 14th February 10.30am-12.30pm at the Depot.

The event is free of charge, and they ask children to bring good condition books that they no longer want to read and exchange them for others, essentially "swapping" books to discover new titles and authors while giving their old books a new home, all without having to buy new ones; it's a way for book lovers to share their reading material with each other and find new books to read.

It can also be an opportunity to find a love of reading. If there are children who don't have books to swap in the first place, they can just let them know, and they will find a way of making it work.

See poster below.

Half-term Skate Club

There will be a Holiday Skate Club during the February half-term for your son/daughter who may enjoy something active, confidence-boosting and a little bit different.

Please see the poster below with all the key details.

The sessions are suitable for all abilities, including complete beginners, as well as children who are neurodivergent or have SEN. Our focus is on building confidence and resilience while having fun in a friendly, supportive environment.

National Apprenticeship Week 9th February - 13th February

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, East Sussex College would like to invite you to an online Apprenticeship Information Session designed to help you understand the opportunities apprenticeships can offer young people.

The college would love to see you on:

Thursday 12th February
4.30pm
Online via Microsoft Teams

During the session, the Head of Business Development, Vicki Orbell, will explain what apprenticeships are, how they work, and the benefits for students. Vicki will also be joined by colleagues from East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, who will talk about the range of apprenticeship opportunities available within the NHS.

If you'd like to attend, please register in advance by signing up using this microsoft form. You'll then be sent a Microsoft Teams link before the session on Thursday 12th February.

If you would like to submit any questions ahead of the event, please email them to apprenticeships@escg.ac.uk.

We hope you can join the session and learn more about how apprenticeships can support future career pathways.

Many thanks,

Business Development Team

East Sussex College Group

Bexhill College Apprenticeship Training and Career Fair

Please see the poster below plus link to Bexhill College’s events page regarding their careers fair next week. Link to their events page here: https://yourofficeeventsteam.co.uk/seasonal-decorating

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 pro-rated 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 also an Eco School and winner of the Department for Education’s Sustainability award.

King’s Group Academies:

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.

The closing date for applications is Monday 23 February 2026 at 8.30am with the interview date on Monday 16 March 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.

KAR Newsletter 30/01/2026

Mon, 2 Feb 2026 08:02:29 GMT

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.

KAR Newsletter 23/01/2026

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 12:24:58 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

It has been a particularly busy and positive week in school, and I am delighted to share some highlights with you.

Earlier this week, we welcomed colleagues from the KGA Trust for a two-day visit to support us in our ongoing school improvement objectives. This visit also provided valuable opportunities for substantial student voice, allowing our pupils to share their experiences and perspectives. As always, our students were a shining light and represented the school exceptionally well.

Across the two days, several key strengths were noted:

Positive school culture and belonging: A warm sense of belonging for all pupils on arrival, with high expectations and positive, welcoming relationships evident throughout the days.
Student behaviour and safety: Behaviour was described as very good, with pupils clearly understanding expectations and reporting that they feel safe in school.
Curriculum engagement: Pupils spoke positively about the rich super-curricular offer and the new subject content being taught.
Teaching practice: There was evidence of very strong practice.
Literacy routines: Year 7 pupils are engaged in reading as a routine part of their day, listening well and developing new vocabulary. Literacy interventions are carefully tracked, with clear evidence of impact.
Effective rewards: Rewards and sanctions are used very effectively, with merits providing high-frequency, visible praise.

It truly is a great school to work in, with fantastic students who make us proud every day.

There were also some wonderful moments of joy this week. Mr Taylor was lucky enough to receive some excellent news after winning a car in a competition! When the car was delivered to school, our students spontaneously gave him a large round of applause on his return – a lovely reflection of the positive relationships and community spirit we value so highly.

We were also delighted that our International Student Ambassadors attended the Global Stage Forum at King’s Academy Binfield. Our students were outstanding – an absolute credit to the school. The level of discussion, maturity, respect for one another, and commitment to the activities was a pleasure to observe. I hope they returned home feeling that they were part of something truly special.

Finally, thank you for your continued support with attendance. We have seen a real uplift since the start of the term, and your partnership in ensuring that everyday matters is making a genuine difference.

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

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

International School Update

Last year, King’s Academy Ringmer was awarded Silver Status as an International School, in recognition of our work giving students opportunities to learn with students from other cultures. Our International quest continues this term, and we shall be welcoming visitors from our partner schools in France and China. Our students will have the opportunity to share experiences and develop mutual understanding, as well as practising some language skills.

Building on this, our year 10 linguists will visit their partner schools in Lyon and Barcelona next term.

These projects are very popular with our students, and further the school’s and trust’s mission statement to offer our students success on a Global Stage.

Year 8 and 9 Visit to Ardeche, France - Enrichment Week July 2026

A letter regarding this exciting visit was shared with our parents/carers of Years 8 and 9 students earlier this week.

This visit is open to all students in Years 8 and 9 and looks to be an exciting visit with lots of activities. If you have not received the letter and your son/daughter is interested in going, please email Mr Duckworth, Visit Lead direct to request a copy – nigel.duckworth@kingsacademies.uk

There will also be a 3-day Year 8 Camp at PGL Liddington option for Year 8 students with further details to follow when finalised.

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

Please see below information on how to apply 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.

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.

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:

Central government policy
Commercial bus companies
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:

Ringmer Parish Council Newsletter Information re: Lewes District Council Local Plan Phase 2 Consultation

Lewes District Council Local - Sharing Local Plan Drop-In Consultation Information with Your School Community

LDC are currently asking residents to take part in the latest public consultation on the draft Lewes District Local Plan, which closes on Saturday 28 February 2026.

The Local Plan will help guide decisions about housing, services, infrastructure, and community facilities over the coming years, through to 2042. We believe that families across the district will have an interest in the consultation, attending the drop-in events, and in having their views heard.

Here is the link to the full story published on the LDC Latest News feed:

https://www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/article/4887/Residents-encouraged-to-attend-Local-Plan-drop-in-events-every-opinion-matters

KAR Newsletter 09/01/2026

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 09:48:41 GMT

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?

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.

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

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 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.

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

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

KAR Newsletter 12/12/2025

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 11:52:25 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

I would like to begin by reflecting on what has been a very positive and busy week for our school community.

Our Winter Showcase was a truly amazing event, celebrating the creativity and talent of our students in dance and drama. Over 70 of our children took part, and they should be incredibly proud of their performances. It was a fantastic evening and a wonderful opportunity to see the confidence, commitment, and artistic skill of our students shine.

On the same evening, I had the honour of representing KAR at the National Schools Awards. I am delighted to share that King’s Group Academies was awarded Multi Academy Trust of the Year. This award recognises the positive and impactful work schools across our Trust are doing to support the lives of children. As one of the consistently highest performing schools within the Trust, I am immensely proud of the dedication shown by our students and staff in contributing to this achievement.

We are aware that attendance has been challenging recently, and I would like to thank you for your continued support. It has been very encouraging to see a significant increase in students returning to school over the last few days. We will be in touch shortly to review how best we can support any learning gaps that may have occurred as a result of time away from school. I am also pleased that we were able to offer flu vaccinations to so many students this week, helping to support health and wellbeing across our community.

Our careers programme continues to go from strength to strength. This week, students attended a careers assembly delivered by Brighton MET, providing valuable information about post-Year 11 pathways and options. It is important to us that our students are well-informed and supported in planning for their futures.

Finally, a reminder that on Friday 19th, the school day will finish at 12:20pm.

Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support. We look forward to finishing the term strongly together.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Principal

Progressive Masculinity – two-day workshop

We were very lucky to have Charlie from Progressive Masculinity run a two-day workshop with twelve Year 9 boys this week.

The boys all engaged brilliantly in a variety of activities exploring society's expectations of boys, their own masculinity and pressures on social media. The sessions were incredibly informative and gave the boys an opportunity to express themselves and learn about their own views towards masculinity and femininity. Charlie also ran an assembly for Year 7 and 8 students which covered lots of what the boys did during the workshops.

We are very grateful to Charlie and the team at Progressive Masculinity for organising these sessions for us and are excited to build the boys’ role in school as mentors and ambassadors.

Arbor Parent App

Arbor is committed to improving the experience of the Arbor Parent App, and wants to hear from you as part of their research. Please take five minutes to complete this short survey. Your input will directly impact what Arbor builds next. Thank you for taking part.

Botanical Art Super Curriculum

Students enjoyed a Wonderful Watercolour Wednesday this week, creating beautiful seasonal artwork for their Christmas cards under the expert, step-by-step guidance of Miss Hook.

They began with star-gazing snowmen (a carrot counts as botanical, right?) and practised some gorgeous blending techniques. From there, they designed festive wreaths and Christmas trees using a variety of brush strokes and watercolour methods. To finish, the whole class painted the cutest little fluffy robins.

Every student produced amazing work and will use everything they learnt to design their own cards over the last couple of weeks of their Botanical Art course. We have really enjoyed this term, and hopefully you will get to see their work featured on your Christmas cards at home this year!

Super Curriculum Updates - Paid Activity Options for Next Term

We are pleased to offer the following paid activities for the upcoming term:

Wealden Yoga
Cost: £60.00 for the full term
Note: There are 12 places available. Please refer to the information poster for further details. Contact email address: wealdenyoga@hotmail.com

Temper Boxing
Cost: £39.00

Contact details: George Beattie, WhatsApp: +44 7597 613596 or Email: beatingtemper@gmail.com

Important: Payment for these sessions must be made directly to the providers before the term starts.

If you would like your child to take part in any of these activities, please contact the provider directly and also please inform the school to the following school email addresses: emma.pearce@kingsacademies.uk and angelina.danobrega@kingsacademies.uk so that we can make the necessary changes to your child’s timetable before the start of the January term.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact the school office.

Buses for Early finish on Friday 19 December 2025

The R107, R108 & 318 school buses will be at school to collect students at 12.15pm.

Please see below details of other routes

125 Bus route – The bus does not cover the school on the route earlier in the day, however on the last day of term, when we finish at 12.15pm, the bus will be at school to collect the students who would normally catch that bus home, as per information received below.

I can confirm that we will be able to divert an earlier bus into the academy which will be on site just before 12.30.

Please note that this lunchtime bus does not run via Berwick Station. The afternoon journey will serve the school as normal.

For further information please see the attached route timetable, further bus details can be found on the Compass bus website

https://www.compass-travel.co.uk/compass-timetables/bus-timetables/

All other buses will be running their normal timetables as below - you can check the Brighton Hove website (details below) or app for these times as well

https://www.buses.co.uk/services

28 to Lewes is due outside school at 12.32pm and again at 1.02pm

28 Regency to Eastbourne via Hailsham and Polegate is due at The Forge café stop at 12.25pm and 12.55pm.

Please note - 29b to Uckfield – This service will not be running any earlier in the day, so students will have to be collected from school by parents/carers at 12.15pm.

Free School Meal vouchers for the Christmas school holidays 2025

Please see details below from East Sussex County Council with regard to the free school meal vouchers.

It has been agreed that each pupil will receive a £40 voucher for the Christmas holiday. The expiry date must be set to 6 January 2026. Please advise parents to activate their voucher before the expiry date as any left to expire cannot be re-issued.

We will be sending the vouchers out via email next week.

Labour Market Newsletter for East Sussex

Please follow this link to see the latest Skills and Employment information and Labour Market Information for East Sussex from East Sussex Council - https://sway.cloud.microsoft/6kXqyoq5WXPVpqWP?ref=email&loc=play

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

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 school, she also supports parents/carers around exam stress with the Stress Less – Exam Workshop.

KAR Newsletter 28/11/2025

Mon, 1 Dec 2025 09:24:12 GMT

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

King’s Group Academies:

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

KAR Newsletter 21/11/2025

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 14:34:13 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we move into the final weeks of the autumn term, I wanted to share some important updates and highlights from across the school.

Winter Showcase – Tuesday 3rd December

We are very much looking forward to our Winter Showcase, where our talented music and dance students will once again take to the stage. We know there will be some incredible performances, and our students have been rehearsing with great commitment and enthusiasm. We hope you will be able to join us in celebrating their hard work and creativity.

Year 11 Parents’ Evening – Thursday 27th November

A reminder that our Year 11 Parents’ Evening will take place on Thursday 27th November. This is an important opportunity to discuss progress, next steps, and the support in place as students prepare for their final GCSE examinations. We look forward to seeing you there.

Careers Focus – Plumpton College Assembly

On Monday 17th November, Year 10 and 11 students attended an assembly led by Plumpton College, marking the start of a series of focussed, career-based assemblies. These events are designed to broaden students’ understanding of post-16 pathways and support them to make informed choices.

Parent Feedback – Thank You

Thank you to all parents and carers who completed the recent careers and curriculum survey. We have now begun the process of reviewing all comments and suggestions. We are pleased to share that, as with last year, around 90% of parents say they would recommend the school. This is in line with last year’s strong outcome and significantly above the current national benchmark of 78%. OFSTED also advised last year that results above 80% are considered highly positive. While we are encouraged by this, we remain committed to continuous improvement. Every comment and piece of feedback is reviewed carefully, and we will continue to look for ways to further strengthen our provision, communication, and support for families.

Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support. We look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming events and continuing to work together to ensure the very best for your children.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Winter Showcase 2025 3rd December 6-8pm

Free tickets available at Eventbrite link here

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kar-winter-showcase-2025-tickets-1973122216665?aff=oddtdtcreator

Armistice Day – 11th November

A day to remember the immeasurable sacrifices that were made by the few, for the many. A day to remember how, for generations of families, lives were changed forever.

Here at Kings Academy Ringmer, we wanted to honour the brave. We wanted to show our appreciation for the courage that so many valiant men and women showed during the conflicts that have plagued so many generations.

So, we did.

Alongside myself and Mr Rednall, over 80 students from across all year groups got together to learn and perform a version of the Wilfred Owen poem ‘Dulce et Decorum est.’ The poetic words from one of the many heroes of WW1 who gave their life for our country.

We read the words that described the horror and brutality of trench warfare. We read the words that described the desperation and suffering of the fallen soldiers.

We read the words to remember. We read them to never forget.

Follow the link to view video: Remembrance Day Video

Though it wasn’t perfect (it is tough learning and performing a poem in less than 45 minutes), it was fantastic to see how many students wanted to be part of the experience, which shows just the kind of courageous, respectful and appreciative students we have here at KAR.

A huge well done to all students who were part of the performance.

Lest we forget.

Mr Maund - Teacher of English and English Extracurricular and Culture Lead

Change News

The living wall in the Steve Green Building is thriving. Students have been helping care for it. It is tricky to water so they have helped with the watering and have been pruning off the dead foliage. Some of the tendrils had grown so long they were all over the tables in the Steve Green building. A student helped carefully prune the long tendrils, and we have saved these and taken cuttings from them. We are hoping they might grow roots and start off some new plants!

Mrs Simon-House, ECO Co-ordinator

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

Well-being Practitioner

29.6 hours per week.

Required to start asap, permanent, TTO

Salary – KGA Pay Scale, Band 6, Points 9 to 13

Ie: £28239pa to £32061pa to be prorated as TTO

We are looking for a Well-being Practitioner to start asap. 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.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the promotion of positive mental health, identifying students whose patterns of attendance or behaviour might indicate a cause for concern, to closely monitor groups of students more vulnerable to mental health difficulties, for example, Looked After Children (LAC), children with SEN, children from disadvantaged backgrounds, to run interventions to support students and to support students with an alternative curriculum.

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

King’s Group Academies:

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/511. 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)

Closing date for applications is Friday 5 December 2025 at 8.30am with the interview date on Wednesday 10 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.

KAR Newsletter 14/11/2025

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 15:40:59 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope this message finds you well.

Important Calendar Update

Please be advised that, further to Trust-wide confirmation that all KGA schools will be bringing in Year 11 students during our INSET day on Friday 5 December, we are pleased to inform you that the school will now finish the academic year on the earlier date of Thursday 23 July 2025 at 12.20pm.

Children in Need

A huge thank you to everyone who supported Children in Need on Friday. Our school community once again came together to raise money for a truly important cause, and we are grateful for your generosity and enthusiasm.

Stunning U16 Rugby Debut for KAR Girls

We love to celebrate our students’ achievements both inside and outside school. Two of our Year 11 students, Lola and Maria, recently starred in a fantastic 42–5 win for the Lewes Rugby Club Lionesses, an incredible achievement given they joined the club less than two months ago.

Maria impressed with fearless tackling, while super-speedy Lola scored a try in her first ever competitive match! There was no gentle introduction either – the game was a full 15-a-side from the first whistle. We also want to recognise the brilliant support from KAR teammates Edith, Lucy and Grace for such an amazing debut performance. Congratulations to all of them; we are immensely proud.

Attendance Matters

Our whole-school attendance rose last week, and we thank you for your continued support at this crucial point in the term. We would like to remind families of the significant impact attendance has on learning: between 93% and 88% attendance, the chances of achieving five strong GCSEs (grades 9–5) are reduced by around 40%.

Our school minimum expectation is 96% attendance. The government classes children with attendance below 90% as persistently absent due to the severe effect this level of absence has on progress and outcomes. Your support in ensuring strong attendance is vital and very much appreciated.

Careers Education

This week we are pleased to welcome Plumpton College, who are delivering career assemblies to our Key Stage 4 students. These sessions form an important part of helping students explore future pathways and make informed decisions about their next steps.

Smartphone-Free Childhood Initiative

Last week, we met with local primary schools to discuss a shared local strategy on Smartphone-Free Childhood, advocating for the delay of smartphone ownership until age 14. It was a positive opportunity to discuss a coordinated community response to an increasingly important issue for young people’s wellbeing.

Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support.

Kind regards,

Mr Harvey

Principal

Dance Department

Last week, four of our Year 10 Dance students attended a three-day Dance Residency at Eastbourne College, led by the internationally acclaimed dance–circus company Motionhouse. The workshop gave students the unique opportunity to work alongside professional dancers, developing their performance, partnering, and lifting skills while exploring Motionhouse’s dynamic and physical style.

The week ended with a showcase performance on Friday afternoon, where our students performed a four-minute piece inspired by Motionhouse’s choreography. They worked extremely hard, showed fantastic commitment, and represented the school brilliantly.

Thank you, Miss Dyson – Teacher of Dance and Drama

Super Curriculum – Art Department

3D Art students

Our Super Curriculum 3D Art students have been busy creating some truly stunning paper lanterns over the past two weeks. Pupils from Years 7 to 9 designed, sketched, and built their beautiful creations using tracing paper, pens, tape, and recycled cheese boxes.

Each lantern was unique, full of detail and imagination, from scary Halloween themes to intricate dutch-style buildings, dark skies and fantastic landscapes, as well as some inventive abstract patterns. Their designs really came to life when we placed tealights inside and photographed them glowing softly in the darkroom. The room was filled with delighted “oohs” and “aahs” as students admired their illuminated artwork.

Botanical Art students

Botanical Art Super Curriculum students have created a beautiful and meaningful Remembrance display of 'stained glass' style poppies, which can be seen in the window of our reception area. Using paper, tissue and glue for the final outcomes, they worked carefully to cut the intricate patterns on some of these poignant designs.

Stunning U16 Rugby Debut for KAR Girls

We love to celebrate our students' achievements outside school as well as in school, and two of our Year 11 students starred in a winning 42-5 girls rugby match last Sunday, having only joined Lewes Rugby Club Lionesses less than 2 months ago. Lola and Maria really shone, with Maria putting in some fearless tackles and super-speedy Lola scoring a try in her first ever competitive game! There was no easing them in, it was full-on 15-a-side from the start, and KAR teammates Edith, Lucy and Grace gave great support on such amazing debuts.

Well done girls

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

ATTENDANCE OFFICER

37 hours per week. Required to start asap

Permanent, TTO

Salary – KGA Pay Scale, Band 6, Points 9 to 13

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

We are looking for an Attendance Officer to start asap. 37 hours per week, term-time only.

The successful candidate will be responsible for monitoring and improving school attendance by managing administrative tasks, communication with families and liaising with staff and external agencies. Key duties include ensuring daily register completion, making absence calls, going on home visits, recording and analysing attendance data and implementing procedures to address persistent absence, acting appropriately when persistent absence becomes a safeguarding issue, and holding meetings with parents and students when required.

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

King’s Group Academies:

For full details and an application form can be download 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/510. 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)

Closing date for applications is Monday 1 December 2025 at 8.30am with the interview date on Wednesday 3 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.

KAR Newsletter 07/11/2025

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:32:44 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope you had a great week and a positive half-term.

Last week, I had the privilege of leading assemblies on the themes of Honesty, Faith, and Courage. We explored how real character is shown when no one is watching – in the small, everyday choices that reveal who we truly are. It was wonderful to see so much positive participation and thoughtful reflection from our students, as we see every day in school.

I also shared how proud we are of their general conduct and growing maturity. While there is always room for improvement, it is clear that our young people are developing into well-rounded, kind and resilient individuals.

Last term saw an impressive number of merits awarded across all year groups. On the final Friday of term, we celebrated 48 students at our ‘Proud Table’, recognising those who had shown either excellent work or outstanding character. Each of these students shared their achievements and received a well-deserved chocolate treat as a token of appreciation.

During assemblies, I also spoke about the importance of attendance, not only as a measure of commitment, but as an act of faith in their own futures. The link between attendance and achievement is clear:

At 93.5% attendance and above, students have a 74% chance of achieving five GCSEs at grades 9–5.
If attendance falls below 88%, that chance drops to just 26%.

This demonstrates how even a few days off school can make a real difference to outcomes. Thank you for your continued support in ensuring your child attends every day, as it truly matters.

This week, our focus turns to Remembrance. Our Remembrance Assemblies are taking place throughout the week, and yesterday I had the privilege of attending the Ringmer Remembrance Service. I was exceptionally proud of Elliot and Jessica, who led the readings with great confidence and respect. It was a moving tribute to all those who served.

Our Autumn Parent Survey is now live. Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us; I personally read every response, and your views help us to improve further. The deadline for responses is Tuesday 19th November at 6:00pm, so please do take a few minutes to share your thoughts.

Finally, a huge well done to our Year 11 students, who have now almost completed their mock exams. Their maturity, focus, and calm approach have been exemplary, and we are extremely proud of them.

Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support. Together, we are helping our students build strong values, good habits, and bright futures.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Principal

Music Department – SAVE THE DATE

Winter Showcase - Wednesday 3rd December 2025 6-8pm. Tickets available soon.

DT Department – Year 10

The year 10’s learnt all about Smart Materials this week and were able to explore a variety hands-on. Understanding how these materials are made and how they can benefit in medical, safety and entertainment is so valuable for our young designers. It allows them to see that D&T is more than just the typical timbers, metals and polymers in their everyday workshop experience and sparks their curiosity further.

Mrs Hepburn Imber, DT Teacher and Head of House System

ART Department news

Year 9 students have been creating some fantastic, colourful collage cupcakes inspired by the work of artist Nancy Standlee. Using ripped magazine pages, they produced vibrant and imaginative designs bursting with texture, pattern, and personality. We enlarged copies of some delicious-looking examples to put on display in the Wakely Building — a sweet treat for the eyes!

Letter from the Chair of Governors of King’s Academy Ringmer – Anne Needham

Dear Parents and Carers

I am proud to say that we have an excellent board of governors here at Kings Academy Ringmer. We are seeking to expand and now have a vacancy for an additional governor.

The aim of school governance in schools is to help secure the best possible education for all pupils. Governing is an interesting role where we take part in deciding what school priorities are and help support school leadership and staff in reaching their goals. In order to do this, training is offered on the different topics around governance. Governors have many interesting opportunities to discuss and make decisions, and to meet other governors from other areas to discuss current best practice. It can be very satisfying as a governor to know that you are helping make things work well and to discuss things that could make our schools better.

Good governance draws on many qualities, but the most consistently useful ones are openness, ability to balance different views in coming to decisions, and readiness to learn.

The role involves:

6 evening meetings a year
2–4 monitoring visits across the schools a year, plus a related short written report
At least two training sessions a year
1–2 attendances at school events in order to meet parents
Various other ad hoc working groups as required.

I am always willing to discuss the role of governors if you would like to know more. Please feel free to email me at anne.needham@kingsacademies.uk

We are looking forward to hearing from you.

Best wishes,

Anne Needham

Chair of Governors

King’s Academy Ringmer Christmas Card Design Competition

Latest Menu and Tariff for Chartwells

Ringmer BUZZ Club event on Thursday 13 November 2025 from 6pm to 7.30pm

Football Development Academy @ Ringmer AFC

The Football Development Academy based at Ringmer AFC are excited to let you know about some extra football sessions for kids aged 6–14. The Football Development Academy sessions run from Monday 3rd November to 15th December at the Ringmer 3G pitch.

These sessions are a great chance for children to enjoy football more, build skills, and have fun with friends in a safe, friendly and supportive environment, without interfering with your local club sessions if you do have one.

If your child would like to take part, please let us know and find this link if you wish to book to try out with us. The link is below.

Get in touch with us if interested. We are also able to offer you a one-session ticket to try out the centre first, before booking full term. .

Development Centre program designed for all abilities / syllabus.

Ages: 6-14 year olds.
Next Term 3rd of November - 15th of December.
When are the trainings? -Mondays [except Bank Holidays & School Holidays].
Session starts: 17:00 until 18:00.
Venue: Caburn Community Ground Ringmer 3G AstroTurf Pitch, BN8 5RB.
[AstroTurf grass Footwear apply]

We are always welcoming new players. With limited spaces available, please book early to avoid disappointment.

Full-term booking includes all 7x sessions from 3rd of November until 15th of December and secures your player's place at our Football Development Academy centre.

Training schedule:
November: 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th.
December: 1st, 8th & 15th of December.

You can book here;
https://eequ.org/book/football-development-academy-mon-centre-with-football-development-academy-7944

KAR Newsletter 17/10/2025

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 09:32:23 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

It’s been another fantastic week at Ringmer, full of energy, community spirit, and achievement across the school.

Earlier this week, we had our whole school photo, what a wonderful occasion! Every year group was involved, and it was great to see such a sense of pride and unity across our school community. The photography team commented on how fantastic our students were throughout, a real credit to you and to Ringmer.

Today, we’re also proud to be marking Show Racism the Red Card Day. It’s been inspiring to see so many students and staff wearing something red as a symbolic act of solidarity against racism. This initiative encourages education, awareness and positive action. You can find out more about the campaign here: https://www.theredcard.org/

We’re also looking forward to our Just Dance House Event this afternoon, a brilliant opportunity for students to have fun, be active and enjoy some friendly house competition. It promises to be a lively and joyful end to a busy half term!

Some of our Year 7 and 8 students were lucky enough to take part in a special Open Doors careers visit to the Brighton & Hove Albion Amex Stadium. The event, run by the East Sussex Careers Hub as part of their Open Doors Programme and hosted by the Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation, gave our students an inspiring behind the scenes look at professional sport. They explored the director’s box, VIP areas, changing rooms and players’ tunnel before taking part in activities focused on career aspirations, employability skills and the many pathways within the sporting industry. It was a fantastic experience, and our students represented Ringmer beautifully throughout the day.

We also recently celebrated our Senior Student Tie Giving Ceremony to recognise and congratulate our new school student leaders. They showed confidence, courage and commitment, and we are extremely proud of each of them. Our senior students have already supported the school through events such as the Year 6 Transition Day, House competitions, Open Evening and Progress Evenings, where they demonstrated real responsibility and leadership. At Ringmer, we value not only what our students achieve, but also who they are becoming as individuals, and we are confident these young leaders will continue to be ‘world-ready’ as they move forward in their studies, careers and communities.

Our Year 11 students have completed the first week of their mock exams with real determination and maturity. Their focus and attitude have been exemplary - well done to all of them as they head into the second week.

This week, I also had the opportunity to attend the East Sussex 11–19 Heads meeting, where we discussed the challenges and opportunities facing schools locally and across the county. It was affirming to hear such positive feedback about Ringmer, our students and the reputation of our school continue to be recognised locally for all the right reasons.

Finally, a big thank you to all parents and carers for your ongoing support with attendance. We’ve seen a noticeable rise over the past few weeks, which is a fantastic way to finish the half term. Consistent attendance makes such a difference to learning and wellbeing, and your partnership is truly appreciated.

Wishing all our students, families and staff a wonderful two-week half term break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for another exciting term ahead.

Best wishes,

Chris Harvey

Senior Student Tie Giving Ceremony

On 2 October 2025, our Senior Students had their Senior Student Tie Giving Ceremony to celebrate and congratulate their achievement of becoming a school student leader.

Mr Harvey and I were so impressed with their interviews - they showed confidence, courage and competitiveness when presenting and as a result, we are extremely proud of them.

Students have already supported the school in events such as year 6 transition day, house competitions, open evening and progress evenings where they showed responsibility and were role models for younger students in the school.

At KAR, we don't just care about what you achieve but who you are as a person. As we look ahead into the future, I have no doubt that you will all become "world-ready" and continue to lead in your studies, in your careers and in your communities.

Mrs Avery, Head of KS4

Design Technology Department – Year 10s

The Year 10's have been successful in completing their stools this term. They have built resilience in using new tools such as the table top router, handheld router, and jigsaw to build on their workshop skills and prepare them for more advanced making in year 11. Lots of very proud students this week!

Mrs R. Hepburn Imber, Design & Technology Lead Teacher, Head of House System

Open Doors Visit to Brighton and Hove Amex Stadium

Some of our students from year 7 and 8 were treated to a very special careers visit to The Amex Stadium.

The event is run by The East Sussex Careers Hub and is part of their Open Doors Programme. The day was hosted by The Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation, who are the official charity of Brighton & Hove Albion. They use the power of football to engage and inspire young people to change their lives and help them to get active, learn new skills and improve their wellbeing.

Our students were treated to a very exclusive behind the scenes tour including the director’s box, VIP areas, changing rooms and the tunnel. The students then took part in a range of fun activities to get them thinking about career aspirations, develop key employability skills and learn about the jobs roles and pathways within professional sports.

Super Curriculum Ceramics & Clay Work

Students have been developing their clay-handling skills, focusing on ceramics and glazes along Autumn and Halloween themes. They created a variety of pieces, including spooky pumpkins, scary ghosts, realistically-coloured leaf-prints, and creatively sculpted hanging decorations. This project not only allowed them to explore texture and form but also encouraged imaginative thinking and personal expression. The use of glaze techniques added vibrant finishes, bringing their seasonally-inspired creations to life.

King’s Academy Ringmer Christmas Card Design Competition

Pro:Direct Academy Open Evening

Upcoming Open Evening on Monday 20th October for Year 11 Boys and Girls. If your son/daughter is interested in attending, please follow link - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdkSX8TPRCc2E3_VorADFHvDqkzro5OhRD5im_l1PObxNoxSA/viewform?usp=header

Varndean Sixth Form College – Open Evening on Thursday 6 November 2025 from 4pm to 8pm

KAR Newsletter 10/10/2025

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:57:56 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

It’s been another fantastic fortnight at Kings Academy Ringmer, and I wanted to take a moment to share just a few of the highlights.

Year 7 Parents’ Evening

It was wonderful to see so many parents, carers and students attending our Year 7 Parents’ Evening. There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the evening, and it’s clear that our newest students have made an excellent start to life at Ringmer. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event.

Year 7 Football Success

I was delighted to catch some of the Year 7 football match against Chailey last week. The team played some excellent, flowing football which led to an impressive 11-0 victory. A superb performance and a brilliant display of teamwork – well done to all involved!

Visitors to the Academy

We’ve had a busy week welcoming a range of visitors, including members of our Trust executive team, interviewees, and representatives from East Sussex. All of them, many of whom work across a number of schools both locally and nationally, commented on the exceptionally calm and positive atmosphere throughout the school.

They were particularly impressed by how our students took the time to engage them in polite and thoughtful conversation. It’s always a proud moment when visitors recognise what makes our school so special – well done to all our students for representing Ringmer so positively.

OVCO Youth Climate Event

Five of our students recently attended a Climate Action workshop at school and went on to represent Kings Academy Ringmer at the Ouse Valley Climate Action Youth Event at Lewes District Headquarters in Newhaven.

This was a great opportunity for students from across the local school cluster to come together, share ideas, and celebrate the sustainability work taking place in their schools. Our students spoke passionately about our green initiatives, and it was brilliant to see sustainability continuing to take centre stage in our community.

National Poetry Day

A huge thank you to all students who got involved in National Poetry Day. It was a joy to see students rehearsing their SLAM poetry performances in the playground and quoting lines around the corridors. The poetry quiz during PDT was also a big hit – many students said how much they enjoyed it. A great way to celebrate creativity and expression!

Recent Assemblies

Over the last two weeks, Mr Weir and Mr Madriaga have led important assemblies focusing on Black History Month and on staying safe both inside and outside of school. These messages are always valuable and relevant, and it’s great to see students engaging thoughtfully with these topics.

Bus Travel – 28 to Hailsham

We are aware of some recent challenges with the 28 bus service to Hailsham. With 60 additional students joining the school this year, including a growing number from areas served by this route, we have noticed increased demand.

We are currently working with the bus company to explore solutions. There is a second 28 service scheduled shortly after the first, which is intended to come onto the school site, but this has been inconsistent. I am seeking clarification on its operation, as it could provide extra capacity. We will update families before half-term with the next steps.

Key Reminders

Thursday 16 October – Whole School Photo Day
Monday 13 October – Year 11 Mock Exams Begin

Thank you, as always, for your continued support – particularly around attendance. Every day really does count, and we’ve only got five more school days until we all enjoy a well-earned two-week break.

Have a lovely weekend.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Food Technology Department

Y10 had a great Food Technology lesson making meatballs and tomato sauce. Students learned additional skills required for the GCSE course. They especially enjoyed eating their dishes afterwards. Great work, well done!

Change News

Students have been busy cooking with the ingredients grown at school. The students made two courgette cakes which went on to be sold at the Ringmer Repair Café at the weekend. We also cooked and ate ‘Daisy Beans' (green beans, pesto and feta), pickled cucumbers, vegetable and rice stir-fry. Students cut up and roasted some butternut squash which we have frozen and will cook with these in the future.

Benefits of growing your own food include: It's tasty and cheap. It is great to be outside in the fresh air. It's a great sense of achievement after planting a seed and then eating the fruits of your labour. There are no transport emissions from the origin to the shops. Food is less likely to be wasted and can be shared. You can collect some seeds and have more the following year. The pollinators will be grateful!

Mrs Simon-House, Eco Co-ordinator

OVCO Youth Climate Event

Last week, five students attended both a climate workshop at the school and then represented Kings Academy Ringmer at a Youth Action Climate event on Friday at Lewes District Headquarters in Newhaven.

The event was hosted by Ouse Valley Climate Action, and the event was attended by students and staff from other secondary schools in our local school cluster.

This event gave our students the opportunity to showcase and celebrate some of our sustainability activities that we have been involved in at the school and the opportunity to talk to other students and adults. The main part of the event was for the students to question a panel of adults about their concerns around the pressing climate crisis we are facing and to find out what is happening at government and local levels and challenge if they felt there was more to be done. The panel included the Mayor of Lewes and the CEO of South Downs National Park, plus representatives in positions in Local Authority and education.

The students learnt the power of the young person's voice and how this voice can be used to activate change. They were also encouraged to go on to use this voice to activate changes.

I was immensely proud of the students for the way they conducted themselves and the confidence that they demonstrated when talking out to a large room of people. They were a credit to the school.

Mrs Simon-House, ECO Co-ordinator

Super Curriculum Spotlight: Talent, Energy, and Opportunity at The King's Academy

There’s something truly special happening across our enrichment programme — and we don’t want you to miss it!

Art That Speaks Volumes – Step into Mrs Colbourne’s art sessions and you’ll find students completely immersed in creativity. From bold brushwork to delicate detail, the artwork being produced is nothing short of inspiring. These sessions aren’t just about technique — they’re about confidence, expression, and joy.

Skate School & Temper Boxing – Skill Meets Spirit – Our Skate School students are flying — quite literally! Their progress in balance, coordination, and resilience has been phenomenal. Temper Boxing is equally impressive: the discipline, focus, and sheer talent on display make every drop-in feel like a masterclass. These young people are building not just physical strength, but self-belief.

Forest School & Running Club – Nature and Nurture – Forest School continues to be one of the most popular choices, and it’s easy to see why. Students are thriving in the outdoors — exploring, collaborating, and reflecting. Mr Rednall’s Running Club is also going strong, with students learning how to pace themselves, set goals, and enjoy the rhythm of movement. It’s fitness with purpose.

Making a Band with Mr Burchett – Soundtrack of Student Talent – One of the most exciting additions this term has been Making a Band with Mr Burchett. The sessions are electric — students are collaborating, composing, and performing with passion and flair. The talent emerging is phenomenal, and the popularity of the club speaks for itself. Whether it’s vocals, guitar, drums, or songwriting, our students are proving they’ve got what it takes to make music that moves people.

School Magazine – Student Voice in Action – Mr Maund’s School Magazine team is sharpening their interview skills, and we’re eagerly awaiting their next feature — an exciting interview with a member of staff! The professionalism and curiosity of our student journalists is something to celebrate.
Gardening Club – Growing Pride in Our Grounds – Gardening Club has quietly blossomed into a hub of care, teamwork, and environmental pride. Students have been planting, pruning, and planning with purpose — making real contributions to the school grounds and learning about sustainability along the way. Their efforts are helping shape a greener, more welcoming campus for everyone.
Botanical Art Super Curriculum

Botanical Art Super Curriculum students and a volunteer group of Year 7s have created and decorated some beautiful autumnal bunting which is hanging in Reception. They are having great fun spotting their own designs in the final display.

3D Art Super Curriculum

3D Art Super Curriculum students have been having great fun bringing recycled materials to life by creating bottle faces! Using plastic bottles, mod roc plaster modelling bandages, and a variety of paints, they’ve produced a fantastic array of imaginative designs. From quirky characters to expressive portraits, each piece showcases unique creativity and personality. Some of the facial expressions are truly brilliant!

We Need You! Parent-Led Enrichment Opportunities – As our Super Curriculum grows, we’re keen to hear from parents who might know of — or be willing to lead — an enrichment activity. Whether it’s a creative workshop, a sport, a skill, or a passion project, your involvement could help us offer even more to our students. If you’ve got an idea, we’d love to hear it!

At King’s Academy Ringmer, we’re proud to be creating well-rounded, world-ready, confident individuals — and our Super Curriculum is a powerful part of that journey. Thank you for being part of our community.

Post 16 Evening

Last week, we hosted our post-16 options event and welcomed a number of colleges and learning providers to come and talk face to face with our students, parents and carers. This was a well-attended event by both our year 11s and year 10s. The exhibitors were kept busy with interested students and were really helpful in answering all the questions. The event gave our students the opportunity to plan for their futures and helped them to explore all the exciting courses and options available to them after their GCSE’s. Thank you to all those who attended and everyone involved for making the evening a success.

Mrs Colbourne

Scholastic book fair

The Scholastic book fair returns to King’s Academy Ringmer next week. The book fair is a pop-up celebration of reading. There will be 200 of the best new books at great discounts starting from £2.99. Students will be able to browse books in the LRC during break and lunchtime. They will then bring a wish list home and parents/ carers can pay online for the titles chosen. Every time you buy a book from the book fair, you are helping earn rewards for free books in the library.

To pay for the chosen books, simply follow the link to pay online: https://bookfairs.scholastic.co.uk/pay/1497973

Mrs Colbourne and Mrs Overton Harvey

Foundation Scholarship at Bede's -Year 11 students

A foundation Scholarship provides full support for children for the entire duration of their time at Bede's and is available specifically to children who meet the criteria stipulated by the Bede's Development Foundation.

The foundation aims that through this type of scholarship, children who have faced extreme adversity are given the opportunity to flourish within an environment which they would otherwise not be able to access. Unlike a scholarship, a Foundation Scholarship is a means-tested award where the overriding criteria is the family's financial circumstances.

For more information please contact :

General Enquires:, The Admissions Team

admissions@bedes.org

01323 356600

Further Information and to arrange a meeting :

Richard Mills

richard.mills@bedes.org

Careers In Creative Industries – See poster below

Corelli Ensemble Concert Lewes Sunday 12th October

Lots of beautiful music for strings. Ms Urquhart, Subject Leader for Music at KAR is playing the bass! If you'd like to see a live music ensemble of local professionals, please come along to this concert. £5 for students and only an hour long!

https://corelliensemble.co.uk/next-concert.html

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/corelli-ensemble-presents-fairest-isle-tickets-1562975835799?aff=erelexpmlt&_gl=1*yrxoki*_up*MQ..*_ga*NDg5NjM4ODYwLjE3NTk0MDU4ODc.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NTk0MDU4ODYkbzEkZzAkdDE3NTk0MDU4ODYkajYwJGwwJGgw

Biggest Sunflower yet from the school vegetable patch/garden

National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA), NEW SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Before the summer, all parents/carers and students were informed that Kings is now registered with the NSEA. This gives our students the opportunity to compete in some equestrian interschool events. The NSEA are pleased to announce with the new school year, comes a new schedule of events, catering for a variety of disciplines and abilities.

There are some show jumping and eventers challenge events in November and December in the South East and the NSEA would love to have Kings Academy represented there.

If you are interested in finding out more about these events and maybe entering, please contact Mr Quinnell in the first instance.

Do not worry if neither of those events are your chosen discipline; there is a variety on offer throughout the school year. You can still register your interest and the NSEA will let you know when those events are happening and, hopefully, you can join in the fun and represent your school at the same time.

Doggy Day Care Request

I am wondering if there is anyone in Ringmer that you know that could look after my cute little Maltipoo, a 6-year-old dog called Susie, 3 days a week. I live a long way from school, and she often spends hours on her own. I do have a dog walker that pops in for a short walk, but she craves company. I am a teacher here at Kings Academy and you can contact me via email francoise.rabin@kingsacademies.uk I would bring her food and bed. She would just need a short walk early in the afternoon.

I hope you can help. Many thanks, Ms Fran Rabin

Chartwells Bonfire Night Menu – 7 November 2025

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

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.

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.

Letter from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service re: Fireworks – Staying Safe. Please share this information with your son/daughter

Ringmer Village news and information regarding forthcoming events

There are a number of Eco Talks and a special music opportunity coming up soon in the village which will be of interest to our parents and carers and students. Please note the following:

The next 2 Eco talks relate to sustainable travel and holidays, and then Insects and Bio Diversity. The first talk is on Thursday, October 9th at 7.30pm. The second is on November 13th, at 6.00pm to enable families to come more easily to the Buzz Club session. Both are being held in the Church Room at St Mary's. All the details are on the poster.

The music opportunity is on Saturday, October 11th, between 2 pm–4 p.m. to be part of the 2025 Year of the Organ, a national project. This is especially for students who play any sort of keyboard, whether a beginner or more advanced. All the details are on the poster.

King’s Academy Ringmer’s ECO Co-ordinator and ECO students arranged for the first contribution by students to the Repair Cafe on Saturday...Courgette cakes were made from veg grown and baked by King’s Academy Ringmer students. Donations were made by the public towards ingredients for the next event – see photo

KAR Newsletter 26/09/2025

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 08:26:36 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

We have had a very positive and productive week in school, and I wanted to share some of our highlights with you.

Our Open Mornings have now been completed, with our tour guides doing an exceptional job of welcoming visitors and showcasing our school in action. Thank you to everyone involved in making this such a success, our students really shone. Our visitors pointed out on numerous occasions how ‘our children had a confidence about them’, were ‘polite and engaging’, and ‘seemed to really like being here’. Well done to the large number of Year 7, 8 and 9 students who took part.

Next week, we are looking forward to a very special occasion with our Tie Giving Ceremony for senior students. This is always a proud moment in the school calendar, and we are excited to mark this milestone with them.

This week also saw our Post-16 Options Event, where we were delighted to welcome a number of colleges and learning providers to speak face to face with our students, parents, and carers. The event was very well attended by both Year 11 and Year 10 students, and our exhibitors were kept busy with lots of questions. They commented on how engaged and thoughtful our students were, which was wonderful to hear.

I would also like to thank you for your ongoing support regarding attendance. This is a key point in the term, with students retaining and understanding their learning more effectively simply because they are in lessons more. Every day in school is an investment in their future, and we are very proud of their commitment and determination.

It has also been fantastic to see so many Character Cards awarded for acts of Honesty, Faith, and Courage, and many Merits for active participation in class. These daily recognitions reflect the values we want to see embedded in our school community.

Finally, this week Mr Burchett, Vice Principal, delivered an important assembly to our students entitled ’Disagreeing Agreeably: Democracy and Forgiveness’. The assembly explored themes of tolerance, listening, and forgiveness in the context of both our everyday lives and the wider world.

Why this assembly matters

We live in a world where division is amplified, particularly online. Social media often traps us in ‘echo chambers’, showing us only voices we already agree with. This can make it harder to listen respectfully to different perspectives and easier to fall into conflict. The assembly emphasised that democracy relies on tolerance, compromise, and forgiveness, not anger or hate.

Students were shown how holding on to resentment can harm both individuals and societies. They heard the powerful story of Eric Lomax, a British prisoner of war who, after enduring great suffering, chose to forgive one of his former interrogators. His example illustrates how forgiveness can free us from bitterness and open the door to healing.

This assembly reflects our school values of Honesty, Faith, and Courage, and our vision of Opportunity and Success on a global stage. It responds directly to the challenges young people face in today’s digital world, encouraging them to develop resilience, compassion, and the ability to listen respectfully to others.

The key message for students was clear:

Democracy requires listening to different views without hate.
Forgiveness and tolerance make compromise possible.
These qualities are essential not only in school but in building a kinder and more peaceful world.

Thank you for your continued support in helping our students grow into thoughtful, compassionate global citizens.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Principal

Food Technology Department – Hunter’s Chicken

Y10 have been working very hard this week with trial cooking for their GCSE course.

They all made an excellent start with creative cooking and lovely presentations.

Well done to all students.

Dance Department

Four of our Year 11 students were invited to Eastbourne College to take part in a Rambert Dance workshop. During the session, they worked with a professional practitioner to learn new movement materials in preparation for their GCSE exam.

The students embraced the experience with maturity and enthusiasm, not only developing their technical and performance skills but also building new friendships with students from other schools. The workshop leader praised them for being one of the most positive groups this year, noting how fully they engaged with the activities and collaborated with others.

It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to extend their learning beyond the classroom and gain an insight into the professional dance world".

Thank you, Miss Dyson, Teacher of Dance and Drama

Gov. uk guidance re: should I keep my child at home when they are ill?

Ringmer Repair Café

This Saturday, 27 September 2025, is the Ringmer Repair Café and students have baked courgette cakes which they made from the courgettes grown in our vegetable plot which will be sold at the café. Please pop in if you are passing to try them.

Sat September 27th 10-12.30

Parish Council Offices

Old School Close BN8 5RA

A GUIDE…. You are invited to bring ONE item, that you can carry, in need of repair, for our volunteers to check/repair/provide advice……

Electrical objects
IT items
Clothing (not alterations) and fabric items
Broken mechanical objects
Ceramic advice
Wooden items
Gardening tools for sharpening

NOT……… white goods, microwaves, items completely in pieces!

The Ringmer Repair Café volunteers do their best to make your items re-usable. This will save you the cost of a new item, and save the planet from the CO2 emissions involved in manufacture, transportation, use of precious resources and waste disposal.

DONATIONS WILL BE MUCH APPRECIATED – CASH or CARD

There are homemade and Fair Trade refreshments served while you wait. (Under 16s to be accompanied by an adult please). Parking is available. ringmerrepaircafe@gmail.com

Varndean Sixth Form College – Open Day on Saturday 27 September 2025 from 11am to 2pm

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

Science Technician

Permanent 7.4 hours per week (equivalent to one day a week)

Required to start asap

Term-time only

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

Ie: £26473pa to £28239pa to be pro-rated as TTO

King's Academy Ringmer is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and skilled Science Technician to join our dedicated Science Department. This exciting opportunity is perfect for individuals passionate about supporting the delivery of high-quality science education, who thrive in a collaborative and innovative educational environment.

About You

You have a strong background in science or a related field, with a relevant qualification being highly advantageous.
You have experience working in a laboratory setting, preferably within an educational environment.
You possess excellent organisational and communication skills.
You are proactive, able to work independently, and have a keen eye for detail.
You are committed to promoting the importance of science education.

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 hard-working 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 "Kindness, Ambition, Resilience ". 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:

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/509. 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 Thursday 9 October 2025 at 8.30am with the interview date on Wednesday 15 October 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.

KAR Newsletter 19/09/2025

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 14:49:31 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

It has been a fantastic start to the term, and I could not be prouder of the way our students have returned to school. Their enthusiasm, effort and commitment have been clear across all year groups. In lessons, we're focusing on ensuring that every student participates fully, while also continuing to increase the level of positivity both inside and outside the classroom.

A particular highlight of the week has been seeing so many students attend our ‘Proud Table’ on Friday afternoon. It is always a joy to celebrate those who have earned merits, Proud Awards, or Character Awards with well-deserved sweet treats. As ever, I am struck by how polite and respectful our students are around the school, and the strong, positive communication between staff and pupils continues to be a real strength of our community.

Looking ahead, next week we will be holding our Open Mornings for prospective parents. These are always a wonderful opportunity to showcase our school and the excellent attitudes of our students. We have received an unprecedented demand for these mornings, and look forward to welcoming parents and carers to the school.

I would also like to thank the parents who attended our “Route to Success” evening for Year 11 this week. Your support makes a huge difference, and it is clear that our Year 11 cohort are very focused as they prepare for the challenges of the year ahead.

A quick promotion of our upcoming post-16 evening at school on Tuesday 23rd September from 6–7pm. This is always a fantastic opportunity for students to engage with different professions and ask questions to professionals. We look forward to seeing you there.

Finally, I am delighted to share that our school has once again been awarded the Eco Schools Green Flag with Distinction. This achievement reflects the commitment of our students, who have been the driving force behind our eco initiatives. Their work on sustainability not only benefits our school, but also demonstrates the values of responsibility and care for the wider world that we aim to instil in all of our learners. A big thank you to Ms Simon-House for her hard work and dedication with the students to ensure we gained this award.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

Have a great weekend

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Instrumental and Vocal Lessons at Kings Academy Ringmer

At Kings Academy Ringmer Instrumental and Vocal lessons are provided individually and in small groups by Create Music and by private DBS-checked teachers. Lessons happen on a weekly basis with a rotating timetable so that students do not miss the same lesson every week. At Kings Academy we offer lessons on: voice, guitar (acoustic, electric, bass), flute, clarinet, saxophone, violin, cello, trumpet, trombone and drum kit.

If your child is already learning with Create Music, you will automatically be offered lessons at Kings Academy unless you notify them to end the lessons. Lessons are paid for directly to Create Music or invoiced by the teacher. At KAR we really want all students to be able to access these lessons without finances being a barrier. If you wish to discuss our options for support further, then please contact Francesca Urquhart, (Subject Lead for Music) directly to discuss options.

Learning to play a musical instrument provides children with an experience that enriches their lives in so many ways. Through learning an instrument, children will learn musical skills that help develop a lifelong love of music. Research has also shown that there are many other benefits associated with learning to play a musical instrument including:

- raising confidence and self-esteem

- improving teamwork, concentration and many other skills for learning

- connecting with new people and broadening horizons

- improving their well-being by becoming happier and healthier

Learning an instrument or voice at KAR https://createmusic.org.uk/for-children-and-young-people/lessons-at-school/

Learning Drums at KAR with Sam Evans

Email evans.samj@gmail.com or see Ms Urquhart for a hard copy of the letter.

Sam Evans Showreel 2024

If you have any questions or would like any advice about what your child should learn, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Ms Urquhart, Subject Leader for Music

francesca.urquhart@kingsacademies.uk

Post 16 Evening – Year 10 and 11

We would like to invite you to our post-16 evening at school on Tuesday 23rd September from 6-7pm.

This well-attended event is an excellent opportunity to meet and talk to local colleges and training providers about options after GCSE's. You will have the opportunity to discuss courses, speak to staff and compare different providers so you can make informed choices about your future. This evening is open to all our year 10 and 11 students, parents and carers. We look forward to seeing you all at this event.

The following providers will be attending:

East Sussex College/ Bexhill College/ Varndean/ Bhasvic/ DV8/ Uckfield sixth form/ Plumpton College/Brighton MET/ Bedes/ Seaford Head sixth Form/ BACA / The Armed Forces

Mrs Colbourne , Careers Lead

Post 16 Options, College Open Events

Please find a list of the upcoming college open events. These are great opportunities to offering a direct, in-person experience to visit the college’s environment, meet staff and students, and explore facilities, helping you make an informed decision about your future.

Please contact the colleges directly for more information and be aware some of the events may require booking.

BACA https://www.baca-uk.org.uk/ 16/10/25 6pm-8pm

Bexhill Sixth Form College https://www.bexhillcollege.ac.uk/ 22&23/10/25 6pm-8.30pm

BHASVIC https://www.bhasvic.ac.uk/ 12&13/11/25 4pm-8pm

Brighton MET https://www.brightonmet.ac.uk/ 15/10/25 4.30pm -7pm & 22/11/25 10am -1pm

DV8 https://www.dv8sussex.com/ 8/10/25 5pm -7pm & 11/10/25 10am -12pm

East Sussex College https://www.escg.ac.uk/

Lewes - 14/10/25 + 20/11/25 + 19/3/26 3.45pm - 6.45pm

Eastbourne - 15/10/25 + 20/11/25 + 19/03/26 3.45pm - 6.45pm

Hastings - 16/10/25 + 20/11/25 + 19/03/26 3.45pm - 6.45pm

Newhaven- 20/11/25 + 19/03/26 3.45pm - 6.45pm

Heathfield Community College and Sixth Form https://www.heathfieldcc.co.uk/

23/10/25 5.30pm-7.30pm

Plumpton College https://www.plumpton.ac.uk/ 11/10/25 + 22/11/25 + 17/01/26 + 21/3/26 + 13/6/26 9am-12pm

Seaford Head Sixth Form https://seafordhead.org/ 09/10/25 6pm - 8pm & 11/10/25 10am - 12pm

Uckfield College Sixth Form https://www.uckfield.college/ 12/11/25 5pm-8.30pm Plus their taster lesson day. 4 Subjects at 20 minutes each: 01/12/25 2pm - 4pm

Varndean College https://www.varndean.ac.uk/ 27/10/25 11am-2pm & 06/11/25 4pm-8pm & International Baccalaureate Presentation 07/10/25 6.30pm-7.45pm

BACA College Open Evening

Thursday 16 October 2025 from 6.00pm to 8.00pm

Warm invite to our Year 11 students and their families to attend and explore the exciting opportunities they offer.

Sign up here: BACA College Open Evening Registration

At BACA College, we are proud of our growing reputation for academic excellence and life-changing opportunities for students. This year we celebrated:

100% of students securing their first-choice university placements, with the majority exceeding target grades.
Continued success across our A Level and Level 3 BTEC pathways, with Media and Sport among our most popular courses.
Students representing Sussex Cricket Men’s 1st XI, Brighton & Hove Albion Girls U19s, and even the Euros, alongside their academic studies.
Fully funded international trips through the Turing Scheme to Bali, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and beyond.
Improved transport links, including the 3X service from Hove and the extended 23 route from Woodingdean, making travel to BACA College more accessible than ever.

Looking ahead to September 2026, we are excited to be expanding our A Level, Level 3 and Vocational offer further with:

Health and Social Care
Hair and Beauty (Levels 1–3)
Level 2 Sport Foundation pathway, enabling students who may not yet be ready for Level 3 to access our outstanding Football and Cricket Academies, with guaranteed progression to Level 3 on successful completion.
A newly revamped suite of Childcare pathways

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

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.

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.

ParentPay Group – Alert to fraudulent app

The ParentPay Group has alerted us to a fraudulent app in the Apple App Store that mimics ParentPay branding.

Security and safeguarding are top priorities at ParentPay Group, and they took swift action to report the app and are working closely with Apple to have it removed. To date, they have recorded only 2 cases of affected parents.

Please be aware:

· ParentPay does not have an app available for download from any app stores

· To use ParentPay, parents should visit https://www.parentpay.com/ from a mobile phone or computer

· After logging in, parents can save a shortcut onto their phone’s home screen

Chartwells Job Opportunity at King’s Academy Ringmer

KAR Newsletter 12/09/2025

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 14:38:38 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope you have had a great week.

The centre of this week has been Open Evening. What a great event! We believe that we had record numbers in attendance. Our visitors were exceptionally positive about the school, and our student tour guides received amazing praise. We had around 85 students from Years 7-11 supporting the school on the evening. Our visitors commented on their politeness, smartness, courtesy and confidence on the tours. They came up to me time and time again to tell me how wonderful our children were. A big thank you to all the students who helped on the evening, including over thirty Year 7’s in just their first week of school! We do this job for the children, and it was fantastic to hear so many positive comments about the positive reputation KAR has in our community given the brilliant students we have in this school. We are very ‘Proud to be Ringmer’. We continue next week with Open Mornings every day, welcoming visitors into our school and touring them via our student helpers.

We were excited to begin our Super Curriculum courses this week. For a school our size, this is a logistical challenge each term, but we are committed to giving children chances to develop their skills and interests in our quest to develop them into well-rounded characters. My walk around on a Wednesday afternoon is a highlight of the week, and a consistent validation that students value the opportunity to do something outside their academic studies. In addition to activities such as non-contact boxing, ceramics, coding and forestry, we were delighted to begin using the pool for the first time, with an excited first group in swimming lessons! In addition, I briefly had a go at one of our new activities, skateboarding, which I will need more practice on! A big thank you to all staff who support these activities, giving our students opportunities they may not otherwise have had.

At Key Stage 4, we have been really impressed with the focus and motivation with which students have started their GCSE courses. Every day is vital in the run-up to their exams. A reminder that next Monday we have our first ‘Route to Success’ evening for Year 11, so we look forward to welcoming parents and carers to the school.

A big thank you for supporting us in ensuring students get to school, as our attendance has started very strongly this year. A reminder that anything below 96% significantly reduces a student's chances of success at GCSE, and together we must do everything possible to get students into school. Even if they are feeling a little low in the morning, often once they are here the majority of students have excellent, productive days. You may have seen that school attendance has again made national news, with the data identifying that more than 50% of pupils who missed some of the first few weeks of school went on to become "persistently absent" in 2024, compared with just 14% of pupils who fully attended the first few weeks. Even at this early stage of term, a day off or more can negatively impact the rest of the year. We are happy to support you in whichever way we can to ensure that students begin the year on a positive routine.

Have a great weekend

Best wishes,
Mr Harvey

Post 16 Evening -Year 10 and 11 – Tuesday 23 September 2025, 6pm to 7pm

We would like to invite you to our post-16 evening at school on Tuesday 23rd September from 6-7pm.

The following providers will be attending :

East Sussex College/ Bexhill College/ Varndean/ Bhasvic/ DV8/ Uckfield sixth form/ Plumpton College/Brighton MET/ Bedes/ Seaford Head sixth Form/ BACA / The Armed Forces

Thank you, Mrs Colbourne, Careers Lead

Super Curriculum Launch – A Fantastic Start!

We’re delighted to share that our Super Curriculum programme launched successfully last week, with students across all year groups engaging in a wide range of enrichment activities designed to inspire, challenge, and extend learning beyond the classroom.

From the launch of the Ringmer Student magazine and the long-awaited swimming sessions to boxing and Skate School, students have responded with enthusiasm and curiosity. Staff have reported high levels of engagement, and it’s been wonderful to see students exploring new interests and building skills linked to our school ethos of Honesty, Faith, and Courage.

Timetables & Allocations

All Super Curriculum places have now been allocated and should be visible on student timetables. We are aware that a few adjustments are still needed, and we kindly ask for your patience while we finalise these details.

External Session Information – Payment Reminder

Some Super Curriculum sessions are delivered by external providers. If your child is currently enrolled in Temper Boxing or Sussex Skate School, please follow the instructions below to complete registration and payment directly with the provider. These two options are now fully booked for this term.

Temper Boxing (FULL for this term)

Coach: George Beattie - WhatsApp: +44 7597 613596 - Email: beatingtemper@gmail.com

Please ensure your child’s full name is clearly included when making payment.

Sussex Skate School

To register and pay, please email Alex at: info@sussexskateschool.com. Include your child’s full name and year group in the message.

Thank you for your continued support in helping us deliver a rich and varied Super Curriculum. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the school office.

King’s Academy Ringmer - Vegetable Harvest September 2025

Year 8’s spent some time in the green house harvesting a load of vegetables. Some of these students had planted the seeds earlier in the year. They enjoyed the reward of eating the fruits of their labour! Some of them had set up a competition to see who could grow the longest cucumber – it was a close finish. The monster crop from our post-summer holiday haul had to be a huge butternut squash that weighed in at almost 2 and a half kilos!

Students enjoyed cutting up and cooking our home-grown vegetables in Super curriculum at the end of the summer term. We enjoyed ‘Daisy beans’–boiled beans mixed with pesto and feta cheese, and vegetable stir-fry with basmati rice. All cooked in the greenhouse on a camping stove. Delicious!

ParentPay

Thank you to the parents that have already activated their child's ParentPay account. 93% of the whole school has already activated their account.

We are a cashless school and so all payments are paid via ParentPay. Please see below details of how to activate your account for King's Academy Ringmer.

If you do not currently have an account for ParentPay you simply go to the home page and click on the Parent log in in the top right-hand corner of the page as shown below.

You will then see the following page – you use the username and activation code from the letter that was given to you when your child started at school and select Login.

Confirm that the details are correct and then enter the date of birth for your child and click confirm.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete and successfully activate the account. Enter your name, email address, and create a password for your account (your email address will become your username).

Carefully read the ParentPay terms and conditions and check the box to accept them, then click Activate account. A verification email will be sent to you.

IMPORTANT You will need to click on the link within the email to complete the process and start using your account.

if you already have a Parentpay account, you simply log in and click on the + to add a child on the left-hand side as shown below.

This will then take you to the following page

Your current username and password will automatically show here, you just need to overtype with the username and password that are on the letters that were given to students last week and then click continue – This should then link your child to your main account.

On the home page, it will show two tabs (as shown below). If you then click on the blue tab, you will be able to put funds into your child's lunch account. If you click on the yellow tab, it will show you any other items to make payment - eg lockers, non-uniform days, revision books, school visits etc.

Thank you, Mrs Duckworth, School Business Manager

Post 16 Options, College Open Events

Please find a list of the upcoming college open events. These are great opportunities offering a direct, in-person experience to visit the college’s environment, meet staff and students, and explore facilities, helping you make an informed decision about your future.

Please contact the colleges directly for more information and be aware some of the events may require booking.

BACA https://www.baca-uk.org.uk/ 16/10/25 6pm-8pm

Bexhill Sixth Form College https://www.bexhillcollege.ac.uk/ 22&23/10/25 6pm-8.30pm

BHASVIC https://www.bhasvic.ac.uk/ 12&13/11/25 4pm-8pm

Brighton MET https://www.brightonmet.ac.uk/ 15/10/25 4.30pm -7pm & 22/11/25 10am -1pm

DV8 https://www.dv8sussex.com/ 8/10/25 5pm -7pm & 11/10/25 10am -12pm

East Sussex College https://www.escg.ac.uk/

Lewes - 14/10/25 + 20/11/25 + 19/3/26 3.45pm - 6.45pm

Eastbourne - 15/10/25 + 20/11/25 + 19/03/26 3.45pm - 6.45pm

Hastings - 16/10/25 + 20/11/25 + 19/03/26 3.45pm - 6.45pm

Newhaven- 20/11/25 + 19/03/26 3.45pm - 6.45pm

Heathfield Community College and Sixth Form https://www.heathfieldcc.co.uk/

23/10/25 5.30pm-7.30pm

Plumpton College https://www.plumpton.ac.uk/ 11/10/25 + 22/11/25 + 17/01/26 + 21/3/26 + 13/6/26 9am-12pm

Seaford Head Sixth Form https://seafordhead.org/ 09/10/25 6pm - 8pm & 11/10/25 10am - 12pm

Uckfield College Sixth Form https://www.uckfield.college/ 12/11/25 5pm-8.30pm Plus their taster lesson day. 4 Subjects at 20 minutes each: 01/12/25 2pm - 4pm

Varndean College https://www.varndean.ac.uk/ 27/10/25 11am-2pm & 06/11/25 4pm-8pm & International Baccalaureate Presentation 07/10/25 6.30pm-7.45pm

OVESCO’s ECO Open Houses is back!

Please follow this link to read more about these exciting events in Barcombe on 13 September, Lewes on 20 September, Hassocks and Ditchling on 27 September and at Rodmell on 27 September - https://ovesco.co.uk/event/eco-open-houses-gardens-2025/

KAR Newsletter 05/09/2025

Fri, 5 Sep 2025 13:59:48 GMT

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope you all had a restful and enjoyable summer break. It’s been wonderful to welcome students back into school, and staff have thoroughly enjoyed hearing the many stories students have shared about their holidays and adventures over the break.

We’ve had a fantastic start to the academic year. Our students have returned with focus, energy, and a real commitment to their learning, something that has been noticed and appreciated by staff across the school.

A special mention must go to our new Year 7 cohort, who have been absolute rays of sunshine! They’ve arrived smart, polite, and eager to engage, and they’ve settled into school life incredibly well. It’s been a joy to see their positive impact across the school already.

Attendance Matters

You may have seen that school attendance in the UK has once again made national headlines. At King’s Academy Ringmer, we set the expectation high, 100% attendance, because we know just how important it is to a student’s success in school. Falling below 96% attendance significantly reduces the likelihood of good outcomes.

We are proud to share that in 2024–2025, our school had the second-highest attendance across all 11 secondary schools in our local area, and in the top 30% of all secondaries across the whole of East Sussex, despite East Sussex as a whole sitting almost 3% below the national average. This is a testament to the hard work of our students, families, and staff, but we know we can do even better. With your continued support, we’re aiming even higher this year. Every day in school really does count.

Our new values - Honesty, Faith, Courage

We are now part of a significant community of 15 schools within the King’s Group Academies, educating thousands of students across areas of England. As part of this community, all schools have adopted the same values of Honesty, Faith and Courage. We are taking time to work with students in the next few weeks to ensure they know how they can show these both inside and outside of lessons. A big part of our school improvement focus this year is on increasing our celebration of students' achievement and praising them for the great work that they do every day. The values of Honesty, Faith and Courage will form a big part of this, and we will keep parents involved as these are embedded throughout the year.

Upcoming Events

Next week is a big one! We’re looking forward to welcoming prospective families to our Open Evening on Thursday 11th September. It’s always a highlight of the term and a fantastic opportunity to showcase our school. A huge thank you to the many students who have already signed up to help. Your support makes all the difference.

We’d also like to give a reminder of our Year 11 ‘Route to Success’ Evening, taking place on Monday 15th September. This important event will offer guidance and support as students enter their crucial final year.

New Break and Lunch Timings

Please note that we’ve made some slight adjustments to our break and lunch timings this year. A summary of these changes can be found at the end of this newsletter.

It’s great to be back. Working with your children every day is the best job in the world, and we’re excited about everything this year holds.

Have a great weekend

Mr Harvey

RE Department

Year 9 have been working hard on their entries for the Spirited Arts Competition 2025. Each student can choose a theme and a choice of the arts to work within. The themes this year included: Thinking about God, Living in a diverse world, Sacred Spaces, All God's Creatures, Making Sense of Life and stories that change lives.

The following have all been selected to represent Kings Academy Ringmer. Huge congratulations to them all!

1.Fisayo Akintunde.

2. Mariella Barker Todman/ Olivia Kemp

3. Charley Collins

4. Alice Hammond

5. Matilda Riley

6. Lola Pettitt

7. Grace Gregory

8. Lily Evans

9. Alanis Warburton

10. Finley Scott-Holman/ Jake Hams and Charlie Hitchmough

We will eagerly wait to see if we have any finalists! Mrs Simmons

Food Technology Department

2024/2025 academic year Y10 Food Tech students cooking for their Y11 Trial work. Students worked hard and produced some excellent dishes. Well done.

Open Evening – Thursday 11 September 2025

Student Volunteers

We are holding our Open Evening for September 2026 for prospective Year 7 parents/carers and their children on Thursday 11 September 2025. Your son/daughter may be asked to volunteer to assist in departments or become one of our tour guides. If your son/daughter agrees to volunteer, they will bring home a parental permission slip which we ask if you could sign and return at your earliest convenience. Students are asked to be on site from 4.50pm to 7.55pm. The evening ends at 8.00pm.

Dropping off – If you are dropping your son/daughter off, to help with traffic flow, please only drop off in the school bus lane.

Picking up – If you are collecting your son/daughter at the end of the evening, we will be running a one-way system. Please therefore follow the road to the left of the school building around the back and park on the playing field. Your son/daughter will come out onto the field to meet you there. You exit via the gate leading out into Harrisons Lane.

All parking on the night will be on the school field.

Students can remain on site after school until the evening starts. Please can you ensure that your son/daughter, if attending, brings with them food and drink for the evening. Transport arrangements should be made by students themselves.

Thank you in advance for your assistance with this.

Ringmer Dining Hall Tariff and Autumn Term Menu

King’s Academy Ringmer

Vacancy 1 – Learning Support Assistant

Permanent 24 hours per week

Required to start asap

Term-time only

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

Ie: £24413pa to £24796pa to be pro-rated as TTO

Learning Support Assistant for 24 hours per week required to start asap to work 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 comprises of 5 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 to timetables to complete tasks, training and plan for enrichment groups.

Work pattern

8.30am to 3.30pm. 6 hours a day / 24 hours per week plus an unpaid lunch break – equivalent to 4 days a week, work pattern to be agreed with the successful candidate.

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 "Kindness, Ambition, Resilience ". Our most recent Ofsted 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:

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/504. We offer a first-class working environment with supportive colleagues and opportunities for career development.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 18 September 2025 at 8.30am, with the interview date being on Wednesday 24 September 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.

Vacancy 2 - Exam Invigilators

Single Status Local Conditions, Grade 4

Based on £25185pa / £13.05 per hour for Standard Invigilator

Based on £25583pa / £13.26 per hour for Senior Invigilator

The Academy is looking to add to our bank of dedicated casual Examination Invigilators, who will be employed on a casual basis to supervise students taking both practise and actual GCSE exams, as necessary throughout the school year. Full training will be provided and staff will be contacted prior to the exam period to discuss the invigilation schedule in relation to their own availability. We offer a full support and induction programme for all new staff and a commitment to continued professional development.

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

King’s Group Academies:

For full details and an application form can be download 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/507. 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 18 September 2025 at 8.30am, with the interview date being on Monday 29 September 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.

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

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.

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.

Timings of the Day - September 2025

KAR Newsletter 18/07/2025

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 08:25:29 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

I hope you have had a great week.

We have had a busy and productive return to school after enrichment week. Our year 7 and 8 students had the opportunity to engage in careers morning, a total of 18 external speakers discussing job opportunities from different sectors. A great event organised by Ms Colbourne.

I am also delighted to announce that King's Academy Ringmer's submission for the Intermediate Level International School's Award has been successful and approved by The British Council regarding our work on the global-facing aspects of our work at KAR. The International School Award celebrates the achievements of schools that do exceptional work in international education. Fostering an international dimension in the curriculum is at the heart of the British Council’s work with schools so that young people gain the cultural understanding and skills they need for life and work in today’s world. They have given glowing feedback on our work in embedding global citizenship in a rural setting, and our partnerships with schools in China, Spain and France. Full communication will follow, but a huge thank you to Ms Taylor, who has led these activities.

Given the ongoing hot temperatures, next week will remain as PE kits from Monday to Wednesday if students would prefer to wear these. After the recent student voice, we have also agreed a non-uniform day on the final day (Thursday).

I will be in touch next week with detailed communication regarding useful dates and information for the start of next year and beyond.

Have a great weekend

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Year 10 Work Experience

We were incredibly proud of our Year 10 students who took part in their Work Experience last week. They explored potential career paths, built their confidence, and gained a valuable understanding of workplace culture. The feedback from employers was excellent, with many praising the students for their enthusiasm, professionalism, and eagerness to learn.

Well done to all involved — you represented the school brilliantly and learnt some valuable skills to take forward into year 11.

Mrs Colbourne

Careers Morning

Our Year 7 and Year 8 students took part in our career morning this week. We had eighteen speakers from a variety of job roles speaking about their careers. The goal of this event was to spark conversations amongst the students about different career paths and career journeys. We wanted them to understand what various jobs involve and, most importantly, to feel inspired and excited about the career choices that lie ahead.

We had speakers from a range of careers such as the Fire Services, NHS, Journalism, Archaeologists, Civil Engineer, Radiotherapy Engineer, Director of an innovation agency, Personal trainer / boxing coach, Tax associate Director, Contract Manager in social care, Green Careers, Vet, Graphic Designer, TV, Associate Director of Temple, Publisher, Mental Health Therapist.

We were all very proud of our students for the way they conducted themselves throughout the event, asking questions and engaging in conversations to learn more about different careers directly from those experienced in those fields.

DT Department – Year 7

Year 7 are coming to the end of their first year in Design & Technology and Mrs Hepburn wants to say a huge well done on all their hard work and their safe behaviour in the workshop. Beautiful acrylic jewellery has been taken home and well-crafted Memphis style clocks. Mrs Hepburn looks forward to teaching them again in year 8.

DT Department – Year 8

Wow! Year 8 have truly outdone themselves this year. Some beautifully designed Art Nouveau LED lights have gone home and superb herb racks. Mrs Hepburn is amazed at the high-quality outcomes leaving the workshop - what a talented bunch. Bring on year 9!

DT Department – Year 9

For some of the year 9’s it is the end of their Design & Technology journey, and they have gone out with some real showstoppers! Mrs Hepburn is sad to not be teaching all of them again but is thrilled by the huge uptake in those who have chosen the subject for their GCSE, and is very excited to see them shine even brighter over the next two years ahead.

The last project of year 9 was the mechanical toys and they are by far the best Mrs Hepburn has seen in her teaching years so far. Well done year 9, be proud of all that you’ve accomplished.

DT Department – Super Curriculum

The final group of Textiles Super curriculum have created some real show-stoppers this term. Good enough to eat, you may say. Mrs Hepburn, hopes you have enjoyed your time learning sewing skills!

RE Department

On Monday 14th July, Year 10 students visited the Buddhist Brighton Centre as part of their GCSE study of Buddhism. They took part in meditation, a shrine quiz and reflected on the daily practices of the Brighton Buddhist community. Our students were excellent role models and represented Ringmer well in our local area.

If you are interested in visiting the centre, they have an open day on Saturday 13th September.

Mrs Simmons, Subject Leader for RE

Change News

For the first time, Kings Academy entered the Ringmer Show at the weekend. We entered art, baking, horticulture and produce classes. We were very pleased with our results as we got placed in many of the classes and one of our students came home with a trophy for her baking.

We were particularly happy with the success of our vase of flowers. All the flowers were picked by a student on Friday from the school grounds and this display won the class. Second place for beans and carrots grown in school! The organisers were very impressed with the standard of the entries and are looking forward to collaborating with us in the future. Many students have been involved in our growing projects and this is a collaboration of sowing and propagating seeds, looking after the plants and enjoying picking the produce.

Involving our students in community events such as this has many benefits, including a sense of fulfilment, purpose, achievement and pride.

Perfect Pet competition

Winners of our Perfect Pet Competition are as follows:

Layla Yarrow - Year 8 - Best Cat
Jayden McKie - Year 10 - Best Dog
Maria Mackenzie - Best small animal

We are just waiting to hear what the total funds raised for the Raystede charity are from this lovely competition. Really well done to the winners and to everyone who took part.

Mrs Simmons, Subject Leader for RE

Free School Meals - Changes from April 1st 2025

Please see below updated information received from East Sussex County Council with regard to free school meal changes.
We are writing to update you on some recent changes the Department for Education (DfE) have made to their plans around Free School Meals and transitional protection rules.

Transitional protection rules will apply at the end of the 2025/26 academic year.
From the start of the 2026/27 academic year, transitional protections will end for all year groups. From this point, claimants must meet the eligibility criteria to be entitled to free school meals.
From September 2026 the DfE intends to extend free school meals to all children in households in receipt of Universal Credit.

This is a significant change to the information previously given to parents.

There will now be no review of Year 6 and Year 11 pupils in receipt of FSM at the end of this term or termly reviews of newly entitled students. Year 6 pupils who are entitled to free school meals will remain entitled in Year 7. Year 11’s will be removed from our system and parents/carers will need to reapply as their sixth form destination is not known to our service.

When the transitional protection rules end in July 2026, all entitled children will have their entitlement reviewed, not just those at the end of a phase of education (Years 6 and 11). FSM entitled children will then have their entitlement reviewed each year and will be removed from your FSM entitlement list if they no longer meet the criteria.

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

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

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.

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.

Ringmer Repair Café – Saturday 26 July and Saturday 30 August 2025

Ringmer’s 2025 Picnic on the Green

Ringmer Parish Council is holding a bumper Picnic on the Green to be held this August Bank Holiday, Monday 25th August 2025. The event starts at 1pm and there will be a host of games and fun for all ages.

This year, they have invited local community clubs and village organisations to join in, and events will include a Car Show, Line Dancing, treasure hunts, the ever-popular Dog Show, a host of fun challenges, including a Water Balloon Competition and Football Target Game, as well as traditional children’s games”. Live music will be provided by The Rock Choir, Skulldrummery and Work in Progress, while representatives of East Sussex Fire and Rescue and St John’s Ambulance will be showing off their equipment and training. Refreshments will be available, including ice cream, pizza and jacket potatoes. There will be a WI Tea Stand and Ringmer Cricket Club will be running a licensed bar.

The one thing they can’t predict is the weather, but they will have a large marquee on the Green if we need to take shelter.

Please save the date and join Ringmer Parish Council with a picnic for what will be a fun day for all ages. For more information: Nick Chaloner, 01273 813242

Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust - Resources to support young people with their mental health and wellbeing over the summer months

As schools and colleges prepare to finish for the summer, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust would like to share with you some resources to support young people with their mental health and wellbeing, particularly those who are awaiting their exam results.

Text SUSSEX to 85258

Text SUSSEX is a free text service, there to help anyone who is struggling with their feelings.

If you’re feeling worried, sad, or lonely, text the word ‘SUSSEX’ to 85258 to start a silent conversation with a mental health professional.

The service is free, confidential, and available at any time, day or night.

Resources for families, carers and professionals

Please visit Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust's website for a range of resources for families, carers, and professionals. This includes a series of pre-recorded webinars for parents and carers with hints and tips on how to support young people who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health. Visit the website.

ESCC - Common seasonal infections and hazards

As the summer holiday arrives, children are likely to spend more time outdoors. This guide for parents has useful information about common seasonal infections and hazards to help spot illness more easily and take action if needed.

A parent’s guide to summer infections and health hazards – UK Health Security Agency

ESCC - Bikeability Holiday Courses

Bikeability holiday courses run over the summer holidays. They will be taking place at both the Eastbourne Cycle Centre and the Peacehaven Cycle Hub. See link for further information: https://www.facebook.com/EastSussexCycleTraining/?locale=en_GB

Make (Good) Trouble CIC

Spaces still available for a free HAF Drama Holiday Club this Summer, designed for students in East Sussex who receive free school meals. It is part of East Sussex County Council’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.

Hosted by Make (Good) Trouble, this unique holiday club will take place in the beautiful Friston Forest, part of Seven Sisters Country Park, and will be led by a qualified children’s drama therapy coach from Dragon Drama.

Club Details:

· Dates: Monday 28th, Tuesday 29th & Wednesday 30th July, 11am-3pm

· Location: South Downs National Park

· Activities: Woodland exploration, drama, storytelling, music, movement, art, group games & more!

· Free lunch provided daily

What to Bring:

Wet-weather gear (just in case!)

Sturdy footwear (no sandals or slides)

We also have access to an indoor space if the weather takes a turn. Help with transport to the location can be provided.

This is a fantastic opportunity for children to build confidence, express creativity, and have fun in nature! Spaces are limited, so we would love your help in spreading the word to eligible families.

The sign up form and details are here: https://eequ.org/book/woodland-drama-workshop-with-make-good-trouble-cic-5213

Brighton and Hove Albion Soccer Schools – Summer School Activities

BHAFC Soccer Schools are the best way for your child to get active and have fun this summer.

There’s something for everyone at our holiday camps - learn to play the Albion way and enjoy the holidays!

We have sessions at eight locations across Sussex, suitable for boys and girls of all abilities aged 5-13 (or girls-only sessions for girls up to 16).

We’ve also launched three new girls-only sessions in Worthing, Chichester, and Eastbourne.

Their qualified BHAFC Foundation coaches are ready and waiting

Please follow link to view all available training camps and booking system - https://bhafcfoundation.org.uk/football-participation/holiday-sessions/bhafc-soccer-schools/

KAR Newsletter 11/07/2025

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:27:44 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

As we wrap up a truly exceptional Enrichment Week, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what has been a brilliant, ambitious, and joy-filled five days for our students. This week has been a celebration of learning beyond the classroom – of curiosity, challenge, creativity, and character.

Across the week, our students have taken part in an astonishing 34 individual activities and trips, ranging from national museums and adventure parks to creative workshops and skill-building sessions back at school. Organising such a diverse programme is no small feat, and I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our dedicated staff, who have worked tirelessly over many weeks to design, plan, risk-assess and lead this experience. The scale of this week is something you might expect in a much larger school, yet our small community has delivered something truly special.

Some of the highlights from this week include:

Ardeche trip - multi-activity trip in the Ardèche region of France
Battle Abbey (Year 7), where students explored the site of the famous 1066 battle and deepened their understanding of our nation's history.
Work Experience (Year 10), with students stepping into the world of employment and representing the school with maturity and pride.
Thorpe Park (Years 7, 8, and 9), offering fun-filled excitement across year groups
Blacklands Farm (Years 7 and 8), where students take on outdoor challenges and built resilience in nature.
Visits to national landmarks like the British Museum, Science Museum, and Natural History Museum, enriching students' cultural and academic horizons.
Year 8 PGL Camp - outdoor adventure with a focus on adventure, learning, and personal development
Branching Out: an outdoor adventure centre located in beautiful woodland, offering a range of treetop activities
West End Theatre trip, which gave students a taste of London’s performing arts scene.
Creative and practical activities in school such as:
- DT’s High Tea with a Twist, rocket building, web design and packaging workshops
- Gardening, music and band sessions, film club, and Spanish cooking
- Art workshops, air-dry clay, board game design, storytelling, dance workshops and a very popular science of solving mysteries.
- Outdoor experiences like the Ringmer Walk and activities at Laughton Woods

It is not possible to mention every activity and trip, but thank you to all the staff for running each of these. One of the most rewarding aspects of the week has been the feedback we've received from external providers and venues. Repeatedly, we’ve been told how outstanding our students have been – in conduct, politeness, engagement, and maturity. They've stood out from the crowd and represented our school’s values in the very best light.

Whether it was trying something completely new, pushing themselves out of their comfort zones, or supporting their peers, our students have truly shone this week. This week has not only been fun – it has also been aligned with our school’s vision: to shape well-rounded, confident individuals ready for the opportunities and challenges ahead.

Enrichment Week is a huge logistical challenge, but it’s one we embrace because of the incredible opportunities it provides. We are immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together – staff, students, and our wider school community.

Thank you again for your ongoing support. I wish you and your families a restful weekend and hope you enjoy hearing all about the adventures of the past week.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Current Year 11 Only

This is a gentle reminder to check ParentPay and cancel any auto-top-up payments that were set up for student lunch accounts please. Disabling this feature will avoid any further money crediting accounts.

Packaging and IT - Enrichment Week

Mrs Hepburn ran a full day of learning why packaging is important and how we can create purposeful packaging ideas with multipurpose.

Some of the group went on to do the baking with Mrs Budd on Tuesday, so for their packaging project, the group made packaging for slices of cake.

Their designs are all so individual to the students’ personalities and would definitely be successful in the shops!

Year 7/8 Step Up to the Challenge at Blacklands farm!

We kicked off the week with adventure, excitement, and a healthy dose of bravery as our Year 7/8 students tackled the great outdoors head-on!

The day began with abseiling—an activity that pushed many students out of their comfort zones. Some charged ahead without hesitation, diving straight into the challenge. Others, while not quite ready to take the leap, still climbed to the top and faced their fears head-on. It was incredible to watch those same students later in the day confidently stacking crates higher and higher, overcoming nerves and showing real determination.

As teachers, we usually see students in the classroom, focused on our individual subjects. But watching them work together, encourage one another, and challenge themselves in a totally different environment reminded us how much more there is to each of them.

We were especially impressed by the emerging leaders among our Year 7 cohort—students who stepped up to support their peers, communicate clearly, and lead by example.

A huge well done to all involved—you made us dizzy just watching you climb! What a fantastic start to the week of adventures.

Creativity in Action: Students Shine with Stencil and Lino Print Projects

This week, our students rolled up their sleeves and dove into a hands-on art project that challenged both their precision and creativity. Tasked with creating detailed stencils, they demonstrated an impressive level of focus and control—no easy feat when working with designs that require a steady hand.

But the creativity didn’t stop there.

Moving from stencils to lino printing, students tackled one of the more complex and demanding printmaking techniques. Linoleum is not a forgiving material; it requires patience, care, and resilience. Yet, these young artists took it all in stride. With determination and a fantastic attitude, they carved, inked, and pressed their way to truly stunning results.

We’re constantly amazed by the originality and confidence our students bring to their work. Projects like these remind us just how much talent and imagination they hold—and how exciting it is to see that expressed through such rich and challenging mediums.

Well done to everyone involved. The outcomes were nothing short of fabulous!

Students Make Stunning & Fashionable Tote Bags with Screen Printing – and Felt Their Way to Creative Landscapes!

During enrichment week, creativity was in full swing as students dived into the world of textile design. They kicked things off by designing and screen-printing their very own tote bags – and the results were straight from a Vogue magazine. From bold patterns to fashionable graphics, each student’s bag was a unique expression of themselves.

This activity demanded focus and precision, with students quickly discovering the value of a steady hand. In fact, they became honorary members of the “Steady Hand Club,” embracing the concentration required to pull off clean, professional screen prints.

Following their tote bag triumphs, students were introduced to the traditional art of needle felting. While a few became “Sleeping Beauties” (thanks to the occasional pin-pricked finger!), they persevered with enthusiasm and a bit more care. The result? Breathtaking felt landscapes, full of texture, colour, and imagination.

Enrichment week is always a highlight – a time when we get to work with students we don’t usually teach and see them shine in creative, unexpected ways.

Just amazing through and through, but don’t just take our word for it – scroll through the images and see their incredible work for yourself!

Rocket building

This week, in a fine return to top form, Jeff Taylor has led the Ringmer Aeronautics and Space Administration on many successful projects that aimed for the moon but made it to the dizzy heights of the Steve Green Building!

Students from key stage three have been creating an array of rockets that have been turbocharged with water and a modified track pump!

The year seven day was dominated by Eva C; Leeza A; Emilia S and Summer B - however, as you can see, Scarlett M-C; Rose B; Laila A and Chloe F definitely had the most aesthetically pleasing rocket, affectionately named "Princess Polly".

The highest and straightest rocket of the week was designed by "Team Tesco" formed of Kayson B; Finley S-H and Finnian C. The secret, it turned out, were massive fins and a pointed nose cone apparently, but rest assured they did not spend all of their budget!

Thank you to all the students for a thoroughly enjoyable and relaxed week of rocket building and to the staff who make these experiences what they are for our wonderful students.

Triumphant winners of the 'Design a Board Game' competition with their winning entry 'The Great Heist'

Players have to plan and carry out a bank robbery (!)

The prize was a packet of Oreos each

Ringmer Summer Show

Saturday 12th July - Ringmer Village Hall 2-4 pm with

Kings Academy Ringmer will proudly be exhibiting some entries into this show on Saturday.

The show is an opportunity for the local community to showcase its talents in growing, cookery and baking and handicrafts and hobbies. We are proud to be part of this. Expect to find some produce from our garden and greenhouse, artwork and baking. This is the first time we will be entering the show. We hope to inspire future exhibitors for events like this to continue into the future. Fingers crossed we will be placed.

The show is open for viewing from 2pm - 4pm. Refreshments are available and entry is free and produce is auctioned off at the end.

For additional info please visit their website www.ringmerhorticulturalclub.co.uk

ESCC New Parenting Guide for

July to September 2025

Children –Online parenting courses - children | Family hubs

Teenagers – Online parenting courses - teenagers | Family hubs

All Abroad! Bus Holiday clubs (Seaford)

Seaford-based summer holiday clubs is particularly for those aged 12 and under, although they are usually happy to accept older children if they would like to join them.

This summer they are running their 5th summer series of holiday clubs with two weeks at Mercread Youth Centre in Seaford. Their theme this year is inspired by TV series ‘Race across the world' with 1 week racing across South America, and another week crossing Europe and North Africa - offering children and young people the opportunity to 'travel' each day to different countries, through food, art, language, games, physical activity and some 360 VR tours!

There are some free HAF places for children eligible for benefits-related free school meals and other criteria, as well as a handful of crowdfunded places for families who are finding it extra tough this year, as well as paid places.

See poster for booking information

KAR Newsletter 27/06/2025

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 08:23:36 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

I hope you have had a great week.

As we enter the final and often the busiest part of the year, I am pleased to report that KAR continues to be in a very positive position.

Last week we held our Summer Showcase, a fantastic evening showcasing our students' abilities in dance and drama. We remain committed to the creative arts at KAR, and given our school size, the number of students who volunteer to perform each event is outstanding. A huge thank you to Ms Urquhart and Ms Dyson for their efforts in putting this together.

I was also privileged to attend the opening of Ringmer Community Pool. This now offers opportunities for our students from September, both in our Super Curriculum and our PE Curriculum. Some of our staff have already taken the opportunity to use it on Friday afternoons.

We also bid farewell to our Year 11 cohort. They have shown fantastic maturity and focus throughout the exam period, and the atmosphere in their last assembly was fantastic. As always, lots of shirt signing and the opportunity to have a treat from the ice-cream van! We held the Year 11 Prom yesterday evening, a fantastic and happy evening. Students arrived in tractors, sports cars, motorbikes, buses, and there was even a chinook helicopter flyover! A big thank you to all involved in the evening. The students had a fantastic evening and the atmosphere was one of celebration and togetherness. They certainly hit the dance floor, and there were some impressive moves being shown by staff members who will remain unnamed!

On Wednesday 24th June, we held a fantastic event at KAR for Smartphone Free Child, a volunteer group which we are engaging with to promote the benefits of a smartphone free childhood until 14. The evening was rich in discussion, with many members from the local community in attendance, including KAR staff, governors and parents of our prospective Year 7’s from September. As the host venue for the evening, I opened the event, before a panel that included educational consultants, paediatricians, healthcare experts, the police and other community leaders. Our principal students, Jessica and Elliot, also spoke with confidence and clarity regarding the challenges they have experienced with smartphones. The evening aimed to provide evidence-based information and discussion for those looking to make decisions around smartphones.

We have had a number of visits recently at Trust Level and Governance level. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive from these visits, specifically outlining that we are currently seen as having maintained exceptionally high standards, and are leading the way in positive conduct by our students, the quality of teaching and the collective culture at the school.

We look forward to the last few weeks - transition days and evenings, sports day, activities week and celebration assemblies! A reminder that, due to the anticipated heatwave next Monday and Tuesday, students are allowed to wear PE Kit if they would prefer.

Have a great weekend

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Summer Showcase

Thank you to all who participated in and helped set up the Summer Showcase. It was such a lovely event and a wonderful celebration of the hard work of our music, dance and drama students. If you would like to make a donation to support the Musical Instrument Fund, then please make a donation via Parentpay. Many thanks, Ms Urquhart, Subject Leader for Music.

MFL Department

MFL Article 1 - Bienvenue au café!

Year 8 French students have been writing and performing role plays in a café this week, combining transactional French with "small talk" and acting skills. It has been fantastic to see them grow in confidence and manage to complete this task in their second language. Bravo à tous!

MFL Article 2 - Year 11s teaching Spanish verb conjugation to Year 7 on their leaver’s day 🙂

MFL Article 3 - Year 8 Spanish students have been working on creating a café role play in Spanish, and gave their final performances this week. They all came up with distinctive scripts and used varied vocabulary and accurate accents. Well done! - Ms Cooke

English Department

Belonging - Poetry Competition

This month at KAR, we have been celebrating our sense of Belonging. I know we don't always acknowledge it, especially during those days when everything seems to go wrong - but, we're all incredibly fortunate to work and study in this brilliant school - and that, we thought, was worth remembering.

Therefore, this month, we asked students to explore this feeling of Belonging - by crafting their own poems. The competition wasn't limited to school of course, as students could explore when and where they feel this sense of Belonging. Some chose to write about their friendships made at KAR, some chose to write about their hobbies, and some, well they chose to write about taking a lovely stroll through the forest on a beautiful Spring Day.

It's always such a joy to read the work of all of our students here at KAR, and this competition, well it really did just show us what a creative, kind, adventurous, caring, ambitious (I could go on) group of students we have at this school. This competition was really difficult to judge as the standard was so high, but we've chosen the following as our Top 4. One of which will definitely leave you in tears, I'm sure.

The winning students will be awarded 5 Achievement Points each, a PROUD award, AND a book courtesy of the English Department. A huge well done to the following:

Bay Blackwell - Year 7 - Bay Poem

Evelyn Johnson - Y7 - Evelyn Poem

Martha Samms - Y8 - Martha Peom

Diva Muthoor - Y8 - Diva Peom

I am sure you will join me in congratulating these students on their incredible work.

Write On Everyone, Write On.

Mr Maund, Teacher of English

Art Department – Abstract Landscape Club

What started as a short 3-week art course has beautifully transformed into a 9-week creative journey — every Friday filled with colour, imagination, and inspiration!

It’s been absolutely amazing to watch our students dive into the world of abstract landscape, embracing the expressive freedom it offers. With guidance and wisdom from the wonderful Mrs. Colbourne, they’ve explored techniques that brought their visions to life — and the results have been nothing short of incredible.

The work produced has truly wowed us, and the energy in the room each week has been electric with creativity. It’s been a joy for both myself and Mrs. Colbourne to see everyone so engaged, enthusiastic, and genuinely happy while creating.

To everyone who joined us — thank you from the bottom of our paint-splattered hearts. You've made these Fridays something special.

Huge thank you to Harwoodking Printmakers for their generous gift of premium watercolour paper the students used during these workshops

https://www.harwoodking.com/

Until next time — keep creating, keep expressing, and keep smiling!

Check out some of the work produced below. Miss Hook, Head of Art

PE Department

Over the last couple of weeks, we have taken our students to a number of different athletics events culminating in Town Sports on Tuesday 17 June 2025, in which the school competed against 12 other local secondary schools.

Year 7 - Super Six athletics at Hailsham. The students took part in a number of events, including runs, throws and jumps, with the team finishing a very respectable 5th, although they improved massively in a week and finished 3rd in the bigger Town Sports Events.

Year 8 - In the Hailsham event, another credible result, finishing 5th overall, at Town Sports finishing 8th overall out of 12 schools

Year 9 - In the Hailsham event, the team won, which was a superb result, although not doing quite so well in the Town Sports, finishing 9th out of 12 schools

Year 10 - Unable to take part in the Hailsham event but finishing 9th out of 12 schools in the Town Sports

All the students represented the school with great enthusiasm and desire. All students' behaviour was exemplary, which was noted by some of the other staff from other schools. Also, some amazing individual performances from students across the different events.

Well Done all, Mr Coulthard

Super Curriculum News

Super Curriculum gardening group escaped the heat of the greenhouse this week to do some Anthotype printing with Turmeric.

Anthotype is a photographic image obtained using plant dyes (photosensitive pigments in plants), without the need for cameras, lenses, inks and lasers. We used the spice Turmeric to paint the paper, placing a fern over the yellow and leaving it in the sun for an hour. The finished result came from spraying a simple solution to fix the colour. The results were really impressive. Mrs Simon-House, ECO Co-ordinator.

Old School Uniform

Thank you to all the Year 11s who donated items of uniform back to the school. We would still appreciate it more, especially trousers, skirts and ties. Anything we do not need is donated to Raystede to sell on at their Rescue Centre on the Broyle.

You can donate to Raystede yourself at any time and there is also a second-hand uniform Facebook site link on our website.

Lost Property

We have a large number of unnamed lost property items in reception, including water bottles, winter coats, uniform, jewellery, watches and many keys. Many of these items have been in reception for a very long time.

Please come to reception if you recognise any items or to look through the coats.

If any items are not claimed by the end of term, they will be repurposed or given to Raystede as donations.

Thank you in advance for your assistance with this.

Holiday Activities and Food for secondary-aged students eligible for FSM

The summer holidays are approaching, which means Holiday food and fun! We will be offering up a diverse menu of activities.

The document below has a QR code to take people to the ESCC booking platform.

ESCC would particularly like to highlight some clubs suitable for secondary-aged young people in the area that still have places available. These are all available via their booking platform or the links below.

Barbering holiday club – 14 to 16 years – Eastbourne
Eastbourne Fame Academy – performing arts – 6 to 17 years
Inclusive musical theatre workshops – 7 to 13 years
Wildlife and tech camp – Seven Sisters – 11 to 16 years
Woodland drama workshop – 11 to 16 years

Tetra Pack printing – 11 to 14 years – Seaford
Weaving – 11 to 14 years – Seaford
Creative Coast 11 to 14 years – Seaford
Shrek summer school Kaleidoscope – 5 to 16 years – Lewes
Lifestyle workshops and football fitness – 7 to 13 years - Newhaven

This DfE funded programme offers a range of exciting activities for young people who receive benefits-related free school meals.

All sessions include a healthy meal and are free to eligible young people. There is a great range of clubs spread across multiple venues in East Sussex. Activities include sport, art, theatre, forest school, animation, music, computer coding and crafts.

A small number of places will also be available for children and young people who:

· Disabled or special educational needs, including those with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)

· Children in Need (CiN)

· Referred to Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)

· Young Carers

· Have a disabled sibling

· Children on a Child Protection Plan (CP)

· Looked After Children (LAC)

· Refugee groups

Foundry Surgery are funding a Nature Therapy Session for Young People 11-17 on the 7th and 14th July at Kingston Pavillion.

It's free to attend and is intended for the Young Person and a parent. It's aimed at children struggling with anxiety or who may have SEND and so struggle with self-regulating.

They have a lot of families who struggle to help their child/teen manage their emotions and often have a lot of difficulty getting them into school or college. We hear from parents that things can be very stressful at home for everyone involved, and they would like support.

They have been working with a local organisation called Roots Nature Therapy (www.rootnaturetherapy.com) to set up a nature-based workshop for parents and children/teens in a small group. There is a lot of evidence about nature as a resource to improve mental health, but often families find it difficult to know where to start. This workshop is to help you improve your connection with your child/teenager while helping you both reduce stress levels and feel better.

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

Advert 1 - Reception, Administration and Attendance Assistant

Permanent 35 hours per week

Required to start on 1 September 2025

Term-time only

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

Ie: £24420pa to £25652pa to be pro-rated as TTO

We are seeking a Reception, Administration and Attendance Assistant to start on 1 September 2025. Responsibilities will include managing the day-to-day running of the school reception and medical room and to administer 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 "Kindness, Ambition, Resilience ". Our most recent Ofsted 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 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:

For full details and an application form can be download 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/506. 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)

Closing date for applications is Monday 14 July 2025 at 8.30am with the interview date will be on Tuesday 22 July 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.

Advert 2 - Learning Support Assistant x 2

Post 1 - Permanent 30 hours per week – Job number P/505

Post 2 – Permanent 24 hours per week – Job number P/504

Required to start on 1 September 2025

Term-time only

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

Ie: £23656pa to £24027pa to be pro-rated as TTO

Learning Support Assistant x 2 required to start on 1 September 2025 to work 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.

Work pattern

Post 1 (8.30am to 3.30pm - Monday to Friday. 6 hours a day / 30 hours per week plus an unpaid lunch break.

8.30am to 3.30pm. 6 hours a day / 24 hours per week plus an unpaid lunch break - equivalent to 4 days a week, work pattern to be agreed with the successful candidate.

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 "Kindness, Ambition, Resilience ". Our most recent Ofsted 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 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:

For full details and an application form can be download 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/505. 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)

Closing date for applications is Friday 11 July 2025 at 8.30am with the interview date will be on Monday 21 July 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.

KAR Newsletter 13/06/2025

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:57:06 GMT

Dear parents/carers,

I hope you have had a great week.

I am delighted to inform you that King’s Academy Ringmer has been awarded East Sussex Healthy School Status. This is in recognition of the priority the school places on the health and wellbeing of the whole school community, and a commitment to continuous improvement in:

PSHE Education
Healthy Eating
Physical Activity and
Social Emotional and Mental Health

Huge congratulations to all the staff involved in this, in particular Ms Moorhouse, who was able to evidence the excellent work in these areas in order to achieve the status.

We are very much looking forward to our Summer Showcase next Wednesday 18th, from 6-8pm in the Hall. This will be yet another opportunity to see our talented children perform both dance and music solos. If you have a ticket, we look forward to seeing you there.

I also look forward to attending the opening of Ringmer Swimming Pool. This promises to be a special event celebrating the return of this valued facility to the local community. We have agreed exclusive access for our students during our super curriculum time, and are working with them to incorporate the PE curriculum from September. These are amazing additions to our offer, and something which our students will benefit from in the years to come.

Have a great weekend

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Important Charity Information

A number of our students in the local community have been raising money for Target Ovarian Cancer. They ran a fundraising day in May but have also set up a Justgiving Page. So far, our students have helped to raise an amazing £1749. Please follow the link below to find out more and make whatever donation you feel you can.

https://www.justgiving.com/page/helen-hill-1?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&fbclid=IwQ0xDSwKUgjtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHlz40oGoWcppcI4DRgmGgC7vGVOiLcqctvRfsJLP4wkToyMgBLsnZNsDLSdo_aem_QK1eiBdPJOxUmD45GqjoAg

KAR Newsletter 06/06/2025

Mon, 9 Jun 2025 09:41:47 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

We have a great week at Ringmer!

As the exam season continues to progress, a special mention to Ms. King, who has made the 10-person shortlist for the national 2025 Exams Officer of the Year. Ms. King continues to do some excellent work at the school, ensuring that students and staff have everything they need for the exams. There is a considerable professionalism to the process, which has been recognised, and puts KAR alongside some other nominations from prestigious national and international schools, including those from the private sector. A huge well done to Ms King for her hard work.

On Thursday, we were visited by The NHS School Health Service, who spoke to many of our students in the hall at lunchtime. The NHS workers said they visit a large number of schools, and were blown away by how polite, well-dressed and personable our students were. A reminder, not that we need it, of the fantastic children we have here at KAR.

I am delighted that we will be hosting a community event on Tuesday 24th June relating to a ‘Smartphone Free Childhood’. Smartphone Free Childhood is a grassroots movement bringing parents together to stand up for healthier, happier childhoods. The event has been scheduled to highlight the opportunity for families to delay smartphones and social media together – building community, sharing support, and changing the conversation. Step by step. Brick (phone) by brick (phone). Whilst this is primarily aimed at our prospective parents in Year 6, everyone in our school community who has an interest in this area is welcome via ticket. More information is listed within this newsletter.

Have a fantastic weekend

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THE LEWES DISTRICT SMARTPHONE FREE CHILDHOOD PANEL EVENT!️

Following sell-out events in Brighton and Hove, 'Parenting in the Digital Age’, Lewes District Event, is now open for booking!

Tuesday 24th June 2025, 18.30-20.30, Kings Academy Ringmer, BN8 5RB

This event is for everyone in our community: parents, carers, schools, doctors, anyone who cares about and is invested in the lives of our children.

 Listen to our incredible panel of local experts in paediatrics, mental health, the police and education.

 Meet other parents who are considering delaying giving their child a smartphone until at least the age of 14.

 Q&A with our experts to answer your burning questions.

Tickets are free, but spaces are limited, so reserve your seat today. (And please, if your circumstances change and you can’t come, return your ticket so we can give it to someone else.)

Please share this with friends, family, neighbours, schools, professional networks… anyone who you think needs to know!

See you there!

Click this link to reserve your seat: http://bit.ly/3ZbPz0K

King’s Academy Ringmer Summer Showcase

Tickets are now available for our end-of-year Performing Arts Showcase!

On Wednesday 18th June, 6 - 8pm, talented students from Years 7 - 11 will take centre stage in the KAR school hall to present an evening of entertainment!

Our end of year Performing Arts Showcase is an opportunity for us all to celebrate the students artistic abilities and hard work.

From choirs, to bands, to small group acts, solo performances, dramatic scenes, and dance - the event will be jammed packed with entertainment.

Come and share this magical evening with us. Tickets are available here:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kar-summer-showcase-tickets-1365662636709?aff=oddtdtcreato

BOOK YOUR FREE TICKET NOW!

Free Webinars for Yr 9/10/11 parents from Emily Hughes, author of the GCSE Survival Guide for Parents

Navigating Year 11
For parents of current Year 10s
7–8pm, Thurs 12th June
https://parentguidetoeducation.com/reg/navigating-y11

Stepping up to Year 12
For parents of current Year 11s
7–8pm, Thurs 19th June
https://parentguidetoeducation.com/reg/stepping-up-to-y12

Navigating GCSEs
For parents of current Year 9s
7–8pm, Thurs 26th July
https://parentguidetoeducation.com/reg/navigating-gcses

Plumpton College – News and Events

There is a lot going on at Plumpton College over the coming couple of months:

Final Open Event of this academic year, 14 June

Year 10 Taster Days - limited availability!

Show season is here - catch us at South of England (6-8 June) and Kent County Show (4-6 July)

Spotlight on our Foundation Learning programme

Their next Open Event is the perfect opportunity to visit Plumpton College, meet their industry expert lecturers and see where a career in the Land and Environment sector can take you:

Saturday 14 June 2025

9am - 12pm

Plumpton College, Ditchling Road, Lewes, BN7 3AE

Book your place for Saturday 14 June

Student Welcome Day - bookings open

For any students due to start at Plumpton College in September 2025, Student Welcome Day is the perfect opportunity to meet new classmates and teachers and see what college life is like!

Please ask your son/daughter to check their emails and book their space.

Tuesday 8th July - final few spaces remaining for Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Studies & Conservation, Forestry & Arboriculture, Fisheries & Aquatic Sciences and Horticulture.

Wednesday 9th July - limited availability for all sessions apart from Animal Management and Bakery which are both fully booked!

A fantastic opportunity for students to try out two subjects of their choice as part of our Year 10 Taster Days. Students will discover what's involved in the course, have a chance to explore campus and meet course tutors and other prospective students.

Book now

Plumpton College is excited to be heading to the South of England Show again this year!

Pop along and visit them at their stand F8 to have a hands-on experience with what they have to offer at Plumpton College!

They will also be at the Kent County Show from 4 - 6 July.

Foundation Learning Spotlight

Foundation Learning Course Info

They are here to support you and your son/daughter with assembly presentations, careers events and any other initiatives you host. Why not get in touch and see how we can support you? schoolsliaison@plumpton.ac.uk

Please don't hesitate to contact Plumpton by email (see contact details below) with any queries about studying at Plumpton College.

Kind Regards,

The Schools & Colleges Liaison Team - schoolsliaison@plumpton.ac.uk

Amanda Symes & Jess Saunders

KAR Newsletter 23/05/2025

Fri, 23 May 2025 14:23:45 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

I hope you have had a great week.

As another half-term draws to a close, I would like to thank you for your ongoing support as we head into the final part of the academic year.

Our Year 11's are halfway through their GCSE's. As a group, they have faced the exams with calmness and resilience, and we could not be prouder of their efforts. I know they now see the Prom on the horizon, after a final push after half-term!

You will hopefully see that our social feeds are starting to re-energise, further to Ms Freeborn now arriving for 1 day a week as our marketing lead. Further information regarding our students at the Big Futures Career Fair and the Tide Mills beach Eco visit is now on!

I say this often, but I am a very lucky Principal in that the students at this school are fantastic, and an absolute delight to work with. I frequently receive amazing comments about our students when visitors come into our school. As we sign off for the half-term, I thank you for your support, as so many of our students are meeting our expectations every day, and are a credit to you. We continue to work on ways to highlight the children that get it right every day.

We have sent out term dates for next year, which I can confirm as follows:

Full Term dates 2025-2026:

Term 1

Wednesday 3rd September (Years 7 and 11 only) and Thursday 4th September (all year groups)
Last Day of term 1: Friday 17th October

Term 2

Monday 3rd November to Friday 19th December
*Friday 5th December (KGA Leadership Conference) - Year 11 in only - no school for Years 7, 8, 9 and 10*

Term 3

Monday 5th January to Thursday 12th February
*Friday, February 13th - KGA Professional Learning Day - no students in school*

Term 4

Monday 23rd February to Friday 27th March

Term 5

Monday 13th April to Friday 22nd May

Term 6

Monday 1st June to Friday 24th July

I hope you have a great half-term.

Best wishes,
Mr Harvey.

RE Department

As part of their Jewish studies in KS3, Year 9 observed and took part in a Sabbath meal. They reflected on the importance of the weekly event in the lives of Jewish teenagers today and its religious significance. All the students certainly enjoyed the Challah!

Mrs Simmons, Subject Leader for RE

Change News

We love a good before and after! It's been hard work, but our bramble patch is now a lot more under control. The raised beds we have so far managed to construct in the greenhouse area are looking great! Sadly, not all our seeds have germinated, but we have managed to plant sweetcorn, broccoli, onions and a courgette.

Year 7 students were able to harvest and sample radishes this morning. Not to everyone's taste, but they all had a try.

We continue to battle the weeds and are hugely grateful to Mrs Hazlewood for choosing her work voluntary placement with us here at Kings Academy Ringmer - she had been an amazing pair of extra hands.

Mrs Simon-House, ECO Co-ordinator

KAR Newsletter 16/05/2025

Fri, 16 May 2025 14:47:32 GMT

Dear parents/carer,

I hope you have had a great week.

We are immensely proud of our Year 11’s who have successfully navigated the first week of GCSE exams. They have shown maturity and an assured approach throughout the week, and we are delighted that every day has seen 100% attendance in school. They remain focussed in our drop-down timetables, where the teachers have done a very good job of guessing some of the exam questions just before they go in!

I was delighted this week to be a part of our student leadership interviews for our senior students. The quality in Year 10 is outstanding, and we had a challenging job of choosing the various roles from transition leaders, sports leaders, eco-leaders and the head students. They all gave a presentation regarding how they would positively influence the school, as well as answering questions in interviews relating to the role. I congratulate all who took part in the process, and am delighted to announce Jessica and Elliot as our Head Students. I look forward to presenting them with their leadership ties in a ceremony with parents after the half-term. I am excited to work with them to elevate our student's voice, and have no question they will act as excellent role models when they step into Year 11 next year.

We are excited to again showcase yet more creative talent in the school in Years 7-11 with our performing arts showcase on 18th June. More details are held within this newsletter, and we hope to see you there on the evening! The performing arts remain a huge success at Ringmer, and it is fantastic to see so many students already signed up to perform.

Have a great weekend

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Music Department - Save the Date: Kings Academy Ringer Performing Arts Showcase 18 June 2025

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Performing Arts Showcase at Kings Academy Ringer! On Wednesday, 18th June, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, our talented students from Years 7 to 11 will take centre stage in the school hall to present an evening of entertainment. This spectacular event will feature a diverse array of performances, including choirs and bands, small group acts, solo performances, dramatic scenes, and dance. As valued parents and stakeholders, we cordially request that you put the date in your diary for this celebration of our students' artistic abilities and hard work. Your presence will not only support our young performers but also demonstrate the importance of the arts in our school community. We look forward to sharing this magical evening with you and showcasing the remarkable talents nurtured within our performing arts programme. Thank you, Ms Urquhart, Subject Leader for Music

Library News

Thank you for all the money raised from World Book Day. The library has been able to purchase a brand-new collection of current trending reads. These popular titles reflect the latest interests and buzz in the reading community, offering something fresh and exciting for all readers. The new additions aim to inspire more students to read for pleasure and explore a variety of genres and voices.

Mrs Colbourne and Mrs Harvey Overton

Careers Information

Exciting Career Morning for Year 7 and 8 Students at King’s Academy Ringmer – 15 July 2025

Following the success of last year’s Careers Breakfast, we’re thrilled to announce that we are organising another Careers Morning for Year 7 and 8 students at King’s Academy Ringmer. The goal of this event is to spark conversations amongst the students about different career paths and career journeys. We want them to understand what various jobs involve and, most importantly, to feel inspired and excited about the career choices that lie ahead.

During the event, participants will be given a table in the assembly hall. Small groups of students will visit each table or stand for a Q&A-style discussion, allowing them to learn more about different careers directly from those who are experienced in those fields.

If you, or anyone you know, would like to be part of this exciting event, please reach out to me for more details – sarah.colbourne@kingsacademies.uk We are looking for a wide variety of careers to showcase and would love to have you involved. Looking forward to hearing from you, Mrs Colbourne, Careers Lead

What Next Sussex -Online Careers Event for young people, parents and carers.

This is a live event taking place on Thursday 22nd May at 6pm.

The event will cover everything young people need to know to make informed decisions about their futures. From 6-7pm the LIVE CHAT will open and colleges, apprenticeship providers and universities across Sussex will be available to answer questions.

Please follow the link below to register.

https://www.getcareerconfident.co.uk/what-next-sussex/what-next-sussex-2025-registered

“What Next Sussex”

This is an upcoming virtual event which is specifically designed for parents, carers and young people to support progression into post-16 education or training. This event is organised by the East Sussex Careers Hub and will take place online on Thursday 22 May 2025.

Links to their social media posts about the event are found below:

Free School Meals - Changes from April 1st 2025

Please see below information received from East Sussex County Council with regard to free school meal changes.

We are writing to remind you that from 1st April this year the Free School Meals transitional protections ended. This means that any children whose household no longer meets the free school meal eligibility criteria will only receive free school meals until the end of the phase of education they are in, ie, Primary or Secondary school (or 6th form for those schools with one).

At the end of each academic year (starting this year), Year 6 pupils will be reviewed and any children no longer entitled will be removed from the FSM eligibility lists before they start secondary school. Year 11 children will also be ceased and those returning to a school 6th form must reapply for free school meals if they believe they are entitled.

All new free school meal applicants confirmed as eligible from 1st April will be recorded as ‘Eligible new’ and their entitlement will be reviewed three times a year in March, July and December. Parents and schools will be informed of any children who are no longer entitled to FSM following a review and they should be removed from your FSM entitlement list.

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

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

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.

· 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.

Thank you, Debbie Duckworth, School Business Manager

Get ready for Walk to School Week - 19th to 23rd May

Walk to school week is an excellent way to try out some new habits.

Travelling to school is one of the biggest contributors to a school's carbon footprint, but it can be challenging to address because it relies on factors outside a school’s control - including the availability of safe routes to school and public transport and the good old British weather.

We are in the process of collecting data to find out how our staff and pupils travel to school and the carbon associated with this.

If you haven’t done so already, we invite you to fill in the very short survey to help us get a picture of our current transport trends. https://forms.gle/GLHfQjWc9KmHa6iUA

“Goodwoof” At Goodwood – 17 and 18 May 2025

There is going to be a brilliant dog event - Goodwoof taking place at Goodwood this weekend. The weather is set to be perfect, and they have so much lined up which they think the Ringmer community would love - fabulous kennel designs in the Barkitecture competition with Kevin McCloud and dancing with Curtis and AJ Pritchard at the Ministry of Hound; plus, shopping opportunities with the Jellycat Hotel, along with much loved author, Michael Morpurgo heading a stellar line-up in our Literary Corner. Oh, and Raysted will be there too.

All activities on site will be included in the ticket price and children ages 12 and younger go free, as well as dogs, and under 21s are half price. Tickets can be bought online at www.goodwood.com/goodwoof/tickets-and-packages/ and collected on the day.

Book Swap – Saturday 24 May 2025, 11am to 1pm

Lewes Children’s Book Group at the Depot

The event is free of charge. Lewes Children’s Book Group asks children to bring good-condition children's books that they no longer want to read and exchange them for others. Essentially "swapping" books to discover new titles and authors while giving their old books a new home, all without having to buy new ones; it's a way for book lovers to share their reading material with each other and find new books to read.

It can also be an opportunity to find a love of reading. If there are children who don't have books to swap in the first place, they can just speak to one of the volunteers at the event and they find a way of making it work.

Half Term Activities - Creative Hands - Pottery Clubs and The Mac’s Farm Open Days

Clayful Hands - Pottery Clubs

Clayful Hands is a creative pottery studio based in a beautiful beamed barn on a peaceful farm just outside Lewes. They run a variety of engaging, hands-on experiences for children, including after-school sessions and creative holiday clubs throughout the year.

Their aim is to offer a calm, welcoming space where children can explore their creativity - whether through pottery painting, wheel throwing, or clay modelling. With on-site parking, a café, and plenty of fresh air, it's an ideal environment for after-school relaxation or school holiday fun.

The Mac’s Farm Open Days

See poster below for further details

Tree Festival 2025 – Photo Competition

Please see the poster below for further information.

KAR Newsletter 09/05/2025

Fri, 9 May 2025 07:48:55 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

I hope you have had a great week.

A big thank you to our Eco-coordinator, Ms Simon-House, who led an engaging trip to Tide Mills Beach in Newhaven for a very motivated group of students in Key Stage 3. They worked on a Beach Litter Audit and it was great to see some proactive work around our Eco strand of the school.

I have mentioned in previous communications that we have had a marketing vacancy which has affected our social communications. I am delighted that we have appointed Ms Freeborn 1 day a week, and have immediately started work on a plan to revitalise this area.

Amongst many things happening in the Summer Term, it is an important time as we review our school budget for next year. Put simply, finances continue to be extremely challenging and it is a credit to the students and teachers that the school continues to perform so well in a very difficult national landscape. I also note a number of continued challenges locally in Sussex, for example, a rise in required improvement or inadequate Ofsted reports, suspensions up to three times the national average, attendance below the national average and teaching vacancies at a high. Thankfully, despite the financial, local and national challenges, we are still significantly bucking the trend in all these areas and more. We have a happy and safe school (as our students and staff tell us each term), consistently strong outcomes, the highest applicants to the school on record, a large number of appeals to get into the school and a motivated staff body who we again (fingers crossed) look to be heading into September fully staffed. We are not perfect and continually look to improve based on the resources we have. Our key area of focus remains improving attendance to consistently above national average as this gives our students the best chances of success in comparison to their peers nationally. I thank you again for your support during this challenging time for education.

You will be hearing more soon about the following:

• The Principal's excellence awards

• Our new student council

• An enhanced achievement strategy and developments in our belonging strategy.

Have a great weekend

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Beach Litter Audit - Tide Mills Beach, Newhaven

15 students from KS3 were joined by Andy and Beverly from Strandliners https://strandliners.org and Mrs Simon-House and Mr Duckworth to audit the rubbish on Tide Mills beach.

It was a pretty chilly morning following the warmer weather we have recently had, with a cold wind and the beach appeared to be quite clean when we turned up, but on closer inspection we collected quite a lot of waste found on the beach that had appeared due to human activity. After collecting from a 100m stretch, we collaborated our finds and went through the process of identifying and recording and finally weighing them.

The data collected by our students will be fed into the Marine Conservation Society’s database to provide an overview of the state of Britain's shorelines and provide the evidence to lobby for change at both local and national levels.

Our haul included (but was not limited to) many small unidentifiable bits of plastic, fishing nets, cable ties, watermelon and sweetcorn, a shotgun cartridge, a lighter, a couple of pens, a hairband.

The most interesting find was a 12 cm section of plastic that originated from Boston, USA. This is a section of detonation cord also known as shock tubing which has been washing up on our shores following the enlargement of Boston Harbour, USA in June 2021 to accommodate larger container ships which use explosive devices. More information about this can be found at https://strandliners.org/2023/12/03/detonation-cord-from-the-usa/

What did we learn? We learnt to ask why… Really look at what the item is - What are the identifiable features? What might it be? Why is it on the beach? Where was the source of its journey? How did it get here? We learnt that ocean currents can carry ocean pollution many thousands of miles across oceans around the world. Human activity is the main cause of marine pollution. Data means there is evidence, which means there can be lobbies for change.

If you would like to be involved, Strandliners organise public beach cleans throughout the year. And have a Young Strandliners group for 10-18 year olds. Please see the website above for more info.

Mrs Simon-House

Message from the Science Department - request for (washed up) used margarine and ice cream tubs

The Science Department is in DESPERATE need of (washed-up) used margarine and ice cream tubs. They would be used for STEM projects, science practical work and faux storage compartments for the gratnell trays amongst many other things....

As many donations as possible would be welcome - they need loads!

Many thanks and kind regards,

The whole science department!

Careers News

Year 10 taster days for year 10 are now open to book. Please go to the local colleges' individual websites if you would like to book a place. You must then let the school know that your child will be absent for that day. You will need to organise your own travel arrangements to and from the college.

If you are unable to attend or feel it is too soon, there will be open evenings at all the colleges in the autumn term which will provide all the information and guidance for our new year 11’s.

Varndean College - https://www.varndean.ac.uk/year10/

Royal Life Saving Society UK’s Drowning Prevention Week – 14 to 21 June 2025

Please note the following information shared by ESCC with all parents and carers.

As the weather gets warmer and, in the lead up to Drowning Prevention Week, please note the latest important water safety messages for families, young people, and children. For further information and to download the latest water safety poster, please see Water safety.

Further information can be found at Royal Life Saving Society UK's Drowning Prevention Week.

Bee’s and Honey Competition for this year’s South of England Summer show, 6th – 8th June 2025.

If you are attending this year, please do remember to come and visit the Bees and Honey tent on Friday 6th as there will be a special young person-oriented beekeeping demo.

1st Barcombe Scouts – would you like to join?

Do you like the outdoors? Do you like to do activities with friends?

Well, scouts is the place to be. Scouts offer a wide range of activities for children aged 10-14. One of your local groups is 1st Barcombe Scouts.

The wonderful volunteers that help out take their young people to various camps, which include:

Bivi camp - where you get the chance to sleep under the stars.
District camp - where most scout groups from around Sussex come together as one.
Scout camp - where young people spend a week as a unit reaffirming friendships and making stronger bonds and also learning more survival skills.

At scouts, they take everyone’s ideas and opinions into account and place them into their programme, so everyone gets a say.

Would you like to join? If yes, please contact 1st Barcombe by following this link - https://www.scouts.org.uk/groups/10015425?loc=Bn85fj&slug=1st-Barcombe

Archery – would you like to try a new sport?

Saturday 21 June, 10am to 4pm at Barnsgate Manor Vineyard

KAR Newsletter 02/05/2025

Tue, 6 May 2025 07:39:54 GMT

Dear parents/carers,

I hope you have had a great week.

Our Year 11's are now in the final push towards exams, with some exams already done! We wish them every success as they start the full round of exams from next week. I am extremely proud of all their hard work. The students have conducted themselves in a calm, purposeful and focused manner; it has been encouraging to see them attending their exams and preparation sessions with such a positive mindset. Hundreds of intervention sessions have been attended across the year group, so I also thank teachers and staff for providing this support. The students have been receiving rewards through their ‘intervention passports’, with some already having attended close to 50 additional sessions either before or after school in the last few months. As they now enter the exam season, the hard work continues before their celebration at the end-of-year Prom.

This week, we will take the opportunity to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day on 8 May 2025 – signalling eight decades since the end of the Second World War in Europe. I am grateful to Ms Da Nobrega who has organised some activities throughout the week to aid reflexion and discussion. This year's commemorations provide a unique opportunity to connect younger generations with this pivotal chapter in history. This supports our extensive personal development curriculum, centred around our CARE principles designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they will need after leaving KAR (Communication, Curiosity, Altruism, Respect and Emotional Intelligence). This is worked on in our personal development time (PDT) and provides an opportunity to express views and consider different perspectives.

I am pleased to say that our Year 9 students were a credit on the Big Futures Careers Fair at Eastbourne Sports Park, receiving several positive comments on the day. We have worked hard to develop our career provision and thank you to Ms Colbourne for leading this area so successfully.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

The Big Futures Careers Fair -Year 9 Visit

Our Year 9 students visited The Big Futures Careers Fair at Eastbourne Sports Park this week. Now in its eighth year, the show has established itself as the premier employability and skills event for schools in East Sussex.

The level of student engagement was exceptional and this was fed back by both staff and the exhibitors.

Our students got involved with a range of hands-on activities and discussions throughout their visit. This included career quizzes, using drones, software testing,’’ build a road challenge’’ on Minecraft, using VR headsets, skim plastering, house building techniques and methods of construction, hairdressing, learning first aid with the NHS and many more.

Students left fired up with lots of ideas, information and enthusiasm that they could follow up.

We were all very proud of our students for the way they conducted themselves throughout the event.

Mrs Colbourne , Careers Lead

Important Information to note:

SIGNING IN & OUT

When students sign in or out during the school day, it is absolutely essential that they speak to a member of the reception staff.

ARBOR UPDATE & ABSENCE REPORTING

Recently, an email was sent out to parents informing them that we would now be using Arbor and this included instructions and a link for parents to sign up to Arbor and to download the Arbor app. Parents and students no longer have access to Edulink.

Absences should be reported via the Arbor app. or by phoning the school absence line (unmanned) or emailing ringmer.reception@kingsacademies.uk.

Please note: advance appointments cannot be reported.

If you have any issues accessing Arbor please contact the school.

Please note: advance appointments cannot be reported on Arbor. Please contact reception if you wish to report any.

We are still working on giving students access to Arbor.

WATER!

Please ensure that your child has a water bottle in school every day, especially with the weather getting warmer. There is ample shade and water available during breaks. Blazers may be removed outside but should be replaced on entry to buildings.

PARENTPAY

Recent issues with Parentpay should now have been resolved. Please check your child's account and top it up where necessary.

All students were allowed to purchase food from the canteen without question, so now we have several accounts overdrawn.

KAR Newsletter 25/04/2025

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 15:04:32 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

It’s been a real pleasure to welcome our students back after the Easter break – there’s a genuine sense of energy and purpose across the school. Whether in lessons, assemblies, or at lunch and break times, the enthusiasm with which students have returned has been fantastic to see. As we head into a busy and exciting summer term, it’s clear that our community is ready to make it count.

A focused start for Year 10

A particular mention must go to our Year 10 students, who have returned with great focus as they continue their mock examinations. Their approach to revision and classroom engagement is a credit to them and shows real maturity as they prepare for the transition into their final GCSE year.

Assemblies: Purpose and Respect

This week, assemblies are centred around two powerful themes: Finding Your Purpose and Showing Respect. We've encouraged students to reflect on their ‘WHY’—what motivates them, what matters to them, and how that can guide their actions. We've also linked this to the Olympic values of respect—not only towards others but towards themselves. The response from students has been thoughtful and inspiring.

In a particularly memorable moment, our Year 7s took part in the new “Olympic sport” of bottle flipping, based on our values of Ready, Respectful, Safe. To the delight of everyone, they successfully landed the bottle not once, not twice, but three times! A brilliant example of fun, teamwork, and determination.

Looking Ahead: A Summer Full of Opportunity

We are now entering one of the busiest and most rewarding periods of the year. Some of the key highlights coming up include:

Year 11 GCSE Exams – A huge milestone. We’ll be supporting our students every step of the way.
Enrichment Week – A chance for students to explore new experiences, develop skills, and enjoy learning in new contexts.
Sports Day – Always a highlight of the school calendar, where school spirit truly shines.
Student Leadership Interviews – I’m looking forward to meeting the aspiring leaders of our school community in the coming weeks.
Year 9 – Big Futures Career Fair – Taking place next week, this event offers fun, hands-on experiences and the chance to explore exciting possibilities for the future.

As always, thank you for your continued support. Together, we’ll make this term one of progress, celebration, and growth.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Principal

Uckfield College – Sixth Form Experience

On Monday 23rd June we would like to welcome Y10s to come and visit Uckfield college to help them to start thinking about their Y12 options. There will be a chance to meet the 6th Form leadership team as well as to experience brief introductions to all the level 3 courses on offer. We hope that students will be able to take part in mini-activities in a range of different subjects to help them consider their level 3 options. If you would like to take part, please email k.kirknessoboyle@uckfield.college

KAR Newsletter 04/04/2025

Fri, 4 Apr 2025 11:27:06 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

I hope you have had a great week.

As we approach the Easter holiday, I would like to say a big thank you for all of your continued support. We believe that the school continues to be in a very positive place, and it is a continued privilege to lead the school. The school has experienced around a 40% rise in numbers in the last few years and, despite this rapid growth, our culture goes from strength to strength, and we have a community to be proud of. Positive relationships are at the heart of our community, and we are very much 'Proud to be Ringmer'. With an anticipated 55 more students in September, we are delighted that interest in the school remains high, and we have received a record number of appeals for places for our Year 7 cohort next year.

Huge congratulations to our students who took part in the annual ‘Let's Dance’ at the Congress Theatre. A number of our students from Years 8 to 10 worked extremely hard and were a credit to both themselves and the school. Well done to the following:

Edie 10, Evelyn 10, Molly 10, Gabi 10, Matilda R 9, Lily E 9, Freya O 9, Sophie J 9, Chloe L 9, Jess M 9, Molly H 8, Ivy B 8, Zara P 8, Sisi M 8, Ella F 8, Rosie P 8

I am excited to announce that we have joined the NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association). In line with our school's vision to develop well-roundedness within our students and afford them opportunities to build character, we are delighted that we will now have the opportunity to compete both locally and nationally against other schools. For those interested, further information is available within this newsletter.

Our Year 11's have now moved into the final stage before exams, and I thank the teaching staff for providing sessions over Easter as we have a number of revision sessions across the holiday. Full details have been provided in a separate email to parents.

Please note that students will return to school on Tuesday 22nd April.

I hope you have an enjoyable Easter break.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

'Calling all budding equestrians!

Kings Academy are pleased to announce that we have joined the NSEA (National Schools Equestrian Association).

This gives students the chance to compete in a variety of disciplines against other schools, both locally and nationally. Lots of local schools are already signed up, so it would be great to get King’s Academy represented too.

To find out more check out this link: https://www.nsea.org.uk

We are interested in all disciplines, so if you have your own horse or pony, transport to get yourself to the events and are keen on being in a team or competing individually for the school, then we'd love to hear from you.

We will be holding a meeting after the Easter holidays, so watch out for a date and come along and see what it's all about.'

Design Technology – Super Curriculum

Mrs Hepburn’s Super curriculum students have come to the end of their time exploring textiles. They experienced the wet felting process, shaping felt with felting needles and how to hand stitch felt to form 3D food. On top of the felting skills, they explored the origins of fibres, weaving techniques and embroidery skills.

Thank you for a very enjoyable and creative 3 months. Enjoy your next super curriculum choice!

Mrs R. Hepburn Imber, Design & Technology Teacher / Tutor of 7RHE / Head of House System

Change news

Students have been busy during super-curriculum time learning woodworking skills using electric and manual screwdrivers to assemble the raised vegetable beds we are making in the greenhouse area. Working together in groups encourages communication and teamwork. The resources have been funded by the South Downs National Park's 75-year anniversary grant. This grant money is helping us with the cost associated with setting up a manageable working space which will eventually be full of plants, improving our school’s biodiversity by attracting pollinators and providing habitats for insects. More updates as the site improves

A reminder about outgrown and preloved school uniform

As part of our commitment to reduce waste, reduce our carbon footprint and ensure there are opportunities for these items to be reused, we have a partnership with our local charity, Raystede. Raystede will now start stocking preloved uniforms at their headquarters and animal rescue centre premises: Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, the Broyle, Ringmer, East Sussex, BN8 5AJ. They will have a dedicated area for Kings Academy Ringmer uniforms, and we are encouraging families with uniforms that still have life in them but are no longer needed to be donated to Raystede. The stock will be dependent on donations from our school community.

Pre-loved uniforms can be donated to Raystede directly at the address above, or via the school where we can take them to the premises. The charity will take 100% profit from any money raised from the sale of these items. So please only donate items that you believe are suitable for resale.

Alternatively, preloved uniforms can be obtained from our school uniform Facebook page (Kings Academy Ringmer Uniform Group) will continue to operate if parents prefer to directly trade second-hand clothes amongst themselves, or you can still purchase new uniforms at the new uniform outlet, www.monkhouse.com

Free School Meals - Changes from April 1st 2025

Please see below information received from East Sussex County Council with regard to free school meal changes.

We are writing to remind you that from 1st April this year the Free School Meals transitional protections will end. This means that any children whose household no longer meets the free school meal eligibility criteria will only receive free school meals until the end of the phase of education they are in, ie, Primary or Secondary school (or 6th form for those schools with one).

All new free school meal applicants confirmed as eligible from 1st April will be recorded as ‘Eligible new’ and their entitlement will be reviewed three times a year in March, July and December. Parents and schools will be informed of any children who are no longer entitled to FSM following a review, and they should be removed from your FSM entitlement list.

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

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

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.

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.

Mrs Duckworth, School Business Manager

St. George’s Day – special lunch menu on 29 April 2025

Smartphone free Panel Event Brighton - FAST BOOKING REQUIRED!

Please note that there is going to be a Smartphone Free panel event, "Parenting in the Digital Age", happening in Brighton on the 1st of May from 6.30pm-8.30pm - this is a repeat of a sell-out and really well-regarded event which happened in February. It is aimed at anyone involved with young people, including school leaders. It is free of charge but sold out very quickly last time.

The link to book free tickets: https://lu.ma/l1zb058i

Speakers include a GP, consultant paediatrician, DCI and DI from Sussex Police Online Child Abuse Team, year 10 students from Varndean who speak to primary-aged children about their experience of smartphones, and someone from the Naked Truth Project who supports people affected by pornography.

Supporting your Child with Exam Stress - for parents and carers of secondary school-aged children

East Sussex Mental Health Support Team

Online, Microsoft Teams on Friday 25 April 2025 at 12 noon

Brought to you by Me & My Mind, the Mental Health Support Teams working in schools in East Sussex. Stress and anxiety are a normal reaction to having to take an exam. When it is mild to moderate, it can often improve performance, but sometimes if anxiety and stress become too high it can have the opposite effect. This online workshop will include practical things to do at home and share with your child, as well as lots of tips and advice to help with managing exam anxiety and stress before and during exams.

About this event

This free 60-minute online workshop will cover:

Understanding more about exam anxiety and stress.
Practical things you and your child can do at home to help.
Information about further support and additional resources.

The session will be relaxed and informal. Bring a pen and piece of paper, grab a drink and find a comfortable spot in your home to be able to join in.

Once you have placed your order, you will receive an email confirmation which will include a link to join via Microsoft Teams. They will have someone available to help if you are having trouble joining online.

Follow link to book online - https://www.tickettailor.com/events/mentalhealthandwellbeingineducation/1651103

Free HAF Drama Holiday Club this Easter

This is designed for students in East Sussex who receive free school meals. It is part of East Sussex County Council’s Holiday Activities and Food programme. Hosted by Make (Good) Trouble, this unique holiday club will take place in the Seven Sisters Country Park and will be led by a qualified children’s drama therapy coach from Dragon Drama.

The young people who attend the club will be awarded Digital badges for their CV on completion of this project. All badges are endorsed by City and Guilds and the Royal Society of Arts.

Club Details:

Dates: Monday 7th, Tuesday 8th & Wednesday 9th April, 11am-3pm
Location: South Downs National Park
Activities: Woodland exploration, drama, storytelling, music, movement, art, group games & more!
Free lunch provided daily

What to Bring:

Wet-weather gear (just in case!)
Sturdy footwear (no sandals or slides)

They also have access to an indoor space if the weather takes a turn. Help with transport to the location can be provided.

This is a fantastic opportunity for children to build confidence, express creativity, and have fun in nature! Spaces are limited, so we would love your help in spreading the word to eligible families.

The sign up form and details are here: https://eequ.org/book/woodland-drama-workshop-with-make-good-trouble-cic-5213

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

ADMINISTRATION ASSISTANT

22.2 hours per week (equivalent to 3 days a week). Required to start asap

Permanent, term-time only

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

Ie: £24420pa to £25652pa to be pro-rated as part-time and term-time only

Duties will include:

To organise and plan the Whole School Photo Day in October with the PA to the Principal
Administer suspensions paperwork
To assist the Assistant Principal with the administration for Enrichment Week
To assist the PA to the Principal to provide administrative support to the Senior Leadership Team
To help to cover staff absences and to also assist colleagues as and when required

Hours of work - 7.4 hours per day for 3 days a week. Work pattern to be agreed with the successful candidate.

What can we offer you?

A chance to be at the forefront of educational development.
An Academy with a positive ethos, motivated students and focus upon learning
Excellent induction, support and staff development opportunities
Two week October half-term and bespoke wellbeing days
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 "Kindness, Ambition, Resilience ". Our most recent Ofsted statement states “the school has a culture of courtesy and respect” and “students are expected to work hard and commit to their learning”. Our results are significantly above the national average for all students. Our core vision is to develop well-rounded, confident individuals who are world-ready. 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 students 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 student 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/news/?pid=6&nid=2&storyid=4 or contact Amanda French on either 01273 815463 or amanda.french@kingsacademies.uk quoting job reference P/500. 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)

Closing date for applications is Friday 25 April 2025 at 8.30am with the interview date on Wednesday 30 April 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.

KAR Newsletter 28/03/2025

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 10:40:52 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

Another busy week at KAR, with drop-down careers activities for Year 11 alongside apprenticeship assemblies for Key Stage 4, Year 10 doing their art and photography mocks, interviews for vacancies, 348 'lesson legends' given out across Years 7-11, Super Curriculum choices for Summer Term in Years 7-9 and some work on our 'belonging' strategy for 2025-2026. Also, it was great to see the return of the Formula 1 club. Lots of exciting things ahead!

We are constantly reviewing our Super Curriculum and once Ringmer Community Pool opens, this will be added as an option. If you have any friends or contacts that you think could provide an interesting activity, then do get in touch! Our school has experienced rapid growth (around 35%) in the last few years as our reputation has grown, with an additional 50 students due to arrive next September as Year 11 leave and Year 7 arrive. A key focus will be expanding the super curriculum options where we can.

As always, it is a privilege to work with our students every day. Teaching involves hundreds of interactions every week, and we are lucky to have a strong community. The statistics on the school gate have significantly improved in the last 12 months - I identified to students that I think around 90% now give a positive 'good morning' and around 60% then go and ask 'how are you today'. We believe basic politeness and good manners are the basis of well-roundedness, and it is great that we have so many polite students! Very proud to be Ringmer!

A reminder that the final day of term next Friday is a full day.

Have a great weekend

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

STEM Super Curriculum Update: An Exciting Term of Learning! 🌟

Last term, our STEM students took on an exciting challenge that blended science, technology, engineering, and maths. Over the course of two weeks, they worked in teams to create Tetrahedron Kites 🪁 while investigating wind energy, a renewable environmental resource. The students had a blast testing their kites to see how well they flew, and the final results were outstanding. Check out the photos below to see the kite-building process and the students having fun flying their creations.

This term, we initially shifted our focus to biology 🧬, diving deep into the world of animal science 🐾. During the first three weeks, the students explored various aspects of STEM related to animals.

In Week 1, of the animal science focus Mrs. Hope shared her experience as a former veterinary surgeon 🩺, giving the students an insight into her career. As part of a practical lesson, they prepared liver cell slides and viewed them under the microscope 🔬, exploring key concepts of cell biology.

Week 2 brought a special visit from Emma Young from Raystede, Ringmer’s local animal sanctuary 🐶🐱 and re-homing centre. She gave an informative talk on responsible pet ownership, emphasising the importance of ethical practices when buying, owning, and caring for pets.

Week 3 of biology saw the students wrap up their veterinary science focus by creating their own animal x-ray images. Using paper straws and black paper, they made some truly amazing ‘skeleton x-ray pictures’, showcasing their creativity and understanding of the subject.

Above: Researching animal skeletons, and starting to reproduce the skeleton profiles with paper straws and cotton buds.

Below are some of the amazing finished pictures which we will proudly be displaying in science.

We’ll continue exploring STEM for the last two weeks of the term, with our next focus on cyanotype chemistry.

Change News

All schools in the King's Academy Trust continue to think about reducing their carbon emissions. One of our initiatives is working with Make It Wild, a rewilding and conservation organisation based in the UK working to help nature. We have been working with them to name one of their calves from their newest additions to their Belted Galloway herd. Students have been invited to think of a name connected to nature and beginning with an E.

We are very pleased to announce a young heifer has now been named ELDERBERRY after our students submitted their name choices. Thank you to Charlie for this winning suggestion!

When booking visits through the school there is an option for a voluntary donation on the booking form should you wish to donate, offsetting carbon and investing in nature. More info can be found at www.makeitwild.co.uk

Careers News - Open Doors Visit to Brighton and Hove Albion Football stadium

Some of our year 7 and 8 students had the fantastic opportunity to take part in the East Sussex County Council’s Open-Door project. Open Doors enables schools to take students to visit East Sussex businesses and organisations, so they can gain a real insight into the world of work and the wonderful opportunities available to them in the county.

Our students took part in some fun activities to help get students thinking about their career aspirations. It included a Q&A session with members of The Brighton Albion Foundation about job roles and career journeys.

Our students were then treated to a tour of the stadium, which included the director’s box, trophy room, VIP suites and the changing rooms. Students even got to walk out of the tunnel like the players do before a game and into the stadium. Our students loved the event and were very excited during the tour.

The Brighton and Hove foundation congratulated our students on their engagement and attitude throughout the day. The student’s behaviour was exemplary and we are incredibly proud of how they represented the school.

Year 10 and 11 Apprenticeship awareness assembly and workshops

This week, our year 10 and 11 students had an apprenticeship awareness assembly from Laurie Alford from the national apprenticeship service.

The assembly covered all the information on how to search for apprenticeships and explained how apprenticeships work. Students learnt how an apprenticeship is a genuine job combined with practical training with study. Apprenticeships are available to anyone over the age of 16 and, for some students, it is a fantastic post-16 option when they leave school.

Some of our year 11’s then took part in workshops where they went through the mock assessment process and interview techniques to help with apprenticeship applications.

More information on apprenticeships can be found here:

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

Mrs Colbourne

Free School Meals - Changes from April 1st 2025

Please see below information received from East Sussex County Council with regard to free school meal changes.

All new free school meal applicants confirmed as eligible from 1st April will be recorded as ‘Eligible new’ and their entitlement will be reviewed three times a year in March, July and December. Parents and schools will be informed of any children who are no longer entitled to FSM following a review, and they should be removed from your FSM entitlement list.

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

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

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.

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.

Mrs Duckworth, School Business Manager

Ringmer Horticultural and Home Produce Club – Spring Show on Saturday 29 March 2025 in Ringmer Village Hall

This Saturday is the Ringmer Horticultural and home produce Spring Show. (The school is hoping to enter the summer show in July!). Students have been invited to help volunteer with the setting up and clearing up of the show. Please contact Debra Skeen 07710 548724 if you would like to help or pop into to the show to have a look at the produce, cooking and handicrafts of the talented people of the village on Saturday afternoon.

New menu from Chartwells

We have attached a copy of the new summer term menu from Chartwells for your information. This will start the first week back after the Easter break. The menu runs on a three-week cycle and the dates for each week are on the top of each page. A copy of the current tariff is also attached.

Please visit: https://www.kgaringmer.uk/parents/school-meals

KAR Newsletter 21/03/2025

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 11:33:23 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

I hope you have had a positive week.

It is a very busy time of the year at KAR, with the exam season on the horizon, national and international trips ongoing and a non-uniform day to end the week! We look forward to raising money for great causes, and it was great to see a number of ‘red noses’ at the gate this morning for Comic Relief.

I am immensely proud of the feedback we are receiving regarding the exemplary conduct of our students on visits. A number of our Year 10 students are currently in Barcelona and Lyon to develop their speaking skills for their GCSE’s and develop their cultural capital. Our children have been commended by staff and members of the public for their positive, polite and respectful conduct. In addition, a group of our Year 7’s and Year 8’s had an interactive workshop with colleagues from American Express about careers and skills within Brighton and Hove Albion. The students were so impeccably behaved and a credit to the school. The staff at the event said the students who took part were the ‘top school’ for engagement and attitude. The visits form an essential part of our offer to develop students' confidence and ‘well-roundedness’ in line with our vision to prepare them in being ‘world ready’.

In line with the positive feedback, a huge well done to our Year 11 Band, who this week performed for the first time at the Bede’s Band Workshop. More details on this are later in this newsletter, but again I am pleased to report that they received considerable praise from those in attendance regarding how impressed they were with our students. We are a school that has a strong uptake in music, and it is a pleasure to see how many students walk through the gates in the morning with their instruments - long may it continue!

Many thanks for the responses to the parent survey, which has now closed. We will now review these to decide on next steps. The results look very positive again, so thank you for your feedback.

I hope you have a great weekend.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

Music Department - Bede's Band Workshops for Sussex Schools

KAR Year 11 band delivered an unforgettable performance at this year's first ever Band Workshop, showcasing their incredible talent and musicality. The band, which consisted of four GCSE Music students, played the classic rock anthem “Hotel California” by The Eagles, leaving a lasting impression on both the audience and fellow performers.

The band’s powerful rendition of the timeless track was met with enthusiastic applause, earning them rave feedback from professional musician and workshop leader Jason Douglas. Their precise execution of the iconic guitar riffs, combined with flawless vocals, demonstrated their dedication and hard work in preparing for this prestigious event. Staff from local schools were so impressed they all came to pass on how impressed they were with the KAR musicians, including an invitation to play at Uckfield College's summer outdoor festival in July.

We were thrilled to be part of such a talented line-up of schools. The atmosphere was electric, and it was a great opportunity for our students to showcase their skills and passion for music. The positive feedback from everyone has been overwhelming, and it’s a testament to the hard work the band has put in.

The Band Workshop brought together young musicians from a variety of institutions, and the KAR band’s performance stood out for its professionalism and energy. Several staff from other schools also commented on what lovely young people they are, as well as great musicians.

Please see music link: https://drive.google.com/open?id=17HQVNWsO8Pgkn0juc_Y_PUJVjdxb_2PH

RE Department

On Thursday 20 March, Year 10 students taking GCSE welcomed Reverend David from St Mary's Church in Ringmer. It was wonderful to get the Reverend's insight into the church in the local community and helped our students solve some unanswered questions about Christianity. His visit facilitated a deeper understanding of worship and practices in Christianity. We look forward to welcoming him back to King's Academy soon.

Change News

The greenhouse is a hive of activity. Students have been busy planting seeds and some seedlings have started to appear. The battle of the weeds commences - and at present we seem to be winning! Some year 7 students conquered this 70 cm-long dock tap root! We have volunteering at tutor time and lunchtime, helping in both the greenhouse and Eco Hub areas and sterling work has also been done by Eco Lab students and super curriculum students!

We have been discussing why it's good to grow food and why we are growing food and flowers here at the school. Here are some great reasons that we discussed:

Free from chemicals.
Tasty.
Cheap.
No food miles.
Hopefully, if we have success, we can use the produce in school and make tasty food.
Being outside is good for your mental health.
We hope to enter some of the classes at the Ringmer Show in the summer.

But we also want to help improve biodiversity. Shockingly, biodiversity has decreased worldwide by 72%.

We are preparing the ground to install raised beds and bark paths with some grant funding received from South Downs National Park, which has also enabled us to purchase two more garden forks and some extra tough gloves for brambles and stinging nettles. We are also very grateful to Staverton Nursery for their kind donations and for supporting us with our spade 2 spoon project.

Mrs Simon-House – ECO Co-ordinator

Free School Meals - Changes from April 1st 2025

Please see below information received from East Sussex County Council with regard to free school meal changes.

At the end of each academic year (starting this year) Year 6 pupils will be reviewed and any children no longer entitled will be removed from the FSM eligibility lists before they start secondary school. Year 11 children will also be ceased and those returning to school 6th form must reapply for free school meals if they believe they are entitled.

All new free school meal applicants confirmed as eligible from 1st April will be recorded as ‘Eligible new’ and their entitlement will be reviewed three times a year in March, July and December. Parents and schools will be informed of any children who are no longer entitled to FSM following a review, and they should be removed from your FSM entitlement list.

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

Do you qualify for Free School Meals?

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.

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.

Mrs Duckworth, School Business Manager

The Living Coast Undersea Experience in Ringmer - Ringmer Village Hall, Thursday 17 April 2pm to 7pm

Ever wanted to dive without getting wet? Don’t miss this exciting, family-friendly virtual reality experience! Dive into the vibrant underwater world of the Sussex seas, explore a chalk reef gully and discover some of the local marine life.

The Living Coast Undersea Experience is a unique, interactive virtual reality experience enabling users, of all ages, to dive in our local Marine Conservation Zone, which runs between Brighton Marina and Beachy Head & on to Hastings, without getting wet.

Wearing a VR headset, you can explore a 3.5m square area amidst the area’s unique chalk gullies, the chalk reef, lifting rocks and look around to find marine life such as the Short-Snouted Seahorse, Undulate Rays and Moon Jellyfish.

Come and explore in Ringmer Village Hall on Thursday 17 April. Tickets £5 for 2 people, £10 for groups of 4

This interactive experience is perfect for ages 5 and up—fun for families, kids, teens, and adults alike! Secure your tickets today!

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/kp-projects-cic-18696791768

Easter Holiday clubs in Seaford – All Abroad! Bus

Their holiday clubs offer children (aged 7 to 14) the opportunity to 'travel' each day to different countries, exploring global spring festivities and traditions through cooking & eating, arts & crafts, games & challenges, languages, outings & 360° VR!

There are free HAF places for children eligible for benefits-related free school meals and other criteria, as well as paid places.

Whilst Seaford may not be right on your doorstep, we do have families who travel some distance for our clubs and it's a great location.

KITCHEN COMPANY!

Want to save on your shopping bills, learn to use leftovers, cook simple meals and eat more healthily?

If you'd like to pick up some basic cookery skills, register to join our six free and friendly Kitchen Company sessions on Saturday mornings this summer and autumn at Ringmer Village Hall.

Please email

ringmervillagelibrary@gmail.com

Or call the library and leave us your contact details to get more information.

KING’S ACADEMY RINGMER

PASTORAL OFFICER

Temporary 29.6 hours per week (equivalent to 4 days a week)

Required to start on 28 April 2025 or asap

Term-time only

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

Ie: £25652pa to £27363pa to be pro-rated as TTO

We are looking for an inspirational temporary Pastoral Officer 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 up detentions and assisting in the running of our Inclusion Room. This post has become available as the current post holder has been promoted to cover a period of maternity leave. 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 27 March 2026.

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?

A chance to be at the forefront of educational development.
An Academy with a positive ethos, motivating students and focus upon learning.
Excellent induction, support and staff development opportunities
Two week October half-term and bespoke wellbeing days.
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 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 students 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 student 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/499. 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 Thursday 27 March 2025 at 12 noon with the interview date on Tuesday 1 April 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.

KAR Newsletter 14/03/2025

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 10:44:21 GMT

Dear parents/carers,

I hope you have had a good week.

A reminder that our parents' survey closes on Monday 17th March. Many thanks for all the feedback thus far. If you have not completed this, please do so via the following link: https://participate.schoolsurveys.com/Jup4ShigDho7jQyV.

We look forward to welcoming Year 11 parents on our second ‘Route to Success’ evening on Monday 17th March, where we will relay tips and strategies to ensure that Year 11’s have a successful run-up to their exams. It was a pleasure to be a part of their mock results' ceremony, and great to see so many happy faces as to the progress they are making.

Assemblies this week have been led by Mr Weir on the subject of online safety. The assembly discussed how students should protect their personal information, use strong passwords, and be cautious when interacting with strangers online. The assembly also highlighted the responsibility to stand up against any online harassment. If they witness cyberbullying, they should report it to a trusted adult or the platform instead of staying silent. Being an active bystander can help create a safer and more supportive online environment for everyone.

This week, Ms Smith also launched the student leadership roles in Year 10 for next year. We are looking forward to the applications, which have a deadline as of the end of this term.

Next week, we will be celebrating Red Nose Day on Friday 21st March and raising money for Comic Relief. This will be a non-uniform day, with students encouraged to wear something red where possible. For those wearing non-uniform, we ask for a £1 contribution which is now set up on ParentPay.

I hope you have a great weekend.

Best wishes,

Mr Harvey

ESCC Virtual Focus Group

Register for research about drinking and smoking behaviour

Working with East Sussex Public Health team, ICE Creates (who are independent insight practitioners) would like to speak to parents who live in East Sussex about their views on why people smoke. Parents can register their interest in taking part in a 60-minute virtual focus group here. If selected to take part, parents will receive a £40 voucher as a thank you for your time.

KAR Newsletter 07/03/2025

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 10:01:09 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

I hope you have had a good week.

This week we celebrated World Book Week with an array of activities. The highlight was World Book Day, and I was delighted to see so much effort in bringing characters to life with some excellent outfits! We gave out a number of golden tickets to students that had gone above and beyond in their hard work, politeness and manners, or simply contributing positively to our community. The atmosphere was fantastic throughout the school, and yet another reminder of why we are 'Proud to be Ringmer'.

I am pleased to report that once again, applications for our Year 7 cohort have reached record levels for places. This is always a positive representation as to the reputation of the school so we are delighted that there continues to be such positive interest in Ringmer.

Next week, our Year 11’s will be having a mock ‘results-giving’ assembly as they now start moving towards their final exams. We are delighted with their progress this year, and they continue to work hard to ensure they fulfil their potential. We have worked hard on ensuring our career provision is developing throughout the school, and it was great to see all of our Year 8 students take part in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) career workshops, which we hope will give them some inspiration for the future. There are some further careers resources for all year groups further down in this newsletter.

Finally, please find a link below for our Spring Survey. As always, your feedback is very important to us and how we move the school forward. We are clear that there is always room for improvement and that the best schools never stand still, so all feedback is welcome, and we do read through every response.

https://participate.schoolsurveys.com/Jup4ShigDho7jQyV

Have a great weekend

Mr Harvey

Principal

Art Department - Exciting Art Workshop & Upcoming Display!

Last week, our students completed their first workshop with myself and Mrs. Colbourne, our Artist in Residence. They have been exploring fluid and gestural landscape art, embracing abstract techniques with enthusiasm.

Having the opportunity to work alongside Mrs. Colbourne, a professional painter, has been an inspiring experience. She has shared her artistic process and brought in her own work, allowing students to see first-hand what a career in art can look like. This workshop has not only encouraged creativity but also provided valuable insight into the possibilities of professional art careers.

We’re incredibly proud of the students' openness to this expressive style, and we can’t wait to see what else they create! Their artwork, along with pieces by Mrs. Colbourne, will be displayed in reception to show the school and visitors how proud we are of their work. A final image of their work will be included in our newsletter before we break up for Easter.

This workshop is just one of many ways we’re helping students explore the world of art beyond the classroom—who knows, we may have some future professional artists in our midst!

Please keep an eye out for future clubs.

Ms Hook, Head of Art

Saturday's Groundforce morning has been postponed to a future date, TBC!

National Careers Week

STEM career workshops -year 8

All of our year 8 students took part in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) workshop on Thursday 27th February. These workshops were delivered in school by Everfi https://everfiteachers.co.uk/ and sponsored by Gatwick.

The workshops focused on STEM careers and real-world learning. All students were given the opportunity to take part in a 50-minute workshop where they used interactive case studies to learn how to do things such as design and manufacture trainers, write algorithms for online streaming and create a new computer game. The students were really engaged in the sessions, and they can continue to access the programme. Once the students have completed the course, they will receive a certificate which can be used in the future on their CV’s.

National careers week resources

To mark National Careers Week, please find the link to The Parent’s Guide to help parents and carers with clear, unbiased advice on post-school options, study and exam revision, and wellbeing. This guide supports young people in talking about their futures.

https://nationalcareersweek.com/ncw25pg/

Find out more at www.nationalcareersweek.com

Prospective Medic Event at Uckfield College on 13 March 2025 from 5pm to 8pm

Mrs Colbourne Careers Lead

LOST PROPERTY

Many coats and water bottles remain unclaimed - see photos.

We are unable to return found items without names.

PLEASE NAME ALL SCHOOL ITEMS!

Note: Reception has very little lost PE kit as this is most likely still in the changing rooms or gym.

ESCC Consultation on the Post-16 Transport Policy Statement for the 2025-26 academic

The ESCC Post 16 transport policy statement is intended to inform young people in years 11, 12 and 13 and their parents about what transport arrangements and financial support are available to them. We welcome any comments on the draft Transport Policy Statement.

All the information can be found on the Council’s consultation hub where comments can be left until 28 March 2025.

Ringmer's first Repair Cafe

Ringmer's first Repair Café will be running on the last Saturday in April ie: 26 April 2025 from 10am to 12.30 in the Ringmer Parish Council Offices, Old School Close, Ringmer, BN8 5Ra. In the future on every last weekend of the month IE: 31 May, 28 June. 26 July, 30 August etc. The repair café is a group of volunteers who can fix your broken things to avoid them going in the bin and you having to buy a new one and have a cuppa and some cake .

Ringmer Repair Cafe have asked us to advertise the event and see if any students would be interested in volunteering in the cafe for the session.

Voluntary roles such as this provide valuable experience for young people and are excellent for their CV's to demonstrate experience when looking for future employment. Please contact Mrs Colbourne at ringmerrepaircafe@gmail.com if you would like to volunteer (and if you have anything broken the volunteers may be able to fix it!)

A GUIDE to the Ringmer Repair Café

You are invited to bring ONE item that you can carry, in need of repair, for our volunteers to check/repair/provide advice……

Electrical objects
IT items
Clothing (not alterations) and fabric items
Broken mechanical objects
Ceramic advice
Wooden items
Gardening tools for sharpening

NOT……… white goods, microwaves, items completely in pieces!

DONATIONS WILL BE MUCH APPRECIATED – CASH or CARD

There are homemade and Fair-Trade refreshments served while you wait. (Under 16s to be accompanied by an adult please). Parking is available. ringmerrepaircafe@gmail.com

Smartphone-Free Schools

Following our Open Evening in September 2024, Ringmer Parents and Carers Smartphone Free group attended our event to promote smartphone-free schools. Several prospective parents and carers joined a whatsapp group for people wanting to delay smartphones for their children. The QR code for Parents and Carers Smartphone Free Facebook is as follows:

To note:

Students do not require a smartphone to attend Kings Academy.
There are alternatives to smartphones to keep in contact with your child, including tracking, that negates the risks posed by smartphones.
Their child will not be alone in not having a smartphone

Smartphone Free Childhood charity has now also created "Smartphone Free Schools" (Smartphone Free Schools), a community of educational professionals who are starting to see the benefits of being involved in the conversation and changing policies.

KAR Newsletter 28/02/2025

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 14:47:18 GMT

Dear Parents and carers,

I hope you have had a great week and a half-term.

Firstly, a big well done to all the students who went on the ski trip. They represented the school magnificently, and I am delighted to hear of their positive experiences this week. We have received a number of positive communications back regarding our students from all the staff involved on the trip. In addition, a big thank you to the staff for their hard work in ensuring these trips can run smoothly.

This week, my assemblies have focussed on the importance of maintaining high standards once they have been achieved. We are under no illusions as a school that we still have a lot to do in order to continue the positive progress being made, and, of course, our students are the most important part of this. I spoke to them about high expectations being a privilege and showing that as educators we care about their future, and that, yes, we are strict because we care. In my 18 years as an educator, I have been lucky to visit over 100 schools, and I tell our children that they should take great pride in how they conduct themselves on a daily basis. We always have room for improvement, of course!

A big well done to our Year 11 students who have started their GCSE practical cooking exams this week. It has been a great experience doing some of the tastings of their three-course meals this week. I must say that their presentation of each course has been fantastic and there is a huge amount of culinary talent on show!

A reminder that we are still advertising for a marketing professional, in addition to some other roles listed on our website. We have a communication strategy ready to implement once we appoint, so I apologise again that our feeds are a little quieter than normal.

We are looking forward to celebrating World Book Day next week on Thursday. This is a non-uniform day where students are encouraged to dress up as characters from their favourite books where possible. I will see if I can dig out the Dumbledore outfit again this year!

Have a great week

Best wishes,

Chris

Ski Trip

Well done to all the students who went on the ski trip in the half-term closure. The ski instructors and ski reps all commented on what great students we have; how good they were at listening and how much progress they made. Well done. Mr Coulthard

PE Kit

We are noticing an increased trend in students not attending lessons with the appropriate kit. Students are required to have their school Pe kit for all lessons even if they are unable to take part due to injury.

Can you please ensure that students have the correct kit, including footwear, for all PE lessons, as we are unable to loan many students a PE kit for lessons? We simply do not have enough spare kit to lend out every lesson. Thank you, Mr Coulthard

Change Committee

Our Change Committee met before half-term to work on our updated Eco Code. This is an important part of our Eco-Schools work. The committee, consisting of our parent and governor volunteers, worked alongside our Change Ambassador students, threading our KAR values together with our environmental stewardship. Please have a look at our Eco Code, which will also be displayed in our school Reception and on our Eco Board.

Our Eco-Code - At Kings Academy Ringmer

We RESPECT the world we live in.
We are READY and have FAITH in our ability to make a change.
We COMMUNICATE our concerns.
We have AMBITION towards our climate goals.
We will be RESILIENT when change is not easy.
We have the COURAGE to stand up for our beliefs.
We are ALTRUISTIC in our actions
We show KINDNESS to the environment, wildlife and each other.
We are HONEST about our actions.
We are CURIOUS about improvements.
We are PROUD to be Ringmer where we will lead by example.

Produced by our Change Ambassadors

Developing well-rounded, confident individuals who are world-ready.

Our recent KAR Eco Assembly focused on some of the bigger environmental problems the world is facing and how we can focus together as a school community on smaller actions to create bigger changes.

Our focus this term is to use our Recycling bins and to be mindful about separating our waste whenever possible.

We now have two bins alongside each other in the outdoor spaces, so students can separate their waste: dry recycling and general waste. This is legislation that is being enforced for businesses in March and households in the near future. Separating our waste is not only part of our commitment to making positive changes, but we will be charged less for rubbish too. Please support us by thinking about where you should put your rubbish. One wrong thing in the recycling bin will contaminate the whole bin.

Plumpton College Bake Off is back again for 2025 – Year 9 and 10 students

VE Day 80th Anniversary Theme

Email Student Entries here - schoolsliaison@plumpton.ac.uk by Friday 4 April 2025

Poster from Plumpton College

Junior Bake Off – Join the Class of 2025

To apply, head to applyforjuniorbakeoff.co.uk.

If you cannot apply online and would like an application form posted to you, please email: applyforjuniorbakeoff@loveproductions.co.uk or call 0207 067 4833 stating your full name, full address (including postcode) and telephone number.

Applications close on Sunday 23 March 2025

Lewes Football Foundation – for girls in Years 7 to 9

Lewes Football Foundation have a new initiative as part of the Foundation's Saturday Rooks offer at the 3G. They want to develop a space for girls in Years 7-9 who would like to try football but don't because of a lack of confidence and who may find playing with other girls who already play too intimidating.

Lewes Football Foundation is excited to announce a series of introductory taster sessions for girls in Years 7-9 (U12s-U14s) who would love to play football but have never done so before. We're providing a safe, non-judgmental space to have a go and have fun trying.
Starts Sat 8 March for four weeks.

Visit: https://www.lewesfootballfoundation.org/drop-in
Click the drop-in register link at the top of the page.

KAR Newsletter 14/02/2025

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 12:24:42 GMT

KAR Newsletter 07/02/2025

Fri, 7 Feb 2025 15:54:52 GMT

KAR Newsletter 24/01/2025

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:35:54 GMT

Dear parents and carers,

I hope you have had a positive week.

On Thursday, I was delighted to present at the East Sussex National as part of the East Sussex Attendance Conference. We were asked to present our recent work within our super curriculum, and how we have made significant gains in our attendance. Our presentation centred on the importance of increasing student belonging within our three-year vision, and ensuring that students increasingly feel a part of our school community. We know we have made positive steps, and the presentation was a chance to show this work to attendees from other local and national schools. While our focus will always be on the students, it is always reaffirming when we are asked to lead these discussions locally. The conference itself was an important reminder as to the work that is going into all schools to ensure that positive school attendance remains the key priority, given the link to students' life chances. The chances of a student gaining five good GCSEs, including English and Maths, deteriorates significantly from 96% to 90% and below. We therefore remain focussed on our goal of ensuring consistently above 96% for our students.

Assemblies this week have been led by Mr Madriaga and focussed on the importance of positive mental health. A key thread has been our key value of ‘Kindness’. We took time to reaffirm the importance of our words and language to each other. I am especially impressed by the increased numbers of children since I joined who also take the time to say a simple ‘thank you’ to staff after lessons. These are key character traits that we mention consistently and reinforce when we see them.

As we look forward to the ski trip, we continue to work behind the scenes on furthering our personal development provision and offer. Today I have been discussing some potential new international offers which will give our students fantastic opportunities. I hope to have some exciting news soon.

Finally, we have received some small changes to the bus timetables. Please see below for more information.

Have a great weekend, and thank you for your ongoing support.

Best wishes,
Mr Harvey

Textiles Super Curriculum group

Mrs R. Hepburn Imber, Design & Technology Teacher, Tutor of 7RHE, Head of House System: "The Textiles Super curriculum group has been busy learning various techniques over the past couple of weeks. Last week they learnt about basket weaving and extending skills to learn more intricate patterns. This week they have been creating their wet felt, which they will decorate with embroidery techniques."

Bus Timetable Changes

We have been advised that there will be changes to the 28 Regency bus route to/from Hailsham from Monday 27 January 2025.

Please see below the changes that will affect the bus to and from school each day. The column in cream is the details for the additional bus service specific to King's Academy Ringmer.

For the morning journey to school:

For the return journey home at the end of the school day:

* = This journey does not serve Ringmer King’s Academy Grounds on non-school days. # = During school holidays this bus calls at the main road bus stop on the Lewes Road B2192.

Please follow this link to the full 28 PDF timetable with effect from 26 January 2025 - https://passenger-line-assets.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/brightonhove/BH/28-timetable-20250126-34ab6c6e.pdf

InvestIN - Free events for students interested in competitive industries

Reminder about InvestIN free event series which will be kicking off next month. These events give students the chance to hear directly from industry professionals about what it’s really like to work in some of the world’s most competitive and desirable fields.

For further information please follow this link to the InvestIN events page - https://trk.send.investin.org/l/01JJ3YYCJW3MYF0DPDNVA1GQHE_1

Channel 4's The Dog House is back

Five Mile Films Ltd are the programme makers of the BAFTA-nominated Channel 4 series, The Dog House, which is about to return for a new series. Described as one of the most heart-warming programmes on TV, they are starting the search again for people who can offer a loving home to a rescue dog and share their reasons for doing so. They have therefore asked if we can share this information with our parents / carers.

In the previous series, they found that there were many reasons people might consider bringing a rescue dog into their life; to help combat loneliness, extra company for a child, to encourage getting out more. For children specifically, having a dog in your home has been proven to help with social skills and impulse control, and even improve self-esteem. Dogs are always happy to see you when you get home from school, and their love is unconditional - the ideal confidante and an ever-willing playmate! They would love to highlight some of these benefits and wondered if any members of our school might be interested in applying, or simply find out more with no pressure to take part.

Please see above for their flyer plus this additional information - Could you provide a loving home for a rescue dog? The Channel 4 series, The Dog House is looking for couples, individuals, friends and families who are seriously considering bringing a rescue dog into their lives and are willing to share their reasons for doing so.

Please follow this link to apply:

The Dog House | Channel 4 or email thedoghouse@fivemilefilms.co.uk

KAR Newsletter 17/01/2025

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 14:02:32 GMT

KAR Newsletter 10/01/2025

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 15:01:03 GMT

KAR Newsletter 20/12/2024

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 12:31:53 GMT

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KAR Newsletter 13/12/2024

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 15:34:44 GMT

KAR Newsletter 05/12/2024

Thu, 5 Dec 2024 15:02:37 GMT

KAR Newsletter 29/11/2024

Mon, 2 Dec 2024 09:36:42 GMT

KAR Newsletter 22/11/2024

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 15:28:30 GMT

KAR Newsletter 15/11/2024

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 14:54:27 GMT

KAR Newsletter 08/11/2024

Fri, 8 Nov 2024 15:34:16 GMT

KAR Newsletter 18/10/2024

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 15:14:38 GMT

KAR Newsletter 11/10/24

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 14:56:36 GMT

KAR Newsletter 04/10/2024

Fri, 4 Oct 2024 15:26:23 GMT

KAR Newsletter 27/09/2024

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 15:21:52 GMT