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  • KAR Newsletter 27/06/2025

    Published 30/06/25

    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.

    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:

    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 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.  

    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

    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:

    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 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.

    Read More

  • KAR Newsletter 13/06/2025

    Published 13/06/25

    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 

     

    Read More

  • KAR Newsletter 06/06/2025

    Published 09/06/25

    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
    Read More

  • KAR Newsletter 23/05/2025

    Published 23/05/25

    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

     

    Read More

  • KAR Newsletter 16/05/2025

    Published 16/05/25

    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

     

    1. 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 

    1. 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

    1. “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?

    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.

    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

    1. 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.

    1. 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.





     

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  • KAR Newsletter 09/05/2025

    Published 09/05/25

    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

     

     

     

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  • KAR Newsletter 02/05/2025

    Published 06/05/25

    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.

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  • KAR Newsletter 25/04/2025

    Published 25/04/25

    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 





     

     

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  • KAR Newsletter 04/04/2025

    Published 04/04/25

    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).

    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?

    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:

    [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.

    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.

    Read More

  • KAR Newsletter 28/03/2025

    Published 31/03/25

    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.


    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).

    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?

    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:

    [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.

    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

     

     

     




     

    Read More

  • KAR Newsletter 21/03/2025

    Published 21/03/25

    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.


    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).

    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?

    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:

    [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.

    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:

    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/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.

    Read More

  • KAR Newsletter 14/03/2025

    Published 17/03/25

    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.

     

     

     

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