Year 7 students at John Cabot Academy are excited to be taking part in the Future Brunels programme, an initiative designed to inspire and enthuse young people with science and engineering throughout their time at secondary school.
As part of the programme, students recently visited the quayside of the historic SS Great Britain, the once-revolutionary steam-powered liner which was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel.
By introducing young people to the real-world impact of science and engineering – both in their own lives and globally – and by highlighting the wide range of careers available through STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) education, the programme aims to encourage students to consider future careers in these dynamic and vital fields.
The Future Brunels programme is a long-term commitment that supports students as they progress through school, nurturing curiosity, developing practical skills, and building confidence to explore STEM-related opportunities.
Helen Small, Pastoral Year Lead for Year 7 at John Cabot Academy, said: “I am so proud of our Year 7s.
“They worked with peers from other schools on an aqueduct building challenge showing imagination, planning and team work.
“It was a brilliant opportunity for them to learn outside the classroom and ignite their curiosity. Maybe inspiring them to follow in Brunel’s footsteps.”
Nathan Richardson, assistant principal at John Cabot Academy in Kingswood, Bristol, said there was an “element of nervousness” among Year 11 students, but a “positive” mood overall.
To read the full story on BBC Bristol’s News website please click here.
Exclusive research has revealed that two-thirds of parents in the West Country would support a ban on children under the age of 16 using social media.
The survey also found that more than half of parents believe their children’s mental health is being negatively affected by using social media on their smartphones.
ITV News West Country went along to John Cabot Academy to find out more.
John Cabot students and staff transported audiences to an enchanting land in a delightful stage adaptation of L Frank Baum’s beloved tale The Wizard Of Oz.
This timeless story follows young Dorothy Gale, played by Iris Hutton and Sophie Townsend (both Year 11), who is swept up by a tornado and lands in the fantasy world of Oz. Along her journey to find the Wizard, she meets an array of unforgettable characters, including the Scarecrow (Harry Ryan, Year 11), the Tin Man (Laura Gessner Machado, Year 9), and the Lion (Zara Albuquerque, Year 9). The talented cast also brought to life the Munchkins, Winkies, Witches, and farm folk, making for a vibrant and engaging performance.
The production, performed over three nights to packed audiences and featuring the iconic music from the classic MGM film, also included a special matinee show for local primary school pupils.
With a cast and crew of over 70 students spanning Years 7 to 13, the production captured the essence of this heartfelt story – one of overcoming challenges, forging friendships, and discovering the true meaning of home.
Audiences were treated to both humorous and emotional moments that made the performance truly unforgettable.
A spectacular seven-piece live band, composed of students from Years 8 to 11, provided the soundtrack to this dazzling production, adding to the magic of the performance.
Charlotte Grierson, Curriculum Leader for Performing Arts, said: “The Royal Shakespeare Company’s version of this classic story is a faithful adaptation of the film, offering brilliant opportunities for our students to showcase their incredible talent.
“Watching the story come to life over the past few months has been a joy, and the final performances were a fantastic realisation of this beloved classic.
“Having the privilege of a live band, as well as a slick backstage and technical team, really elevated the show to another level. I hope this experience is one that the students involved will cherish for years to come.”
With its combination of stunning performances, captivating storytelling, and a dedicated production team, John Cabot’s The Wizard Of Oz proved to be a truly magical experience for all who attended.
Our Ofsted report has featured in a Kingswood Voice article. Please see below for all the details.
A secondary school with sixth form provision on the outskirts of Bristol was described as ‘aspirational’ by Ofsted following an inspection. John Cabot Academy, which includes the CLF Post 16, was inspected on November 5 and 6 and inspectors found that the sixth-form provision was ‘Outstanding’ and every other key judgement was rated as ‘Good’.
To read the full story on the Bristol Live website please click here.
He admits to being ‘naughty’ during his school days at John Cabot Academy – but now Tom Dewey FRSA is a renowned poet and playwright considered one of the most influential young people in Bristol.
Tom is the latest former pupil spotlighted in the Alumni 15 series, a project designed to help inspire current pupils by showcasing the successes of some of our schools’ past students.
And today we are catching up with Tom Dewey, who tells us he remembers many of his former teachers – and feels ‘very fortunate’ to have attended John Cabot.
Tom Dewey is a poet and playwright best known for his distinctive voice and prolificacy. Marrying surrealist imagery with multi-syllabic rhyme, his style produces literary dreamscapes which have been said to suggest ‘presence and absence, everything and nothing… Dewey is a young man under an old sun who catches its ancient light.’
He became the youngest ever regional spoken word champion in 2015, and his influence is much to be detected in the Bristol poetry scene.
Tom has achieved international media acclaim as a writer and performer. He has delivered a TEDx Talk on Mental Health, featured on BBC iPlayer, performed to a sold-out Roundhouse, closed the Bristol Old Vic’s 250th Birthday Weekend and been named by Rife Magazine as one of the most influential young people in Bristol.
💡Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Easton, Bristol.
💡What was your experience of school like?
My experience of school was quite challenging, candidly. I had some behavioural difficulties, as will be confirmed by any former teachers (sorry!). I had a hard time fitting in, and was dealing with a complication or two in my personal life. Towards the end of school – maybe around Year 10 – I settled down a bit and managed to leave with OK grades.
💡Do you remember any of your teachers?
I do! I have very fond memories of, to name a few: Mr Bridges, Mr Dell, Mr Church, Ms Fudge, Mr Wilson, Mr Clarke, Mr Unwin, Mr Topham.
💡How did your time at school play a part in where you are now?
School was an especially formative time for me, particularly in the context of the difficulties I experienced in relating to other people and early encounters with my own mental health. I feel very fortunate to have attended John Cabot.
💡What advice would you give to your younger self?
Get a haircut, kid.
💡How would your best friends describe you at school and now today?
At school: energetic, insecure, strange, naughty. Honestly my close friends might land on similar words today.
💡What personal characteristic do you think has helped you navigate your career?
A built sense of self-belief and refusal to accept a naff life.
If you know of any past pupils who have gone on to notable success in their chosen field, please let CLF Partnerships Manager Andrew Bell know by emailing andrew.bell@clf.uk.
Many of you will know Ellis Genge as a rugby star who has found fame and success with Bristol Bears and the England Rugby international team – but a handful of colleagues will remember him as the perennially late-to-school ‘joker’ who attended John Cabot Academy in his formative years.
And although Ellis has gone on to enjoy significant success in the sporting arena, he remains a friend to his former school, and the wider CLF – as evidenced by his recent support for Lansdown Park Academy.
That is what makes him an ideal inclusion in the trust’s Alumni 15 network, a showcase of successful former pupils designed to help inspire high aspirations among current and future pupils.
Today, we continue showcasing the network a short Q&A with Ellis.
💡Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Knowle West, I went to Knowle Park Primary School. I spent a lot of time playing football with my mates; I thought I was going to be a pro football player.
💡What was your experience of school like?
Average to poor. I don’t think the school environment suited me.
I was fortunate that there were a few teachers who ensured I had the opportunity to play rugby. That helped me stay engaged.
💡Do you remember any of your teachers?
Yes lots, and I keep in touch with a few now. They like their rugby!
💡What advice would you give to your younger self?
Don’t climb the pillar between B wing and C wing – it doesn’t end well!
💡How would your best friends describe you at school/today?
At school: loyal, joker, late.
Now: loyal, antisocial, early.
💡What personal characteristic do you think has helped you navigate your career?
Headstrong, stubborn and never took no for an answer.
If you know of any past pupils who have gone on to notable success in their chosen field, please let CLF Partnerships Manager Andrew Bell know by emailing andrew.bell@clf.uk.
An ‘inclusive’ environment, ‘ambitious curriculum’ and a ‘rich learning experience’ have helped Bristol’s John Cabot Academy retain its rating of ‘Good’ from Ofsted inspectors.
A team from the education watchdog spent two days assessing the academy, during which time inspectors met with senior leaders, teachers and students, and carried out a deep dive into a number of subject areas.
At the conclusion of the process, the Ofsted team heralded John Cabot as ‘a welcoming school’ where ‘students feel a strong sense of belonging’.
They rated the school as ‘Good’ for the quality of its education, behaviour and attitudes, personal development and leadership.
CLF Post 16, which shares the school site and delivers A-levels and vocational training, was rated as ‘Outstanding’.
In her report, lead inspector Frances Bywater said: “Pupils in John Cabot Academy enjoy their time at school. They receive a high quality education. They feel motivated to succeed. Teachers encourage and support them to do this effectively.
“The school has high expectations of pupils. Lessons are calm and focused. Relationships between pupils and staff are warm.”
On teaching and attainment, the report said: “John Cabot has created an ambitious curriculum. It provides pupils with a rich learning experience.
“The school focuses on the needs of disadvantaged pupils. Staff ensure that they remove barriers to learning. As a result, pupils achieve very well in GCSE examinations.”
On SEND provision, the report said: “The school is committed to ensuring that pupils are successful, especially those with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and disadvantaged pupils.
“Pupils with SEND have their needs accurately identified. For the most part, staff make appropriate adaptations to meet these needs. As a result, these pupils achieve well.”
On student care and behaviour, Ofsted said: “The pastoral care provided by the school is a strength. The school makes every effort to promote high attendance and challenge absence. As a result, pupils’ attendance at school is high.
“The school has high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and conduct. Staff apply these expectations consistently and fairly. Consequently, pupils behave well in lessons and around the school.”
In addition, the report praised John Cabot’s ‘effective’ safeguarding, ‘comprehensive’ careers programme, and the ‘wide range’ of extra-curricular enrichment activities on offer.
Ofsted’s findings have been welcomed by leaders at the school, and within its parent trust the Cabot Learning Federation.
Kate Willis, Principal at John Cabot Academy, said:
“I am delighted by the Ofsted report which is a wonderful description of our ‘welcoming’ school to which ‘pupils feel a strong sense of belonging’.
“We talk a lot about the vision for JCA: Empowering ourselves and our community by nurturing students as individuals, inspiring them through learning and raising our community.
“Consequently, I am thrilled that Ofsted have seen much of our vision realised. It means our students are thriving academically; flourishing and growing as young people.”
Sally Apps, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Cabot Learning Federation, said:
“John Cabot Academy has been an important part of the educational landscape in Kingswood and beyond for some time; it is so pleasing to see the school’s significant strengths recognised in this way.
“Congratulations to the whole school community – the parents, teachers, leaders and particularly the children themselves – on the collaborative spirit and genuine care that goes into being such a special and successful school.”
Steve Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of the Cabot Learning Federation, said:
“Both the outcomes achieved by students and the judgement of Ofsted point to John Cabot being an excellent place for children to attend school.
“I am delighted for the community, who have seen their local school successfully transition from having been a City Technology College in the 1990s and early 2000s to a highly successful local comprehensive school, serving the needs of all its learners. Congratulations to our brilliant team for this recognition of their excellent work.”
Bristol’s John Cabot Academy has been ranked fifth among the best-performing state secondary schools in the city, according to the latest performance data released by the Department for Education.
The newly published figures for the 2023/24 academic year highlight the exceptional achievements of students and staff at John Cabot Academy, showcasing their dedication and hard work.
Kate Willis, Principal of John Cabot Academy, said: “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, resilience, and commitment of our students, teachers, and support staff.
“At John Cabot Academy, we strive to nurture every student’s potential, and this result reflects our unwavering focus on high standards and inclusive education.”
