John Cabot Academy remains one of the area’s top performing schools after another year of outstanding achievements by its students in their GCSEs this summer.
Students at John Cabot Academy always thrive academically in a supportive and compassionate culture.
This year, 80% achieved a grade 4 or above in English and maths. And 61% achieved a grade 5 in both subjects. This makes John Cabot one of the best schools locally and nationally, once again.
John Cabot Academy Principal Kate Willis said: “There have been exceptional results at JCA, with students achieving grade 9 in all of their exams. However we are incredibly proud of the hard work and achievements of all of our students.
“Our teachers have worked tirelessly to engage, challenge and motivate our students so that when they leave us they have a strong sense of self, place and the agency to fulfil their potential. We look forward to seeing what they will achieve in the future.
“I would like to thank parents and carers for their support for our academy, one another and their children over the last five years.”
The John Cabot students were among nearly 2,000 young people across the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) who received their results today – with many celebrating outstanding results and getting set for the next stage of their education.
CLF Deputy CEO Sally Apps said: “As a trust we would like to extend our congratulations to the 1,994 students who are receiving their GCSE and equivalent qualifications today.
“These are the result of considerable effort, diligence and determination and the results celebrated today are opening the door to a range of excellent onward destinations for our young people who have studied at our mainstream and specialist schools.
“It is with considerable gratitude to our staff and parents that we celebrate, knowing that these outcomes are achieved as a result of a considerable team effort.
“It is particularly pleasing to see that this year, more young people who have experienced challenge and disadvantage during their school career are collecting strong results.
“We are proud of them and delighted for them, and wish all CLF Year 11 students – now part of our valued alumni and in many cases continuing their onward study with us – a happy and successful educational career.”
Four Year 10 students from John Cabot Academy (JCA) proudly represented their academy in the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) Big Investigation, an exciting science competition run by the trust’s post-16 students.
The students planned and carried out their own scientific investigations, using a colorimeter to explore the haemoglobin concentration of blood.
Competing against teams from four different CLF academies, JCA students impressed judges with their enthusiasm, precision, and collaboration.
In a very close contest, JCA’s team was awarded the coveted Best Teamwork Award, a testament to their strong communication, problem-solving, and cooperative skills.
Storm McCready, deputy central team leader of science at John Cabot Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of our students.
“They demonstrated outstanding scientific thinking and worked together brilliantly throughout the challenge.
“Most importantly, they had a fantastic experience that has further inspired their love of science.”
The recent government spending review promised an additional £4.5 billion per year for schools across the UK to support wide-ranging projects and infrastructure improvements.
However, the announcement was met with concern by musicians and educators alike after it failed to include any mention of funding for music education.
ITV News West Country sent their cameras to John Cabot Academy to find out more.
Students from John Cabot Academy and CLF Post 16 welcomed Labour MP Kerry McCarthy for an inspiring and engaging visit which gave an insight into the world of high-level politics.
After a whistle-stop tour of the school, Ms McCarthy sat down with students to discuss a wide range of pressing issues, including mental health, racial equality and cultural inclusion. The conversation was both insightful and empowering, giving students the opportunity to share their views and experiences directly with a Member of Parliament.
To read the story on the Bristol Parent website click here.
To read the story on the Good News Post website click here.
Students from John Cabot Academy and CLF Post 16 welcomed Labour MP Kerry McCarthy for an inspiring and engaging visit which gave an insight into the world of high-level politics.
After a whistle-stop tour of the school, Ms McCarthy sat down with students to discuss a wide range of pressing issues, including mental health, racial equality, and cultural inclusion. The conversation was both insightful and empowering, giving students the opportunity to share their views and experiences directly with a Member of Parliament.
One of the highlights of the discussion was the students account of their Culture Days – celebrations where students proudly wear clothing that celebrates their heritage and enjoy food from around the world.
These events are an important part of the school community, helping to foster understanding, inclusivity, and respect for the diverse backgrounds of the student body.
Kate Willis, Principal of John Cabot Academy, said: “It was a real privilege to welcome Kerry McCarthy to our academy.
“Our students were excited to share their ideas and initiatives, and we are incredibly proud of the thoughtful and passionate way they engaged in meaningful dialogue.
“This kind of experience is invaluable for helping young people feel seen, heard, and empowered to shape the world around them.”
The inaugural Big Kick Off football tournament launched with flair and excitement at John Cabot Academy, bringing together young athletes from across the Cabot Learning Federation (CLF) for a dynamic five-a-side competition that celebrated sportsmanship, teamwork, and skill.
Organised and delivered by CLF Post-16 students as part of their academic coursework, the event showcased not only sporting talent but also student leadership, event management, and collaboration.
The tournament featured two main competitions: a one for primary school teams and the other for secondary schools.
Adding to the thrill of the event, Ephraim Yeboah, professional footballer with Bristol City FC, made a special appearance to support the event and inspire the next generation of players with his words of encouragement and presence on the day.
As a former Summerhill Academy pupil, Ephraim’s encouragement would have been especially powerful for the young players from around the CLF.
Once the action got underway, the pitch came alive with energy as mixed teams of boys and girls from Frome Vale Academy, Summerhill Academy, and Minerva Academy competed with enthusiasm and spirit.
After a series of closely-fought matches, Minerva Academy emerged victorious in a nail-biting final, defeating Summerhill Academy with a score of 1-0.
The afternoon session featured teams from John Cabot Academy, Hanham Woods Academy, Bristol Brunel Academy, and King’s Oak Academy in an intense battle for the secondary title. It was Hanham Woods Academy who clinched the championship, with John Cabot Academy finishing runners up in a round robin format.
In line with the CLF’s core HEART values (High Expectations, Equity, All Children, Resilience and Togetherness), a special HEART Award was presented to the schools that best demonstrated fair play, sportsmanship, and camaraderie throughout the day. The award was proudly received by Frome Vale Academy (primary) and Bristol Brunel Academy (secondary).
Martin Horsell, PE teacher at John Cabot Academy, said: “It was fantastic to see so many young people coming together and showing such passion and respect both on and off the pitch.
“The atmosphere was brilliant and the students who organised the event did an outstanding job. This is what sport is all about – community, challenge, and celebration.”
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.
