From 1st – 5th July, pupils from all Matrix Academy Trust schools, including Elmwood School who are joining the Matrix family in September, embarked on the final International trip of the 2024–2025 academic year. The 55 children experienced an unforgettable week in the heart of Italy.

During their time in Italy, students explored some of Rome’s most iconic landmarks, including the awe-inspiring Colosseum and the Pantheon. A hands-on gladiator school experience gave everyone a taste of ancient Roman life — a highlight for many, even with the heat!

Adventurous spirits were tested on the high ropes course, followed by visits to the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the lively Piazza Navona. Although a planned trip to the Vatican was sadly cancelled due to a metro line closure, spirits remained high. Instead, the group enjoyed a sunny afternoon on the beach at Ostia, where paddling in the sea proved the perfect way to end a packed itinerary.

The behaviour of all students was exemplary throughout the trip — a real credit to the Trust and to their schools. The final trip of this year was a resounding success, leaving everyone with memories that will last a lifetime – and a lot of enthusiasm to participate in next year’s adventures!

In their geography lesson, 8Y1 had the opportunity to participate in fieldwork around the school site. They considered the impact of human and physical factors on their surroundings, sketched a plan of the building to consider land use, and conducted a survey of movement around the academy. The behaviour of all pupils was outstanding and excellent work was produced by all.

Friday 4th July 2025 will hold memories for many of our Year 11 cohort. The prom got off to a glamourous start with glitzy cars, horses and beautiful outfits worn by all.  

Although we got to a rainy start, with the rain pouring down over our entrances, it did not dampen our spirits of the ability for us to enjoy the night ahead.  

As the night progressed, we enjoyed the food, ice-cream, slushies and of course the photobooth.  

Pupils and staff danced the night away starting with the crowning of the Prom King and Queen, followed by a spectacular dance off between the staff and pupils. I think we can all agree that our very own Mr Hall won the show! 

We would like to thank everyone who made the night a memorable evening. Congratulations to our Year 11 cohort and we wish you all the success in the future 

The sixth form leaving meal on Saturday 5^th July 2025 was a memorable and well-organized event that provided a perfect send-off after years of hard work and shared experiences. Decorum Restaurant was tastefully chosen, creating a relaxed yet celebratory atmosphere that brought students and staff together in a meaningful way.

What truly stood out was the sense of community and the reflective mood of the evening, celebrating both individual achievements and collective memories. The event struck the right balance between formal and fun, allowing everyone to feel appreciated and included.

Overall, the sixth form leaving meal was a fitting celebration of our journey and friendships. A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in making it a special and unforgettable night. Good Luck Year 13 and see you on Results Day!

On Tuesday 7^th July, 34 Year 10 pupils at Bloxwich Academy were invited to take part in the LionHeart Challenge Walsall Grand Final. Bloxwich Community Partnership have funded the exciting event where pupils had the opportunity to work in groups to research, develop and plan an event for a local demographic. 

Pupils developed their ability to communicate, research local context and data and understand the financial requirements to run and market an event. This not only included the development of an event, but also how to market and advertise. All skills developed during the day are transferable to further their education and into the working environment. 

At the end of the event, each team had to present their event in full to the judging panel, which included local counsellors, The Mayor and Bloxwich Community Partnership. The groups were judged on their ability to balance finances, development of concept, marketing co-ordination and presentation of the project. 

The pupils represented themselves professionally and made Bloxwich Academy proud with their engagement and enthusiasm for the challenge.

Although Bloxwich Academy did not win the Grand Final, we had 2 teams come in joint second. Bloxwich Academy also won Best Marketing, Best Research Proposal and Most Effective Team. 

Thank you to the LionHeart Challenge and to Bloxwich Community Partnership for funding the event and allowing our pupils the opportunity to develop their skills beyond the classroom.

Bloxwich Academy would like to celebrate the graduation of the Year 10 Scholars Club pupils. Since beginning the project in March, these pupils have worked incredibly hard, with a PHD lecturer. They have attended lectures, had tutorials, completed independent research and submitted a 2000 word final assignment on Renaissance: Beauty, Genuis and Revolution.

On Thursday 3rd July, pupils were invited to attend their graduation event at Manchester University. During the day, pupils took park in feedback session in a lecture theatre, gained insights into life at university, met university ambassadors and took part in a tour of the campus.

To end the day, pupils were presented with their graduation certificate and congratulated for their hard work, resilience and achievements during the Scholars Club Programme.

Well done to you all.

We're thrilled to share that Access Creative College is running a brand-new Summer Camp this August – and it's a fantastic chance for our students to explore their passion for the creative industries!

📅 Dates: 4th – 6th August 2025
📍 Location: Access Creative College, Heath Mill Lane, Digbeth

Designed specifically for KS4 students, these engaging three-day camps offer hands-on experiences in one of the following areas:

🎵 Music – Write and record your own song
🎮 Games – Design and develop your very own video game
🎥 Media – Create your own short film

Each camp is led by industry professionals and gives students the chance to build real creative skills, meet like-minded peers, and take home a certificate of completion. There will also be a showcase of their amazing work at the end of the camp!

👉 Spaces are limited, so we encourage students to book early using the link below:
🔗 Access Creative Camps 2025 – Book Here

Our Year 9 students had a fantastic day out at Sci-Fest hosted by the University of Wolverhampton! The event was packed with exciting, hands-on science activities and interactive displays that brought STEM to life in the most engaging way. From exploring cutting-edge technology to getting stuck into chemistry experiments and physics puzzles, there was something to spark curiosity in every corner.

Students had the chance to speak with scientists, university staff, and STEM ambassadors, giving them a real insight into future careers and the world of scientific discovery. They attended University style lectures on various scientific fields, our very own Mr Bhatti got invited on stage to take part with L. Peers (9T1) in a demonstration.

Huge thanks to the University of Wolverhampton for such a well-organised, educational, and fun experience. We can’t wait to go back next year!

#SciFest #ScienceInspires #STEMeducation #FutureScientists

If your child is currently on a waiting list to be seen by CAMHS, Community Paediatrics or any other health consultant, you may wish to attend the waiting support network for additional advice. Here you can chat to other parents, and guest speakers on various topics. Please see dates and location below.