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Washington Academy Digital Newsletter Created by Students for Students - Issue 2 October 2019

Awards Evening 2019

Awards Evening is an annual event to celebrate student successes. We asked school digital reporter, Rebecca Lloyd, to feed back on the evening.

This year, Awards Evening took place on Thursday 3rd October. There were 74 awards presented to over 50 well-deserving students. The Academy wanted to improve on last year’s event, making it even more special. The main hall, which took a whole day to set up, was decorated with lights, round tables and music to set a relaxed mood. It looked fantastic.

“I loved Awards Evening - it’s the highlight of the school year. I think that it is really important to celebrate success with families. We always need to take time to stop and celebrate achievement.” Mrs Hamilton
Some of our amazing students who are real ambassadors for our Academy. Well done everyone.

Local MP Sharon Hodgson gave a speech about her journey to becoming an MP; it was very inspirational and showed students that no matter what your background is, or where you come from, if you put your mind to something you can achieve anything.

Enrichment Day

Enrichment Day was on 11th July when students had over 20 activities they could sign up for, ranging from Beamish Wild to Beamish Museum to a day trip to Edinburgh to E-Sports tournaments in school. Students and staff had a great time learning new skills and conquering fears. Stay tuned for next year's even bigger event!!

"Enrichment Day was a fantastic success. Staff and students had a brilliant day on the trips and activities. We have started to plan an even bigger and better day for July 2020" Mr Fargent
Beamish Wild hit the target for lots of students
Learning the skills to pay the bills at the Beacon of Light
"It was a great experience. We all got some great memories." Brandon Stark Year 8
Students had a blast in the past
Working together to reach the top

4th July Celebrations

4th July; a day that represents the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States of America as an independent nation. Every year there are vast celebrations across the nation with fireworks and music. However, celebrations also take place at Washington Old Hall. They host an annual event celebrating Washington’s link to the USA and Washington DC. There is a band playing music, speeches made by people from the UK and the USA and the raising of the flag. There are students from our school who take part in the celebrations. One student carries the American flag and helps to raise it and another reads Martin Luther King Jr’s speech “I have a Dream.” These events are special as they keep the connection between Washington and Washington DC alive.

“It's important to both remember and celebrate the past”
Washington Academy students play an important role in the celebrations

Student Profile: David Buckley

David Buckley is a Year 11 student who has recently took part in the Junior National Diving Championships in July. We sent school digital reporter Aaron Scott to find out a little more.

How did you get to your position to participate in the championships? I have been diving for 9 years now and have been building up through the levels.

David works hard both inside and outside of the classroom

Diving is not the most common sport. What made you start diving? I was 6 years old and my mam worked at the swimming centre, I was an unsure at the start but I look back now and laugh as I nearly didn't start because I was not allowed to wear goggles.

What exercises do you do during training? I train for 18 hours per week. Before entering the pool I stretch, I also do some gym work.

Were you nervous competing with other excellent divers?Yes, I was very nervous as I didn't have much experience in major competitions but like most things the more you practise and try things the better you get.

What are your goals over the next few years? I would like to go back to the national championships.

“David knows that it takes hard work and dedication to be the best you can be." - Mr Locke

How can others get involved in diving? I train at Sunderland Aquatics Centre. They offer taster sessions and are always happy to give advice. Phone: 0191 514 4300 www.everyoneactive.com/centre/Sunderland-Aquatic-Centre/

Sports Day

The Washington Academy sports department hosted the now annual sports day event in July. We sent digital reporters Abigail Loftus and Molly MacKay to keep an eye on proceedings.

There were individual events including javelin, speed bounce and discus during the morning, but the heart and soul of the day was in the afternoon. All students came together to help their form class come out on top in a series of rotating events led by the newly appointed sports leaders.

"People took part and had lots of fun socialising. I would want it to happen again" - Tori Cook Year 9
Click on image to enlarge

The sports teachers were impressed by the resilience and teamwork of the participants and enjoyed seeing the the encouragement everyone gave each other. Well done to the form class winners Mr Bucktrout, Miss Atkinson and Mrs El-Khandari.

"It was a great success. I love the fact that as many students and staff as possible got involved." Mr Docherty

Careers Activities

Pupils from year 10 and 11 went to a careers fair visit as part of Skills North East. This was at the Utilita Arena where there were lots of colleges, universities and businesses set up to give our students information and guidance about their futures.

"We have lots of exciting events and visits planned for this year as part of our careers provision for all year groups. Keep an eye on our social media pages and parent hub for more details" Mrs Oakland - Head of Careers

This issue was created by: Rebecca Lloyd, Abigail Loftus, Molly MacKay and Aaron Scott with support from Mr Huck, Miss Thompson and Mr McDonald.