Connect #25 celebrates growth, community and achievement across Mulberry

This summer term has seen schools across our Trust celebrate a wide range of achievements, opportunities and moments of success, showcasing the talent, ambition and commitment of our students, staff and wider community.

Mulberry Schools Trust has recently made an important step in the growth of our East Sussex Hub, with Mulberry Bexhill Academy becoming the sixth East Sussex school to join the Trust. We are excited to continue strengthening connections between our schools and continue to create opportunities for students and staff to collaborate and learn from one another. Over the past term, CEO Alice Ward visited schools across the Trust and was proud to see the fantastic work taking place across our school communities.

There has been plenty to celebrate across our schools, from students taking part in our Mulberry Changemakers programmes in STEM and the arts, to sporting successes, student leadership opportunities and achievements recognised at a national level.

We are also delighted to share the landmark moment of an ‘exceptional’ Mulberry College of Teaching Ofsted inspection, as well as proudly celebrating five years of our East London Teaching School Hub.

This edition of Connect brings together some of these stories, highlighting the experiences that take place every day across our Trust, from inspiring classroom practice, learning and creative opportunities to partnerships that help broaden horizons for our young people.

Together, these achievements demonstrate the dedication and ambition that runs through our schools and the commitment of our communities to helping every student thrive.

We are delighted to celebrate the contributions of our students, staff, families, trustees, governors and partners and we hope you enjoy reading the Connect #25 newsletter.

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Silverdale Primary Academy Joins BBC 6 Music T-Shirt Day for the Third Year in a Row!

In an exciting display of creativity and musical passion, the students and staff of Silverdale Primary Academy took part en masse in BBC 6 Music’s annual T-Shirt Day for the third year. The event, held on Thursday 19 September, saw the entire school community invited to wear T-shirts representing their favourite bands and artists, celebrating both the diversity and joy of music.

From rock legends to contemporary pop icons, the school was awash with colourful designs and vibrant enthusiasm as students from every year group showcased their musical tastes. Teachers joined in the fun, sharing stories of their own favourite bands and introducing the students to a wide variety of genres.

Principal Jonathan Morris said, “It was incredible to see the school come together to celebrate music in such a creative way. BBC 6 Music T-Shirt Day is a fantastic initiative that encourages both individuality and unity through the power of music. Our students were buzzing with excitement, and it was a day filled with positivity and fun.”

In a special highlight of the day, Silverdale Primary Academy was mentioned on the Huw Stephens show on BBC 6 Music, bringing national attention to the school’s enthusiastic participation. Principal Jonathan Morris even took part in the show’s daily quiz, adding a fun and competitive twist to the event.

This marks the third year Silverdale Primary has participated in the event, with each year growing in excitement and school-wide involvement. The day also served as an opportunity for the children to learn more about the history of different musical genres.

Jonathan Morris, academy principal quoted “We hope this event inspires our students to explore the world of music even further and to express themselves creatively,”

The Silverdale Primary community looks forward to continuing the tradition and participating in future music-themed events, further fostering a love for the arts among its students.

Lockdown Fitness Hero, Joe Wicks, Hosts Exciting Workout and Q&A at Silverdale Primary Academy

On Thursday, 16th May, the staff and pupils of Silverdale Primary Academy opened its doors to Joe Wicks MBE. The renowned fitness enthusiast visited the academy to host a dynamic 30-minute workout session, followed by an engaging question and answer segment.

Joe was enthusiastic about engaging with both teachers and pupils, aiming to inspire and motivate the school community through fitness and healthy living. His primary goal of reaching as many children as possible with this energising experience was achieved, as all 630 pupils and over 50 staff members participated in the workout.

“We were delighted to have Joe at our school,” said Jonathan Morris, Principal of Silverdale Primary Academy. “His energy and passion for fitness were truly inspiring for our pupils, staff, and parents. This event perfectly aligns with our commitment to promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.”

The day was a fantastic, fun-filled experience of fitness and inspiration during which Joe was awarded the highest accolade possible from Silverdale; an Ultimate Ninja, joining a select alumni including Sir Richard Attenborough, Stephen Hawkings (awarded posthumously) and Jurgen Klopp to name but a few.

On the same day as Joe’s visit the EYFS children witnessed the hatching of 14 chicks and in commemoration of the event, one young chick was named after Joe.

Silverdale Primary Academy, is dedicated to nurturing a healthy and active lifestyle among its pupils and staff. Jonathan Morris continued to say, “we believe in the power of fitness to enhance not only physical health but also mental well-being and academic performance, Joe’s visit has only enhanced this view and inspired a whole new generation.”

On behalf of everyone at the Mulberry Schools Trust and Silverdale Primary Academy, thank you, Joe, for making such a significant impact on our pupils and inspiring them to be their very best.

Silverdale receive musical donation from world changing instrument company, Dubreq Stylophone

Silverdale Primary Academy have received a generous donation of a range of musical instruments from Dubreq Stylophone company.

The academy gratefully received the donation of 30 Stylophone Pocket Synthesizers and 20 Stylophone Beats – portable drum machines. This generous contribution promises to greatly enhance the music curriculum at Silverdale. Music holds a pivotal role in engaging and inspiring the pupils, cultivating their passion for music, and nurturing their potential as musicians. It serves as a catalyst for curiosity, encouraging pupils to explore various musical genres and appreciate the diverse ways in which music enriches people’s lives. This inclusive approach develops an unbiased respect for the profound role that music plays in shaping individual experiences and expressions.

Jonathan Morris, Academy Principal, expressed his enthusiasm for the impact of the donation on pupils and music lessons, stating, ‘this is such a generous donation, music lessons will never be the same again!!’

Dubreq Stylophone are a local company based in Hastings, who still promote their world changing instruments since their creation in 1968. Marcella Kavanagh, director of Dubreq, said “We are really glad to be able to support the students on their music journey. Make some noise!!!”

Silverdale Primary Academy Stylophone Orchestra is coming up through the ranks!