7x1 have begun their new French topic, C’est quoi, une famille’. This topic covers family members and describing them. Well done to Kodi S and Rista S for their excellent, extended written work with Mr Famuyiwa this week. Pupils have displayed our value of ‘Strive to improve and be your best’ this week. A special mention also goes to 7x2 for their fantastic enthusiasm in French lessons since the start of term. Bravo!

We recently took Year 7 on a Religious Studies trip to experience places of worship in Smethwick. We were warmly welcomed at Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Smethwick Old Church and Smethwick Jamia Mosque. In each place of worship were given a tour and a talk about each faith and their place of worship. In the Gurdwara were able to sample Langar, the food that all Gurdwaras provide for free. Overall it was a fantastic day and we would like to thank all the places of worship and people who looked after us.

In Year 7 English this week, we have been developing active observation skills by “hunting” for outstanding work in the classroom. Using the visualiser, we live-marked exceptional responses together, modelling how high-quality answers can be refined and improved in real time.

👏 Harlee, Year 7 shared an excellent example, and this was live marked under the visualiser, allowing the class to see precise feedback in action.
🖊️ Evie, Year 7 then demonstrated brilliant learning behaviours by responding thoughtfully to this feedback, making clear and accurate improvements in green pen.

This approach encourages pupils to:
✔️ Engage with feedback actively
✔️ Learn from strong peer examples
✔️ Take ownership of improving their work

A fantastic example of reflective learning and high expectations in action - well done Year 7! 🌟

#Successachievedtogether 

Audition prep is officially underway, and we’re so excited to see what you bring to the stage!

🎭 Don’t forget: Collect your audition pack by the end of this week if you’d like to audition.
💃 Auditions:
📍 Dance Studio
🗓 Tuesday 20th & Wednesday 21st January
⏰ 3:00–4:15pm

This is your moment to shine 🌟 We can’t wait to see the incredible talent in our school—let’s get our head in the game! 🏀🎶

On Monday 12^th January 8 pupils from year 10 came to work with Mrs Butler during their lunch. It was the first of 2 lunch time sessions to help prepare them to sit the UK Intermediate Maths Challenge. Smestow Academy has never entered the Intermediate Maths Challenge before, but these pupils showed a real eagerness to challenge themselves to complete challenge that is designed for pupils in year 11 and below. Pupils have been completing practice papers at home and we came together to discuss strategies for some of the more challenging questions – particularly shape problems.

The 60 minute challenge will be undertaken by these pupils on Wednesday 28^th January and we are really excited to see what these pupils can achieve.

Smestow Academy is proud to announce the results of its latest Ofsted inspection, which highlights a remarkable turnaround for the school since joining Matrix Academy Trust in January 2023. Previously graded as 'Inadequate' prior to joining the Trust, the academy has undergone a significant culture shift.  

The inspection, conducted on 11 November 2025, marks the first time the school has been evaluated under Ofsted’s new grading framework. Smestow was one of the first 20 schools to experience the new Ofsted ‘report card’ system. 

The report confirms that Smestow Academy is now fulfilling the expected standard of education and care, with several key areas secured at a "Strong Standard". 

Mr Chamberlain said: "I am so pleased that Ofsted has recognised the incredible hard work and dedication of our entire school community. This report is a testament to the commitment of our staff, the support of our parents, and the brilliant attitude of our pupils. I am immensely proud to be the Headteacher of Smestow Academy." 

A Culture of Excellence 

The report awards a Strong Standard to Leadership and Governance, Attendance and Behaviour, and Personal Development and Well-being. Inspectors noted that the new trust and school leaders quickly identified what needed improvement, resulting in significant progress. 

Lynsey Draycott, CEO of Matrix Academy Trust, commented: "We are delighted that we have been able to restore the reputation of Smestow Academy. The rapid improvements in attendance, behaviour, and academic outcomes show what can be achieved with an absolute focus on getting things right for all pupils." 

"What it’s like to be a pupil at this school" 

The Ofsted inspection team captured the positive atmosphere that now defines the academy, describing it as a "friendly, respectful community where pupils are able to be themselves". The report states: "Pupils and staff speak about the culture shift that has happened and why they feel happy to come to school"; "From Year 7 to Year 13, everyone is helped to become the best version of themselves". Students are "attentive in lessons" and "impressively open about topics that matter to them," such as mental health. 

Sir Mark Aspinall, Matrix’s Chair of Trustees, said: "This transformation has been achieved by focusing on the kids and ensuring they get the best possible experience of school. We know they only get one chance at school, and our mission has been – and will continue to be - ensuring Smestow is a happy place where young people can learn, work, and thrive together." 

Name: Ms Buparai

Role: Mental Health Support Worker

I am a qualified counsellor working as a Mental Health Support Worker at Smestow Academy. I deliver both one-to-one and group interventions focused on anxiety, emotional regulation, social skills, and self-esteem. I also lead the Student Wellbeing Ambassadors and actively promote mental health awareness across the wider school community.

I am deeply passionate about supporting young people’s mental health and wellbeing and take a neurodiversity-affirming approach that recognises, values, and celebrates individual strengths and differences.

Outside of work, I enjoy reading, listening to podcasts, walking, and visiting National Trust properties. I have training in complementary wellbeing practices and am currently training to become a yoga teacher. I enjoy yoga and wellbeing retreats and love travelling with my family and friends.

Name: Christine Stevens

Role: Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP)  for Reflexions Mental Health Support Team - NHS Black Country Healthcare Trust

I am the link EMHP in Reflexions for Smestow Academy. I work closely with the mental health lead and mental health team in school to identify what support we can offer. I provide one to one CBT intervention sessions to students in addition to offering whole school approach activities to young people, parents/carers and school staff. This aims to increase access to psychological therapies and support children and young people with their mental health and wellbeing. I really value that I am made to feel a part of the team at Smestow and I enjoy coming along to the different events that are held at school. From January 2026 I will also be attending school to provide monthly drop in sessions for young people alongside the school nurses.

Interesting fact: As well as being an EMHP I am also a forest school leader. I love to spend time outdoors and one of my favourite ways to relax is to cook meals for family and friends over a campfire.

Name: Miss Malhi

Role: School Counsellor

I joined Smestow in April 2023 after completing my Master’s degree. As the school counsellor, I am deeply committed to supporting pupils’ emotional wellbeing and mental health. I offer a safe and confidential space where pupils can talk openly about worries, challenges, and difficult experiences. My role is to help pupils make sense of complex emotions, build resilience, and develop healthier ways of coping, particularly during times when they may feel overwhelmed or unsure.

Before joining Smestow, I trained as a counsellor with the Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, gaming and spending time with family.

As the second half term draws to an end it is time to celebrate those who have gone above and beyond in science. This term one pupil from each year group has been awarded with a certificate and prize for the most answered questions! Congratulations to Aleena, Oliwia, Alhareth, Layla and Victor for working hard this term! We also congratulate 11E1 for being the form with the most answered questions by answering 4409 questions 

Today we proudly held our third Mince Pies and Carols event! We are incredibly proud of all our wonderful performers who delivered a joyful celebration of creativity, talent, and community spirit. This special showcase highlighted the dedication and hard work our pupils have shown throughout the Autumn term, with their passion and confidence shining through every performance. A huge well done to everyone involved!

Next up on the Performing Arts calendar are High School Musical auditions — make sure you’ve signed up and don’t miss out!