Mr Weir
OUR REF: PWE/scl
6th September 2016
Dear Parents/Carers
I hope you have had a good summer as we look forward to another successful year ahead at the Academy. It has been a pleasure to welcome everyone back for the new school year and especially to welcome our new Year Sevens.
They are joining a very successful school. This summer over 60% of our students achieved 5 A*-C including English and Maths: our English and Maths results, along with many other subjects, were above the national average. The official progress measures will be announced by the government later this term, but based on last year's averages, Saltley students made over half-a-grade more progress than the national average. This is the result of hard work by both students and staff and the continued collaboration between the Academy and the families we serve.
This examination success goes alongside all of the other successful opportunities and events our students have been involved in. We have produced a 'Review of the Year' newsletter. Copies of thiswill beavailable onlineon the school website ( and in reception. Please do have a look. However, if you would like a copy sent to you, please contact the Academy.
I must apologise for the problems we are experiencing in the kitchens which have led us to have to serve cold food only today and yesterday. We will let you know as soon as this problem is resolved, which should be by next Monday at the very latest.
Please be aware of these dates:
Thursday 22nd September: Open Evening 6-8pm. The Academy will close to students at 12.30pm to allow for preparation. There will be take-away cold lunches available for students who receive free school meals.
Thursday 29th September 4pm-5pm: Parents Information Evening: this will include information on how to follow your child's progress and homework online for all years.It will also include an opportunity to ask questions about Parent Pay (see below)and will include important information for parents of Year 10 students re: Work Experience.
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Friday 30th September: School closed for staff training.
During this term, we will be introducing a new system used in many schools called 'Parent Pay', which will enable you to pay for school meals, trips and contributions at shops and other designated places rather than the young people havingto bring money in themselves. There will be more information about this important change soon in writing and at the information evening on Thursday 29th September.
The vast majority of students have looked very smart as usual today and yesterday. Thank you for your continued support in ensuring that students come to school on time, in correct uniform and with the correct equipment. I would like to remind you that our uniform code does not allow tight fitting trousers. Shoes must be completely plain black, with no logos of any nature. Hair should not have lines or patterns shaved in. As well as 2 blue or black pens, 2 pencils and a ruler, we have also made havinga small dictionary part of the Academy equipment list.
Many families will be celebrating Eid al-Adha. Students who are celebrating are entitled to one day for religious observance, on Monday 12th September, with best wishes for a happy celebration.
Thank your continued support.
Yours sincerely
Mr P Weir
Head of Academy