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    • Newcastle-Heidelberg German Exchange: A Resounding Success!

      Published 11/07/25

      Pupils from Gosforth Academy and Great Park Academy have just returned from a highly successful German exchange trip to Heidelberg, Germany. This year marked a significant milestone for the exchange, as Great Park Academy participated for the first time, joining Gosforth Academy, which has proudly upheld this enriching collaboration for nearly three decades.

      For an entire week, our pupils had the invaluable opportunity to fully immerse themselves in German language and culture. They stayed with host families from the Elisabeth-von-Thadden-Schule in Heidelberg, gaining firsthand experience of German daily life and attending a German school day.

      Beyond the classroom and family life, the exchange offered a packed itinerary of cultural and educational excursions. Pupils explored Germany's largest interactive science centre, the Experimenta in Heilbronn, and delved into the world of media art at the ZKM Centre for Digital Art in Karlsruhe. A trip to the zoo provided a fun way to learn the names of animals in German.

      Adventure was also on the agenda! After a sunny boat trip down the River Neckar, pupils embarked on a challenging hike up a steep hill to the impressive fortress of Dilsberg. This historical site offered a perfect opportunity to compare it to Dunstanburgh Castle, which pupils visited during the first leg of the exchange back in October.

      A highlight of the trip involved a collaborative project where pupils, working with their German exchange partners, produced fantastic videos interviewing each other about their daily lives in each other's language. It was truly inspiring to witness the confidence with which our pupils began to use German outside the traditional classroom setting.

      What Our Staff Had To Say:

      "Participating in the German exchange for the first time has been an incredible experience for our Great Park Academy pupils," commented Ms Khalid, Curriculum Leader for MFL at Great Park Academy. "They've not only significantly improved their language skills but also gained a deeper understanding of German culture and forged lasting friendships. We're thrilled to be part of this long-standing tradition."

      Ms Schneider, German-Exchange Coordinator at Gosforth Academy, added, "It was wonderful to see the collaboration between Gosforth and Great Park Academy pupils flourish. The exchange continues to be a cornerstone of our MFL department, providing an unparalleled opportunity for our students to develop their linguistic abilities and global awareness. The confidence they gained in speaking German was truly remarkable."

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    • Translation success for Gosforth Academy students

      Published 27/06/25

      Congratulations to Gosforth Academy students Alex Hasenfuss and Jack Rutter, who received an Anthea Bell Prize commendation for their creative translation of a German novel extract into English.

      Over 22,000 students participated in this competition for young translators in 2025, which is run by Oxford University’s Queens’ College. Almost 5,000 entries were judged by a panel of professional translators and academics. The judges commented on the very high standard of entries this year, and remarked that it was extremely hard to choose winners and commendations. This is a great achievement for Alex and Jack, whose translations struck the right balance between creativity and accuracy. Well done!

      The names of the 2025 Anthea Bell  Prize winners and commendees will be published on the Oxford University Queen’s College website in due course:  https://www.queens.ox.ac.uk/research-at-queens/translation-exchange/anthea-bell-prize/anthea-bell-prize-past-editions/

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    • Gosforth Academy author inspires German A Level students

      Published 23/06/25

      A Level German students were in for a treat when Christian Wheeldon, Gosforth Academy’s librarian and author of “Deep Distance: ​The Musical Life of Manuel Göttsching”, delivered a talk on “Krautrock Music” in its historical context. Mr Wheeldon inspired students with his passion and knowledge of the origins of this revolutionary psychedelic rock and electronic music after the Second Word War, and its influence on today’s music.

      The first cohort of German A-level students to learn about Mr Wheeldon’s book on Manuel Göttsching were so enthusiastic about his session that - for the third year running - students have been asking for Mr Wheeldon to come to enrich their German learning journey as well.

      German teacher Angelika Schneider commented: “Mr Wheeldon is not only an outstanding librarian who always ensures that Gosforth Academy’s library is stocked with interesting books to accompany and enhance our curriculum, but he is also a thought-provoking author and expert of a unique musical genre that is relevant to the German A-level course. His session is also a fantastic opportunity for our students to learn about the process involved in writing a book and a great inspiration for their own individual research projects which they will have to present at the end of their course.”

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    • Principal's Update - 23rd May 2025

      Published 23/05/25

      Please click below to view the Principal's update.

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    • Important information about ordering uniform

      Published 22/05/25

      As we prepare for the upcoming academic year, it's time to ensure that all students are ready with their school uniforms. Here’s everything you need to know about ordering your uniform and why it's crucial not to delay.

      Why Order Early?

      1. Avoid Last-Minute Rush: Ordering early means you won't be caught in the last-minute scramble. This ensures you have everything you need well before the first day of school. Our approved supplier, Michael Sehgal & Sons Ltd, recommends you place your order before the 1st of July.
      2. Guaranteed Availability: Popular sizes and items can sell out quickly. By ordering now, you guarantee that you get the right sizes and styles.
      3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your uniform is sorted gives you one less thing to worry about as the new school year approaches.

      Uniform items which do not include a school logo (badge) can be purchased from any retailer as long as they meet our uniform policy standards.

      All uniform items with a school logo (badge) and our school coats should be ordered from our approved supplier, Michael Seghal & Sons Ltd.

      You can visit their store located at: Unit 17 Airport, Industrial Estate, Kingston Park, Newcastle, NE3 2EF (near to Tesco), where you can also benefit from a measuring and fitting service. Or you can order online at michaelsehgal.co.uk/gosforth-academy. You can contact them on 0191 230 2320 or email at sales@michaelsehgal.co.uk.

      Our school and uniform supplier can also help with access to secondhand uniform items.

      Please contact us if you need any more information or assistance. We're here to help!

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    • Duke of Edinburgh Adventures Have Commenced

      Published 21/05/25

      Our first Duke of Edinburgh expedition of 2025 took place over the weekend of May 9th to 11th, involving a group of twenty-eight Year 12 students who camped, hiked, and learned navigation skills along and around Hadrian’s Wall. The group was accompanied by Mr. Wilkinson, Mrs. Blackburn, and Mrs. Pattison, and they were fortunate to enjoy fine, sunny weather throughout the entire weekend.

      This year, we have more students than ever participating in the Silver Award. Since our first expedition, additional practice expedition groups have taken place this month with Miss Cassidy, Mr. Peacock, and Mr. Catton.

      Once students complete their practice expeditions, they will need to undertake their assessed expeditions in the more challenging terrain of the Borrowdale Valley in the Lake District.

      Both staff and students are hoping for continued good weather. In the Lake District, students will be required to independently navigate their route from one camp to another, as well as camp and cook for themselves for three days.

      We are grateful to John and Caroline of Adventure Training North East, who organise and assess all our Silver Award expeditions.

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    • Principal's Update - 11th April 2025

      Published 11/04/25

      Please click below to view the Principal's update.

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    • Super Tutor

      Published 10/04/25

      Dylan Gibson, one of our Post 16 Tutors, was presented with a High Sheriff of Northumberland Award last month. Dylan, who received the award on behalf of his karate club, Kokoro Karate Club, lost his sight just over two years ago. Despite his sight loss, Dylan continues to run the karate club five nights a week in Cramlington and Blyth, alongside his sister, Gemma.

      This is the second year in a row that the club has received a High Sheriff Award. Last year, Dylan was also awarded the High Sheriff’s Special Recognition Award.

      This year’s award was presented by Lucia Bridgeman, the High Sheriff of Northumberland and television presenter Alexander Armstrong, who was born and raised in Rothbury.

      Kokoro Karate Club received the award in recognition of great and valuable services to the community. The award also recognises the appreciation of the residents and the people of Northumberland for the activities the club promotes and the contribution it makes to enhancing the life of the community.

      During his speech, Alexander Armstrong talked about the cultural heritage of Northumberland and the importance of building a strong community. He also praised all of the groups receiving awards for the enrichment activities they deliver and the opportunities they offer to young people.

      The High Sheriff said, ‘Kokoto Karate Club exemplifies what dedication and teamwork can create. I cannot find the words to express how impressed I was by Dylan and how he has coped with overcoming the loss of his sight with such fortitude. It would have been easy for him to turn his back on the sport that he participated in at such a high level but instead he has dedicated himself to encouraging others to take part in karate and sharing his passion for the sport.’

      These sentiments are ones we would echo, as Dylan has continued in his role as an exceptional Post 16 Tutor, supporting the students in his care with their academic and pastoral needs.

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    • Our school shines in latest performance tables

      Published 09/04/25

      We are delighted to announce that Gosforth Academy is featured in the Top 11 Secondary Schools in Tyne & Wear, based on the Government's updated preliminary performance tables. NewcastleWorld.com has reported the rankings and created a top 11 listing, which lists our school in third place.

      The newly released GCSE performance data, drawn from the Progress 8 Score for the 2023/2024 academic year, reflects our students' outstanding academic performance and overall development. This score assesses student achievements and learning progress relative to peers from similar primary schools across the country. A score above zero is labeled "positive," and a score exceeding 0.2 is recognised as "above average." Gosforth Academy proudly reports a Progress 8 score of 0.64, categorised as ‘well above average.’ This Progress Score reflects our aim to foster academic success and personal growth for all of our students.

      Our Principal, Preit Chahal, shared his pride and said, “We are thrilled to be recognised among the top state secondary schools in the region. Our unwavering focus on academic excellence, alongside our commitment to student wellbeing, creates an environment where every pupil can thrive.”

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    • Students show support for St Oswald' Hospice

      Published 07/04/25

      Community Spirit in Action!

      Our amazing students and staff recently organised a donation drive for St Oswald's Hospice, collecting clothing and books for this incredible local charity.

      Deputy Principal Peter Snowden shared his delight: "Seeing our students support the hospice, which truly makes a difference in people's lives, was heartwarming. Our appeal highlighted the hospice's vital work and provided fantastic opportunities for our Y11 Health and Social Care students to visit and learn from this community care setting."

      St Oswald's Hospice expressed their gratitude: "We are incredibly lucky to receive such amazing donations from the local community."

      Thank you to everyone who contributed!

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    • Gosforth Academy Achieves the National Quality in Careers Standard

      Published 04/04/25

      We are excited to announce that we have been recognised for our outstanding careers work and awarded the National Quality in Careers Standard by Ixion (part of the Shaw Trust Group). This prestigious accolade is given to schools that show a strong commitment to supporting students in making informed decisions about their futures.

      Preit Chahal, our Principal, commented, “We are dedicated to enhancing the opportunities and prospects for all our students. Understanding the importance of career preparation, we embarked on the journey to achieve the National Quality in Careers Standard. This recognition highlights our ongoing efforts to provide excellent careers education. We also want to give a big thanks to Li-Am Carter, CE, IAG Progression Manager, and Ian Limbrick, Progression Manager. Their hard work and dedication were crucial in helping us achieve this award.

      "From Year 8 onwards, we have a statutory duty to offer independent careers guidance to all students. The government also recommends that all schools work towards the National Quality in Careers Standard. Achieving this standard showcases our commitment to promoting quality careers education, which plays a crucial role in the overall success of our students and the school."

      Our school offers a variety of activities to introduce students to the world of work and help them make informed decisions about their post-school lives. These activities include work experience, careers conventions, guidance interviews, mock interviews, career speed dating, and more.

      Dr. Alexandra Thorp, Chief Executive Officer of our Trust, Gosforth Group, expressed, “We are absolutely thrilled that Gosforth Academy has achieved the National Quality in Careers Standard award. We recognise the important role schools play in helping students develop their knowledge, skills, and experience so they can go out into the world and achieve personal success. This standard has provided a flexible framework that enables Preit and his team to assess their careers work and ensure our students receive valuable advice, practical support, and experience to prepare them for the next stage of their education, employment, self-employment, or training.”

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    • Student Spirit Shines Bright on 'Black and White' Day

      Published 01/04/25

      On Friday, March 28th, our students came together to celebrate Newcastle United's recent cup victory while supporting a worthy cause. Our students and staff organised a 'black and white' day, encouraging students and staff to don the iconic colours of NUFC in a show of solidarity and school spirit.

      The event was a tremendous success, with over £1,265 raised for the Newcastle Food Bank. This impressive amount reflects our school community's generous spirit and commitment to helping those in need.

      Preit Chahal, Principal, commented, "We are thrilled to see our students and staff embrace the celebration of Newcastle United's historic trophy win. The black and white attire added to the festive atmosphere, making it a day to remember. Their enthusiasm and generosity in donating to Newcastle Food Bank captured the community spirit of supporting those in need."

      The day's festivities highlighted not only the excitement surrounding the football club’s success but also the importance of compassion and giving back. Our students' efforts not only celebrated local sports but also made a meaningful impact by providing support to families in the region facing food insecurity. 

      As we reflect on the day, it is clear that the spirit of unity and generosity will resonate long after the celebrations have concluded.

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