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.

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!

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.

On a misty evening on Thursday 20th March in Wallsend, a group of young lads showed great resilience and determination in replicating what Newcastle United recently achieved—becoming League Cup champions. Our Gosforth boys came up against a physically strong Walbottle side, and after just five minutes, they found themselves 1–0 down. It felt like the potential start of a parade of goals, but the Year 9 boys regrouped and pulled a goal back within minutes.

The momentum didn’t last long, however, as Walbottle quickly regained the lead. A bit battered and slightly bruised, the boys didn’t give up. A penalty decision went in our favour, and with nerves set aside, we levelled the score at 2-2 going into half-time.

Historically, the Year 9 Gosforth boys team performs better as games progress—their skill and togetherness outweigh their tiredness. During the break, all they needed was a simple reminder of that. Once they stepped back onto the pitch, they dominated and rightly went ahead for the first time, making it 3–2 to Gosforth.

Time stood still as both teams battled for control, with equal chances to level or extend the lead. Gosforth struck the crossbar twice, drawing sighs of relief from Walbottle fans and cheers of encouragement from the travelling Gosforth supporters.

Sport has an amazing ability to create moments that define character. When Walbottle scored to level the game with only minutes remaining, it was the grit, fortitude, and strength of the Gosforth players that kept hope alive. After a tense period of extra time, the match was to be decided by a penalty shootout.

As each player bravely stepped up and made the long walk to the spot, the remaining boys huddled together, filled with both excitement and nerves. Both Gosforth’s and Walbottle’s first penalties were converted. Gosforth then scored their second, while Walbottle’s shot was met by a brilliant save from our goalkeeper. Gosforth scored again, giving us a 3–1 lead. Walbottle missed their third attempt, leaving the Gosforth captain to step forward proudly, surrounded by the roars of his teammates. He calmly scored the final goal—one that symbolised all the hard work, passion, and dedication that had brought the team to this incredible moment.

Congratulations to all players!

Gosforth Academy is proud to spotlight Leo Turnbull, a remarkable Year 13 student whose journey in computer science has been nothing short of extraordinary. Rising to prominence during the lockdown of 2020/21, Leo’s innovative spirit led him to create a digital advent calendar app that not only garnered over a thousand downloads but also made a significant impact by reducing plastic waste and supporting the charity Mind. As he prepares for his A Level exams, Leo shares insights into his creative projects, commitment to community service, and aspirations of becoming a software engineer dedicated to solving everyday problems. His story is an inspiring testament to the power of passion, creativity, and a desire to make a difference.

Leo is an incredibly talented computer science student who first came to prominence in 2020/21 when in year 9.  

During the lockdown, Leo developed a digital advent calendar app as an alternative to buying a physical one. The app, which was downloaded over a thousand times, helped to reduce plastic waste and raised money for the charity Mind. The student received recognition from the then UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, commending his work in helping others in the community. 

Leo is in Year 13 and preparing for his forthcoming A Level exams five years later. The student took some time out from his studies to give an insight into his progress at Gosforth Academy...

How has your educational journey progressed since you first showed your creative passion in main school? 

In the last few years, my education has developed my creativity in a practical way. I really enjoy subjects that let me build and create, whether that is designing solutions through programming or learning to link sources in 3D design. 

A Levels have pushed me to think in a more fluid way, allowing me to experiment and find new approaches. Every challenge in 3D design or computer science has been a way to turn ideas into something that actually works. 

What initiatives have you undertaken outside of school that showcase your knowledge, skills, and passion? 

Since designing my advent calendar during Covid, I’ve continued to learn by working on websites for local high-street businesses like Corsaro and Yumlush to build their online presence. Each project has helped me to improve my skills while also contributing to the community. 

I also run a coding club at a local primary school each year, teaching children the basics of programming. It has been great for my own understanding, while also learning how to break down complex ideas for others. 

How do you see your career progressing following A Levels? 

I plan to do a software engineering degree apprenticeship, where I can get working experience while learning. This path makes the most sense for me, as I have always enjoyed practical tasks. Hopefully, this will set me up to work on software that helps people and has real impact. 

What do you see Leo Turnbull working as in 10 years' time? 

In 10 years, I see myself as a software engineer whose work addresses ordinary problems. This would allow me to apply my skills and genuinely improve people’s lives. I see every project as a chance to learn and make a positive impact - that's why I am drawn to this career! 

Leo revealed his latest project design for Yumlush, stating he was excited to see people's responses in the coming months! 

Deputy Principal for Curriculum, Mr Peter Snowdon, said: 
"I am delighted to acknowledge Leo for his exceptional hard work and determination in pursuing his passion for computer design. His dedication to his work is truly inspiring, and his innovative projects have consistently demonstrated his remarkable talent. Moreover, Leo's caring nature shines through in his efforts to improve the Gosforth community and support local businesses. His commitment to making a positive impact is a testament to his character. I have no doubt that he has a bright and successful future ahead of him." 

A few weeks ago, 20 Gosforth Academy students participated in a Spanish exchange programme with Colegio Romareda, our partner school in Zaragoza, Aragón. During the week-long stay, the Gosforth Academy students were hosted by the families of their Spanish counterparts, attended various school lessons, and engaged in several cultural activities. One highlight of the trip was a full-day excursion to Jaca in the Spanish Pyrenees, where students had the chance to go ice skating.

Our exchange programme offers an incredible opportunity for students to immerse themselves in Spanish culture and enhance their language skills rapidly.

We look forward to welcoming Colegio Romareda students to Gosforth at the end of March.