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.

Congratulations to our Post 16 students who managed to attain that all important grade 4 or above in English, after their re-sit examination in November.

Almost 60% of our resit cohort, which included students who joined us from other schools for Sixth Form, as well as our own former Year 11 students, managed to secure a standard pass grade. Five students were even awarded a grade 5 or strong pass, which meant they had improved by two grades on their summer result.

We were delighted that, on average, our re-sit English Language students increased their original grade by almost a grade on average – no mean feat while studying for this alongside Level 3 courses!

Our Year 9 Options Evening, held on 21st January, aimed to introduce students to various career paths and guide them in making informed decisions about their future after school. This was a well attended and successful evening.

Below, we have pulled together the key guidance information and links to subject areas and potential career options which you and your child may find useful. 

For more information, please visit the Gosforth Academy Careers page on our website or search for the Careers page on Frog.

For students who are still feeling uncertain, support is available in The Progression Hub (Room 156) from Mrs. Carter and Mr. Limbrick, our Careers Leaders. Additionally, assistance is provided by the Careers & Guidance Team at Newcastle City Council.

Gosforth Academy has been named one of the Top 200 Sports Schools nationally based on its performance in several sporting competitions. The top 200 chart celebrates the best of the best, with state schools battling it out with their independent rivals on the same list. And the list rates performance above everything else, with results compiled from more than 20 sports and more than 120 events. Schools usually have to reach the later stages of at least two, three or four national competitions to make the list.

This year, Gosforth Academy was ranked 80th in the country for sports performance, which is down to students excelling across a range of sports, including netball, football, basketball, athletics, badminton, squash and Rugby Sevens. This position puts us in the top 2% of schools nationally!

Congratulations must go to all the students who have represented teams over the years, and, of course, a huge thanks to all colleagues who run teams and give up their time so generously. We look forward to another successful year of sport culminating in our end of year Sports Awards Evening on Wednesday 2nd July 2025.

More information on the awards and the list can be found below:

Top 200 sports schools of 2023 - School Sport Magazine