Sixth Form students gain work experience at Glastonbury

Inside: King James vs McAlpine Football, Pupil Voice, Jamaica Difference Project, First Aid Training, Carnegie Book Competition, Photography with Joe Cornish and much more.

King James I Academy magazine

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2014

WelcomeWelcome to the latest issue of Vision

magazine and the last for this academic year.

I had the pleasure of going out on a field trip with a number of students, earlier this week, and to work with them as they developed their portfolio of photographs for their GCSE and A Level Photography courses. The weather was perfect, or at least the weather had been perfect the day before! On the day we went to Osmotherley and Saltburn it poured down! Nevertheless the students were a credit to the Academy and responded well to the challenge which was presented to them by the world famous photographer Joe Cornish, as we stood in his gallery.

The trip proved, once again, that determination and the ability to turn a problem into an opportunity are important life skills. The quality of their final work is testament to the enthusiasm, hard work and skills which were apparent on the day, and which our students consistently demonstrate.

Summer is finally here and we are all ready to embrace the many opportunities which students and staff alike are leading. From planning for a trip to New York to our ice-cream “Flavour Wars” competition, from Campfire Storytelling to Sports Day, from our International Summer School to students volunteering at Glastonbury Festival, we have a busy few weeks ahead.

I hope you get as much pleasure from taking part in the many activities and events which are on offer as I will, and I would like to wish you all a safe and happy Summer Holiday when it arrives.

Best wishes.

Nick Grieveson, Headteacher

www.kingjames1academy.com

Last term, 40 of our Sixth Form students successfullycompleted First Aid Training in an initiative organised by

Dawn Hindmarch, our Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator. This recognised qualification is highly valued by both universities and potential employers.

On the cover: Year 13 student, Beth Maybury, who is part of the Glastonbury team.

First Aid Training

In the training sessions, students learned how to assess and treat minor injuries including open wounds and burns, alongside potentially life-saving CPR techniques.

Following the training, which we provided free for our Sixth Formers, students received a certificate as evidence of

achieving this valuable new addition to their CV. Many commented that they now feel more confident and able to deal with emergencies should they arise. We would like to thank Help! First Aid Training for delivering the sessions.

Year 12 students, Samantha Stockill and Jack Lowes learn the latest techniques for CPR.Photograph by Daniel Burton, Year 12.

As a reward for the success of last term’s Back to the 80’s gig at Bishop Auckland Town Hall, Sixth Form

music students are going to the Gala Theatre to see From the Jam, which features bass player, Bruce Foxton from legendary 1977 punk/mod band, The Jam.

Pro-gig experience for music students

After learning about the many behind-the-scenes roles available in the live music industry and experiencing live performance for themselves, this concert will allow students to see how a professional crew operates, whilst seeing one of the most iconic bass players in the music industry in action.

Exploding into the music industry in 1977, The Jam had a reputation for incendiary live performances and From the Jam is known for recreating this stage atmosphere. It will be an inspiring evening for our musicians.

King James Sixth Form, led by Mr Shearer, pictured right, offers diverse opportunities for students to learn about their chosen

subjects and to learn about life. Not only can students choose from a wide variety of courses, they also work on realistic projects, visit universities, learn from practitioners and have opportunities to travel. These experiences help to build confidence and prepare our young people for university, training or employment.

This term, thanks to a new initiative from Mr Longstaff, our Director of Learning for Business Studies, a group of Year 13 students will be working at the

iconic Glastonbury Festival. This opportunity will allow them to gain confidence, independence and working experience for their CV in a truly unique environment.

Students will join the vast Glastonbury workforce that ensures the safety and enjoyment of the 100,000 festival-goers that attend

each year. They will be working in a variety of roles throughout the

weekend, but they will also have the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of the most famous

festival in the world and enjoy performances

from the host of international artists.

This year the diverse musical line up includes

Metallica, Ed Sheeran, Lily Allen,

Paulo Nutini, Kasabian, Lana Del Ray, Dolly Parton,

Robert Plant, Kaiser Chiefs and Fatboy Slim.

Work experience at Glastonbury Festival

Sixth Form Life

The trip marks both the end of exams for the group of ten students and of their time at King James, as in September they will all begin the next chapter in their lives at university.

Year 13 student, Beth Maybury, who is featured on our front cover said, “I have had some fantastic experiences at King James but I know that Glastonbury will be amazing. In September, I will be attending Leeds University to study a Degree in Events Management so this experience is particularly relevant to me. I have never been to a festival before so feel very lucky to have this opportunity.”

“I am really excited about moving to Leeds but sad to be leaving King James too, however I have some great memories and working at Glastonbury will end my secondary school life on a really positive note.”

Extreme Sports Day

Sixth Form Induction DayAt Induction Day on Tuesday 15th July you can find out about the range of courses on offer, discuss your options and get advice on careers and

university progression.

Aim Higher in LeedsOur next ‘Aim Higher’ residential visit for Year 12 students will take us to Leeds for two days. Students will be able to visit both the University of Leeds and Leeds Metropolitan and get a taste of what it would be like to study and live in the city. Application forms will be available soon for those who would like to be considered for a place.

Join our Sixth Form Sports Day event with the Royal Marines on Wednesday 16th July and enjoy an end of year celebration and barbeque.

Key datesA Level results: Thursday 14 AugustGCSE results: Thursday 21 AugustSixth Form enrolment: Friday 29 August

Carnegie Book CompetitionThe CILIP Carnegie Medal is the UK’s most prestigious children’s book award - it is the

gold standard in children’s literature. Each year, students across the UK decide which book should receive the award by reading those nominated and voting for their favourite.

Last term, ten members of our reading group, who call themselves The Reading Rebels, joined forces with Bishop Auckland Town Hall Library to take part in the Carnegie project. The initiative has been organised by Year 12 student, Daniel Wheatley, our Academy librarian, with support from Mrs Wright and Miss Howard.

The students, who are in Years 7, 8 and 9, have been visiting the library each week to read and discuss the nominated books and review them on the official blog. The competiton offers a fantastic opportunity for students to read some of the best new literature, whilst developing their skills in debate and critical analysis.

Linking books to theatre and film

The most recent session, which was held at the end of last term, took place in our own library. The Reading Rebels were joined by Sharon Carrick, one of the Librarians who has been working with our students during the Carnegie reading visits. We would like to thank Bishop Auckland Town Hall Library for their support.

Review by Megann Griffiths, Year 9

War Horse at Sunderland Empire Theatre was a very

moving and heart felt drama based on Michael Morpurgo’s book of the same name, adapted into a theatre performance by Nick Stafford.

Everyone who went to see the play thoroughly enjoyed it, although, in a debate afterwards, there were mixed opinions about which was better, the movie, the play or the book. Overall, we decided that the theatre adaptation was better, as the stage sets were excellent and it was full of heart breaking twists and turns that left you in awe.

The story is told from Joey, the horse’s point of view, which makes you sympathetic towards horses and how they were treated in the war, and his owner, a young boy named Albert.

The story begins when Albert’s drunken father outbids his brother for a horse (Joey) and in doing this, he uses the money that is needed to pay the mortgage on the family farm. Joey isn’t a farm horse and can’t earn his keep so Albert’s parents decide that they need to sell him but Albert is so determined to keep him, he teaches Joey to plough the fields.

Joey is later sold to the war effort for £100 and when Albert finds out, he runs off to join the army, determined to be reunited with Joey. Tragic events follow but in the end, the pair are reunited and Albert rides Joey back to Devon from France.

The play was heart felt and dramatic and it didn’t scrimp on the scenes of war, which were very powerful but necessary. War Horse has lived up to its name and placed itself firmly in everyone’s hearts. I absolutely loved this version because it has a different way of making you feel; it tugs at your heart strings and makes you feel sympathetic to Joey. I would love to see it again.

Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 have recently enjoyed a trip to Sunderland Empire to see a theatre production of

Michael Morpurgo’s novel, War Horse.

The trip was organised by English Teacher, Mrs Wright and Learning Mentor, Miss Howard to show students that many films and theatre productions begin life as a book. War Horse is an excellent example of this; originally produced as a novel, it has been successfully adapted for both the screen and stage.

By seeing the play, students were able to compare the adaptation to the original book and discuss whether they felt that the stage production was true to the author’s original story. This enhances their understanding of literature and improves debating skills, which benefits them in all subjects.

Bishop Auckland Town Hall Librarian, Sharon Carrick joined the ‘Reading Rebels’ in our Academy library for the most recent session. Also pictured are Daniel Wheatley and Miss Howard.

Asda Ready for Work ProjectTen of our Year 11 students have recently spent the day

shadowing store colleagues at Asda as part of a project looking at employability skills. The project was organised by Mrs Dent, our Director of Career Pathways and Progression Tutor, Ms Goddard.

The session, which focused on opportunities to develop skills and progress within a large company from an unqualified entry level, was the culmination of a series of visits which have been taking place since the beginning of the academic year. The group were given an excellent overview of the host of job roles and departments that are needed to ensure the smooth running of a national store, from warehouse logistics and security to finance and customer services.

They also heard the inspiring career progression story of Morris Goldsborough, who was Store Manager at the time; Mr Goldsborough joined Asda as a trolley collector at age 16 and worked his way up with the company to eventually become the manager at Bishop Auckland. We would like to thank Asda for their continuing support throughout this project.

Our Extreme Group members at King James I Academy had the privilege of meeting

Paralympic Fencer, Craig McCann on Monday 19th of May as part of Sky Sports’ Living for Sport – Youth Sport Trust.

The programme focuses on inspiring young people with disabilities, to overcome all obstacles and to achieve their ambitions. Craig’s visit was welcomed by the students ahead of their forthcoming Fact Finding trip to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Craig, who represented Great Britain at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London, organised team building activities at King James to help develop the skills and character of the six group members, who had been working on their sports and leisure agenda for some time.

The King James Extreme Group works in collaboration with Sky Sports and Investing in Children, with aspirations to change the face of sport for children and young people with disabilities. It was an excellent session for our young people; Mr McCann’s passionate words left the students inspired and ready to ‘break barriers’.

The new vision for

In January, we welcomed Kim O’Connor to King James as Director for Learning for PE and Sport and Joanne Short as Assistant Director for the department.

This dynamic team has a simple plan; combined with our forthcoming new sports facilities, they intend to establish King James as a centre for sporting excellence.

It goes without saying that their plan involves offering a varied and balanced curriculum through outstanding teaching. They will provide students with opportunities to gain new skills and knowledge through both traditional and more unusual activities, and make sure they gain qualifications that are suited to their needs whether that be practical, leadership or officiating.

The main aim is to inspire students to want to continue with sport outside of school by gaining extra qualifications,

pursuing a sporting career, taking part in competitions or simply by enjoying sport for social interaction; all of these will promote a healthy lifestyle for our young people.

With our new building on the way, King James will be able to offer the best facilities and sporting opportunities in the area. We already have links with different clubs so that students have pathways to continue development in their preferred activity, however the team has established further working partnerships to increase

opportunites for students to discover something that is of interest to them, and therefore sustainable throughout life.

The department is currently working with a number of King James sports teams that will represent us at local and national tournaments, and aim to provide as many opportunities as possible for our athletes to participate in different competitions and develop a healthy competitive edge. Healthy competition will be promoted through inter-house tournaments during lessons,

which will develop key skills such as fair play and sportsmanship. The introduction of Sports Captains in Year 10 will further support this; captains will be excellent role models, taking responsibility for leading teams for inter-house competitions. Following the success of our residential trips to Howtown and Watermillock, where students enjoyed rock climbing, hiking, high wire and gorge walking among other things, the team will also be offering similar learning experiences for students across all key stages.

Joanne Short, left and Kim O’Connor oversee one of the lunchtime football clubs on our 4G pitch.

Photograph by Jack Lowes, Year 12.

www.king-www.king-

Our Year 7 and 8 netball teams have recently

played in their first competitive tournament, the South Durham Schools Netball League.

Although both teams did extremely well, and enjoyed some wins, they were not among the final placings, however both Mrs Lamb and Miss Howard, who run the netball teams at King James, were impressed by the high level of sportsmanship shown by the girls.

“The girls were a credit to King James,” said Mrs Lamb, who is a regular player and coach herself. “They all played with unlimited enthusiasm and demonstrated excellent teamworking. Their strategy skills are improving all the time and I am confident that success will come in the future.”

Year 9 student, Jess Lamb, who plays at County level, was the umpire for the teams following her recent successful completion of the C Award for Umpiring. Congratulations to Jess on her achievement.

Netball teams take part in first major tournament

Breaking Barriers with ParalympianReport and photography by Jack Lowes, Year 12

Get ready for Sports DayThis year, while our building work is underway, we

have arranged to use the neighbouring facilities of Bishop Auckland Cricket Club for our Academy Sports Day on 16th July.

Many of our outdoor PE lessons are already being held at the Cricket Club, except for those on our 4G pitch of course; in light of this a temporary gate and path have been created to ensure that students can be safely accompanied to the facilities on foot, directly from the academy grounds. We look forward to seeing the usual array of creative banners, flags, hats, costumes and face painting, as students come out in force to support their House and their peers in a variety of sporting events.

Easing Primary School Transition

Our PE and Sport department has been further developing links with local primary schools in order to promote a

smooth transition from primary to secondary education.

Participation in sporting activities builds confidence and encourages teamworking and fair play, which translates into excellent core values for any school environment. The department will be offering a diverse programme of free coaching and teaching sessions, alongside a calendar of sports festivals, to all primary schools in the area, so that pupils will already have core knowledge when they enter King James.

MGFA Team victory

Congratulations to our Year 7/8 MGFA Football Team, who claimed a 4-2 victory in a match against Longfield at the

end of last half term. The win was particularly impressive as the team pulled together to recover from 2-0 down.

Goal scorers were Josh Robinson, Steven Dawson and Callum Thomson, who scored two goals. ‘Man of the Match’ titles went to Louis Edmunds and Josh Walton. Well done.

Pupil VoiceYear 7 students discuss their first year

Innovation in PerformanceOur Performing Arts Department, under the creative direction

of Miss Howard, is known for innovative performances. Last term was no exception, as A-Level students in Year 13 performed two exciting and colourful pieces as part of their coursework.

Students were able to choose and design the style and performance space of their piece and both groups excelled in terms of delivery and success.

One group performed Ubu Roi, a French play based on Theatre of the Absurd. The group performed the play in a musical theatre style with outrageous singing and energetic dance routines. The performance oozed fun and enjoyment and resulted in a highly entertaining, A* grade piece. Performers were Chloe Foster, Kara Munro, Liam Gill, Tyler Hutchinson, Robyn Simpson, Tyler Thompson, Jordan Tones, Whitney Henderson and St Johns students, Jessica Brogan, Thomas Flood and Annie Raine.

Charlotte Byrne-Lowes, Reece Hirst, Sarah Hope, Bethany Maybury, Sophie Willis and Poppy Coates (pictured below) performed an interpretation of Alice in Wonderland outside on a spiral staircase around their beloved tree, named Kazza. The performance was crazy and chaotic, and showed how a performance can push the boundaries of audience engagement and how it can defy even gale force winds!

Some of the Alice in Wonderland performers with Kazza!

Year 11 Leavers News

Uniform Recycling

Each year, with the support of our parents, we operate a successful uniform recycling scheme from our ‘pre-loved’ storeroom in the Student Support Office.

To support this scheme, please send any unwanted items, including black school

shoes, white trainers, blazers, ties, shirts, trousers, jumpers, skirts and PE kit in good condition to Mrs Bainbridge or Mrs Stewart. Thank you.

Ben Morton

“Highlights for me this year were when I received the ‘Rising Star Award’ at Prize Evening in December and when I found out that I had got a place on the BATH trip to Ireland in the summer holidays. I can’t wait to go.”

“PE is my favourite lesson because I am really sporty and I like being part of a team. I am a member of the MGFA Year 7/8 Team and enjoy the training we get and taking part in the tournaments. Being part of BATH is great too.”

“I’m looking forward to the new school, especially the sports facilities and pitches, but am glad that Middle School is staying. I wouldn’t want them to change the outside at all as I like the fact that it is so old, but I think it will be good to modernise the inside. I hope they keep the old hall the same.”

Jade Pattinson

“My favourite thing this year has been going to see the theatre production of War Horse. I had read the book and seen the film but the stage show is definitely the best. The sounds, smells and lighting are so good, you almost feel that you are in the war. It has helped me to improve in English too.”

“I love PE because it is fun and I like being active. I enjoy football, dodgeball and basketball and I really like lessons on the 4G pitch - it’s good to run on and it never gets muddy!”

“The new building looks really big so I am looking forward to the extra space. It will be good to have a larger dinner hall and I am particularly looking forward to using the new gym and changing rooms. I like the courtyard area too; it will be somewhere nice to have lunch in the summer.”

Emma Golightly

“The best thing this year has been all the new friends I have made; it is really easy to make friends here, not just in Year 7 but in other year groups too. I have also had my artwork displayed quite a few times and this makes me feel really proud.”

“Music and Art are my favourite lessons because I like studying different genres of music and being creative. I have learned to play guitar and piano since I started King James and go to Guitar Club every Tuesday lunchtime.”

“I can’t wait to see the old dinner hall when it’s converted. It is going to be an Art Centre and Gallery so there will be lots of space to display student work on the walls. I am pleased that Middle School is staying; I like the fact that it will look historic outside but will be modern and fresh inside.”

Three Year 7’s, three simple questions. What has been the highlight for you this year? What is your favourite lesson? What do you think of the new build?

As the academic year draws to a close, our Year 11’s are looking forward to the end of exams and the beginning

of the next stage in their lives.

We are all looking forward to the Prom, but first we have the Year 11 Leaver’s Barbeque to look forward to. This will take place on Friday 13 June from 1.00pm in the Main Hall. The Commemorative Leaver’s Book for 2014, Leaver’s DVD and King James Hoodie will be available for collection at this event. Quantities for all products are limited and priority will be given to those who have ordered and paid in advance.

The book, priced at £3.00, was designed, photographed and produced by BTEC Sixth Form Print Media students as part of

their coursework and printed at Linton’s Printers to ensure a professional product.

Likewise, the DVD, which will be available for £2.00, was filmed, and

edited by BTEC Sixth Form Film Media students. Hoodies

are available by pre-order only. Please see Mrs Stead for details.

Cricket competition

Well done to our Year 7/8 Cricket Team, who travelled

to Sedgefield Cricket Club with Mr Bushby last term to take part in the Sainsbury’s Level 3 Wear Valley Cricket Competition.

Matthew Walker-Smith, Josh Robinson, Joe Wilson, Kai Watson, Kienan Watson, Louis Edmunds, James Bundock, William Ward, Louis Jones and Jak Coglan played extremely well at the event and with a level of sportsmanship to be proud of. They are a credit to King James.

Students meet PhotographerJoe Cornish

www.kingjames1academy.com

British photographer and author, Joe Cornish is one of the most famous commercial photographers in the world. Known for his

dramatic landscapes, he is responsible for the photography in more than 30 travel books, has worked as an expedition photographer in Alaska and regularly works freelance for the National Trust.

The artist’s passion for natural landscapes and his ability to capture the beauty of nature’s wilderness has led to his work becoming symbolic with environmental protection. In 2006, Amateur Photographer honoured him with their annual Power of Photography Award, and in 2008 he was made an honorary Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society.

Students have been investigating landscape photography as part of their coursework and looking at the amazing work of Joe Cornish for inspiration. Mrs Mulryan, who runs and teaches our Photography courses at King James was therefore understandably delighted when he agreed to meet our students and take part in an informal Q&A session.

A full day of photography-related activities, which included meeting Mr Cornish at his studio, was organised for 25 students in Years 10 and 12 during the last week of half-term. The day began with a visit to Cod Beck Reservoir, near Osmotherley, where students were able to practice the composition theory and technical skills they have been learning in class.

This area of outstanding beauty allowed students to photograph a range of diverse landscapes including lake views and woodland.

This was followed by a visit to the Joe Cornish Gallery in Northallerton, which holds a permanent exhibition of the artist’s work, as well as his print archive. Here students met Mr Cornish for a fascinating talk on how and why he chose photography as a career, his favourite locations and his tips for achieving unique and evocative landscape images.

The day culminated with a visit to Saltburn, where a friendly competition began between two teams of students, led by Art and Photography Teacher, Mrs Mulryan and Mr Grieveson, our Head Teacher. The teams became rivals in a challenge to see who could take the best photographs of the sea, beach, cliffs, pier and fishing boats. This coastal environment offered dramatic contrast in terms of texture, shape and form, and the results were outstanding.

Students photographs will be exhibited in school soon and available to view on our website. We are most grateful to Mr Cornish for his support.

Art and Photography students with Mrs Mulryan, Mr Grieveson, Mrs Barlow and professional photographer, Joe Cornish (front)

Artists of the Half Term

Wierd and wonderful in RS!

Weird and wonderful noises were heard from the Religious Studies department recently. As part of their introduction

to Judaism, Year 7 pupils composed raps, songs or poems to describe Jewish beliefs about God.

Compositions ranged from Acrostic Poems through to a Rap/Opera cross-over and a version of the Macarena!

“They had a lot of fun and the outcomes were excellent!” commented Mr Middleton, who has made the offerings of those brave enough to record them available to download. “Students will find that the best ones will stick in their heads and be useful in further lessons – some of them I can’t get out of my head!”

£1,000 raised for Esmie

Following a series of fundraising events in school, we have reached

our goal to raise £1,000 to help to fund hospital visits for Esmie Lowes from High Etherley.

Four year old Esmie requires regular hospital visits around the country for treatment for a severe kidney disease. Key Stage 3 students in Years 7, 8 and 9 raised the money through a variety

of events and enterprise initiatives including selling pens, pencils and Valentines Day roses, sponsored silences and a raffle with prizes donated by staff. The cheque was presented to Chris Read, Chief Executive of A Smile For A Child charity, pictured above.

Mr Longstaff, Assistant Head Teacher and Key Stage 3 Coordinator said, “Helping others is an academy ethos which we continually promote across all year groups; this results in mature young people with great empathy. Our students really took Esmie to their hearts; they have worked hard to reach their target and we are extremely proud of their achievement.”

The following students have been nominated by teachers in our Art Department to receive the Artist of the Half-term

Award for their dedication, creativity and excellent artwork.

We would like to congratulate Phoebe Mason, Year 7, Jack Thompson, Year 8, Brandon

Cornish, Year 9, Brad Coglan, Year 10, Lauren Simpson, Year 11, Amelia

Stott, Year 12 and Megan Baker, Year 13.

www.kingjames1academy.com

We have had considerable past success in the

Future Business Magnates (FBM) competition and this year looks set to be another cause for celebration. Our team of Year 8 students, who are working with Business Studies teacher, Mrs Lobb, are currently at the top of the league table with an impressive 20 point lead following four challenges.

The ingenious business concept developed by our team this year is an app aimed at reducing food waste, aptly called Waste Wise.

The last challenge involved developing a marketing and communications campaign to promote this innovative product; students attended a marketing workshop where they learned about the importance of marketing and the variety of techniques used by industry professionals to ensure the success of new products. Following this, the team submitted a comprehensive marketing report, which earned them 127 points out of a possible 130; it was this excellent achievement that placed our team at the top of the table.

With only two challenges to go, one of which involves delivering a business presentation to a panel of esteemed

judges at Thorn Lighting at Spennymoor, we are hopeful of a good result. The competition concludes on July 4th with an awards dinner at the Excel Centre in Newton Aycliffe where the winner is

announced.

Top of the League!

,

Uni trip for Years 9 and 10

Mr Shearer’s next ‘Aim Higher’ trip to Northumbria University will take place on 2 July for students

in Years 9 and 10.

These trips, which take place throughout the year to various universities for students in Years 9-13, are designed to raise aspirations and build independence, whilst giving students a taste of university life. They often help students to decide what they might like to study at university and are hugely successful in helping students to focus on their future.

A very special game of football took place at King James last month, as Sixth Form students and

teachers took on Sir Robert McAlpine’s builders.

With Sir Robert McAlpine currently building our new school building, this match served to bring the Academy even closer to the company that is building it’s future. The game started out evenly contested, until the King James squad took a one goal lead. From then on, things didn’t go too well for Sir Robert McAlpine’s men, with King James tripling their lead in no time. Attacking football was the order of the day, as an additional two goals were added to the lead, making the score 5-0 at the half. A completely overrun McAlpine side needed to pull themselves together for the second half if they were to have a chance at an unlikely comeback.

Shortly after the interval, McAlpine got a headed goal back, but it wasn’t enough to stop the KJ team. They scored a sixth and a seventh, and while McAlpine scored two of their own, the teachers simply kept on going. It soon became utter dominance, with everyone seemingly getting a goal. At 11-3, McAlpine were awarded a penalty, but the goal was nothing more than a conciliation. Two more goals completed the rout, as the final score was 13-4.

A wonderful game of end to end, attacking football, it was obvious that everyone involved enjoyed it tremendously. With the work both of these teams put into the Academy every week, it was nice to have a break and bond over a good game of football, no matter how one sided the scoreline.

King James teacher-led squad claim 13-4 victory

Teams unite before the Friday evening match.

Report by Craig Richardson, Year 12

Match photography by Jack Lowes, Year 12

www.kingjames1academy.com

Newcastle United player returns to King JamesCallum Williams is living the dream, a dream held by many a young North-

East school student and teacher alike. The 17 year old, former King James student is now pulling on the black and white stripes of Newcastle United.

On a return visit to King James, he came and spoke to his old Drama teacher, Mr Elliott and his RE teacher and Football Manager, Mr Middleton, about how his life had changed over the past year, how he had got to this point and his hopes for the future.

From starting in the playground through PE lessons, King James and District teams, Sunderland, Middlesbrough and the famous Wallsend Boys Club (where Peter Beardsley, Steve Bruce, Fraser Forster and Alan Shearer started their trade), Callum has always been motivated by, in his words, “the want to better myself and improve.”

He was certainly dedicated throughout his school career, often seen training with his dad before and after school, and playing for various clubs, still with an eye on his academic studies. Callum left King James with some good GCSEs and with the knowledge that continuing education is important. He continues working towards qualifications, as part of being at the NUFC’s Academy.

His first season away started slowly following injury, but picked up soon after Christmas when Peter Beardsley took over the Under-21 squad.

“When I came back, I was just training, getting 15-20 minutes for the 18s,” Callum told us, “and when Dave Watson (the Under 18s Manager) gave out the team and I saw I wasn’t in it, I thought that meant another week out. But then he called me over and told me to be ready to play for the 21s. I was shocked! On the Monday I was playing Centre Back and I played for the second half of the season. It’s been a whirlwind but an unbelievable experience.”

This is certainly “Roy of the Rovers” stuff! Playing against the likes of Manchester City to winning the Northumbria County Cup, it has

been quite a couple of months. However it was that appearance at St James’ Park that we all remember. “When it happened I was just over the moon, said Callum. “I couldn’t believe I’d set up two goals for my team at St James’ Park and won a Cup; I couldn’t sleep that night. My life has changed so much and I’m really enjoying it. I am proof that big things can happen if you believe in yourself.”

Wise words from a grounded and modest young man who we are all proud of. One day I’m sure we’ll see him grace the Premier League; when that time comes his dreams will come true and his mantra will be realised. “You have to keep on practicing and working hard and then things will happen.” Something we can all take on board and act upon.

Quick Questions

Toughest Opponent? “Lopez of Manchester City, he’s very tricky. You have to be on your toes against him.”

Footballing Heroes? “Carlos Puyol and Matts Hummel. I try to play like them.”

Highlight so far? “There have been plenty but I’d say making my appearance atSt James’ Park.”

Aims for next season? “Cement my place in the 21s and hopefully travel with the 1st team. I would love to get a game but just getting the experience is good.”

Ultimate Dream? “To play for Newcastle and win trophies with them. All I really want to do is play for Newcastle, it’s every boys dream. To put on that shirt and walk out in front of 52,000 people would be a dream come true.”

Callum Williams, pictured here with his former Drama Teacher, Mr Elliott.

Jamaica Difference

Thank you for all the support and interest we received for

the Jamaica Difference Project 2014. As a group we wanted to share with you our evaluation and hopes for the future of the project.

After seven years of sustaining the project we are always looking for ways to keep it going. If you have any fundraising ideas, or any way you would like to support Jamaica Difference, please contact Mr Elliott or Miss Howard at King James. To see our daily blogs and photographs from the project, visit the King James website and go to the BATH page.

BATH’s Jamaica Difference Project is difficult to put into words.

Extraordinary, inspirational, remarkable, worthwhile, emotional; all true, but not enough.

During this year’s visit to Jamaica, students helped to build toilet and washroom facilities for a primary school that had none; they had fundraised relentlessly to raise the money to do it; they worked in Jamaican schools teaching drama, dance and sport; they challenged themselves both phsically and emotionally. In September, a group of Jamaican young people will be able to visit our school and our community thanks to the dedication and support of BATH members, staff and students at King James, and members of our wider community, who fundraise throughout the year and believe wholeheartedly in the project.

In Jamaica, Desland said, “How can you achieve that sort of relationship with someone 2,000 miles away?” The reply from Stephen Elliott is this, “It just works; we made a promise and we kept it. I like that sense of integrity. We have created something people want to be a part of.”

How would you sum up your experience? “Keep it going and let the dance evolve. BATH is spontaneous

and something will just happen.” Liam

“Carry on and bring the Jamaicans over here. It benefits too many people to stop.” Leon

“Don’t give up. Our intention was to say goodbye, I’m glad we didn’t and hope we never have to.” Meghan

“I hope that others can have the experiences that I’ve had.” Robyn

“Enjoy the Jamaicans when they are here, make the most of the opportunity, that’s the first step to continuation.” Bethany

“I hope that more people from the school get the chance to go. It’s been such a boost to my confidence; it has changed everything.” Caitlin

Tyler Thompson“I loved how natural it was at Montego Bay Boys & Girls Club, it didn’t feel like two separate groups, it felt like one.”

Tyler Hutchinson“I feel proud to have helped out in a way that will leave a lasting effect.”

Conner Richardson“I miss teaching in schools. I liked the warmth they had, it was special.”

Carl Robinson“I liked how welcoming the boys and girls club were; it shows how we take things for granted.”

Lauren Marley“It’s something I wish I could relive over and over. It’s too important to forget. The schools made me stronger.”

Daniel Walker“I learned and experienced something new every day. I was proud of the group, I was proud of myself.”

Poppy Coates“Proud to be part of the friendships, the experience and the family.”

Zak Hutchinson“You feel a sense of purpose and overall sense of wellbeing and hopefulness.”

Whitney Henderson“I feel grateful and proud. I remember the feeling of being at the schools and seeing their faces for the first time.”

Meghan Heslop“It’s a once in a lifetime experience that I’ll never get back. I never thought I could do this at 16 but I did!”

Bethany Henderson“It changes your perception of everything; now I see the ungratefulness of people who are around me and it makes me frustrated.”

It’s my happy thought. I think about the inspirational people I met and smile.

Isha Shakir

It’s easy to say it can’t end; we all have to play our part. I want people to

understand the entirety of the project, the work, the time. BATH is unorthodox, spontaneous, generous, chaotic, loving, passionate, and emotional. It makes a

difference. It works. Conner Mc

It made you realise what you have at home and the opportunities that we take

for granted. Cara Longstaff

Events coming upDates to be announced for:July Jamaican Dance ShowSeptember Jamaica Night, open to all students and parents. NOT TO BE MISSED... ‘THE DAD’October 10th and 11th 2014A performance starring Mr Elliott, Miss Howard and members of BATH at Bishop Auckland Town Hall. Tickets available soon.

Dreams for the future

Diary DatesYear 11 Leavers’ Barbeque

Year 5 Curriculum week begins

Year 7 Parents’ Evening 6.00pm

Year 9 & 10 ‘Aim Higher’ trip to

Northumbria University

A.C.E Day

Year 11 Works Experience

Year 6 Induction Days

Year 6 Open Evening

Academy Sports Day

A.C.E Activities

Parents’ Forum 5.00pm

Academy closes for summer

Academy re-opens

This magazine is available in large print on request. Call 01388 603 388 for your copy.Designed and produced by King James I Academy, South Church Road, Bishop Auckland, County Durham DL14 7JZ.

www.kingjames1academy.com

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7-11 July

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18 July

1 Sept

King James IAcademy

Exclaimermagazine

Looking forward to...

Year 5 Curriculum week23-27 June

This term, we will be welcoming Year 5 pupils from a number of local primary schools into our Academy for a week of

educational activities with an international theme.

Visiting pupils will be enjoying a variety of sessions with our teachers and Sixth Form students, all selected by their Headteacher; and will enjoy at least one special session during their visit, such as ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’, ‘Sporting Tricksters’ or ‘Nature up Close’.

Year 6 Induction programme

Year 6 pupils who will be joining King James in September can look forward to an extensive programme of transition

activities this half-term. The programme is specifically designed to make sure that on their first day, students have lots of friends and feel completely at home. Introducing... ‘Building Empires’.

Students will attend King James in July for a range of exciting activities with a Roman theme. From chariot races to mosaic making and designing a computer-generated roman town, it will be a fun-packed experience. The fun will continue at our Transition Summer Programme, which will include plenty of in-school team building activities, a FREE residential activity holiday and a FREE holiday to Spain for our lucky competition winners!

NEW!