Lionheart News Issue 13 July

LI NHEART NEWS

Welcome

Dear parents and carers,

I am delighted to share the latest issue of Lionheart News, which highlights pupil achievements and opportunities from across a busy summer term, where collaboration among Lionheart learners has taken centre stage.

Pupils from across our schools have participated in a wide range of enrichment activities, with the real highlight for me coming in April, when I was blown away by the maturity and confidence of our young orators at Lionheart Speaks. It’s a real highlight in Lionheart’s calendar, enabling pupils – from primary to sixth form – to build on their varied learning from our bespoke Global Issues Curriculum and deliver speeches on topics close to their hearts.

I have also enjoyed seeing so many pupils excel in performing arts and sport, across our dance and athletics competitions. The enrichment continued into July with the launch of our first ever Lionheart Fringe Festival — a fun educational event celebrating the key themes of sustainability, inclusion, creativity and performance.

Of course, the summer term is also a time of academic focus for all, with many of our young people taking end of key stage exams too.

Term Dates

AUTUMN

Training day

4th September 2026

Term begins Monday 7th September 2026

Bank holiday Monday 31st August 2026

Training day Friday 25th September 2026

Half term break Monday 26th October to Friday 30th October 2026

Term ends Friday 18th December 2026

Whether SATs, GCSEs A-levels or equivalent qualifications, I am incredibly proud of pupils’ dedication and resilience and wish them every success as they receive their results in the coming weeks and move on to their next steps.

Alongside a focus on education, we have also continued to invest in our facilities and resources to ensure all pupils can thrive in enriching environments. A number of building projects have progressed this term, including an extension at Hallam Fields Primary School, the development of new school buildings at Mercia Academy and Newhall Junior School, and a school rebuilding project at The Castle Rock School.

I encourage you to read more about the varied updates from across Lionheart schools within this newsletter, giving you a more in-depth view of your child’s educational provision.

Thank you for your continued support and I wish you an enjoyable summer break.

CEO of Lionheart Educational Trust

21st August 2026

24th August 2026

Monday 31st August 2026

Friday 25th September 2026

Monday 19th October to Friday 23rd October 2026

Friday 18th December 2026

15th February to Friday 19th

2027

Term ends Thursday 25th March 2027

15th February to Friday 19th February 2027

19th March 2027 SUMMER TERM

Training day Monday 12th April 2027 Monday 5th April 2027

Bank holiday Monday 3rd May 2027 Monday 3rd May 2027

Half term break Monday 31st May to Friday 4th June 2027

Steel signing marks school rebuilding milestone

The Castle Rock School in Coalville celebrated an exciting milestone in June, marking the first steels to be erected as part of their new £37 million school redevelopment, through a steel signing ceremony.

With students joining school and Lionheart staff, together with construction partner GRAHAM and the Department for Education, the ceremony saw attendees add their signatures to one of the structural steel beams that will form part of the new school building, allowing them to leave a lasting mark.

Members of the wider community, including the area’s MP Amanda Hack, also attended the event, reflecting the importance of the redevelopment to the area.

After signing the steel, students, staff and guests watched as it was lifted into position, knowing that it will forever sit above the doorway to the first-floor corridor.

When construction is completed in 2028, students will benefit from further high quality learning spaces alongside improved sports facilities and outdoor areas, ensuring an outstanding educational environment.

Collaborative events

Cross-Trust collaborative events are an important part of pupils’ holistic development, offering opportunities to pursue interests, explore talents further, build confidence, compete in a supportive environment and make like-minded friends.

This term, collaborative opportunities included, a dance competition, public speaking showcase, athletics competition and a multi-purpose educational festival.

Lionheart dancers dazzle on stage

An abundance of creativity and confidence radiated from talented Lionheart pupils on International Dance Day, as pupils performed a stunning selection of self-choreographed routines, from contemporary to commercial and tap to classical dance.

The competition offered pupils from across all nine Lionheart secondary schools the opportunity to connect and compete with like-minded peers while showcasing their skills to a wider audience. The pupils’ skills dazzled the 200-strong crowd, with the different dance genres ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.

While the competitive element added excitement, it was the supportive atmosphere that stood out most. Students cheered one another on throughout, creating a positive environment where performers felt encouraged to express themselves to the full.

An expert panel of judges – including a representative from Leicester’s renowned Curve Theatre – faced a tough choice when deciding the winners.

L E T ’S DANC E

LIONHEART SCHOOLS DANCE COMPETITION

THE RESULTS

Juniors (Years 7 and 8)

1st – Belle, Evie, Isabella and Esmay (The Cedars Academy)

2nd – Amelia and Ruby (Humphrey Perkins School) and Jagoda and Naya (The Castle Rock School)

3rd – Sophie, Sonia, Thea, Matilda and Izzy (The Cedars Academy)

Inters (Years 9 and 10)

1st – Bella (Martin High School)

2nd – Fin (The Castle Rock School)

3rd – Lily (The Newbridge School) and Amelie (Martin High School)

Seniors (Years 11 – 13)

1st – Maycee (The Castle Rock School)

2nd – Charlie (The Cedars Academy) and Millie (The Castle Rock School)

3rd – Destiny (Mercia Academy)

Overall Winner

Akaal (Beauchamp College)

A festival of creativity, inclusion and opportunity

In early July, the very first Lionheart Fringe Festival took place, providing a meaningful opportunity to bring our Trust values to life — particularly around inclusion, sustainability, creativity and community.

The Cedars Academy field was transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space filled with colour and energy, as our young people from primary through to sixth form celebrated learning beyond the classroom.

From the outset in planning the festival, pupils played a central role in designing the event’s branding, with the winning concept proudly showcased across materials. This gave pupils a real sense of ownership and an early opportunity to develop and share their creative talents.

On the day itself, the site divided into themed zones, each offering hands-on experiences that encouraged pupils to explore important topics in engaging and memorable ways.

Environmental awareness was a key focus, with local organisations leading practical activities such as tree planting, creating bee bombs and discussing ways to care for our planet. A sustainable fashion show brought these ideas to life, helping pupils understand how everyday choices can make a difference.

The festival also created valuable space for conversations around equality, diversity and belonging. Pride and cultural awareness stalls encouraged pupils to explore different perspectives, engage with new ideas and celebrate individuality in a supportive environment. These experiences are central to helping our young people grow into confident, respectful young citizens.

Performance played a huge part in the day’s celebrations too. Pupils showcased their talents through music, dance and drama, including performances from Battle of the Bands winners, primary choirs and participants from Lionheart Speaks. For many, this was an opportunity to build confidence, perform in front of new audiences and feel pride in their achievements.

Alongside this, a range of activities — from sports to art exhibitions and fairground attractions — ensured there was something for everyone. Importantly, the festival created opportunities for pupils from different schools and age groups to join together, collaborate and form new connections across the Trust.

The Fringe Festival represented something bigger than a single event, though, it reflected Lionheart’s commitment to providing a broad, enriching education that goes beyond academic success. By creating experiences like this, we help pupils develop life skills, confidence and awareness of the world around them.

The success of the first Lionheart Fringe Festival is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when our schools work together. Most importantly, it highlights the positive impact we continue to have on every pupil — nurturing not only their learning, but their character, creativity and sense of belonging.

LIONHEART GAMES 2026

Arriving with energy and enthusiasm, students from all nine secondary schools entered Leicester’s athletics stadium ready to showcase their well-practiced skills at the annual Lionheart Games.

Throughout the gloriously sunny day, the young athletes took part in a wide range of individual and team track and field events. From long jump to shot put to the 100m sprint, the day showcased incredible sporting talent from across the schools. Competition was strong across every discipline, with many events closely contested and winners crowned by the narrowest of margins.

The high standards on display reflected the commitment and preparation that students had gained from lessons and extracurricular sport. Just as impressive was the determination and resilience shown by all competitors, who supported one another and embodied the spirit of the event

Lionheart Lead for PE, Rebecca Ardley, said:

“It was a jam-packed day of competition which was very enjoyable for all involved. The students approached the events with energy, enthusiasm and sportspersonship."

SCAN HERE TO WATCH OUR VIDEO

2026 Lionheart Games Winners

Junior Girls (Years 7 and 8)

Humphrey Perkins School

Junior Boys (Years 7 and 8)

Martin High School

Inter Girls (Years 9 and 10)

Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College

Inter Boys (Years 9 and 10)

The Cedars Academy

Sportspersonship Cup

Judgemeadow Community College

Pupils make their voices heard

A range of topical subjects were brought to life by pupils as they took to the stage to deliver impassioned speeches on issues close to their hearts.

To help prepare, pupils took part in workshops delivered by Talk the Talk to learn how to both plan, write and deliver impactful speeches. Following a rigorous in school selection process, chosen speakers then performed in front of a live audience at Leicester’s oldest theatre.

Pupils educated the audience on a wide range of thought-provoking topics – many of which stemmed from Lionheart's Global Issues Curriculum – including climate change, gender inequality, artificial intelligence and child poverty.

Their speeches not only demonstrated confidence and maturity, but also an impressive understanding of the world around them.

Bringing the event to a close, pupils united for an ensemble performance, reciting Maya Angelou’s ‘A Brave and Startling Truth.’ This moment was a wonderful example of collaboration across our Trust and reinforced the power of poetry and speaking with purpose.

Now in its fourth year, Lionheart Speaks continues to play an important role in developing pupils’ oracy skills, giving them the confidence to express their ideas, engage with important issues and make their voices heard.

Physical Education

More than just sport - building skills for life

Physical Education (PE) is often associated with fitness, competition and skill development, but its benefits extend far beyond the sports field. Lionheart’s PE curriculum is designed to enable pupils to develop essential life skills, while supporting wellbeing, and opening the door to a wide range of exciting career opportunities.

Career opportunities in sport

The sports industry is one of the largest and fastest-growing sectors worldwide, offering careers for people with a variety of interests and talents. While some pupils dream of becoming professional athletes, there are countless other opportunities available within the sports industry, including:

• Sports coaching and teaching

• Physiotherapy and sports rehabilitation

• Sports psychology

• Fitness and personal training

• Sports nutrition

• Sports journalism and media

• Sports marketing and event management

• Sports science and performance analysis

• Outdoor education and adventure activities

• Leisure centre and sports facility management

These careers combine a passion for sport with specialist knowledge and skills, creating rewarding pathways for future employment.

Employability Skills Developed Through PE

For those who are looking for a career in a different sector, our PE lessons help pupils develop many of the transferable skills that employers value highly. These skills can be applied in any career and are essential for success in the workplace.

Teamwork

While participating in team games or group activities, pupils learn how to communicate effectively, support others and work towards a common goal.

Leadership

PE provides opportunities to lead warm-ups, organise activities, captain teams and make decisions under pressure. These experiences help build confidence and responsibility.

Communication

Within our lessons, pupils develop their ability to listen, give instructions, provide feedback and work collaboratively with others. Clear, effective communication is essential in sport and a huge advantage in any workplace.

Resilience and problem solving

Learning to persevere and improve after mistakes is a valuable life skill. During games and physical challenges, pupils must think critically, adapt strategies and make quick decisions. These skills are highly sought after by employers.

Time Management and organisation

Being equipped for lessons, managing equipment, attending clubs and balancing sport with academic studies helps pupils develop strong organisational habits.

Self-discipline and motivation

Regular participation in physical activity encourages pupils to set goals, stay committed and take responsibility for their own progress.

The importance of PE for future success

PE at Lionheart is about much more than physical fitness. It helps pupils develop confidence, build positive relationships and gain skills that will benefit them throughout their education and future careers. By participating fully in PE lessons and extracurricular sport, pupils are investing not only in their health but also in their personal and professional development.

As we continue to celebrate sport within our school communities, we encourage all pupils to get involved, try new activities and recognise the valuable skills they are developing every time they step onto the field, court, track, or gym floor. The progress made through PE today can help shape successful careers and healthy lifestyles tomorrow.

School Roundup

Opportunity across academia and beyond

BEAUCHAMP CITY SIXTH FORM

A busy term at Beauchamp City Sixth Form, witnessed students embracing wide-ranging academic and enrichment opportunities to support both their studies and future aspirations.

More than 100 students visited Loughborough University to explore STEM sessions, gaining valuable insight into higher education and life beyond Sixth Form, with others demonstrating their academic ambition through participation in Biology, Chemistry and Economics Olympiads.

Beyond the classroom, students expressed their creativity by contributing to the design of a mural in Leicester to mark Clean Air Day; part of a wider initiative to promote healthier environments for local communities.

Elsewhere, an informative post-18 fair offered students the opportunity to explore their next steps after sixth form study, and next academic year’s new starters enjoyed a welcoming induction event, in preparation for their move to sixth form.

A colourful run for a great cause

BROCKS HILL PRIMARY SCHOOL

Brocks Hill Primary School hosted a vibrant Charity Bubble Colour Run in May, combining fitness and fundraising while uniting the wider school community by involving pupils, families and staff.

A wonderful buzz radiated from the school field as participants dashed through clouds of colourful powder and bubbles while negotiating an obstacle course on the school field.

Beyond the fun, the event also had a serious purpose; raising funds for Lifting Children’s Hope - a charity dedicated to supporting young people in need.

Thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of the Brocks Hill community, £4,088 was raised.

Powerful performance brings history to life

A moving and memorable performance was delivered by Year 12 students at the Coalville Theatre Festival in June, showcasing their talents in a powerful original piece of drama.

Performed at the historic Snibston Colliery site, the students’ work explored the life of a miner, drawing inspiration from Gary Clarke’s theatre show Coal and connecting directly to the rich local history of the area. The piece combined drama, dance and music to create a truly immersive experience.

Celebrating success

Mercia Academy held its very first celebration evening in late June, bringing together students, families and staff to recognise achievement from across the school.

With the presentation of more than 50 awards, students were praised for not only their effort and achievement across subject areas, but also for their commitment to doing the right thing.

Together, the school community celebrated a hugely positive year,

reflecting on the wide ranging talents and contributions of Mercia students.

After months of rehearsals, the group of five students captivated audiences, with many describing the performance as deeply moving. Theatre professionals also praised the students for their creativity and stagecraft, while festival organisers commended their ability to bring local stories to life.

The experience not only strengthened the students’ performance skills but also helped build meaningful links with the local community.

The event received incredibly positive feedback from families, and marks the beginning of what promises to become a valued tradition, celebrating annual achievements and recognising the positive culture that continues to grow across the school community.

A day celebrating nature

BROOM LEYS PRIMARY SCHOOL

All pupils at Broom Leys Primary School enjoyed a magnificent nature-themed day in May, as they celebrated Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday.

Focusing on wildlife and conservation, green-fingered pupils took part in a range of hands-on outdoor activities, including bug hunts, pond dipping, making bird feeders and creating habitats for frogs and newts.

Older pupils extended the learning through nature inspired writing, while the school community worked together to enhance the site’s outdoor spaces.

Led by Eco Warriors and the School Council, pupils helped plant fruit, vegetables and sunflowers, while also beginning the creation of a new wildflower area named Attenborough Meadow; a wonderful tribute to Sir David.

The day concluded with an assembly to celebrate the importance of caring for the environment and inspire pupils to protect the natural world, plus an exciting mention of their activities on BBC’s The One Show!

Local MP sparks insightful discussion

Riverside Primary School welcomed their local MP, Peter Bedford, into school, giving Year 6 pupils an exciting opportunity to learn more about government and community life.

During a special assembly, pupils took part in a lively questionand-answer session, quizzing Peter on a variety of topics, including the improvement of local facilities, supporting young people in the area and addressing issues such as roads and transport.

The enthusiastic pupils also showed a keen interest interested in the day-to-day role of an MP and the different career pathways available within the sector.

Peter’s visit was a memorable experience for pupils, providing them with a valuable opportunity to learn more about the processes that govern the country, and have their voices heard on local issues.

Rice Bowl champions

Highcliffe Primary School celebrated an outstanding sporting achievement this term, after their Year 6 football team were crowned winners of the prestigious Rice Bowl, a competition with a proud history across Leicestershire and Rutland schools.

After progressing through a series of challenging fixtures, the team earned their place in the final at Leicester City’s King Power Stadium, where they delivered a superb performance to register a 3-2 victory and secure the title.

Pupils demonstrated exceptional teamwork and determination throughout the tournament, playing some sensational football and representing the school with pride on a big stage.

The victory – Highcliffe’s first in the competition – also marked a fantastic moment for the wider school community, with staff, pupils and families watching the match and celebrating the team’s success on the night.

Inspiring the builders of tomorrow

With their new school extension rapidly taking shape, enthusiastic pupils at Hallam Fields Primary enjoyed exploring the building site as part of a special behind-the-scenes tour.

Wearing their very own protective equipment –including mini high-vis jackets, helmets and gloves – to ensure important health and safety compliance, pupils were guided around the site by construction firm Willmott Dixon, who provided a brilliant insight into the building process.

Not only did pupils get a sneak

peek at the internal structure of the extension, but they were also taken to a higher vantage point, where they could see first-hand the full scale of the project and the exciting facilities that will soon be available to them.

Throughout the visit, pupils were eager to learn more, asking questions about both the building work and jobs within the industry.

Experiencing the construction process up close sparked great excitement and maybe even inspired some future builders!

Students lead community clean‑up effort

JUDGEMEADOW COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Taking pride in their local area, Year 7 students at Judgemeadow Community College took to the streets of Evington to lead a community litter-picking initiative.

Working alongside local councillor Zuffar Huq and members of the community, pupils spent an afternoon tidying the streets and nearby park, demonstrating fantastic teamwork and a strong sense of responsibility.

Their efforts were warmly received by local residents, who praised the students’ enthusiasm and commitment.

Zuffar Huq also commended the group, saying, “It’s truly inspiring to see young people taking such pride in their community.”

Building on the success of the day, students have already begun organising further clean-up activities, highlighting their desire to make a positive difference beyond the school gate.

Students give a warm welcome to newcomers

Humphrey Perkins’ students offered a very warm welcome to the next cohort of Year 7s at a special afternoon tea event, helping to support a smooth and confident transition into secondary school for the new starters.

While the new Year 7s and their families enjoyed tea and scones, talented students across year groups gave both music and dance performances, offering a glimpse of the extracurricular opportunities that await Year 7 in August!

The event supported the new pupils to spend time in a relaxed and friendly setting, alongside their families, ahead of the formal transition days.

It was a valuable opportunity for parents and carers to meet staff and ask questions, while for new pupils it helped build confidence and familiarity with their future surroundings.

Count me in with the orchestra!

Year 4 pupils at Newhall Junior School enjoyed a truly memorable musical experience as they performed alongside a professional orchestra at Derby Arena.

The opportunity followed a year of learning the clarinet through the Derbyshire Music Partnership, with pupils developing their skills and confidence in preparation for the event. Their hard work paid off as they joined children from schools across the county to perform a selection of specially arranged pieces.

The concert featured a variety of well-known film music, including Wallace & Gromit and Pirates of the Caribbean, with moments for the audience to join in and share in the excitement.

The event was a fantastic celebration of music and teamwork, giving pupils the chance to showcase their progress in a truly inspiring setting.

A special experience that will be remembered for years to come!

Healthy smiles with DentalAid

It was smiles all round at Greenstone Primary School, as early years pupils enjoyed an informative yet fun visit from DentalAid, learning how to take care of their teeth and build healthy habits for life.

The session introduced children to the different types of teeth and their functions, while also exploring how often and how long they should brush, alongside the importance of making healthy food choices to prevent cavities.

Learning was brought to life through play, with pupils enthusiastically practising brushing techniques and taking on the role of dentists within their classroom activities. They applied their new knowledge with confidence and enthusiasm.

Each child proudly headed home after school with a workbook and their own toothbrush and toothpaste, helping to reinforce these important messages beyond school.

Creative partnership supports wellbeing

Students took part in a new collaboration this term, joining forces with Curve Theatre and the Randal Foundation through the Shine programme; an initiative designed to support young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Working alongside theatre practitioners, therapists and educators, students explored how creative activities can help build resilience and encourage self-reflection.

Weekly sessions introduced pupils to a range of techniques, including mask-making, where they expressed different aspects of their identity, and ‘star breathing,’ a simple method to help manage stress and regulate emotions.

The sessions – which encouraged students to engage openly with the activities and share thoughts with their peers - were incredibly useful, providing students with long-lasting tools to develop their confidence and support wellbeing.

Beyond the classroom experiences

A wealth of enrichment opportunities have given students at The Newbridge School the chance to thrive beyond the classroom this term.

A standout highlight was a vibrant Culture Day, which gave students the opportunity to celebrate their unique identities through dress, engaging activities and curriculum learning, all helping to promote inclusivity across the school community.

The summer term also saw trips take place across a variety of subject areas. Mathematics students attended an event at the Leicester City's King Power Stadium, while geographers explored the land of the Peak District and Citizenship students travelled to the Houses of Parliament.

Elsewhere, theatre trips and sporting opportunities – including county athletics competitions – further enriched students’ experiences, alongside visits to Loughborough University, outdoor pursuit centres and Bradgate Park.

A busy and exciting period for Newbridge students, with even more opportunities on the horizon for next year!

Students demonstrate focus and ambition

It has been a successful period for students at The Pioneers’ Centre, having shown impressive commitment across their learning, with a real highlight shown by Year 11s during their GCSE examinations, earning high praise from staff.

Building on this positive momentum, across the summer term, the centre also began developing a new careers-focused programme. Working in partnership with The Difference charity and the Youth Sport Trust, the initiative will help students recognise and showcase key skills such as teamwork, communication and perseverance.

The programme will play an important role in preparing students for their next steps, allowing them to move on to further education with confidence.

This term’s achievements are a fantastic reflection of the centre’s supportive and aspirational environment, ensuring every learner can overcome barriers to succeed.

A visit to the homeground of football legends

MARTIN HIGH SCHOOL

A group of students enjoyed an unforgettable trip to Old Trafford – home of Manchester United – this term, taking a behind-the-scenes tour of one of the world’s most famous football stadiums.

The trip gave students a unique insight into life at Manchester United, as they explored areas usually reserved for players and staff. Highlights included visits to the home changing room, the players’ tunnel, the directors’ seating area, the players’ lounge and the press conference room.

Students also had the opportunity to see some of the club’s most iconic features, including statues celebrating legendary figures from Manchester United’s history. Throughout the day, they learned more about the heritage of the club and the many memorable moments that have shaped its story.

The visit provided a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of a Premier League stadium and brought football history to life for the students.

A splash of colour for charity

The Cedars Academy’s school field was awash with vibrant rainbow colours this term, as Year 7 students took on the Colour Run challenge to raise money for charity, Lifting Children’s Hope (LCH).

Enthusiastic students completed laps of the course while trying to evade - or in many cases, run through - bursts of brightly coloured powder, hurled by cunningly positioned staff members lying in wait around the field.

Students did have the chance to get their own back, though, when staff members took on the course themselves, with students revelling in the opportunity to launch coloured paint at their teachers.

Thanks to the efforts of the students and the generous support of the Cedars’ community, the school raised over £900. This money will be used to support the crucial work of LCH to improve opportunities for young people.

Students represent UK on the international stage

Proud to be the only UK school invited to participate, students from Beauchamp College represented the UK at the AI Robot International Competition in China, this term.

Thanks to the links built through the school’s strong Mandarin teaching provision, the students joined hundreds of young people from across the world to take part in competitions, demonstrations and masterclasses focused on AI and emerging technologies.

Several students acted as flag bearers for the opening ceremony too, representing not only the UK but other countries due to the wonderful diversity of Beauchamp’s student cohort.

A mix of competitive activities saw students involved in quadruped robots and real-world AI applications in transport and environmental sustainability. Throughout the visit, students demonstrated confidence, curiosity and collaboration with their international peers.

In July, through the presentation of employee awards – known as ‘Heart Awards’ - we recognised the many ways Lionheart staff go above and beyond to support pupils.

Across the academic year, close to 400 nominations were submitted, celebrating staff members from across all Trust schools.

With support from an independent judging panel, who had the difficult task of deciding on those deserving of an award, we were proud to crown the 2026 winners at a ceremony which brought together colleagues from across the Trust.

For her calm and encouraging manner in ensuring pupils feel valued, motivated and excited to learn, while also leading the Creative Department during change.

For her tailored support and ELSA provision for pupils with additional needs, creating a nurturing environment through a truly pupil-centred approach.

Greenstone Primary School Whole Staff Team

For establishing a brand-new school amidst unexpected challenges, yet creating a nurturing setting where pupils and families feel supported and valued.

The Pioneers’ Centre

For their tireless commitment to supporting vulnerable pupils overcome barriers to learning, through tailored support and genuine care, resulting in positive, life-changing outcomes for young people.

For delivering a culturally rich Mandarin curriculum and creating international opportunities that inspire curiosity, enabling pupils to excel on a global stage.

Charlotte Gamble, Class Teacher and English Lead, Broom Leys Primary School

For her development of high-quality reading projects, adopted across Trust schools, enhancing consistency in teaching and inspiring a love of reading among pupils.

Rebecca Twombley, EYFS Class Teacher, Hallam Fields Primary School

For building strong relationships within the early years community and working closely with families to create a nurturing environment that fosters belonging.

Ruth Heatley, Head of Design Technology, The Newbridge School

For expanding curriculum opportunities, including 3D design and external community exhibitions, while creating an encouraging environment among colleagues.

Investing in our Trust schools

Our expert IT and Estates teams have continued their crucial work across Lionheart schools this term, ensuring pupils can access fantastic resources in outstanding learning environments.

Here are some of the key projects:

Expansion works at Brocks Hill Primary School

An exciting expansion project began at Brocks Hill Primary School this term, marking the first phase of a development that will enable the school to grow to three classes per year group in response to rising local demand.

Early works this term have focused on improving site access, including the creation of a new car park and pedestrian gates, laying the groundwork for future development of the classroom block.

Government rebuilding project at The Castle Rock School

Momentum has continued at The Castle Rock School in Coalville, where the new £37 million development is progressing well. Once complete, the two-storey building will provide further modern facilities, including specialist classrooms, science laboratories, IT suites and a large performance hall.

As part of this Department for Education School Rebuilding Project, a new all-weather artificial sports pitch was handed over to the school in May, representing a fantastic asset for not only the school, but also the wider community.

Scheduled for completion in 2028, students are looking forward to the enhanced learning experiences these new facilities will bring.

Hallam Fields Primary School extension

Strong progress has been made across the school extension at Hallam Fields Primary School in Birstall, with both internal learning spaces and outdoor areas developing, including a further multi use play area.

Delivered in partnership with Willmott Dixon and Leicestershire County Council, the project will benefit current pupils and those in years to come.

New educational campus for Mercia Academy and Newhall Junior School

Activity has progressed on the new school buildings for Mercia Academy and Newhall Junior School in south Derbyshire, with important groundwork completed and preparations underway for further building work.

Once complete in the 2027-28 academic year, the campus redevelopment - with both schools benefiting from adjoining sites - will deliver fantastic facilities and improved outdoor spaces to enhance the learning experience for pupils across Newhall, Swadlincote.

Other improvements

Alongside the major projects, a number of other estates and IT upgrades took place across the summer term, including:

Estates

• Classroom refresh and redecoration work at Brocks Hill Primary School and Hallam Fields Primary School.

• Significant building upgrades at The Castle Rock School, including a new roof to the Bletchley Building.

• Major site enhancements at The Cedars Academy and Highcliffe Primary School, including upgraded heating systems, new cabling and improved flooring and decoration.

• Ongoing refurbishment work at Riverside Primary School, with classroom upgrades completed and further improvements planned across the summer.

IT:

• A complete network infrastructure upgrade at The Newbridge School .

• AV upgrades at Judgemeadow Community College, with new 75" interactive touch screens installed in classrooms.

• Expansion of the 1:1 Chromebook programme across multiple secondary schools and year groups

• A major data centre refresh at Beauchamp College.

• Upgrades to many teaching and student computers at Martin High School and Mercia Academy

• Installation of a new projector and screen in the hall at Broom Leys Primary School.

• iPads refresh across a number of primary and secondary schools, ensuring students benefit from up-to-date devices.

INTHEMEDIA

The actions and achievements of Lionheart pupils and staff caught the eye of the media this term, with multiple stories showcased in local and national outlets.

QA Education

Primary school leader’s teaching insights shared in trade press

Sim Street – Assistant Headteacher at Brocks Hill Primary School –featured in QA Education this term, sharing insights on helping pupils think beyond gender stereotypes. The article highlighted the importance of proactive teaching approaches that build critical thinking and challenge assumptions at an early age.

BBC Radio Leicester/The One Show

Pupils

celebrated Attenborough milestone

Broom Leys Primary School hit the headlines as they celebrated Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday. School leaders spoke on BBC Radio Leicester, outlining plans for a nature-themed day, while the school also appeared on BBC’s The One Show, highlighting its wildlife initiatives and community celebrations.

Leicestershire Matters

Biodiversity net gain efforts celebrated

Hallam Fields Primary School featured in Leicestershire Matters this term, highlighting the planting of a young oak tree grown from a Bradgate Park acorn as part of the school building expansion project’s biodiversity net gain efforts. The article highlighted how the planting linked pupils to local heritage, alongside the school’s ongoing investment in its building and outdoor learning environment.

Teacher’s

fundraising efforts an inspiration to his students

Jasdeep Singh – SENCO and science teacher at Judgemeadow Community College – featured in the Leicester Mercury this term. Inspired by his daughter’s battle with leukaemia, he spoke about his preparations for the London Marathon and his desire to be a positive role model for his students.

Viral school cook’s meal successes celebrated

Faye Hughes — a cook at The Cedars Academy — was highlighted on both BBC Radio Leicester and BBC News, sharing insight into how she provides popular and healthy school meals for students, and lifting the lid on her viral social media videos!

Under 16s respond to social media ban

Beauchamp College students spoke to BBC East Midlands Today, sharing their views on planned restrictions to social media use for under-16s. They discussed the government announcement and offered opinion around the importance of parental guidance in supporting young people’s access online.

Secondary school open evenings

If your child is due to start secondary school in August 2027, you must apply for their place by 31st October 2026.

After the summer break, schools will be hosting open evenings, where prospective students and their parents/carers can find out more before making a decision.

To book, visit: www.lionhearttrust.org.uk/opendays

Judgemeadow Community College, Evington

Thursday 1st October 2026

Sir Jonathan North Girls’ College, Knighton Thursday 10th September 2026

Beauchamp College, Oadby Wednesday 9th September 2026

The Newbridge School, Coalville Monday 21st September 2026

The Castle Rock School, Coalville Thursday 17th September 2026

The Cedars Academy, Birstall Thursday 17th September 2026

Humphrey Perkins School, Barrow-upon-Soar Thursday 10th September 2026

Mercia Academy, Newhall, Swadlincote Wednesday 23rd September 2026

Martin High School, Anstey Monday 14th September 2026

Our schools are phone‑free

You may have seen recent Government announcements confirming that mobile phones will be banned during the school day from the start of the new academic year. Lionheart schools have operated as phone-free environments for some time; however, this change means schools are now under a legal duty to ensure that mobile phones are not seen, heard or used during the school day.

Our mobile-free schools support a calm, focused learning environment and help promote positive wellbeing by giving young people valuable phone-free time each day.

Ahead of the new academic year we’d like to remind you of our expectations. While students may bring a phone to school if needed for their journey (for example, to access a digital bus pass), phones must remain:

• Switched off and silent

• Securely stored in the student's bag

• Out of sight and unused throughout the school day, including during break and lunchtime

• In their bag until they have left the school site

We will be reminding students of this when they return after the summer break and appreciate the support of parents and carers in reinforcing this message.

We need people in our own communities to challenge and inspire our schools. MAKE A DIFFERENCE