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  • From Lynn to lions for former WNAT student

    Published 02/09/26

    Some very big cats were among the patients, when a former WNAT student honed her veterinary skills at the Kruger National Park in South Africa.

    Izzy King, who has just finished the third year of a five-year degree at Harper and Keele Veterinary School, completed a two-week placement at the world-famous reserve as part of a conservation project.

    “I did the Kruger Vet Project in South Africa, which is one of the Worldwide Vets projects,” she explained.

    “I found the poisons course lecture focusing on vultures and their role in the prevention of disease spread interesting, and enjoyed treating some of Africa’s iconic wildlife – rhino, hippo, lion, buffalo, and wildebeest.”

    Overseen by some of the country’s leading wildlife vets, the programme covered how to tranquilise animals on the ground and from helicopter; capture and release species; monitor anaesthesia; and apply treatments in the field. There were also discussions on conservation, wildlife medicine, animal management, and veterinary procedures.

    Miss King attended Springwood High School in King’s Lynn from 2016 to 2023. The 21-year-old credits the school – and Headteacher Andy Johnson – with preparing her for life as a vet.

    She continued: “My biggest challenge was going to South Africa on my own. I would never have done it without going on the Challenges Abroad trips with Springwood Sixth Form to Cambodia in Year 12 and Peru in Year 13.

    “Springwood gave me countless opportunities to develop beyond the classroom, from taking part in Challenges Abroad and completing my Duke of Edinburgh Award, to working as a Midday Supervisory Assistant, supporting a child with learning difficulties.

    “One memory that has always stayed with me is from Year 8. Mr Johnson asked a small group of us to research a university degree that interested us, explore the entry requirements, and write an essay about it. I chose astrophysics.

    “At the end of the task, he left us with a piece of advice: ‘Don’t just open doors for yourself – knock them down so they can never be closed again.’ It was a simple message, but one that encouraged me to aim high.”

    She added: “In addition, I have been part of Girlguiding UK since the age of four, and am now a qualified leader. Looking back, it has been one of the most valuable extracurricular activities I have been involved in.

    “My advice to any sixth former aiming for a competitive career like veterinary medicine is to look beyond your grades. Work experience, volunteering, extracurricular activities, and showing genuine commitment, does not only strengthen your application, but helps you grow as a person, build confidence, and develop valuable skills.

    “Take every opportunity you can, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to go the extra mile – it will be worth it.”

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  • WNAT student becomes Youth Parliament Member

    Published 02/09/26

    A student from a WNAT school has been inaugurated as a member of the Norfolk Youth Parliament, at a ceremony which took place at County Hall.

    Although Tristan Chen-Bouskill, who is a sixth former at Springwood High School, was elected as Youth Parliament Member for West Norfolk and Breckland earlier in the year, and had already taken up his post, local elections had delayed the formal inauguration until the end of July.

    “In essence, the role allows me to act as the voice for the young people of the West Norfolk and Brecklands area,” he said.

    “The other MYPs and I have the job of collecting the opinions, concerns, demands, and needs of our constituencies, and then to relay our findings, along with our own proposed solutions, to those who have the power to action them, such as MPs, local councillors, and government officials.”

    Tristan is one of four current members of the Youth Parliament, and the third ever to be elected from Springwood. The post is for a two-year term, and the MYPs are supported by four Deputy Members.

    He continued: “My decision to stand came from a desire to create real, positive change in my community, and to gain that power not only through giving myself a political voice, but, more importantly, becoming the voice of the young people in the West Norfolk and Brecklands area.

    “I know how it is to feel powerless in the grand scheme of things – however, the opportunity to engage with the Youth Parliament was a reminder that, no matter how we feel, the chance to make a difference is always within reach.”

    The inauguration was held in the Council Chamber, where Deputy Chairman Cllr Mike Westman, and the Cabinet Member for Children, Families, and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities), Wendy Atkinson, were on hand to welcome the newcomers.

    Tristan added: “Now that I have been elected, my job will be to continue to collect the opinions of my constituents and to feed these back to the Youth Parliament. Personally, at the forefront of my mind going into this two-year journey, is the health of young people.

    “I’d love to ensure that in schools, students of all ages are provided with healthier, and still delicious, alternatives to the large amounts of ultra-processed and generally unhealthy canteen food that we have all grown to know.

    “Of course, though, healthy eating should go hand in hand with exercise – I’d also love to help the young people of Norfolk to become more active.

    “I believe that achievements like these are a great thing to either be part of or to see, as a young person from Norfolk. I think it’s important that, as a collective, we remember that these types of opportunities do exist, that young people can have a say in the world of politics, and that anyone can reach for these chances, as long as they set their minds to it.”

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  • ‘I’ve loved my time here’: West Norfolk students reflect on their school journeys

    Published 20/08/26

    As students across West Norfolk Academies Trust celebrate their GCSE results, many are also taking the opportunity to reflect on their time at their schools and the people, experiences and opportunities that have helped shape them.

    While Results Day is naturally about grades and the next steps in education, the comments from students across Springwood High School, Smithdon High School, Marshland High School and St Clement’s High School reveal something broader about their secondary school experience.

    From supportive teachers and friendships to sport, performing arts and opportunities to discover new interests, students have described their schools as places where they have grown in confidence, developed new passions and prepared themselves for the future.

    For many, the relationships they have built with teachers have been one of the most important parts of their school experience.

    At Springwood High School, Grace Dickson, who achieved an outstanding 11 Grade 9s, one Grade 7 and one A, said she had particularly valued the supportive environment at the school. “I really like Springwood and the teachers here – it’s really supportive,” she said.

    Her fellow high achiever Hagar Abdelgawad, who achieved nine Grade 9s, two Grade 8s and one D*, is now preparing to stay at Springwood Sixth Form as she works towards her ambition of studying Medicine.

    “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Springwood and I’m happy to be staying here for two more years,” she said.

    For Antoni Ostasz, who achieved five Grade 9s, four Grade 8s, two Grade 7s, one Grade 6 and one Grade A, the support available at Springwood has helped him feel confident about the next stage of his education.

    He will now study Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry at A-Level, with ambitions to go on to Oxbridge and pursue a career linked to Physics or engineering.

    “I think the support's amazing here for getting through GCSEs and getting onto further education with apprenticeships, colleges, or the sixth form, as well as just looking for careers in general – it’s been great,” he said.

    At Smithdon High School, students also spoke warmly about the experiences they had enjoyed during their time at the school.

    Freya Whiting, one of the school’s top achievers, is moving on to Sixth Form to study A-Levels, with ambitions of working in Sports Science. She said her time at Smithdon had been about much more than what happened in the classroom.

    “My time at Smithdon has been amazing,” she said. “All the lessons are put together so well, and I’ve enjoyed all the extracurricular sports stuff outside of school. I’ll miss the teachers. It’s been a really good experience.”

    For Freya, the combination of academic lessons, extracurricular opportunities and relationships with staff had made her school experience a memorable one.

    George Ince, who achieved one Grade 9, four Grade 8s, one Grade 7, two Grade 6s and two Grade 5s, was surprised by how well he had performed when he opened his results.

    “I feel really good about the results,” he said. “I didn’t think they’d be this good. Although I’d worked really hard, I didn’t think I did this well.”

    He was particularly proud of achieving a Grade 9 in Chemistry.

    For Amelie Witley, her time at Smithdon has helped her identify the direction she wants to take in the future. After achieving two Grade 9s, three Grade 7s, four Grade 6s and one Grade 5, she will now study Art, Photography and Media Studies at A-Level.

    She is hoping eventually to work in animation and film. “I did so much better than I expected,” she said. “I’m absolutely gobsmacked, to be honest. I was terrified when I came in this morning. I don't even know what to say – I’m just so shocked.”

    But it was her future ambition that really demonstrated how her interests had developed during her time at school. “I'd really like to go into animation and film. I'd love to be able to create my own films one day.”

    For Oscar Tidd, who is also planning to continue his studies at Sixth Form, Smithdon helped him discover which subjects genuinely interested him. “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Smithdon,” he said. “It’s been nice. The subjects are available to help you discover what you really enjoy.”

    Oscar now plans to study History and Media Studies, with the ambition of eventually going into documentary film-making.

    For Geo Anness, meanwhile, school helped uncover a passion for performing.

    Geo, who achieved one Grade 9, two Grade 8s, two Grade 7s, two Grade 6s and three Grade 5s, has starred in a number of school productions and hopes to pursue a career in Musical Theatre.

    “I just love being on stage,” she said. “I love singing and acting, and I am working right now on my dance skills, as I started a bit later with that. I love Musical Theatre, but I’d love to do screen as well. It just depends.”

    She also highlighted the impact of the teachers who had supported her. “Springwood has been a positive experience, and I’m definitely going to miss the teachers – they’ve really helped me to get where I am.”

    For Daisy May, one of Smithdon’s Head Girl team, her memories of the school are similarly positive. “I’ve loved it at Smithdon – it’s been brilliant,” she said.

    Meanwhile, Miles Harris, who has already started a two-year apprenticeship as an apprentice architect technician with Vertex Architects, is taking the skills and experiences he gained at Smithdon directly into the workplace.

    “I’ve got an apprenticeship from Vertex Architects,” he explained. “I’m an apprentice architect technician, so I’m just drawing up houses and helping them.”

    At Marshland High School, students also reflected on the support they had received and the way their experiences had helped them overcome challenges and develop confidence.

    Emelia Cook achieved an exceptional ten Grade 9s, one Grade 8 and a B in Additional Maths, and will now study Biology, Chemistry and Maths at Springwood Sixth Form with ambitions of becoming a doctor.

    But one of the results she was proudest of was in History, a subject she had initially struggled with. “History was the result that surprised me the most because when I started it, I just felt like I couldn’t do it,” she said.

    After achieving a six in her mocks, Emelia worked hard to improve, taking advantage of the additional support available to her. “I really had to work hard for it, and took up every offer the school offered me, including tutoring. I’m so proud of myself.”

    Her experience demonstrates how a student's school journey can be about more than simply achieving the highest possible grade. It can also be about identifying a weakness, accepting help, putting in the work and ultimately proving to yourself what you are capable of.

    For Nikolay Nedyalkov, who achieved two Grade 9s, six Grade 8s, two Grade 7s, a Grade 6 and a B in Additional Maths, the key lesson from his GCSE experience was to believe in himself. “I did my best and that’s all I asked of myself,” he said. “I worked really hard to get these results and I believed in myself.”

    Nikolay was particularly proud of his Science results and will now study Computer Science, Maths, Further Maths and Physics at Springwood Sixth Form.

    He was also keen to recognise the role played by his teachers. “I’ve loved my time here at Marshland. The teachers here have always been very helpful, they are experts in their fields, and I couldn’t have asked for more, and looking at my results, I’m very happy.”

    Eaden Nunnerley, who achieved seven Grade 9s, two Grade 8s and one Grade 7, described her time at Marshland as “an amazing journey”.

    “I’ve had a brilliant time at Marshland,” she said. “It’s been an amazing journey. I’ve really loved this school and I’m really going to miss it here, especially the brilliant teachers.”

    Eaden will now move on to Springwood Sixth Form to study Biology, Chemistry and Maths, with hopes of pursuing a career in Medicine.

    Her comments capture one of the bittersweet elements of Results Day: the excitement of moving on to the next stage of life alongside the realisation that a familiar part of life is coming to an end.

    At St Clement’s High School, students similarly spoke about the support they had received from staff and the sense of community they had experienced.

    Imogen Garrett, one of the school's top achievers, achieved three Grade 9s, three Grade 8s, two Grade 7s and two Grade 6s. She will now move on to Springwood Sixth Form to study History, Politics and Spanish, with ambitions of eventually attending Oxbridge.

    Despite her excellent results, Imogen admitted that she had been nervous before opening her envelope. “I was really scared coming to collect my results today, I didn’t know how I was going to do,” she said.

    But once she opened her results, there were plenty of positive surprises. “I was really shocked, in particular, about my science results, and I would say that I’m most proud of my History result. I felt like I put a lot of work into that GCSE but I do love history.”

    For Imogen, however, the most important part of her reflection was what she had to say about St Clement’s itself. “I’ve loved my time here. The school has always been really supportive. All the staff here really care and all the teachers are really good at what they do.”

    She enjoyed her time at the school so much that she plans to return to give something back to the younger students. “I’ve enjoyed it so much that I’m going to come back to do some mentoring.”

    Ethan Ward, another of St Clement’s highest achievers, achieved six Grade 9s, three Grade 8s and one Grade 7 and will also progress to Springwood Sixth Form.

    He was particularly pleased with his Grade 9 in PE, as well as his results in History, Maths and Science.

    “I think this school has been really good for me,” he said. “I’ve really enjoyed my time here. The teachers are great, super supportive, and they are always there to help whenever we need it.”

    For Ruby De-Gol, her time at St Clement’s helped her reach a significant personal milestone in passing the Maths GCSE she had feared she might not be able to achieve.

    “I’d say I’m most proud of my Maths GCSE because I just felt like I wouldn’t be able to pass it but I did,” she said. “I’m amazed at what I’ve achieved.”

    Ruby will now study Travel and Tourism at the College of West Anglia as she works towards her dream of becoming cabin crew.

    “I’m going to the College of West Anglia now to study Travel and Tourism and then hopefully get a job somewhere as air cabin crew. That’s my dream – just not for Ryanair.”

    Across the four West Norfolk Academies Trust schools, the students' reflections provide a picture of school life that goes well beyond examination results.

    For some, it has been the support of teachers that has made the biggest difference. For others, it has been discovering a passion for sport, drama, musical theatre, film, media or a particular academic subject. 


    Some have valued the extracurricular opportunities available to them, while others have found confidence through friendships, school productions, sporting activities or simply having adults around them who believed in their potential.

    There is also a recurring theme of students discovering things about themselves that they did not necessarily know when they first arrived at secondary school.

    Amelie discovered a passion for animation and film. Geo found a love of Musical Theatre. Oscar discovered an interest in documentary filmmaking. Freya developed ambitions of working in Sports Science. Others are now preparing for careers in Medicine, Physics, engineering and architecture.

    And while the students are excited about what comes next, many are also conscious that they are leaving behind schools and people who have played an important part in their lives.

    “I’ll miss the teachers,” said Freya. 

    “I’m definitely going to miss the teachers,” said Geo.

    “I’m really going to miss it here, especially the brilliant teachers,” said Eaden.

    For Imogen, that connection is strong enough that she intends to return to St Clement’s as a mentor.

    The comments also show the importance of confidence. Students have talked about being terrified before opening their results, not expecting to do as well as they did, or struggling with particular subjects, only to discover that their hard work had paid off.

    As George put it, he was surprised by how well he had done despite working hard. Emelia proved to herself that a subject she once thought she could not do was one in which she could ultimately achieve a result of which she was immensely proud. Ruby achieved a Maths pass she had feared was beyond her.

    These are stories of achievement, but they are also stories of growth.

    As the Class of 2026 leaves Springwood, Smithdon, Marshland and St Clement’s, they take with them more than their GCSE results. 

    They leave with memories of school productions, sporting activities, friendships, supportive teachers, challenging subjects, new interests and the confidence that comes from discovering what they are capable of achieving.

    And perhaps most importantly, they leave with a clearer idea of where they want to go next.


    For West Norfolk Academies Trust, the students' reflections are a reminder that successful schools are not simply places where young people achieve qualifications. 

    They are places where young people discover who they are, what they enjoy, what they are capable of and what they might achieve in the future.

    The Class of 2026 have certainly made their mark on their schools. And, judging by what they have said about their experiences, their schools have made a lasting mark on them too.

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  • WNAT Students Celebrate Record A-Level Results

    Published 14/08/26

    Students and staff at a WNAT school in King’s Lynn have been celebrating another record year of A-Level results.

    More than 20% of grades achieved at Springwood High School Sixth Form were A*/A, which is a 1% increase on last year’s results, while 49% of students secured an A*, A or B, and 76% of students gained A* to C grades, both up 2% on 2025’s results.

    The school has also seen an improvement in the number of students gaining A* and A grades at A-Level, alongside improvements in Distinction* and Distinctions in vocational subjects.

    Among the high-fliers was Kevin Monk with A* grades in Chemistry, Maths, Further Mathematics, and Physics – the highest results at our school, which is a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

    “I was shocked but happy with my results,” said the 18-year-old, who is going on to study Electronic Engineering.

    “I have had a lot of support from my teachers – they’ve been very good.”

    Classmate Merry Enters was also celebrating, with A*, A, and B grades in Physics, Maths, and Music Technology. He will now go on to read Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) at Trinity College, Oxford, with a view of working in economics.

    “It’s the best university in the world for a reason,” he said. “For what I want to go into, I think it’s a really strong foundation.

    “Overall, at Springwood there have been individual teachers that have really stood out and believed in me when I wanted to apply to Oxford. They said just go for it.

    “The exposure to lots of different kinds of people, and the ability to have conversations with people all the time about different things, in lessons and outside of lessons, helped me to decide what role I wanted to go into in the future.”

    Heading to an equally prestigious academic institution was Eva Kalabina, whose three A*s and A have secured her a place at Downing College, Cambridge, where she will study Economics, Law, and Environment.

    “I’m elated,” she said. “I thought I might get one A*, but to get three is just insane!

    “I always had an interest in Economics, but when I started studying it at A-Level, it was definitely something that drew me. I knew I didn’t want to do a pure economics degree – the degree I’m going to do is more case-study based, and to do with real-life scenarios and what’s going on in the world, and less based on purely mathematics economics.

    “My time at Springwood has been really great, and it’s been a really great environment to do my A-Levels.”

    Joining her at Cambridge will be Amelie Hayward, and Zion Noble, who, at just 17 years of age, is deferring her place until 2027.

    With three A*s and an A, Oliver Wright is off to Durham University to study Maths and Physics, while Lucy Wills Gillings (two As, one B) will read Law at Sheffield, Angelo Alvarez (A*AA)will study Maths at Bristol, and Lily Barker (three A*s) will read History at Lincoln.

    Closer to home, Gracie Collinson will be taking up a place at Anglia Ruskin to study Psychology, after securing a Distinction*, A*, and a B. Musician and composer Iamyrl Falculan gained an A and two Bs and will study Music at Royal Holloway in London.

    Also off to university are Jared Hill (AAB), who will study Sports & Exercise Science at Manchester; William Thompson (A*AA), studying Computer Science at Nottingham; Isaac Roberts (AAAD), who is heading to Exeter to study Mechanical Engineering; Theo Morrell (AAAC), studying Architecture at Bath; and Eva Rust (A*AA) studying Psychology at South Wales.

    There was a particularly strong showing from students going on to study medicine, with Holly MacGowan, Isabella McKenzie, Ashwini Pasapula, and Tessa Jaison all choosing to take the subject at university; while Beth Wybrow, Lorena Lalbin, Zoe Wilson, and James Nguyen are opting to study Physiotherapy.

    Isobel Warner-Lynn and Maisie Gray will be studying Occupational Therapy; Milana Bulauskaite and John-Henry Gipp studying Radiography; and Kamayshika Sivarupan studying Optometry.

    Lily Holtom-Williams, Sharon Rinto, Tricia Cantalejo, Karolina Repinskaite, and Mia Jackson will all be studying Nursing; and Annmaria Cyriac, Josie Draper, and Freya Hoare will take up Midwifery.

    Other students will be taking up apprenticeships, including Emilie Burr at Rolls Royce; Imogen Portass-Bowen at Peters, Elworthy & Moore accountants; Isla Evans and Penny Kent at Hawkins Ryan solicitors; and Jessica Berry at Norfolk Agents estate agency.

    Also progressing to accountancy apprenticeships were Marissa Harrison, Jack Bumstead, Henry Dark, and Muhammad Shakeel, while Harry Christie will train as a quantity surveyor, and Daniel Morters will take up an apprenticeship as a RAF Avionics Technician and James Bell as a RAF Cyberspace Communications Specialist.

    Emily Gray will join Giggles n Squiggles Nursery as an apprentice; Charlie King and Robbie Sutherland are off to Bespak Engineering; Ronan Oakes to Eurotech Engineering; Darcy Young to Cooper Roller Bearings; and Alfred Wright to PGL.

    The Trust CEO, Andy Johnson, was delighted with the cohort’s achievements.

    “This is a record excellent year for the school,” he said. “It is wonderful to see so many students head to their first-choice destination with excellent grades, whether that be university or higher-level apprenticeships.

    “This is testament to the hard work of both students and their teachers.”

    Chair of Governors Roger Livesey added: “We are incredibly proud of our Year 13 students today. Beyond their academic success, they have fostered a fantastic sense of community, supporting one another every step of the way and leaving a lasting, positive legacy at Springwood Sixth Form."

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  • Students Swap King's Lynn for Greece

    Published 27/07/26

    Students from a WNAT school experienced the authentic Greek lifestyle when they spent a week at TYPET Sani Chalkidiki Camp in Sani in Greece.

    A group of 41 Year 9 Springwood High School students took part in the Mediterranean adventure, which included a range of different sports and activities, as well as plenty of time for exploration, rest, and relaxation.

    PE Teacher Paul Donovan co-led the trip with the school’s Head of Technology, Steph Beech.

    “The students got to experience camp life, which for the Greek children at the camp was part of their normal school year,” he said. “They had the opportunity to take part in camp sports, arts and crafts, dance, along with swimming, and beach visits.

    “We also spent a day on a boat trip along the peninsular towards Mount Athos, learning about the Greek monasteries, from when they were built and who lives in them, to how many Greek Orthodox monks live there.

    “The pupils particularly enjoyed the beach visits, and spending time in the sea.”

    It was the second time that the trip had taken place, following its successful introduction to the school’s calendar last year.

    Mr Donovan continued: “I think the trip is massively important, and opens their eyes to a different way of life and cultural norms.

    “When pupils go on holidays, they visit tourist spots, and enjoy hotels and their amenities; however, this trip is more like you are living within the community and away from tourism.”

    He added: “There aren’t many trips that encompass nearly every subject in school, from sports to food, languages to all of the humanities subjects, as well as PSHE [Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education], while developing their soft skills in leadership, resilience, and independence.

    “The pupils leave with great memories, but also a new outlook on life in a different country.”

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  • Pupils join forces to perform at WNAT music event

    Published 27/07/26

    There was strength in numbers, when young musicians from primary schools across West Norfolk came together to practise and play in a workshop which culminated in a music festival performance.

    Organised by the West Norfolk Academies Trust, the event brought together more than 180 Year 3 to 6 children from the feeder primaries for our four high schools, which include Marshland in West Walton, St Clement’s in Terrington St Clement, Smithdon in Hunstanton, and Springwood in Lynn.

    It was Springwood that hosted the workshop on Monday 6 July, as well as the four-day WNAT Community Music Festival, which kicked off on the same evening. Springwood students were also on hand to support the younger pupils.

    Our Peripatetic Music Lead, Benjamin Howell, organised the event and oversaw the children’s musical collaboration.

    “The event featured two large ensembles: a String Orchestra and a Wind Band,” he explained.

    “The repertoire was carefully selected to appeal to students of all ages and abilities, running from ‘Hotel California’ and music inspired by Roblox, through to Vivaldi’s ‘Spring’. The Wind Band also performed pieces including ‘Supercharged’ and ‘Rising Up’.

    “The workshop took place throughout the afternoon and concluded with an outdoor performance as part of WNAT Community Music Festival Week, where families, staff, and members of the local community were able to join us to celebrate the students’ achievements.”
     

    Among the Trust primary schools taking part were Clenchwarton, Gaywood, Heacham Junior, Snettisham, Walpole Cross Keys, and West Lynn.

    Mr Howell continued: “Events of this scale take place just once each academic year and provide a fantastic opportunity for students from across the Trust to rehearse and perform together.

    “The workshop also built on the success of our recent Play Day held earlier this year, while supporting the wider aims of the Musical Instrument Tuition Initiative (MITI).

    “Throughout the year, students work towards Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards, with events such as this providing a rewarding goal and an opportunity to showcase the progress they have made.”

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  • WNAT students honoured at Arts Awards

    Published 27/07/26

    Students saw their creative talents recognised when a WNAT school held its annual Arts Awards Evening.

    The event at Springwood High School in King’s Lynn involved more than 60 students, from Years 7 to 13, and covered such diverse subjects as Music, Drama, Dance, Art and Photography, Media and Music Technology, and Technical Theatre.

    Pete Cuss is Head of Arts Faculty at the school, and hosted the ceremony.

    Among the many presentations were prizes in each subject category for ‘Highest Achievement’ and ‘Biggest Contribution’, as well as several additional awards.

    Winners included Amelie Hayward and Eleanor King as Young Musician of the Year and Junior Musician of the Year, respectively, while Josie Draper was honoured for her Contribution to Multiple Arts Subjects, and Technician Awards went to Josh Downey for Key Stage 3 and Aretas Koldobenkas for Key Stage 4.

    Handing out the prizes were Department Heads Lee Eveson for Art/Photography, Dawn Paulo for Dance, Matt Smart for Media, Robinson Ellis for Drama, and Robin Norman for Music, along with Theatre Manager Matt Austin.

    It was the third year running that the Awards had taken place.

    “Events like this are important as they recognise the hard work and achievement our students have put into their studies and extracurricular over the last academic year,” said Mr Cuss.

    “This is also an opportunity to thank the parents for their support, in particular getting students to and from rehearsals and extracurricular groups.

    “We host events like this to encourage and keep the profile of Arts-based subjects at the forefront of student life at Springwood.”

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  • WNAT students shine at GEM

    Published 27/07/26

    Female mathematicians from a WNAT school showed off their talents when they were invited to attend an elite three-day course at Cambridge.

    The Year 10 students from Springwood High School in King’s Lynn won coveted places on the Girls Enjoy Maths (GEM) Summer School, which is held annually at Cambridge Maths School.

    Springwood Head of Maths Connie Loizou was impressed by the wide range of events and activities on offer to the girls.

    “Over the course of the three days, they explored exciting mathematical ideas, completed experiments, took an inspiring trip to the University of Cambridge, and listened to female speakers in the field,” she said.

    “Activities were designed to provide challenge and opportunities for collaboration. They worked together to share and build on each other’s ideas, developing their mathematical communication and reasoning, as well as enhancing their problem-solving skills.

    “They also explored how Mathematics is applied within other STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths] subjects, such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Computer Science, and gained insight into the applications of Mathematics post-16, at university and beyond.”

    Challenges included a Maths Relay, and there was also an in-depth mathematical analysis of the card game Dobble.

    “There were a variety of activities over the three days,” said one participant. “One included looking at Maths that is embedded into the three Sciences – this was really useful to us, as we are studying Triple Science.”

    Another said: “We got to meet college lecturers. This was really useful for future application prospects, and knowing what the admission process involved.”

    A classmate added: “Overall, this experience gave us a new perspective on Maths, even relating it to worldly issues like gender, racism, epidemics, and politics.”

    The Summer School is open to female Year 10 students from across the region each year, with places limited to a select 60.

    Mrs Loizou continued: “These events are valuable, as they enable students to recognise the relevance of Mathematics beyond the classroom.

    “By showcasing its role across different industries, they inspire students to pursue STEM pathways, and raise their aspirations for higher education and future careers.”

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  • Springwood students enjoy French adventure

    Published 27/07/26

    Students from a WNAT school said au revoir to King’s Lynn when they crossed the Channel for a four-day French adventure.

    The Year 7 and 8 group from Springwood High School stayed at Le Chateau de Warsy in Northern France during the action-packed trip, which included a day spent exploring the famous sights of Paris, as well as a host of different activities and cultural experiences.

    Head of Modern Languages Charlotte Hannah accompanied the 41 students, along with Head of Key Stage 3 French Penny Skipper, Teacher and Pupil Premium Manager Luke Thurlow, and Teaching Assistant Kaylea Williamson.

    “We visited the beach at Berck-sur-Mer; took part in a high ropes treetop activity similar to Go Ape; visited Montdidier, a local town, and practised French buying cakes at an authentic patisserie; and visited a chocolate factory,” she said.

    “We spent a day in Paris, where we visited Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur, and had time to do some souvenir shopping and see the local artists, climbed the 674 stairs to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, and took a boat ride on the Seine.”

    The trip is an annual highlight on the school calendar.

    Mrs Hannah added: “Teachers at Springwood believe these trips are essential in enriching our students’ school experience.

    “The opportunity for students to visit France, practise their linguistic skills with native speakers, and absorb real French culture is an experience that just can’t be fully replicated in the classroom.

    “We hope that these kinds of extracurricular activities will be remembered by students long after they leave school.”

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  • WNAT students gain insight into slave trade

    Published 17/07/26

    A history topic left the classroom, when WNAT students travelled to London to visit the National Archives and attend a workshop which tied in with their school studies.

    The 11 Year 8 students from Marshland High School had been studying the slave trade, and ‘Resistance and Rebellion in the Caribbean’ helped deepen their understanding of the subject.

    History Teacher Lydia Beatty accompanied the group.

    “Students had just finished studying a unit about the transatlantic slave trade, including Britain’s role in this,” she said. “This tied in with us learning more about Thomas Clarkson, who was a local abolitionist.”

    It was the first time that students from the school had spent time at the National Archives in Kew, where documents covering more than 1,000 years of history are stored.

    Miss Beatty continued: “We were really lucky to receive a bursary from the National Archives, which enabled us to put on this trip free of charge.

    “It was great for students to see original sources and handle them. They found out more about why we have National Archives, and what kind of documents are kept there. They also found out more about the processes archivists go through to ensure very old documents are preserved accurately.

    “As a history teacher, it was also the first time I had been to the National Archives, so I found it fascinating too.”

    Documents housed in the Archives detail the 400-year history of Caribbean resistance through Colonial Office records, original correspondence, trial transcripts, and punishments lists.

    Miss Beatty added: “Being able to see historical sources first hand is valuable to understanding more about British and world history.

    “We were privileged to be looking at sources about the transatlantic slave trade – a subject I feel is so important for students to learn about.”

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  • WNAT students on track for STEM success

    Published 17/07/26

    It was full speed ahead, when aspiring engineers at a WNAT school took part in an innovative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) initiative, which tasked them with designing, building, and racing their own full-sized, petrol-powered go-kart.

    The STEM on Track programme at Springwood High School saw a group of Key Stage 3 students take part in a series of sessions that combined practical engineering with classroom learning.

    Victoria Mann is Head of Year 7 and STEM Lead at the school in King’s Lynn.

    “Alongside constructing the kart, participants explored the mathematics and science behind engineering, gained insight into the motorsport industry, and developed a range of transferable skills, including problem solving, teamwork, communication, and resilience,” she said.

    “The programme has been designed to support improved attendance, engagement, and attainment by providing students with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that inspire confidence, and help them discover areas of interest, whether in engineering, design, marketing, or project management.”

    Led by Springwood teachers Dan Beech and Luke Thurlow, the scheme was made possible through funding awarded by the Norfolk Community Foundation via the JP Blanch Fund.

    Further support came from Councillor Paul Bland and the Councillor Community Grant Fund, the College of West Anglia, Adrian Flux via Maze Media, Sandles Cars, Advanced Engineering, and Bespak, whose backing enabled the students to participate in testing and race events alongside more than 100 teams from across the UK and beyond.

    Mrs Mann continued: “The programme also benefited from outstanding support from the wider West Norfolk community. As part of the project, students approached local businesses to secure sponsorship, providing valuable opportunities to develop communication, presentation, and networking skills, while building connections with local employers.

    “Although mechanical issues prevented the team from achieving the results they had hoped for on race day, the experience proved invaluable. Students had the opportunity to meet fellow competitors, attend a STEM career fair, explore future careers pathways, and see a Formula One car up close – experiences that inspired and motivated many of those involved.”

    The success of STEM on Track at Springwood has seen it shortlisted for the Flourish 2026 Awards in the Resilience category, where the judging panel praised its positive impact on students’ personal development and wellbeing. The school also plans to repeat the programme next year.

    Mrs Mann added: “As preparations begin for the 2026-2027 Springwood Racing Team, the school is keen to build on this year’s success. Springwood High School is seeking to expand partnerships with local businesses, particularly within the engineering, manufacturing, and automotive sectors, to provide additional sponsorship, workplace visits, and industry experience for students.

    “The success of STEM on Track reflects Springwood High School’s commitment to delivering an inclusive, ambitious curriculum that extends learning beyond traditional qualifications.

    “By providing real-world experiences, and meaningful employer engagement, the school is helping students develop the confidence, skills, and aspirations needed for future education and employment.”

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  • WNAT students support RSPCA Centre

    Published 17/07/26

    Hedgehogs and seals were just some of the diverse patients undergoing treatment, when young environmentalists from a WNAT school visited the RSPCA East Winch Wildlife Centre, near King’s Lynn.

    The student members of the Environmental Society at Springwood High School had raised more than £100 for the facility, which is one of the largest seal rehabilitation centres in the country, helping more than 150 of the injured or orphaned animals every year.

    Agnieszka Munns is Environmental Lead at the school, and accompanied the group.

    “This was a reward trip for the students’ fundraising efforts over the academic year – efforts that included bake sales, daffodil sales, Mother’s and Father’s Day sales, and, most recently, Sir David Attenborough’s birthday celebrations,” she said.

    “The school donated over £100 to the RSPCA Centre, along with towels and newspapers which could be used to assist with caring for the thousands of animals that are treated there every year.”

    The students were given a tour of the Centre, and there was also the chance for the visitors to gain some practical experience.

    Mrs Munns continued: “A highlight of the visit was being able to feed some of the rescued seals, and watching an anaesthetised hedgehog being treated for ticks and bacterial infection.

    “Such hands-on opportunities provided a unique insight, and developed greater appreciation for the medical treatment and care which injured animals are able to receive at the Centre.

    “Our students were immersed into the experience right from the start, showing curiosity, and confidently asking questions about the different treatments the animals were receiving.”

    She added: “A major aim for the visit was to engage and inspire pupils who might one day become part of the next generation of vets, medical staff, nature conservationists, volunteers, and carers for wildlife.

     “All the students really enjoyed the visit, and found it inspirational to be immersed in the extraordinary work being done at East Winch.”

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