49 students taking criminology, sociology or psychology were treated to a tour of the prison. Listening to past wardens and ex guards, they learnt how prisons are run and how best to manage the inmate dynamics. Enjoying the atmosphere, they listened to some moving stories and gained an understanding of how the prison service has changed over the centuries/decades.

After the tour they enjoyed some more educational activities before taking part in an Escape Room style game - out of the 10 groups, only 3 escaped their cells within the time limit!

They commented on what a fun and memorable day they'd all had; enjoying the immersive experiences thoroughly and thanked the prison staff and guides for their time and knowledgeable insights.

#extendingtheboundariesoflearning #learningoutsidetheclassroom with - Meridian Trust

Now in its second year of delivering the programme, Ely College staff have been trailblazing its implementation, helping students to develop self-belief, resilience, communication skills and leadership qualities. The programme provides a structured yet supportive space where students can explore topics such as challenging stereotypes and pushing back on unfair treatment, all whilst building confidence, setting goals and supporting one another to succeed.

The success of the initiative at Ely College has been clear. Participants have demonstrated increased confidence in classroom discussions, greater willingness to take on leadership roles, and a stronger sense of aspiration for their futures. Principal, Simon Warburton, commented: “I am very proud of the work and initiative taken in establishing this programme. We don’t often see young people so readily discussing or putting themselves forward for student leadership positions, but to see this level of dedication from some of our most amazing students has been a real highlight of my term so far. To show such an interest in leadership and implementing positive change at such a young age is so refreshing!”

Students themselves report feeling more empowered to express their views, challenge limiting beliefs, offer allyship to others and pursue opportunities they may previously have hesitated to consider. Eliza Fulford and Poppy Armour are two Year 10 students who graduated the programme last year but have come back in its second year to support Mrs Kelleher in running the ‘Lean In Circle Girl’s Group’, encouraging others to join the Session 6 as part of their own Platinum PLEDGES project.

Eliza commented on her return to the group: “I love the community of women we have built together! We are all like-minded, politically aware students, who enjoy this dedicated time and space to listen, learn from each other and gain new insights. It’s so inclusive and safe. I am so grateful for the friendships and support I have found here. We are looking into how we could form a wider group to encourage allyship, giving us as young people a voice to action change in school.”

Staff facilitating the programme have also reflected on its positive influence across the wider school community, noting that it fosters open dialogue, mutual support and a culture of encouragement amongst all students. Due to its continued success, the programme is now being considered for wider implementation across other schools within Meridian Trust. The Trust hopes to roll out ‘Lean In Girls’ more broadly in the near future, extending its benefits to even more young people and strengthening its commitment to equality, empowerment and opportunity.

Meridian Trust has also piloted a Lean In group for staff, creating a supportive space for women to connect and grow. Feedback showed the sessions were both empowering and thought-provoking, helping participants challenge everyday norms and build confidence through open, collaborative discussion. Members also shared constructive ideas for future development, highlighting a clear appetite for continued growth and connection.

Ely College remains dedicated to ensuring that every student, regardless of gender, is known, valued and supported to achieve their full potential. As we mark International Women’s Day, we celebrate not only the achievements of women globally, but also the determination, confidence and leadership being nurtured in the next generation right here in our classrooms.

These included ‘School Project of the Year’ for the Bishop Laney Sixth Form refurbishment at Ely College, and ‘Decarbonisation/Green Project of the Year’ for its Trust-wide Carbon Reduction Initiatives. The Education Property Awards, launched in 2025 by Nexus Media Group, recognise innovative projects transforming UK education spaces.

While the Trust did not win on the night, being named a finalist in both categories represents a major sector-wide recognition of Meridian Trust’s leadership and innovation.

The Bishop Laney Sixth Form refurbishment transformed an ageing tower block into a modern, accessible Post-16 learning environment, delivered on time, on budget, and aligned with Meridian Trust’s sustainable design ambitions. Following a £5 million investment supported by the Department for Education, the project reimagined Needham Tower as a high-quality sixth form hub serving more than 300 students, with state-of-the-art classrooms, collaborative study areas, social spaces, and inclusive design throughout.

Martin Hair, Director of Estates at Meridian Trust, said: “We’re incredibly proud of what has been achieved at Ely College. The project shows what can be accomplished when vision, collaboration, and community focus come together. It’s wonderful to see our Estates and school teams recognised nationally for their hard work.”

Meridian Trust has also made exceptional progress toward its target of becoming carbon net zero by 2030, investing £1.16 million in renewable energy and smart building systems. These initiatives (including the installation of almost 900 solar PV panels and new Building Management Systems across schools) generated over 950,000 kWh of clean electricity, reduced carbon emissions by more than 260 tonnes, and saved over £250,000 in energy costs.
Martin Hair explained: “Our carbon reduction journey is built on data, teamwork, and a genuine desire to make a measurable impact. Recognition from the sector is a huge morale boost and it reinforces that we’re moving in the right direction.”

Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust added: “Being recognised at the Education Property Awards is a testament to the remarkable work of our Estates team, school leaders, and partners. This is a proud moment for everyone involved. Our focus remains on creating inspiring and sustainable high-quality learning environments that genuinely change lives.”

In a sector where innovation often lags, this recognition signals Meridian Trust as leading the way and setting examples for others to follow.

Across the UK, children and young people are reading less than they used to & stories aren’t getting the same space they once did - and when reading drops, confidence, imagination and learning take a hit as well.

This year, a national spotlight is being put on reading.

To help kick start the 2026 National Year of Reading, we’re inviting everyone in our school community and across our trust, to take 10mins each day to read something you enjoy.

Have a look at our 'Ten Ways to Take 10' poster to get inspired and look out for regular reading recommendations from our LRC!

From our teachers to our TAs, our Reception pupils to our Bishop Laney Year 13s, our families to our Finance teams... we want to make 2026 the year we #Take10ToRead and #GoAllIn with reading.

Let’s get started together, as a community that reads more...

Ely College has been designated as a Department for Education RISE Behaviour and Attendance Hub, recognising the school's exceptional performance in student attendance and positive behaviour management.

The prestigious appointment means Ely College will work alongside schools nationally to share best practices and support improvements in attendance and behaviour systems. The school was selected following a rigorous application process that highlighted its outstanding outcomes and evidence-based approaches.

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form, said: "We are absolutely delighted to be recognised as a national hub school. This appointment reflects the dedication of our entire staff team and the positive partnership we have with students and families. Our attendance rates exceed national and contextual averages, of 92% while our suspension rates remain well below national levels at 2.7% versus 7.83% nationally."

As a hub school, Ely College will provide support, guidance, and training to other schools seeking to improve their attendance and behaviour outcomes. This includes hosting visits, delivering professional development, and sharing the strategies that have proven successful locally.

Mr Warburton added: "Every student deserves to be in school, engaged in learning, and part of a positive community. We're proud to share what we've learned with colleagues across the country to help more young people achieve their potential."

The DfE's RISE programme (Recognising and Improving School Ethos) aims to create a network of excellent schools that can support system-wide improvement in behaviour and attendance.

Ely College serves 1,640 students aged 11-18 and has shown consistent improvement in recent years, with its Progress 8 score rising from 0.34 to 0.65.  The college’s recent Ofsted report (March 2025) highlighted the “exemplary behaviour of many pupils” and that low level disruption was, “very rare”.

Following the tremendous success of last year's inaugural event, which welcomed over 500 members of our community, Ely College is delighted to host our second Directory Day on Saturday, 17th January 2026, from 10am to 2pm.

Ely College is more than just a school for our 1,700 students. We're a vibrant community hub where local groups thrive, hosting everything from community activities and performing arts to sporting clubs and annual events. Our commitment to learning and the value of education is for everyone, regardless of age.

This year's Directory Day promises to be even bigger and better, with an increased number of stalls representing local sports clubs, groups, and activities. We're particularly pleased to welcome an increased number of charity-based organisations, including the NSPCC, Steel Bones, The Kite Trust, and The Cambridge Acorn Trust, all providing vital support to our community.

Many groups and clubs from last year are returning, including local rowing, badminton, and taekwondo clubs, alongside exciting new additions for 2026: the Police Cadets and Army Cadets, offering young people opportunities for personal development and service.

Throughout the day, The Guides will be providing delicious refreshments and homemade cakes to accompany your exploration of the stalls.

Directory Day is the perfect chance to discover something new for the year ahead, connect with like-minded people, and explore the wealth of opportunities available in Ely. Whether you're looking for fitness, friendship, or a chance to give back, there's something for everyone.

We look forward to welcoming you!

They also had the chance to meet, listen to, and ask questions of three Cold War veterans who served in the British Armed Forces in the late-20th century including one who flew in the very Vulcan bomber housed in the museum.

The students showed the very best of themselves with their excellent behaviour and thoughtful questions. We are very proud of them. Huge thank you to the veterans and museum staff for such a meaningful and memorable day!

In the week leading up to the event, Principal Mr Simon Warburton spoke in assembly about the rising concerns surrounding excessive smartphone use. He shared recent statistics on young people’s mental health, drawing attention to issues such as online bullying, misinformation, exposure to age-inappropriate content, and the addictive nature of infinite-scroll platforms. His message highlighted that while technology offers many benefits, balance is essential—especially for developing minds.

As part of our policy review on mobile phone use during the school day and as a means of stimulating awareness and discussion of the harms that smartphones or social media present, Ely College established ‘Device Free Day’ as a supportive and encouraging community effort. During morning form time students engaged in guided discussion prompts, focusing on their personal wellbeing, building on their real-life connections and gaining insight on more mindful technology use. Throughout the day, they were encouraged to take part in conversations, games, and face-to-face interactions during breaks—replacing online scrolling with meaningful social connection.

Students were also encouraged to continue their digital detox at home, reconnecting with family and friends without the distraction of gaming or screens. Ely College hopes the experience prompts meaningful conversations about mental health and healthy phone habits within households.

“We’re incredibly proud of how openly and thoughtfully our students approached Device Free Day,” said Ely College Principal Simon Warburton. “This wasn’t about restriction—it was about awareness, reflection, and giving young people the space to reconnect with themselves and each other.”

Ely College extends its appreciation to all parents and carers for supporting this wellbeing initiative and is pleased to confirm that additional Device Free Days will be held next year, shaped by feedback from students, staff, and the wider community.

I am delighted to inform you that on Monday 8^th December 2025, the Music Department will be presenting our annual Nine Lesson & Carols performance at Ely Cathedral. This evening will consist of a range of music (congregational carols, reflective choral and instrumental performances) and ‘lessons’ (secular and sacred readings). This is third time we will be using this beautiful space as our venue for this event and we are extremely fortunate to have professional musicians joining us to commemorate this occasion, including Prime Brass and our piano teacher Stephen Hession.

The event will start at 7pm, with doors opening from 6.30pm for people to take their seats. The event will finish at around 8pm.

There will be a separate letter sent out to all parents and carers of students who are performing to seek permission for their involvement in the event and to outline further details with regards to rehearsals.

Tickets

We would love for parents, guardians, siblings, family, staff, students and the wider Ely College community to join us and support this event. This event is not ticketed and seats are not allocated, however, if you would like to make a voluntary donation in place of a ticket fee, you can do this through MCAS. Any donations will be split equally between the Music Department and Ely Food Bank charity.

There will be no requirement to show any physical tickets at the venue and we will not be running a check-in desk as we have previously.

This event will be a lovely opportunity to celebrate Christmas as a college and to enjoy some wonderful music and readings performed by our students. Thank you for your continued support of Music events at Ely College and we hope to see you at this event.
 

Yours faithfully,

Miss Arnold

Subject Leader For Music

This Friday (5th Dec) we would like ALL students and staff to reflect on their smartphone habits and digital usage; taking a closer look at how many hours we clock up each week and what this means when we step back to consider that accumulated time...

Could we have made better use of it? Were we truly as 'connected' as social media leads us to believe we are? Can we reconnect when we disconnect?

We ALL know the pitfalls of these algorithms and screen addiction is a real concern in our modern world. This is a judgement free experiment as we are ALL in the same boat, irrespective of age. By trialling this in-school, we hope students will reflect and continue it at home, avoiding their many devices, not just smartphones.

We know students will rise to this 24 hour challenge!

Hopefully, in the lead up to the day it could start some important conversations at home about mental health and the benefits of a digital detox. Thank you for supporting this and encouraging your children to take part on Friday!

#devicefreeday #mentalhealth #selfcare #digitaldetox

The last date for replies is Thursday 27^th November 2025. Links to the reply form can also be found on the Latest News page of the Ely College website and through our social media feeds. Should you have any queries about the Certificate Presentation Evening, please contact rmustill@elycollege.co.uk

2025 has been another amazing event, thank you to everyone involved. #EastCambs #careers #skills #CEIAG #extendingtheboundariesoflearning #anexceptionalcollegeforanexceptionalcommunity

Throughout the week, assemblies and tutor time activities have encouraged reflection on the themes of service, sacrifice, and remembrance, helping students to understand the importance of remembering those who gave their lives and those who continue to serve today.

Students who are members of Scouts, Girl Guides, cadets from the Army, Air Force, Cambridgeshire Constabulary and St John’s, were invited to wear their uniforms with pride for the special day. At 11am, the College community joined together to observe the two-minute silence.

The moment of reflection was preceded by the sounding of the Last Post, followed by the Exhortation, read by Principal Simon Warburton. Mr Warburton commented on the proceedings: “Remembrance is an important part of life at Ely College. It gives our students the opportunity to reflect on the courage and selflessness of others, and to consider the values of service and community that continue to shape our world and our place in it.”

The service is a longstanding tradition at Ely College and forms part of their ongoing commitment to character education and community engagement, ensuring that the meaning of remembrance continues to resonate with new generations.

The plaque unveiling ceremony, held on Thursday 18^th September, welcomed local dignitaries, members of the community, staff and students, both past and present. Special guests included representatives from the school Academy Council, the Children and Young People Committee, the Partnership Board, and local councillors who have supported the development of the project.

Principal Simon Warburton led proceedings: “Needham’s Tower is more than just a building; it has long stood as a sentinel over the city’s skyline and has become a symbol of ambition and transformation. ‘Renewed, Revived, Reimagined’ are three words we chose for the commemorative plaque, unveiled today. These words tell the story not only of the building’s transformation, but of our enduring commitment to excellence in education and our unwavering belief in the potential of every student who enters our doors.”

The new academic year sees the centre welcome its first new cohort of Year 12s. The site now offers them reimagined facilities with state-of-the-art teaching rooms, dedicated study areas, and collaborative learning spaces, all designed to support a dynamic sixth form curriculum. He continued: “Every classroom has been thoughtfully designed, every learning space carefully crafted, to inspire and motivate the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers”.

Richard Spencer, Executive Principal at Meridian Trust commented: “Today is a culmination of nearly ten years of work to rejuvenate both the tower and the sixth form. When Ely College joined Meridian Trust, the post-16 provision only had 56 students. With vision, investment and support from our local community and partners, there are over 300 young people educated here today, with plenty of room for continued growth. The evolution of the building reflects that exponential growth and longstanding vision for providing an outstanding sixth form provision for young people in East Cambridgeshire. We’re grateful for the support of our community in enabling us to realise that vision fully for our students and for the wider community.”

Martin Hair, director of estates for Meridian Trust, said: “This transformation, delivered in partnership with the Department for Education, The M&J Group and Peter Smith Associate Architects, has completely revitalised the space, and the results are incredible. This has been a standout project for Meridian Trust and is a brilliant example of what thoughtful investment and collaboration can achieve.”

The refurbished Needham Tower has been transformed into a vibrant, sustainable and purpose-built centre. With a focus on environmental sustainability, the building achieves zero net carbon targets for energy consumption, showcasing a commitment to innovation and regeneration.

Offering tours and taster sessions for its wide range of courses, Bishop Laney is hosting its Open Evening for prospective students hoping to join in September 2026. This will take place on Friday 23^rd October 5:30pm – 8pm. Students and their families can book online at bishoplaney.org and view the sixth form online prospectus via MyChoice@16.

Principal Simon Warburton expressed his pride, saying: “Our Year 11 students have shown remarkable maturity and dedication throughout the year. It’s been inspiring to see how much they’ve grown, both academically and personally, and I hope they feel proud of everything they have achieved.” 

Among the college's top achievers were: 

• Shanai, who achieved 6 grade 9s and a Distinction* in Engineering   

• Megan, who achieved 6 grade 9s and 3 grade 8s 

• Sara, who achieved 5 grade 9s and 5 grade 8s 

• Nathan, who achieved 4 grade 9s and 5 grade 8s 

• Joe, who achieved 4 grade 9s and 5 grade 8s 

Simon added: “Celebrating with the students today was a real highlight. Their fantastic results are a testament not only to their hard work but also to the supportive environment around them. We’re committed to helping every student develop the skills they need to thrive - in school and life beyond the classroom.” 

Many students will now progress to Bishop Laney Sixth Form, which is part of Ely College and continues to expand its offering for post-16 learners. Bishop Laney recently celebrated the opening of its refurbished Needham Tower Block, creating a modern and inspiring environment for A-level and vocational study, ensuring students have the best facilities to prepare for their futures. 

Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust, added: “On behalf of myself and everyone across the whole Meridian Trust family, I want to say how incredibly proud we are of all our Year 11 students collecting their results today. The dedication, determination, and resilience you have all shown over the past two years has genuinely impressed us all. Today is a celebration, not just of your academic achievements, but of your growth and the bright futures you all have ahead. We couldn’t be happier for you - congratulations to every single one of you.” 

For more information about Ely College, please visit: www.elycollege.com.  

Adam Steels, Head of Bishop Laney Sixth Form, said: “I am incredibly proud of the determination shown by each of our students at Bishop Laney. I know that I speak for all of the staff here when I say we wish each and every one of our students the very best of luck with their next steps, whether heading to university, starting apprenticeships or beginning employment. These results demonstrate the perseverance and hard work which will help each student achieve wonderful things in the future.” 

Individual success stories from Bishop Laney Sixth Form include: 

Sebastien Boursier, who achieved a double Distinction grade in Business, will be starting at Durham University in September. 

Samuel Jay has achieved A Level A grades in Economics, Business & Geography, which will see him studying Economics at University. 

Roxy Budziszewski, Charlotte Hough and Daniel Challis all achieved Distinction grades in Sports and Exercise science to earned their places studying Sports Science, starting in September. 

Rory Shillito achieved grades A, B, and B in Geography, Biology, and Chemistry, and is off to Newcastle University after taking a gap year. 

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form, added: “I am delighted for our Bishop Laney Sixth Form students, and I hope they are just as proud of themselves as the staff are of them. These incredible results are a true reflection of the students' outstanding efforts within their studies and showcase our commitment to delivering support for our students in and out of the classroom.” 

This year’s results come as Bishop Laney Sixth Form continues to invest in providing exceptional learning environments for its students. The recently refurbished Needham Tower Block has transformed the campus, offering state-of-the-art classrooms and specialist study spaces designed to support both academic and personal development. The new facilities reflect the Sixth Form’s commitment to giving students the best possible start to their future studies and careers. 

Mark Woods, CEO of Meridian Trust, added: “Congratulations to all our Year 13 students collecting their A-level results today. Their achievements reflect the Trust’s commitment to the pursuit of excellence and the hard work of everyone involved. I hope each student takes a moment to celebrate their success as they look ahead to the next stage of their journey.” 

If you would like to enquire about current opportunities within Bishop Laney Sixth Form, please contact: admissions@bishoplaney.org or call 01353 652818. 

More photos of our celebrations can be found on our social media page: @BishopLaney

The students spent 3 months working on their Bronze Industrial Cadets project which was to design 'a theme park of the future'. They had to create a report and presentation, displaying the justifications for all of their research. The students worked incredibly hard and spent the day looking at other projects, talking to other teams, having a tour of the facility and then listening to the awards.

We are delighted to say we came runners up for Project of the Year which is a huge achievement! Congratulations to Emma Kitchener, Sam Loveland, Sam Hughes, Jonah Young, Herbert Jordan, Tom Parratt and Thomas Brennan!

The national competition, run by Laser Script, invited schools across the UK to design a nature-inspired product that could be laser cut and assembled into a 3D object. Emily’s unique and creative entry impressed the judges and secured first place, winning not only national recognition but also a valuable piece of equipment for the whole department.

Emily said: “It was amazing to hear the judges thought my design was unique and even cooler to see it come to life properly after all the hard work.”

Rebecca Leatherland, Design and Technology Teacher at Ely College, shared: “I have seen such a boost in confidence from the students since participating in this. They truly believe in themselves now and it is wonderful to see!

“Winning the laser cutter will have a lasting impact at Bishop Laney Sixth Form. It means more students will have access to this exciting technology, not only in Sixth Form, but also in GCSE and lower school projects to explore more hands-on learning. All this has been made possible thanks to Emily’s fantastic design and further supports our Trust Value of providing a High-Quality Learning Environment.”

Students initiated the project by researching existing products and creating mood boards to help generate their ideas. As part of the design process, they also developed their skills in Adobe Photoshop and learnt how to communicate their ideas through layout, colour, highlights, and digital sketching techniques.

Once their initial concepts were formed, students moved on to Autodesk 2D Design. Here, they picked up new advanced tools and techniques to prepare their creations for laser cutting, a brand-new challenge for many. After digitally designing their products, they tested their models using card, learning about the importance of testing and tolerances in real-world design.

An exciting addition to the project was the use of New Arc AI. Students uploaded their sketches and prompts, generating rendered images of their designs. These digital visualisations were then enhanced in Photoshop, helping students, especially those less confident in drawing, to visualise and refine their ideas. This step gave every student a chance to see their vision come to life.

To complete the competition entry, each student produced an A4 design sheet that showcased their final concept, colour and material choices, and a written description of their product. The range of designs was incredibly creative, from Emily’s giraffe-shaped jewellery holder to a wolf diorama lamp and a tree sculpture with removable berries.

Following a successful planning application submitted two years ago, and a £5 million investment supported by the Department for Education, the vision for a state-of-the-art sixth form centre has now been fully realised.

This project represents a major milestone not only for Bishop Laney Sixth Form but also for the wider East Cambridgeshire community, responding to the growing demand for post-16 education places in the region.

Simon Warburton, Principal of Ely College and Bishop Laney Sixth Form, said: "This is a truly exciting moment for our students, staff and the wider Ely community. The new Sixth Form Centre provides an inspiring, modern environment that matches the ambition and potential of our young people.

“We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved and deeply grateful to Meridian Trust, the Department for Education, and all our partners for making this vision a reality. We look forward to seeing our students fully embracing these exciting new facilities later in the summer term, once the final touches are complete."

      Martin Hair, Director of Estates for Meridian Trust, added: “This transformation, delivered in partnership with the Department for Education, The M&J Group and Peter Smith Associate Architects, has completely revitalised the space, and the results are incredible. This has been a standout project for Meridian Trust and is a brilliant example of what thoughtful investment and collaboration can achieve.”

The refurbished Needham Tower has been transformed into a vibrant, sustainable and purpose-built centre. With a focus on environmental sustainability, the building achieves zero net carbon targets for energy consumption, showcasing a commitment to innovation and regeneration.

The new Sixth Form Centre features cutting-edge facilities, including specialist classrooms, independent study areas, collaborative workspaces, and social hubs, all designed to create a high-quality learning environment that supports both academic and personal growth.

Plans to formally celebrate the opening of the new building with students, staff and the wider community are being developed for the autumn term.

For many this was the first time seeing our freshly renovated facilities & new home for Bishop Laney ahead of our official opening in September. It was a fantastic day making the most of the glorious weather and the current Business Admin students, who organised many of the activities as part of their events planning module, should be proud.

Year 10 got to socialise and experience a wide range of Taster Sessions including Medical Sciences (new next year!) where they were able to take part in a dissection practical (a favourite!); many will have tried subjects that they have never come across before such as psychology, sociology & criminology.

It's fantastic that the students get this opportunity to sample Post-16 options before they make their applications & we use this time to advise them on the process and their career pathways. We look forward to working with all local Year 10s in the months ahead and hope they had an enjoyable day.

Over 60 students from five local Meridian Trust schools — Ely College, Swavesey Village College, North Cambridge Academy, Martin Bacon Academy, and Northstowe Secondary College — took part in this exciting event, many experiencing the thrill of rowing for the very first time. Glorious weather and calm waters made for a perfect introduction to the sport.

With fantastic support from volunteers at the Isle of Ely Rowing Club, East Anglia Youth Rowing, and special guest coaches Polly Shorrock and Claire Collins — two of this year’s Cambridge University Boat Race athletes — students were immersed in a wide range of rowing activities. From trying out rowing machines and navigating single sculls to mastering teamwork in quad boats and octuples, every participant had the chance to build confidence and develop new skills on and off the water.

The event culminated in a spirited mini-regatta held in front of the CUBC and Isle of Ely boat houses, where students showcased what they had learnt and cheered each other on in true rowing spirit.

More than just a sporting event, the Rowing Experience Days aim to broaden horizons and inspire young people to pursue local opportunities in rowing. Meeting elite athletes like Polly and Claire was a highlight for many students, who were encouraged to see that a passion for sport can go hand-in-hand with academic aspirations — including studying at a world-leading university like Cambridge.

We hope the enthusiasm and achievements of these two days spark lasting interest in rowing across our schools and continue to build strong connections within our community.

With the sun shining and the stunning cathedral view from the Bishop’s private garden as a backdrop, it was an unforgettable afternoon celebrating partnerships between education and the world of work.

👏 A huge well done to our students for showcasing their skills in such a prestigious setting!

#CareersEducation #ProfessionalCookery #StudentSuccess #BishopsGardenParty #WorkReady #FutureChefs

40 of our year 10 GCSE Spanish students made an early 12am start to make their flight to Barcelona.

After a long, hot and tiring journey students settled quickly into their accommodation before heading off on a guided tour of the surrounding area and Saint Pau’s hospital. After a restful first night, Day 2 was action packed. Exploring the stunning  La Sagrada Familia and a spot of shopping in Las Ramblas and La Boqueria Market. Some spontaneous pigeon taming and parrot spotting kept them occupied on our travels.

They finished the day refuelling with a pizza night, ready for another busy day. Day 3 gave students the opportunity to use the metro as they travelled to Museu Nacional d’arte de Catalunya, to explore the gothic and modern art exhibitions, afterwards heading for Poble Espanyol for a Paella workshop! Putting their culinary skills to the test making their own seafood paella to have for lunch. Delicious!

Following some free time in Clot, before heading up to the monumental Core of Park Güell which had some incredible sights and brilliant architecture. The final day soon came and went. Starting the day exploring the Gothic Quarter before discovering the journey of world renowned artist Pablo Picasso’s life at Museu Picasso.

After last minute shopping for souvenirs, clothes and snacks, it was time to head to the airport. The students all really embraced the Spanish culture, language and cuisine. It was a pleasure to have such respectful, kind and fun students join us on this trip! Huge thank you to the staff for making this trip possible!

“Highly skilled” teachers, pupils with “exemplary” behaviour, and an “ambitious and challenging curriculum” which ensures that “pupils achieve exceptionally well” are just some of Ofsted’s recent findings, as Ely College builds on its position as an exceptional college for an exceptional community.

The inspectors highlighted a “well-considered curriculum for pupils with special educational needs”, highlighting “a small number of pupils study a bespoke curriculum that supports their needs”. At Ely College, “teachers know pupils’ individual needs and apply effective strategies to support them”. The inspectors also praised the “strong culture of reading” and the effective support to help students build confidence in their reading.

The full report can be found on the College’s website but the key findings are detailed below:

• Pupils enjoy attending this inclusive school and feel safe. Pupils feel known as individuals in this large school.

• The broad and ambitious curriculum engages all pupils, including pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND).

• Pupils access a high-quality offer of enrichment opportunities with a diverse range of activities and a very broad personal development offer.

• Teachers are highly skilled at adapting the learning to meet pupils’ needs.

• Pupils achieve highly and are well prepared for the next steps in their education, employment or training.

• The behaviour of many pupils is exemplary. They are polite and respectful.

• Trustees and governors know the school exceptionally well and provide an equal balance of support and holding leaders effectively to account.

• The school’s broad and rich curriculum is well considered. It is ambitious and challenging for all pupils. There is a wide range of academic and vocational courses, particularly in the sixth form. The curriculum builds well on pupils’ previous learning and takes account of their different needs.

• The school has a strong culture of reading. Pupils read a wide variety of challenging texts. If pupils struggle to read fluently when they join, the school provides effective support to help them build their confidence.

• Staff, including early career teachers, say that they are very well supported. They feel valued and appreciate how leaders look after their well-being and workload.

Principal, Simon Warburton, said: “I’m incredibly proud of everyone’s hard work and dedication which clearly shines through in this report. It’s an achievement for all of us in the school community, students, staff and parents, and across the wider Meridian Trust family. We remain dedicated to building on this success, and addressing areas for further development, to ensure we’re a truly great college; a beacon of excellence of which our whole community can be proud.”

You can access our report here https://www.elycollege.com/ofsted

• Talking to our teen sons about influencers online - Toolkit to start the conversation: https://cdn.sanity.io/files/d6x1mtv1/mo-com-production/b8b9c6c58f49d1cac22b8ed5fce5f81650d58e26.pdf
• Find information and set safety settings for your child’s devices and apps, along with guidance to tackle online issues they may face: https://www.internetmatters.org/
• Get further advice on keeping children safe online and find out what to do if you have concerns about your child: https://www.ceopeducation.co.uk/parents/

It was a long hard day, but staff kept the students hydrated and the sports / activities interesting with dodgeball first thing in the morning, the usual kickabout and some JustDance fun, as well as some fantastic inclusive & accessible sports. Our annual #10hoursofsport is always a day when we can say 'Teamwork makes the Dream work'! Check out this fantastic charity and please donate if you can: https://tmwf.co.uk/

The event, organised by Librarian Anne Shaw, was a highlight of the spring term and formed part of the College’s wider efforts to promote reading and creative writing across the curriculum.

Tia Fisher, whose award-winning young adult novel Crossing the Line has received national acclaim, spoke to students about her writing journey, the inspiration behind her work, and why she feels that connecting through creative writing is so important.

Crossing the Line is a novel in verse aimed at teenage readers, using concrete poetry to explore complex issues and emotions. It was inspired by the true story of Tia’s friend’s son who became involved with a drugs gang.

Celebrated as outstanding and important, the novel won the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice 2024, the UKLA Award 11-14+ category 2024, was Children’s Book of the Week in The Times and is in the 2024 Reading for Empathy Collection.

Tia’s talk was followed by a lively Q&A session and a book signing. Selected students with a passion for creative writing were invited to a writing workshop after the event, where they explored writing concrete poetry of their own.

Principal, Simon Warburton, said: “It was a privilege to host Tia Fisher at Ely College. Her visit created a real buzz amongst our students and staff. We have a fabulous reading and writing culture here at Ely, and we’re passionate about providing positive memorable experiences for our students.

“Tia’s words and experiences brought the world of literature to life in a way that truly inspired our young people. A huge thanks to Mrs Shaw, Mrs Clark-Hope and the rest of our hard-working English department for organising such a fantastic opportunity and sharing their passion for creative writing with our students.”

For more information about Tia Fisher and her work, visit https://www.tiafisher.com.

The rest of the off-timetable day saw a variety of activities for students to be involved in – textiles stitching, dancing, clay pot making, mindfulness, boxercise, reading, creative writing, African drumming and the Ely MHST team came in to share ways in which to deal with different and sometime difficult thoughts.

Thank you to all the staff that ran sessions and made the day happen – and thank you to our lovely Year 11s for getting involved and enjoying the day. Hoping everyone has a restful break and Year 11: YOU GOT THIS when we all come back! #year11matters #wellbeingmatters - with Meridian Trust

We took twelve Year 8 / 9s to the outward bounds centre in Aberdovey, Wales where they embraced all the weather conditions of Snowdonia and every challenge that came their way.

All the students involved had a brilliant time making the most of the opportunities to try and do new things; activities some of them they have never have done before, pushing themselves beyond limits they thought they could reach. Amazing work, thank you to the Trust and all the staff for taking them!

#extendingtheboundariesoflearning

A week later, Bishop Laney students had a fantastic day at the student-led conference on medical technology at Abbey College Cambridge. Such an inspirational day!

One of our Y13 students was praised by professors and keynote speakers for raising the question of equality vs equity in AI advancements; asking how we can roll out what researchers have learnt at Addenbrooke's Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to lower income countries. Thank you to both colleges for having us. #extendingtheboundariesoflearning - with Meridian Trust

“Some people use words as border patrols. Some use words as passports. Others use words as fences. Mother Tongue Other Tongue uses words as bridges”.

Such a brilliant event in our calendar and one that brings our sixth form community together with main school to inspire and spur students on in their studies! From Greek goddesses to the swinging 1940's and the rocking 80's; students showcase hair and beauty skills on the catwalk as well as their interpretations of era-fashions.

It was an emotional farewell for our current Year 13s who have participated each year and are passing on the mantle, as many of the current Year 11s are set to join Bishop Laney in it's new home come September! A fantastic event, well done to all involved

The students have worked really hard on this project that has taught them lots of different skills; teamwork, oracy skills for presenting, writing a technical report, using AI tools to their advantage and so much more. They are going to a celebration event in June at the University of Cambridge, where they will be presented with their awards and certificates. We look forward to seeing more from our new Industrials Cadets!

Join us on Wednesday 7th May and help us plan what courses you want to see!

You may have heard about our recent £5 million refurbishment of Needham's Tower; this will be the new home for our Bishop Laney Sixth Form. Within the stunning transformation and imminent handover, are plans for our Post-16 provision to allow fully accessible and dedicated spaces for Adult Education courses.

Community Education also has a new home, and we are so excited to show you around soon!

#anexceptionalCollegeforanexceptionalCommunity #yourlocalsixthform - with @Meridian Trust and @Eastern Education Group

Barracudas, the UK’s favourite holiday camp for children aged 4½ to 14, will be running at our school this summer! With over 80 exciting activities—including swimming, sports, drama, dance, motorsports, arts & crafts, an aqua slide, archery, and teambuilding—there’s something for every child to enjoy. 

Children get a choice of activities in each of the six daily sessions, so they’re always engaged in something they love. Standard hours are 8:30am - 5:30pm, with optional Early and Late Clubs extending to 8am - 6pm. 

🔗 Find out more and book now: https://www.barracudas.co.uk/ 

💥 Exclusive discount for our parents! Save £20 on a week or £4 per day with code HSCP25. 

Our Criminology, Psychology and Sociology students experienced the prisoner admission process, got locked in the cells and learned more about the history of Prisons and Punishment. This helped them deepen their understanding so they can evaluate the prison services role in Social Control as part of their studies.

Huge thanks to the prison guards and guides, as well as staff, for organising such an engaging trip beyond the classroom!

#LOTC #learningoutsideoftheclassroom #extendingtheboundariesoflearning - with Meridian Trust

It was a tremendous experience for all of our Year 8s as well as Computer Science students in Years 10, 12 and 13 who had the opportunity to interact with industry experts and listen to talks about career options and skills within the very vast IT and Computing field.

Students came away with more awareness of the impact of this industry on all aspects of everyday life and how they could go about exploring opportunities within it. Design, Creativity and Problem Solving were the top skills mentioned, which we hope will inspire more students, especially girls, to show more interest in exploring studies and careers in Computer Science.

For sixth form students who which to explore internship, here is a link to Roku's early careers webpage: https://www.weareroku.com/early-career

For more information about early careers, apprenticeship, work experience, and internship from the other organizations, please visit their websites.

Remember all this week, we also have a series of Lunchtime guest speakers to celebrate #NationalCareersWeek!

More than 120 schoolchildren took part in a cross-country event involving East Cambridgeshire schools.

The Year 3 and Year 4 students from a number of schools across Ely competed in the event on February 13. The event, hosted by Ely College and organised by ActivePlay Education, saw pupils from Isle of Ely Primary School, The Lantern Community Primary School, Little Thetford Church of England Primary School, Millfield Primary School, Robert Arkenstall Primary School, and Wilburton Church of England Primary School run the 1,500 metre course.

The overall cross-country team winner was Isle of Ely Primary School.

The winners from each category were Millfield in the Year 3 girls' race, Wilburton in the Year 3 boys' race, Little Thetford in the Year 4 girls' race, and Isle of Ely in the Year 4 boys' race.

Caroline Morton, of ActivePlay Education, said: "It was a great morning, and all the children did really well. It was fantastic to see so many young people outside, running and enjoying themselves."

The event was supported by 20 young leaders from Ely College. Such a large event will count towards their #PLEDGES! Well done to all involved for helping our local primary school partners and inspiring younger pupils to be active and succeed in sports.

https://www.elystandard.co.uk/news/24959309.isle-ely-primary-school-wins-cross-country-event/

Also in the News:

A student from Ely College has made history with his athletics team.

Caleb Wilson, a Year 10 student and a member of Ely Runners Juniors, is set to compete in the national finals of the Sportshall competition.

His Cambridgeshire U15s team secured victory at the regional finals in Norwich on Saturday.

They are the first Cambridgeshire team in Sportshall's 40-year history to reach the finals.

Despite facing strong competition from Norfolk, Essex, Suffolk, and Hertfordshire, the Cambridgeshire boys delivered a dominant performance, amassing an impressive 653 points - well ahead of Suffolk's 583-point second-place finish.

Remarkably, the team, made up of athletes from across the county, had limited opportunities to train together.

In Sportshall athletics, teams of six compete in six individual events - long jump, triple jump, speed bounce, shot put, two-lap sprint, and four-lap race, before coming together for two relay events that contribute to the team score.

Caleb, who also plays rugby for Ely Tigers and football for Ely City Crusaders, will compete in the national finals in Stoke on April 12.

https://www.elystandard.co.uk/sport/24911064.ely-college-student-compete-national-athletics-finals/

Huge thank you for offering our students some amazing insights into their Graded Synoptic assessment where they will putting their 1980's looks on the runway!

Exciting times ahead for our Hair and Beauty students. More details on the Salon Skills Showcase soon but for now, please all save the date: Thursday 20th March!

Come along to meet training providers, connect with top local employers, and explore career opportunities across multiple sectors. Whether you're a school leaver or career changer get expert advice and direct access to apprenticeship opportunities to take your next career step.

This event is not just for our Ely College students. After 3pm we are open to the general public, ALL AGES and hope recent leavers or students from other schools as well as anyone looking to take their next step will join us!

Lisa Lambo-Hills, Careers Co-rdinator and event organiser said, "East Cambs has a growing community and fenland businesses and industries should not be overlooked. Our network of local employers are offering a wealth of opportunities across various industries. Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain real-world experience, earn while you learn, and develop the skills needed to thrive in today’s job market. This event is a great chance for local people to explore career options, connect with employers, and take the next big step towards a successful future in Ely and beyond!"

Friday 14th February 2025

 3 PM – 4 PM

Ely College, Adelaide Hall via Main Reception

Booking encouraged, but drop-ins welcome!

Secure your spot now: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/elycollege/apprenticeship-fair-2025-at-ely-college-open-to-the-public-from-3pm/2025-02-14/15:00/t-qjomeox          

Year 10 students offered them some excellent insights into what they feel works well as we embed effective strategies into our classroom culture. We look forward to seeing some of their interviews on ITV Anglia News later this week. Keep an eye out on the 6pm news! Huge thank you to Geoff & Amanda for their time.

Ely College Principal, Simon Warburton praised the cast on opening night and exclaimed: “Let’s take it on tour!” “This was a show that would not have been out of place at the West End.  The cast put on an inspirational performance each night, where the acting and singing were of such a high quality. Such a smooth opening night was a testament to their many talents and months of hard work.” 

“It was particularly pleasing to see a cast that spanned the entire age range of the college and where the youngest of our performers really pushed the abilities of our older and more experienced students”; who in turn took lead on so many aspects, such as the challenging choreography. These colourful characters were brought to life by the main cast including Year 7’s Chloe Lee, playing the titular young orphan Oliver and Year 8 Alicia Clough, as the precocious Artful Dodger. What a duo! With a young ensemble and backstage crew driving the production forward, this year’s choice of musical truly felt like a passing of the torch, with Bishop Laney sixth former Joe Turner playing a complex Fagin and many of the exiting Year 11 cast reflected on their time at the college as they gave a speech at the end of closing night.

Taking turns to thank their teachers, they looked back on their collective past experiences, celebrating previous productions including The Caucasian Chalk Circle (2024), Little Shop of Horrors (2023) and School of Rock (2022). It was an emotional ending for Evie Bennet and Eleanor Wallman, who had sung their hearts out as Nancy and Bet, bringing light and love to this show with a right olde cockney knees-up! Notable performances from Charlie Sigrist (Mr Bumble), Tom Le Gresley (Mr Sowerberry) and Findlay Paul (Charley) brought the humour, whilst Year 10 Zac Tatum’s outstanding but contemptible Bill Sikes took us deep into the dark underbelly of Victorian London.

Oliver! was a first-time joint venture for co-director’s Jake Newton and Kate Arnold. Teacher of Music and Musical Director, Kate Arnold wanted to thank everyone for their support, especially parents who helped install overnight the staging and the skilful accompaniment provided by the professional and peripatetic pit band who: “brought this show to life with music.” Just days before the first public performance, she explained, the nerves were there and none of us would have believed just how spectacular it would be; students agreed.

"The final weekend before the show," said Year 10 Asia Glory (Mrs Sowerberry) "we finally came together on set as a cast and were able to improve all of our scenes. We sang and danced during our lunch breaks, everyone was fully committed!" Ben Lithe, who starred as Mr Browlow, added, "We became increasingly confident after the dress rehearsal. The backstage crew quickly iron out any kinks and despite being beyond tired after a full on week, as well as normal lessons, we are all so proud of what we have achieved together"

Still, said Teacher of Drama and Director Jake Newton: "That is the thrill of live theatre—when all of the separate elements come together at the last minute and create true magic. This cast and crew coalesced and found community with each other." Year 11 Catrin Andrews playing Widow Corney, said, "This is my third and last year performing in the musical, and I am incredibly proud of how this cast and crew succeeded together." She emphasized that none of the magic audiences saw on stage would have been possible were it not for the many teachers and parents who assisted behind the scenes or with the PTFA. She expressed gratitude for students and staff who ran the backstage, hair and make up as well the sound and lighting from the Trust’s technician. “We’ve made so many new friendships this year. The song asks ‘Where is Love?’ – it’s here in the heart of our school community.”