Academy Update: Term 6
Dear Parents/Carers
As we move towards the end of the academic year, I would like to take a moment to thank you for your continued support, encouragement and commitment to Hanham Woods Academy. Since joining the school, I have been incredibly impressed with the strong connection that families have with the academy and the pride that you take in your child’s progress and development. It is clear that this sense of community and shared ambition plays a vital role in the success of our students.
As is typical in Term 6, we are reviewing our systems and procedures to ensure that they remain fit for purpose as we prepare for the year ahead. This annual process allows us to refine and improve the way we work so that we can continue to grow as a school and offer the very best for every student. With that in mind, please see below some important updates and revisions to our school routines, which will take effect from September 2025.
Change to the Academy Start Time
As previously communicated, from September the academy day will begin at 8:35am and finish at 3:00pm. Students will still be permitted on site from 8:15am, which remains unchanged and therefore should not disrupt existing childcare arrangements.
Why are we making this change?
This slight adjustment supports a smoother and more purposeful start to the day. It aligns our timings with key pastoral routines and allows for a more settled and consistent beginning to learning, ensuring that students are ready and focused when lessons begin.
Change to Structure of the Academy Day
We are moving from 6 x 50-minute lessons to 5 x 1-hour lessons each day. The new structure of the school day will be shared in full in our end-of-year communications and displayed on our website.
Why are we making this change?
new structure reduces the number of transitions between lessons, which minimises lost learning time and helps students maintain focus for longer periods. It also supports deeper learning by allowing teachers to build knowledge more effectively within each lesson:
- In Key Stage 3, this will mean more opportunity for exploration and consolidation of key concepts, particularly in subjects where there are practical elements e.g. Science, Art & DT, Food, Music and PE.
- In Key Stage 4, longer lessons will better align with the demands of examination content and prepare students for post-16 study expectations.
PE Lessons in Key Stage 3
From September, some PE lessons in KS3 will be delivered in mixed gender groups.
Why are we making this change?
This approach allows for greater flexibility in how we deliver high-quality PE, supporting both a nurturing approach to physical development and an inclusive environment for all students. It also prepares students for the structure of KS4 PE, where mixed-gender lessons are the norm, particularly for those pursuing GCSE PE or BTEC Sport. Research shows that this model can foster mutual respect, teamwork and stronger social cohesion among students. In line with national governing body guidance and AfPE guidance, contact activities such as rugby, hockey, football etc. will still be delivered in single sex groups within a class.
Tutor Time
From September, students will have two tutor times per day—one in the morning and one in the afternoon.
Why are we making this change?
Tutor time plays a vital role in helping students feel known, supported, and ready to learn. The morning session will ensure all students benefit from a consistent wellbeing check-in and a structured start to the day. The afternoon session will allow for a reflective check-in for those who need it and provide protected time for the delivery of our tutor programme, which supports personal development, character education and academic mentor
Thank you once again for your ongoing support. We are proud of the progress being made across the academy and look forward to working in continued partnership with you to ensure every student thrives and achieves their full potential at Hanham. If you would like discuss any of these changes please do feel free to contact me via the school office.
Yours sincerely
Mr Chris Ballard | Interim Academy Principal
