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  • Studybugs logo

    Studybugs - The new way to report student absence!

    Published 21/06/23

    Dear parent/carers, 

    We are pleased to announce that Woolwich Polytechnic Boys is introducing a new, more efficient and secure system for reporting your child’s absence due to illness, called Studybugs.

    If you haven’t already, please get the free Studybugs app, or register on the Studybugs website, and use it to tell us whenever your child’s ill and unable to attend school.

    Get the app or register now:  https://studybugs.com/about/parents

    Top 3 reasons to use Studybugs
    1. It’s integrated with our systems, so we know right away if your child is unaccounted for.
    2. It’s quick and easy to register and use and automatically reminds you to keep us posted.
    3. You’ll be helping the NHS and other public health organisations improve children’s health. https://studybugs.com/about/schools

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  • Breaking Barriers at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys

    Published 15/09/25

    Breaking Barriers at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys

    We are so proud to announce that our students have not only exceeded national GCSE averages but have also outperformed the average for boys nationally across key subjects - a truly remarkable achievement.

    English Language - 54% achieved 4+, beating the national boys’ average by 19%

    English Literature - 69%, 10% above boys nationally

    Mathematics - 60%, 14% higher than the national boys’ average

    Combined Science - 57%, 4% above boys nationally

    All Subjects Combined - Our students are thriving across the board!

    Why this matters?

    Nationally, boys often face challenges in academic performance compared to their peers. These results show that our students are defying expectations, proving that with the right support, environment, and ambition, every student can succeed. This is a testament to the hard work of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the strength of our school community. We are not just closing gaps; we are setting new standards for what boys in education can achieve.

    A heartfelt thank you to our students, staff, and families - together, we are setting new benchmarks for success.

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  • Consultation for the expansion of the LARP (Local Authority Resourced Provision) as a single-sex provision at Woolwich Polytechnic School

    Published 08/09/25

    We are delighted to announce that the Regional Director at the Department for Education has approved our significant change request to establish a Local Authority Resourced Provision (LARP) Satellite Provision. This new provision will serve as an extension of the existing LARP currently based at and operated by Woolwich Polytechnic School (WPS) and is scheduled to commence in 2026. The proposed expansion will increase the total LARP capacity from 15 to 45 pupils, with the additional 30 places delivered via a new satellite site. This approval is conditional upon further consultation prior to the opening of the provision as a single-sex Satellite LARP, as the initial consultation was conducted on the basis of a co-educational model.

    The consultation period runs from Monday 8th September to Friday 3rd October 2025 and allows anyone with an interest (for example parents, other schools and the local community) to comment on the proposal for the satellite LARP to open as a single-sex (all male) provision rather than a co-educational one.

    You can comment by emailing consultation@woolwichpoly.co.uk

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  • Year 7 - First Day at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys Complete!

    Published 05/09/25

    Yesterday, the sun shone down as we continued our much-loved tradition of clapping our Year 7s out of school after their very first day at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys. It was such a lovely moment for staff to come together and celebrate our newest cohort.

    This short video captures the joy, pride, and sense of community that defines our school. We are so incredibly proud to welcome our new Year 7s as they begin their secondary education journey with us, we know they are going to achieve such wonderful things this year.

    Watch now!

     

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  • Celebrating GCSE and A-Level D&T Excellence at WPSfB 2024-2025

    Published 02/09/25

    Design and Technology (D&T) at GCSE and A-Level product design showcases some of the most imaginative, innovative, and technically impressive work seen in secondary education, which gets better every year!. From developing sustainable solutions to engineering cutting-edge prototypes, students consistently rise to the challenge, demonstrating not only academic skill but also outstanding creativity and resilience.

    The coursework in D&T demands a unique blend of problem-solving, critical thinking, and hands-on technical ability. Students are tasked with identifying real-world issues and responding with thoughtful, often ingenious, design solutions. Whether it's creating ergonomic furniture, eco-friendly packaging, or programmable electronic devices, each project reflects months of research, iteration, and refinement.

    What truly sets these students apart is their determination and work ethic. Behind every final model or product is a rigorous design process that includes sketching, computer-aided design (CAD), modelling, material testing, and countless adjustments. Students regularly go above and beyond expectations, spending long hours perfecting their projects and adapting to setbacks with impressive resilience.

    Creativity flourishes in D&T classrooms, where students are encouraged to think independently and take ownership of their ideas. They learn to balance aesthetics with function, theory with practice, and innovation with practicality. This subject not only equips them with technical skills but also nurtures future designers, engineers, and problem-solvers who will shape the world around us.

    In a world that increasingly values innovation and sustainable thinking, the work produced by GCSE and A-Level Design and Technology students is nothing short of inspiring. It stands as a testament to their talent, dedication, and potential.

    Watch our new YouTube video showcasing some of the incredible pieces our students created this year - from concept sketches to final models, it’s a celebration of design brilliance and youthful innovation.

     

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  • Watch Our Brand New A Level Results Day 2025 Video!

    Published 01/09/25

    Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form is celebrating another phenomenal year, and we are so excited to share the celebration with you!

    Over 80% of grades A-C*
    98.5% pass rate
    Offers from several Russell Group universities
    Apprenticeships at OFCOM and top firms

    Our Class of 2025 has truly raised the bar. This is a day of pride, joy, and well-earned celebration, and it’s all captured in our latest video.

    Whether you're a future student, proud parent/carer, or part of our amazing community, this video is for YOU. Watch now and see for yourself what makes Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form so special.

    Subscribe for more student success stories, behind-the-scenes life and updates across our PolyMAT Schools!
     

     

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  • Return to School Information - September 2025

    Published 28/08/25

    Return to school - September 2025

    Date Information
    Monday 1st September 2025 INSET DAY - STAFF ONLY
    Tuesday 2nd September 2025 INSET DAY - STAFF ONLY
    Wednesday 3rd September 2025
    • Year 12 ONLY - 8.40-12.30
    • ALL OTHER YEAR GROUPS TO REMAIN AT HOME
    Thursday September 2025
    • Year 7 Induction - 9.30-2.30
    • Year 12 Faculty Trip 
    • Year 13 Induction - 10am arrival
    • ALL OTHER YEAR GROUPS TO REMAIN AT HOME
    Friday 5th September 2025 
    • Year 8 - 11 Target Setting Day - by appointment time only
    • YEARS 7, 12 & 13 - HOME STUDY
    Monday 8th September 2025  ALL YEAR GROUPS IN SCHOOL - 8.40am start

     

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  • GCSE Results 2025 - Continued Academic Excellence at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys

    Published 21/08/25

    We are proud of our boys' achievements, with English and Maths pass rates up by approximately 5% on last year - these are really the gateway subjects to future study, so it means that even more students can access key stage 5 or apprenticeships without retakes. With the best English grades at 79% and maths at 74%, we also know that these beat national averages by some margin. 

    Other notable successes include Art and Physics with 100% pass rate, Citizenship with a 90% pass rate, followed closely by Drama and DT on 85% and Economics and French on 80%. 

    At grade 7 and above, again Art, along with Economics, English Literature and Maths all achieved around 20% or more for these top grades. There should also be a shout-out for Further Maths, where almost 100% of students achieved grade 6 or higher, with 79% at grade 7 or above and 21% at grade 9. 

    These results clearly show that Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys engenders success at all levels of ability. 

    Mr T Lawrence, Headteacher comments:

    “I am delighted and immensely proud to announce that Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys have achieved GCSE results that compare very favourably to previous years, indeed showing a significant increase in pass grades from last year.  English, Maths, Art, Photography, Graphics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Citizenship, Design technology, Economics, French and Spanish - the list is happily extensive! - stand out as particular successes. Most importantly, our results at grade 4 and above are up significantly, meaning that even more students can access further education without retakes - the ultimate measure of success. Our success translates to even more deserved opportunity for our outgoing year 11s, many of which we are welcoming back to extend their success in our Sixth Form.  I must also congratulate teachers for their enormous efforts and offer my gratitude to parents for supporting their sons and us through these times: everyone’s efforts have been rewarded with great success.”

    Miss R James, Head of Year 11 comments:

    “I want to take a moment to congratulate each and every one of our Year 11s on their fantastic achievements in their summer exams. They have worked incredibly hard, and their dedication and perseverance have truly paid off. I am so proud of everything they have accomplished and I’m excited to see where life will take them next. This is just the beginning of a new chapter, and I have no doubt that they will continue to achieve great things. The future is bright, and we can't wait to hear about the next steps in their journeys.”

     

    Top Achievers – Grade Breakdown

    • Toan: 9 grade 9s, 1 grade 8
    • Deividas: 3 grade 9s, 6 grade 8s, 1 grade 7
    • Malachi: 3 grade 9s, 4 grade 8s, 2 grade 7s, 1 grade 6
    • Muhammad: 2 grade 9s, 4 grade 8s, 3 grade 7s, 1 grade 6
    • Michael: 1 grade 9, 5 grade 8s, 3 grade 7s
    • Mithiran: 1 grade 9, 3 grade 8s, 2 grade 7s, 3 grade 6s, 1 grade 4
    • Abdulrahmon: 1 grade 9, 3 grade 8s, 1 grade 7, 3 grade 6s, 1 grade 5
    • Taran: 1 grade 9, 2 grade 8s, 6 grade 7s, 1 grade 6, 1 grade 4
    • David: 1 grade 9, 2 grade 8s, 6 grade 7s, 1 grade 5
    • Jamal: 1 grade 9, 2 grade 8s, 4 grade 7s, 2 grade 6s
    • Arthur: 1 grade 9, 2 grade 8s, 2 grade 7s, 1 grade 6, 1 grade 5
    • Benjamin: 1 grade 9, 2 grade 8s, 3 grade 7s, 1 grade 6, 1 grade 3
    • Nam: 5 grade 8s, 1 grade 7, 2 grade 6s, 1 grade 5
    • Calvin: 4 grade 8s, 4 grade 7s, 1 grade 6, 1 grade 5
    • Dylan: 4 grade 8s, 2 grade 7s, 3 grade 6s
    • Khaliq: 4 grade 8s, 1 grade 7, 2 grade 6s, 2 grade 5s
    • Refael: 3 grade 8s, 2 grade 7s, 4 grade 6s
    • Hamsa: 3 grade 8s, 2 grade 7s, 3 grade 6s, 2 grade 5s
    • Oluwatimileyin: 2 grade 8s, 3 grade 7s, 3 grade 6s, 1 grade 5
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  • GCSE Results Day 2025: FREE Treats to Make Your Day Even Better!

    Published 18/08/25

    Here are some of the freebies and deals available to students on GCSE Results Day - Thursday 21st August 2025 just show your results page (and sometimes student ID) to claim:

    Food & Drink Offers

    • Nando’s - Free ¼ chicken or starter when you spend £7+ and show your results slip.
    • Pizza Express - Free dough balls with any main meal. UNiDAYS members also get 25% off.
    • Wagamama - 25% student discount (up from 20%) from 14–20 August. Join the Soul Club and show your results.
    • Bella Italia - Free starter and dessert with any main (up to 6 people per table).
    • Banana Tree - Free chicken or tofu pad Thai when you buy a starter and drink (voucher required).
    • Bill’s - Free dessert with any main.
    • Bird & Blend Tea Co. - Free iced tea or matcha drink, no minimum spend.
    • Byron Burgers - Two-for-one burgers with results slip.
    • Côte Brasserie - Free dessert and £10 voucher. Bonus: free Steak Frites or Vegan Burger if you passed French!
    • Frankie & Benny’s - Free pizza for the first 50 students per restaurant who buy a large soft drink.
    • Las Iguanas - Free churros with results slip (14–21 August).
    • Zizzi - Surprise freebie (could be a starter, dessert, drink, or even a meal worth up to £150!).

    Entertainment

    • Showcase Cinemas - Free small ICEE drink with a cinema ticket on results day.

    Tips to Claim:

    • Bring your results page and student ID.
    • Check T&Cs - some offers require a minimum spend or booking.
    • Follow your favourite brands on social media for last-minute deals.
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  • From Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys to Eton: A Journey of Excellence

    Published 11/08/25

    From Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys to Eton: A Journey of Excellence

    We are bursting with pride as we celebrate former student Judah Cummings, who’s now thriving at Eton College on a fully funded Orwell Award scholarship.

    Judah’s story is one of exceptional talent and determination. From earning an A* in A Level Maths while still in Year 11 to now thriving at Eton, where he is a member of elite academic societies and the First XI football team - Judah exemplifies the power of ambition, resilience, and opportunity.

    His success is not just personal, it is a powerful symbol of what’s possible for young people across South East London. Judah’s journey continues to inspire, and we’re proud to have been part of his foundation.

    Judah’s success shines far beyond his own achievements, it lights the way for other young men in our community. Judah, we are cheering you on every step of the way!

    At PolyMAT, our vision is Success for Everyone and Judah’s achievements reflect exactly that. His story reminds us that with the right support and belief, every student can reach extraordinary heights.

    Read more about his inspiring journey

    #etoncollege #woolwichpolytechnicschoolforboys

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  • Preparing for Secondary School: Apply for an 11-15 Zip Oyster Card

    Published 30/07/25

    Preparing for Secondary School: Travel Made Easy for Year 7 Students

    As we welcome our new Year 7 cohort this September, we encourage all parents and carers to apply for the 11–15 Zip Oyster photocard to ensure students can travel safely and affordably across London.

    The Zip Oyster photocard offers:

    ✅ Free travel on buses and trams
    ✅ Child-rate fares on Tube, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line & more
    ✅ Discounts on River services and the IFS Cloud Cable Car

    Apply early – it can take up to 2 weeks to arrive.
    You’ll need a photo, proof of age, and a £10 admin fee.

    Apply here

    Let’s make sure every student starts the year confident and ready to travel!

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  • FREE, Fun & School-Ready Summer Activities!

    Published 25/07/25

    Here’s a list of fun, free activities for all ages that can keep students engaged, active, and school-ready over the summer break:

    Learning Through Play

    • Library Challenges - Join your local library’s summer reading scheme for free books and rewards.
    • Home Science Experiments - Try volcano-making with baking soda and vinegar or build a paper plane challenge.
    • Creative Writing Prompts - Use picture prompts to spark imagination.

    Mind-Stretchers & Skill Builders

    • Skill Swap Sessions - Teach friends something you know (drawing, football tricks, coding) and learn something new in return.
    • DIY Quizzes & Escape Rooms - Create themed challenges at home using riddles, maps, or scavenger hunts.
    • Journal & Scrapbook Projects - Reflect on achievements and goals with creative prompts or vision boards.

    Routine & Wellbeing Boosters

    • Morning Stretch & Podcast Combo - Pair gentle yoga or stretches with a motivational or funny podcast.
    • Digital Declutter Day - Sort apps, emails, and photos to start the new term fresh.
    • Mindfulness Walks - Quiet strolls with breathing exercises to encourage calm and reflection.
    • Back-to-School Countdown Calendar - Include one small daily task to ease the return (e.g., packing pencil case).

    Outdoor Adventures

    • Park Fitness Circuits - Make obstacle courses using benches, trees, and playground equipment.
    • Nature Scavenger Hunts - Search for leaves, feathers, wildflowers, or bugs in green spaces.
    • Free Geocaching Adventures - Use free apps to hunt hidden treasures around your area.

    At-Home Challenges & Brain Boosters

    • Design a Board Game - Use cardboard and pens to invent your own game with unique rules and characters.
    • DIY Comic Series - Create your own storyline or superhero saga across multiple strips.
    • Memory Master - Challenge siblings or friends to memorise poems, facts, or new words in fun competitions.
    Read More

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