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  • Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys at the Future of Education Summit Dubai

    Published 16/01/26

    Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys at the Future of Education Summit Dubai

    A few highlights from the Future of Education Summit in Dubai, hosted by SP Jain Global. Ms S. Gurney, representing Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys, is attending as one of 30 senior leaders invited to join the discussions alongside colleagues from the SP Jain London School of Management.

    Throughout the summit, delegates have been exploring the future of work in an AI‑driven world and examining how schools and universities can prepare students for the opportunities and challenges ahead. Ms Gurney has also been learning about SP Jain’s forward‑thinking degree programmes, designed to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global landscape.

    Across our PolyMAT community, there is a shared recognition of the importance of engaging with global partners and staying at the forefront of educational innovation. Opportunities like this summit help ensure that students and staff benefit from the latest thinking, emerging technologies, and international collaboration.

    Ms Gurney looks forward to strengthening connections with SP Jain London and SP Jain Global as they continue working together to shape the next generation of education.

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  • A Century of Excellence at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys

    Published 14/01/26

    A Century of Excellence at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys

    For over one hundred years, Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys has been a place where ambition, care and opportunity come together. Our long history of strong examination results and exceptional pastoral support reflects a simple truth: students thrive when they feel safe, happy and valued.

    A Positive, Supportive Environment

    We place care at the heart of everything we do. Our staff work tirelessly to build meaningful relationships with every student, ensuring they feel seen, supported and understood. We believe that education is most powerful when school and home work hand‑in‑hand, which is why parent and carer involvement is not only welcomed but deeply valued. Together, we create a community where every child feels secure, encouraged and ready to achieve their best.

    A Confident Choice for Your Child

    Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you will make. By entrusting us with your son’s education, you are choosing a place where he will be nurtured, challenged and celebrated. We are committed to providing an environment where he can grow academically, socially and personally - and where his well-being is always prioritised.

    Welcome to the Poly Family - a community built on care, trust and the belief that every child deserves the very best.

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  • Discover the FREE Winter Lights Festival at Canary Wharf

    Published 14/01/26

    Winter Lights at Canary Wharf 

    If you are looking for something fun, free, and a bit different to brighten up the winter evenings, Winter Lights at Canary Wharf is the perfect half‑term escape. The festival is celebrating its tenth birthday this year and runs from Tuesday 20th January to Saturday 31st January, with the lights glowing from 5.00pm to 10.00pm every evening.

    This year’s theme, DREAMSCAPE, feels like stepping into another world. There are sixteen incredible light installations created by artists from across the globe - glowing structures, moving displays, and immersive pieces that make you stop, take photos, and just enjoy the moment.

    You can wander through colourful tunnels, explore giant illuminated sculptures, and discover interactive installations that are great fun for teenagers and adults alike. It is creative, surreal, and a brilliant way to spend an evening without spending any money.

    Whether you are heading out with friends, taking a family trip, or just looking for something inspiring to do after school, Winter Lights is a fantastic way to get out, explore, and enjoy the city. And the best part is that it is completely free.

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  • Berlin, Germany Trip 2026 – GCSE History

    Published 12/01/26

    Berlin, Germany Trip 2026 – GCSE History

    Step Back in Time and Explore Modern Culture!

    Experience a thought-provoking journey to Berlin, a vibrant city where 100 years of history meet modern innovation. Students will walk through iconic landmarks, uncover stories from the past, and gain a deeper understanding of the events that shaped Europe.

    This trip is designed to enrich GCSE History studies, offering students a chance to connect with history beyond the classroom.

    Subject: GCSE History

    Who can join?

    Current Year 10 students & Year 9 students planning to take History at GCSE next year

    When?

    4th - 6th October 2026

    Berlin is more than a destination - it’s a living history book waiting to be explored!

    Reserve your place now! Join us for this incredible historical journey - secure your spot before it’s too late.

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  • Palermo, Sicily Trip 2026 - GCSE Geography

    Published 12/01/26

    Palermo, Sicily Trip 2026 - GCSE Geography

    Uncover the Island’s Geographic Wonders!

    Join us for an unforgettable 4-day, 3-night trip to Sicily in October 2026. Students will explore the island’s stunning geographic past, from its volcanic landscapes to its rich cultural heritage.

    This trip combines hands-on learning with breath-taking scenery, offering students a deeper understanding of geography in action. It’s not just a trip - it’s an experience that brings classroom learning to life!

    Subject: GCSE Geography

    Who can join?

    Current Year 10 students & Year 9 students planning to take Geography at GCSE next year

    When?

    October 2026 (Exact dates confirmed in January)

    Pack your curiosity and sense of adventure - Sicily is calling! Reserve your place now!

    Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure - book early to guarantee your place.

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  • The Hague, Belgium Trip 2026 – GCSE Citizenship

    Published 12/01/26

    The Hague, Belgium Trip 2026 – GCSE Citizenship

    Discover the Heart of Global Diplomacy and Justice!

    This autumn, students will have the unique opportunity to visit The Hague, home to the International Criminal Court and other world-renowned institutions shaping international law and justice.

    On this inspiring trip, students will gain first-hand insight into global diplomacy, international justice systems, and the organisations that influence peace and security worldwide. It’s a chance to see how decisions made here impact nations across the globe.

    Subject: GCSE Citizenship

    Who can join?

    Current Year 10 students & Year 9 students planning to take Citizenship at GCSE next year

    When?

    A weekday in the Autumn Term 2026 (Exact date and timings confirmed in February)

    Reserve your place now! Spaces are limited for this exclusive insight into international justice - secure your spot today.

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  • Thank You for Making a Difference!

    Published 09/01/26

    Thank You for Making a Difference!

    Thanks to the incredible support of our staff, students, families, and friends, we have been able to hold amazing events and raise funds for some truly important causes.

    Since September 2025, we have raised over £2,600 for:

    • Jeans for Genes Day
    • Wear It Pink Day
    • Armistice Day
    • Movember
    • Jamaica Fundraiser
    • Christmas Jumper Day

    Every pound raised reflects the kindness and generosity of our community. Your support doesn’t just fund charities - it brings people together and makes a real difference.

    Stay tuned, we already have lots of wonderful events lined up until March that we cannot wait to share with you.

    Thank you for being part of something so special. We are so proud of what we have achieved together as a school community. Here’s to continuing this incredible journey and making an even bigger impact in the year ahead. ❤️

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  • Celebrating Success in the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge - Celebrating Our Gold Winners Top 10% in the UK!

    Published 09/01/26

    Celebrating Success in the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge!

    For the first time, we entered all KS3, Year 10 CS & BTEC, Year 12 CS, and Year 13 CTEC students into this prestigious national competition — and the results are incredible!

    The Bebras Challenge, run by the Raspberry Pi Foundation and the University of Oxford, promotes computational thinking worldwide. Last year, over 3 million students from 80+ countries took part, including 526,915 participants in the UK.

    Gold Certificates (Top 10% nationally in their age category):

    • Year 7 – Juniors (10–12): Adam B, Matthew D
    • Year 9 – Intermediates (12–14): Xin J, Suyem S, Kevin S
    • Seniors (14–16): Josiah A
    • Elites (16–19): Taran K

    Best in School:

    • Josiah Attafuah (Seniors 14–16)
    • Taran Khangura (Elites 16–19)

    Huge congratulations to all our students for their amazing achievements!

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  • Supporting Healthy Digital Habits for Young People

    Published 08/01/26

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    We know that navigating the digital world can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to supporting children and young people online. To help, we have shared  some useful resources that provide guidance and insight into managing social media and digital life:

    1. Children’s Commissioner Guide
      “What I wish my parents or carers knew…” - This guide offers practical advice on how to support children in their online lives. You can access the booklet directly on the Children’s Commissioner website or download the attached copy.       What I wish my parents knew - A guide

    2. Recommended Documentary
      The Social Dilemma (available on Netflix) - A thought-provoking documentary that explores the impact of social media and phone usage on mental health and society.

    3. Recommended Reading
      The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt – A powerful book examining how changes in childhood and technology are affecting young people’s wellbeing.

    We encourage you to take some time to explore these resources. They offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of raising children in a digital age.

    Thank you for your continued support in helping our young people thrive both online and offline.

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  • DTP & Men ACWY Vaccinations

    Published 06/01/26

    Information for Families: Upcoming Vaccination Sessions for Year 9 Students

    The Immunisation Team has confirmed two upcoming vaccination sessions for Year 9 students:

    • First session: 10 February 2026 
    • Second session: 5 March 2026

    Families will receive a letter containing full details about the DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio) and Meningitis ACWY vaccinations, which form part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule. The letter also includes information about the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine for any young people who may have missed a previous dose.

    Parents and guardians are encouraged to complete the online consent form as soon as possible. Consent can be given or declined using the link provided in the letter. The Immunisation Team is available to support families who need help completing the form, who have changed their minds, or who have questions about the vaccinations. Their contact details can be found within the consent link and on the South London Children and Young People’s Community Immunisations webpage.

    Families of students in Year 10 and Year 11 who may have missed vaccinations in earlier years are also welcome to contact the team directly for support.

    If any families require materials in alternative formats - such as translated documents or braille - they are encouraged to contact the Immunisation Team, who are happy to provide additional support to ensure no young person misses out on these important vaccinations.

    Thank you for your continued support in keeping our school communities healthy and protected.

    DTP & Men ACWY Letter

    DTP Men Poster Missed Vaccines

    Greenwich DTP Men Poster

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  • PolyMAT Winter Newsletter 2025 – Now Live!

    Published 19/12/25

    PolyMAT Winter Newsletter 2025 – Now Live!

    The latest edition of our Winter Trust Newsletter is now available, bringing you a comprehensive look at what’s been happening across the PolyMAT family this term.

    Inside this issue:

    • A message from our CEO reflecting on an incredible term of achievement and community spirit
    • Free support services available for families during the holiday period
    • Smartphone insights - are teens connected or distracted?
    • Creative and educational winter activities for students
    • Highlights from Woolwich Poly Boys, Woolwich Poly Girls & Bannockburn Primary

    This edition celebrates success, unity, and care - the values that define our Trust.

    Read now

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  • End of Term Plans

    Published 16/12/25

    Christmas Break 2025

    School will close for the Christmas break on Friday 19th December.

    This will be a half day, with a staggered dismissal beginning at 11:30am for Year 11.

    All students will be dismissed by 12:05pm.

    We will reopen on Monday 5th January 2026, with the normal start time of 8:40am.

    Read More

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