Spring Term Highlights 2025 Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust

Explore and Book Our Academy Facilities with SchoolHire

In the heart of our community lies a hub of learning, and now, an open invitation extends beyond our classroom walls. Our school facilities across the Trust, including football pitches and sports halls, are available to hire through our new partner, SchoolHire.

As we unlock our doors to the community, local sports teams, clubs, and community groups are invited to utilise our spaces. This initiative is more than just an invitation — it’s an opportunity for mutual growth. By renting our facilities, you not only contribute to the financial vitality of the school but also support the development of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and the maintenance of our shared spaces. Your involvement enhances the overall educational experience for our students.

Beyond the financial benefits, the impact extends to health and wellness. Accessible sports facilities encourage physical activity and a healthier lifestyle for residents of all ages. Whether it’s local sports clubs, fitness classes, or recreational leagues, our spaces are ready to support a community committed to well-being. As these facilities become accessible, they provide a platform for skill development. Local sports teams and aspiring athletes can utilise these spaces to hone their abilities, fostering a culture of sportsmanship and talent development within our community.

By opening our doors to community events, tournaments and gatherings, we aim to strengthen the bonds that tie us together, building a supportive community that rallies behind school initiatives and projects.

For more details on how you can hire our facilities, click here.

Pupils at Holyhead Primary Academy had the exciting opportunity to embark on a week-long trip to Paris, providing them with an extraordinary educational experience abroad. Throughout the trip, pupils fully immersed themselves in French culture, exploring some of the country's most iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, bustling local markets, and explored France via a boat cruise. They also savoured a variety of traditional French cuisine, broadening their cultural knowledge, before culminating in a trip to Disneyland Paris.

The trip was a resounding success, showcasing the dedication and hard work of everyone involved at the Academy, making it a truly memorable experience for all.

Pupils represented the Academy with pride, demonstrating exceptional behaviour and enthusiasm as they embarked on the trip. The experience allowed them to deepen their learning and expand their horizons, providing real-world connections to their academic studies.

In addition to the Paris trip, year 5 pupils also had the chance to visit the National Space Centre, where they expanded their knowledge of space exploration and its impact on history. This interactive experience perfectly complemented the school’s curriculum, providing pupils with the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge scientific concepts in an immersive, hands-on setting.

The trips not only enriched pupils' academic understanding but also helped to foster a sense of adventure and curiosity, inspiring a lasting love for learning and memories which will be a talking point for many years to come.

A group of pupils from Lightwoods Primary Academy in Oldbury had a once in a lifetime opportunity to visit No. 10 Downing Street. They joined the FYI – Sky Kids and Sky News programme, presented by kids for kids, alongside First News to take part in a press conference where they had the chance to question Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the issues that mattered most to them.

The exciting day began with a warm welcome and refreshments before pupils were treated to an exclusive private tour of No. 10, where they explored some of the most historically significant rooms in British politics. Highlights of the tour included the iconic Cabinet Room, the grand staircase adorned with portraits of every serving Prime Minister, and the prestigious White Room, where world leaders and dignitaries are received. The tour also offered a fascinating glimpse into how each Prime Minister has uniquely contributed to the famous residence.

Afterwards, pupils were led next door to No. 9, where the press briefing was set to take place.

Inside the Downing Street press briefing room, anticipation built as pupils awaited the Prime Minister’s arrival. Once the press conference began, they wasted no time in asking thoughtful and engaging questions. Topics ranged from healthcare and education to housing, crime and family life. The children also took the opportunity to learn more about Keir Starmer’s personal journey, asking about his childhood and experiences growing up.

To conclude the event, the Prime Minister turned the tables and asked pupils about their favourite moments from the visit. Their responses reflected the awe-inspiring nature of the experience, with many captivated by the artwork, antiques and rich history of each room – and, of course, by Larry, the famous Downing Street cat.

Following the experience, pupils enjoyed a taste of London with their families before boarding the coach back to Lightwoods Primary Academy, filled with excitement and newfound inspiration.

Robert Matthews, Principal at Lightwoods Primary Academy, commented: “This was an unforgettable opportunity for our pupils to engage with democracy and politics in a truly meaningful way.

“To step inside No. 10, ask questions directly to the Prime Minister and witness the very heart of our government was an experience they will carry with them for a lifetime. We are incredibly proud of how articulately and confidently they represented Lightwoods, and we hope this inspires them to continue taking an active role in shaping the future.”

Lightwoods Primary Academy is committed to providing children with exceptional learning experiences that inspire and empower them. This unforgettable event will undoubtedly remain a highlight for pupils for years to come, sparking their curiosity and passion for politics, leadership, and public service.

Shireland Technology Primary School is proud to announce that it has been awarded Flagship status by Now Press Play, a leading educational technology company that is transforming how children learn. This recognition places the school in an exclusive group of schools across the UK, providing pupils with access to even more engaging and interactive learning experiences.

Now Press Play provides exciting, immersive learning experiences to over 600 primary schools, putting children at the heart of their own education. Using wireless headphones, pupils are transported into ‘Audio Adventures’ that bring the curriculum to life. From embarking on a mission to Mars to exploring ancient Egypt, these adventures are designed to immerse learners in fun, memorable educational experiences that spark curiosity and creativity.

As a Flagship school, Shireland Technology Primary will enjoy exclusive benefits that will directly enhance the learning experiences of its pupils. The school will gain early access to brand-new educational content and cutting-edge resources. It will also have the opportunity to share its best practices with other schools, showcasing how it has made learning more exciting, engaging, and accessible for young learners.

Lady Kristy Grundy, Principal at Shireland Technology Primary and Primary Director at Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as a Flagship school by Now Press Play.

“The immersive experiences provided by Now Press Play have significantly enhanced the delivery of our curriculum. The pupils are thoroughly immersed by ‘Audio Adventures,’ which bring lessons to life in a way that traditional teaching methods simply can’t. These interactive learning experiences have not only captured the students’ imaginations but have also supported their engagement, making learning so more exciting and accessible. We’ve seen firsthand how this approach sparks curiosity and deepens their understanding of key topics, helping them make meaningful and lasting connections with their learning.”

Achieving Flagship status reinforces Shireland Technology Primary’s ongoing commitment to delivering an outstanding educational experience. The school will continue to build on its success by integrating Now Press Play’s immersive technology into lessons, offering pupils fresh and exciting ways to engage with their learning and ensuring every child benefits from these innovative educational opportunities.

In a heart-warming gesture, a local care home set out to deliver over 102 birthday cards to one of its residents on her special day. In response, year 5 pupils from Tameside Primary Academy eagerly joined the initiative, where they crafted beautiful cards filled with personal messages to ensure the resident received an abundance of birthday cheer. This act of kindness highlighted pupils’ creativity, empathy, and sense of community, making a meaningful impact on someone’s special day.

The Academy recently welcomed a local astronomer from the Walsall Astronomical Society, offering pupils a fascinating opportunity to explore the wonders of space. The engaging session provided a hands-on learning experience, immersing Tameside in the exciting world of space exploration and the vastness of the universe.

The astronomer demonstrated various types of telescopes, including those that can automatically capture photos of space and send them to computers, which fascinated pupils. The session also covered solar eclipses, the phases of the moon, and provided stunning close-up images of the moon’s craters. One of the highlights was when the astronomer brought in real meteorite fragments, which pupils could hold and examine up close.

Pupils also discovered the differences between meteorites and comets, along with fascinating facts about the planets in our solar system. The astronomer gave them a real-world perspective on the sizes of the planets compared to each other and the Sun. To conclude the session, the children were introduced to distant galaxies, sparking their imaginations and leaving them in awe of the vastness of the cosmos.

Both of these experiences showcase Tameside Primary Academy’s commitment to providing diverse, stimulating learning opportunities for all its young learners. Whether engaging with the local community or expanding their understanding of the universe, the Academy continues to inspire curiosity, creativity, and kindness in its pupils.

Wallbrook Primary Academy joined thousands of children across Dudley in marking Children’s Mental Health Week, fully embracing the theme ‘Know Yourself, to Grow Yourself’.

Throughout the week, pupils engaged in meaningful discussions around mental health and wellbeing, exploring key topics such as recognising emotions and identifying effective coping strategies during challenging moments. They also celebrated what makes them and their classmates unique, fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of self-care and looking after mental health.

The week was brought to a close with Wallbrook’s participation in Dudley’s Harmony Event, joining 11,000 children from across the local authority together to sing. Singing, known for its positive impact on mood, provided a perfect opportunity for children to connect with one another, celebrating their shared experiences and strengthening the sense of unity.

Lorna McGregor, Principal at Wallbrook Primary Academy, said: “At Wallbrook, we believe it is essential for our pupils to understand the importance of looking after their mental health.

“Children’s Mental Health Week provides us with the chance to reflect on emotional wellbeing, and we are incredibly proud of our pupils for embracing this important event. It’s a reminder that when we care for ourselves, we grow and thrive – both individually and as part of a supportive community.”

The Harmony Event, alongside the week’s activities, highlighted the significance of community, celebrated individuality, and showcased the power of music in uplifting mental health. It was a memorable and meaningful experience for all involved, leaving a lasting impact on the pupils of Wallbrook Primary Academy.

Newfield Park Primary Academy is celebrating an amazing achievement after being officially recognised by Guinness World Records for their participation in the largest live poetry lesson ever conducted. This world record attempt, which took place in October 2024, has now been officially acknowledged, placing Newfield Park Primary Academy among over 500 schools that helped to set this remarkable global record.

The event, held on National Poetry Day, saw students from Newfield Park join thousands of peers across the country in a live virtual poetry lesson led by acclaimed poet Laura Mucha. The lesson, which was part of an ambitious Guinness World Record attempt, brought together more than 60,000 students aged 7-12 from schools across the UK. Working alongside Laura Mucha, pupils played an active role in creating a collective poem, which reflects the values and experiences that have shaped their lives.

The finished poem, centred around this year’s theme of ‘What Counts,’ will be displayed nationwide.

Steven Payne, Principal at Newfield Park Primary Academy, said: “This has been such an exciting opportunity for our pupils, and we’re absolutely thrilled that their involvement in this global event has been officially recognised.

“The opportunity to collaborate with pupils from all over the country and contribute to a poem that explores such meaningful themes of friendship, family, and community is something our students will never forget. It’s truly inspiring to think that our children were part of this world record event, and we’re incredibly proud of their enthusiasm, creativity, and dedication.”

The poetry lesson, organised in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, The Poetry Society, The Poetry Archive, and the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education, encouraged participants to reflect on what ‘counts’ in their lives. Pupils at the Academy had the unique chance to share their thoughts and insights during the session, contributing ideas that helped shape the final poem. The collective piece represents a powerful tapestry of today’s youth, capturing themes of community, identity, and shared values.

This achievement not only recognises the hard work of the pupils but also underscores the school’s ongoing commitment to nurturing creativity, literacy, collaboration, and freedom of expression. It is a testament to the school’s dedication to providing unique and inspiring learning experiences for all its young learners. Above all, it serves as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when individuals unite to share their voices and ideas.

Wednesfield Technology Primary in Wolverhampton marked a significant milestone with its official opening ceremony, celebrating its first year since welcoming pupils in September 2024. The event celebrated the school’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, inspiring young minds to shape a greener, more environmentally conscious future.

In collaboration with the Woodland Trust and their Green Tree Schools Award, the ceremony highlighted the school’s dedication to environmental education, showcasing how sustainability is at the heart of its mission to foster the next generation.

Wednesfield Technology Primary has been designed to meet the Passivhaus classic standard, with energy efficiency and building performance at its heart. The school utilises eco-friendly technologies and sustainable, low-embodied carbon materials with the aim of reducing energy usage.

Joining in the celebrations was a distinguished group of guests, including the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Linda Leach, who talked of the school's significance within the local community. Key stakeholders in the school’s development were also in attendance, including representatives from construction company Tilbury Douglas and members of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust. Among them were Sir Mark Grundy, CEO, and Lady Kirsty Grundy, Director of Primary Education and Executive Principal at Shireland Technology Primary.

The event opened with a whole-school assembly, bringing together pupils, families, and guests to celebrate the school's journey. The assembly highlighted the school’s approach to curiosity, creativity, and environmental responsibility. It also showcased its commitment to a unique curriculum that blends traditional education with technology-infused learning. This innovative approach equips pupils with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Sir Mark Grundy, CEO of Shireland Collegiate Academy Trust, reflected on the school’s impact: “As a Trust, we are working hard to reduce our carbon footprint, and Wednesfield Technology Primary will lead the way in helping us to play our part in securing the future of our environment for the better.

“This school not only nurtures young minds by providing an exceptional Shireland education but also cultivates responsible and environmentally conscious leaders of tomorrow. It’s more than just a school; it’s an investment in the future of our children and our planet.”

Claire Keeler, Principal of Wednesfield Technology Primary, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to celebrate the official opening of Wednesfield Technology Primary, and we are truly grateful to be working with the Woodland Trust, which makes this occasion even more special.

The tree-planting ceremony is a powerful symbol of our shared commitment to a greener, more sustainable future—not just for our pupils, but for the wider community. It’s about more than teaching children the importance of caring for our planet; it’s about empowering them with the knowledge and values to become responsible stewards of the environment.”

The highlight of the day was the ceremonial tree planting, where pupils, school representatives and special guests came together to plant the first of many saplings generously provided by the Woodland Trust. Through its Free Trees for Schools initiative, the charity supplies schools across the UK with free trees to help create greener spaces, boost biodiversity and inspire young people to care for their environment. As the trees grow, they will enhance the school grounds, support local wildlife and enhance pupils’ opportunities for outdoor learning as part of the Green Tree Schools Award.

Karen Letten, Schools & Communities Engagement Manager at the Woodland Trust, commented: “We are delighted to be working with Wednesfield Technology Primary on the Green Tree Schools Award. The trees they are planting now will grow alongside the pupils and help to develop their love and appreciation of woods and trees. The environmental ethos of this school will help to develop environmentally responsible citizens of the future”.

The Woodland Trust’s Green Tree Schools Award is a national environmental initiative that encourages schools to get involved in outdoor learning and sustainability projects through inspiring pupils about woods and trees. Through a range of projects including tree planting, recycling and exploring local wildlife, the award helps pupils to develop a greater understanding of nature and the importance of caring for the environment. The scheme recognises schools’ efforts with different award levels, celebrating their commitment to creating greener, more eco-friendly school communities.

A year 10 student Jashndeep Kaur at Shireland Collegiate Academy has been appointed as an official ambassador for Gizmo, a generative AI-powered learning platform designed to support students with their revision. In this role, Jashndeep will be creating educational content for Gizmo’s website and social media, promoting effective study techniques and revision methods.

Developed by Cambridge University alumni, Gizmo offers personalised academic support through interactive quizzes and revision materials. Designed to complement traditional study methods, the platform adapts to students’ learning needs, helping them strengthen subject knowledge and academic performance.

Reflecting on her experience, Jashndeep shared: “I used to struggle with revision but after discovering Gizmo, I was able to revise efficiently and get higher grades. Now that I am an ambassador for them, I want to aid people who need support and promote different study techniques to help people excel in their subjects”.

As part of her role as ambassador, Jashndeep will be developing engaging content and resources to showcase effective revision strategies while raising awareness about the benefits of AI-assisted learning. Her contributions highlight how technology can enhance independent study and exam preparation.

Thomas Daly, Principal of Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “We are incredibly proud of Jashndeep for embracing this opportunity with such enthusiasm. Her work with Gizmo demonstrates a strong understanding of emerging educational technologies and a commitment to helping fellow student succeed.

“At Shireland, we actively encourage students to take on leadership roles and engage with innovative learning opportunities, and this achievement is a testament to that.”

This role underscores the growing influence of artificial intelligence in education, as more students turn to digital tools for independent study. By sharing her experiences, Jashndeep hopes to inspire others to explore AI-powered learning and develop effective revision habits.

Five students from Thorns Collegiate Academy had the incredible opportunity to attend the annual Anne Frank Foundation Youth Conference in Manchester. Under the theme ‘A Better Future’, the event brought together young people from 17 schools across the UK for a day of collaboration, discussion, and reflection on the ongoing fight against prejudice, discrimination, and hate crime.

The conference provided a platform for students to engage in workshops and presentations designed to inspire positive change and empower them to challenge societal issues.

Distinguished guests at the conference included Dr. Martin Stern MBE, a Holocaust survivor; Mateusz Trojanski, Project Leader at the Anne Frank House; Li Williams from Street Style Surgery; and award-winning poet Adam Kammerling. Additionally, special guest speakers from the Netherlands shared their expertise, offering valuable insights into the transformative opportunities available through the Anne Frank Foundation Network.

The event was organised by the Anne Frank Trust UK, a global education charity that empowers young people to challenge prejudice, promote equal rights, and work towards a future free from discrimination and injustice. Inspired by Anne Frank’s life and diary, the Trust connects young people with the tools to take action and develop projects that drive social change.

A central feature of the Trust’s mission is the Anne Frank Youth Network (AFYN), an international community of young people aged 16 to 26. The AFYN supports its members in shaping a more positive future based on tolerance, inclusivity, human rights, and democratic values through educational programs and collaborative initiatives.

A key moment for Thorns’ students was presenting their thoughts and ideas to a large audience. Despite having just met their peers, the students displayed impressive levels of courage and confidence in sharing their insights. Their commitment to fostering a more inclusive and just society was widely praised, with many attendees expressing admiration for their passion and dedication.

Nikki Jones, Principal at Thorns Collegiate Academy, commented: “We are incredibly proud of how our students represented Thorns Collegiate Academy at this significant event. Their courage to present their ideas to such a large audience speaks volumes about their confidence and commitment to making a difference.

“Opportunities like this youth conference are invaluable for our students' growth, offering them the chance to broaden their perspectives, learn from others, and engage with important social issues. It not only contributes to their personal development but also empowers them to become ambassadors for positive change within both our school and the wider community. We look forward to seeing the lasting impact they’ll have at Thorns and beyond in the years to come.”

Thorns Collegiate Academy is committed to providing students with opportunities to broaden their horizons, helping their growth both academically and personally. The Academy fosters an inclusive environment where students collaborate, share ideas, and contribute to a supportive community. By instilling a strong sense of responsibility, rights, and trust, Thorns aims to prepare students for success while promoting a more understanding, tolerant, and fair society. Through these values, students are empowered to make a positive impact within the school and the wider community.

In a collaboration with the University of Birmingham, West Bromwich Collegiate Academy was proud to host this year's Sir Keith Palmer Lecture, featuring geologist and adventurer, Professor Chris Jackson. The lecture, which explored the Geological Record of Climate Change, examined how ancient climatic shifts have impacted life on Earth and how understanding these changes can help inform our present and future climate challenges. Hosted by Professor Alice Roberts, the lecture series aimed to promote the public understanding of natural science and drew a wide audience from across the Midlands. Although the event sold out, the Academy was able to secure a limited number of tickets for students, offering them a unique opportunity to engage with this important topic.

Students at the Academy also participated in the Royal Society of Chemistry competition. Two teams entered the preliminary round, held at the University of Birmingham in November, with one team advancing to the regional final in January. Competing against 16 teams, the team from West Bromwich Collegiate Academy completed both written papers and a practical task, earning an impressive 9th place ranking. This accomplishment highlighted the students' exceptional abilities and their capacity to compete at the highest levels. Congratulations were extended to all students who participated in the preliminary round.

Shireland Biomedical UTC is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Bronze level certificate through the Rail Safe Friendly initiative, a programme designed to promote rail safety awareness and educate students about how to stay safe around railway networks.

Rail safety remains a critical concern, with young people particularly vulnerable to the dangers associated with railways. The Rail Safe Friendly campaign, a collaboration between Learn Live and Network Rail’s Trespass Improvement Team, is working to address this issue by educating students on the importance of rail safety.

Since its launch in 2019, Learn Live has reached more than 19 million young people across 11,500 schools in the UK. The initiative delivers live and on-demand rail safety broadcasts via its digital platform, ensuring schools have access to relevant, up-to-date safety content.

The Rail Safe Friendly programme fosters partnerships between schools and the rail industry to promote safer behaviours around railway networks. Schools that take part commit to showing the broadcasts to all students and staff, either live or on demand, and receive formal recognition for their efforts in rail safety education.

Shireland Biomedical UTC’s achievement of the Bronze level certificate highlights its commitment to safeguarding students and raising awareness of essential safety issues.

Gulfam Shahzad, Principal at Shireland Biomedical UTC, said: “By engaging in the Rail Safe Friendly initiative, our students not only gain vital knowledge about how to stay safe around railways, but they also develop a greater sense of responsibility and awareness that extends beyond the classroom.

“This initiative empowers them to make informed choices, both now and in the future, contributing to a safer community for all. It is programmes like these that help equip young people with the skills they need to navigate the world safely and confidently.”

The school’s recognition underlines its ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its students by equipping them with the knowledge and understanding needed to make safe decisions around railways.

For more information about the Rail Safe Friendly campaign, visit Rail Safe Friendly’s website.

Shireland CBSO Academy in West Bromwich was shortlisted for an ‘Excellence in Education and Training’ award at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s 2025 Annual Business Awards, held in February earlier this year.

This prestigious nomination recognises the Academy’s innovative approach to education. Set up in partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), Shireland CBSO Academy is the first school in the UK to be founded in collaboration with a professional orchestra. Music is at the core of the Academy’s curriculum, where students have the opportunity to take instrumental or vocal lessons, as well as explore a variety of musical genres through a strong network of professional musicians.

Since opening its doors in 2023 with a cohort of 150 year seven students, the school has already made a significant impact in its first year. Its groundbreaking approach to music education has quickly gained attention, with students having the chance to engage with world-class musicians, including Sheku Kanneh-Mason, James Ehnes, and Jess Gillam, alongside frequent visits from CBSO players and Music Director Kazuki Yamada.

David Green, Principal at Shireland CBSO Academy, commented: “We are incredibly proud that Shireland CBSO Academy was shortlisted for an Excellence in Training and Education award. This recognition reflects our commitment to delivering a rich and innovative curriculum where music is interwoven throughout, enhancing students’ academic, musical, and personal growth.

“In partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, we provide a unique learning environment where students can excel both musically and academically. Our approach nurtures creativity, builds confidence, and fosters a lifelong love for the arts.”

Being shortlisted for this prestigious award is a powerful acknowledgement of the Academy’s growing impact and potential. It underscores the continued success of its innovative approach to education, ensuring that all learners receive world-class opportunities in both music and academia.

Industry Leaders Share Expertise with Shireland CBSO Academy Students

Sixth Form students at Shireland CBSO Academy have participated in a series of inspiring events designed to broaden their career horizons and equip them with essential skills for their futures. Students engaged with representatives from the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), where Tom Spurgin and Carolyn Burton shared their personal career journeys and provided insights into the diverse roles within the orchestra, from musicians to marketing professionals. In addition, students were offered exclusive one-to-one masterclass opportunities, providing hands-on experience and mentorship, including CV writing support to help them prepare for future employment.

The Academy also welcomed Pali Hanspal and Olivia Bailey from The West Bromwich Building Society, who delivered a session focused on financial literacy. Students gained valuable knowledge on key topics such as salaries, deductions, interest rates, and budgeting, preparing them for the financial responsibilities of adult life. This session forms part of the Academy’s ongoing efforts to equip students with crucial life skills that will benefit them in their personal and professional futures.

In addition, students had the opportunity to learn about university life from Catherine Bough of Aston University. During an enlightening talk, Bough highlighted the importance of crafting strong personal statements, participating in extracurricular activities, and maintaining a proactive approach to learning. She also introduced students to a range of taster sessions at Aston, offering them a glimpse into university studies and campus life, helping them better understand their options as they consider their post-sixth form pathways.

These events reflect the Academy’s commitment to providing students with enriching, career and life-focused experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared to make informed decisions about their futures beyond post-16 education.

Shireland Biomedical UTC Launches Career-Focused Pathways with support of Birmingham City University

Shireland Biomedical UTC in West Bromwich is pleased to announce the launch of three innovative post-16 pathway courses, developed with the support of Birmingham City University. These pathways are designed to equip students with the essential skills, qualifications, and practical experience necessary for careers in nursing and midwifery, paramedics, early years and primary teaching.

At a time when both the healthcare and education sectors are facing critical workforce shortages, these pathways offer a vital route into high-demand professions, ensuring students are well prepared for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Starting in September 2025, students can enrol in one of three specialist pathways, each combining expert-led learning, practical experience, and university-standard workshops.

The Nursing and Midwifery Pathway will provide students with foundational healthcare knowledge and skills, enabling them to support patient care and wellbeing. Through a mix of classroom learning and practical experience, students gain insight into key healthcare roles. The Paramedic Pathway focuses on essential training in emergency response and patient care, preparing students for frontline roles in fast-paced medical environments.

The Early Years and Primary Teaching Pathway is ideal for students passionate about working with children. Combining theoretical learning with classroom experience, this pathway helps students develop a deep understanding of child development, teaching methods, and educational support.

Each pathway is designed to integrate academic study with practical training, ensuring students develop both a strong theoretical foundation and valuable hands-on experience. This approach not only equips students with essential skills but also a competitive edge in their chosen fields.

Furthermore, students enrolled on these pathways will be guaranteed interviews at Birmingham City University, offering them a clear and supportive pathway into higher education and further specialisation in their career aspirations.

Jo Lawrence, Head of Sixth Form at Shireland Biomedical UTC, commented: “We are thrilled to introduce these career-focused pathways with the support of Birmingham City University. This partnership ensures our students receive an exceptional education, directly aligned with industry needs and future career opportunities.

“Our commitment to high-quality, industry-driven learning means students will leave us fully prepared for the demands of their professions, whether in healthcare or education. We are proud to play a role in shaping the next generation of medical, healthcare and teaching professionals.”

Professor Ian Blair, Executive Dean, Health, Education and Life Sciences, BCU, said: “Our work alongside Shireland is a further demonstration of our strategic commitment to developing the talent for tomorrow. Our commitment to the region sees us forging valuable partnerships with organisations that share our vision for providing practical education for young people, enabling them to flourish in their chosen career path, and to power the frontline of health and education services within the West Midlands.

“By supporting Shireland, we will make a significant contribution towards BCU achieving its wider goals.”

With these new opportunities, Shireland Biomedical UTC reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future workforce and inspiring young minds to pursue meaningful and fulfilling careers. By equipping students with industry-relevant skills and experience, the Academy is ensuring they are well-positioned to make a difference in their chosen fields and beyond.

Shireland Sixth Form Unveils New Post-16 Football Academy

Shireland Collegiate Academy is delighted to announce the launch of its new Post-16 Football Academy at Shireland Sixth Form. This innovative programme provides students the opportunity to combine elite-level football training with their academic studies, offering young athletes the chance to excel both on and off the pitch.

Open to all students passionate about sport, the Football Academy will be led by expert coaches in a professional training environment. Students will have the opportunity to refine their skills, boost their fitness, and compete in official matches as part of the academy team.

In addition to physical training, the programme includes specialised workshops designed to develop well-rounded individuals. These workshops focus on key areas such as leadership, strategic thinking, nutrition, psychology, and mental wellbeing, all aimed at enhancing athletic performance and personal growth.

Students will also benefit from cutting-edge Veo camera technology, allowing them to review and improve their performances with detailed insights and analysis. To ensure they are fully prepared for both training and competition, participants will be provided with a complete academy kit, including a tracksuit.

Ben Brogan, Head of Sixth Form at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “We’re excited to introduce the Football Academy as part of our expanding Sixth Form offer. This programme is more than just football; it provides students with a well-rounded educational experience that complements their academic studies. The focus on developing essential life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience will not only enhance their sporting success but also support their academic growth and prepare them for a fulfilling life beyond Shireland.

“By combining sport with education, we’re offering students a unique opportunity to grow as individuals and succeed in whatever future path they choose.”

The launch of the Football Academy reflects Shireland Sixth Form’s commitment to providing dynamic and innovative pathways for students. By integrating professional coaching with a strong academic foundation, the programme is designed to empower students to reach their full potential and pursue careers in sport or other fields.