King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy (HWGA) stands as a beacon of educational excellence, welcoming a diverse group of young women from the vibrant community of Handsworth. The academy’s ethos, deeply rooted in mutual respect, fosters a nurturing environment where each girl is encouraged to believe in her potential for success. This belief is not just theoretical; it is embedded in the fabric of HWGA’s culture, where the student welfare system plays a pivotal role in supporting the girls’ academic and personal growth.

From the moment they step through the doors in year 7, the students are emboldened to strive for their “personal best” in every examination, a journey that continues through to sixth form and sets a foundation for lifelong learning. The academy’s reputation, built on the pillars of hard work and high-quality education, resonates within the local community, a testament to the dedication of both students and staff.

The pride in the students’ achievements is palpable, reflecting the collective efforts of inspiring teachers, supportive families, and the girls themselves, who approach their studies with diligence and determination. This collaborative spirit is integral to the academy’s ethos, ensuring that every student not only meets but exceeds their own expectations.

Continual improvement is not just an aspiration but an expectation at HWGA. The academy’s commitment to excellence challenges students and staff alike to reach new heights, fostering an environment where academic achievements and personal development go hand in hand. The array of academic and enrichment opportunities available ensures that the girls’ education is comprehensive, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world.

The young women of HWGA are not just students; they are leaders in the making, each with a unique potential that the academy helps to cultivate. With a future that shines bright, these students stand ready to make their mark on the world, carrying with them the values and experiences that have shaped their time at Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy. It is this unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of women that makes HWGA not just a school, but a launchpad for success.

Autumn Term

• Term Starts: Monday 2 September 2024
• Half-term: Monday 28 October 2024 to Friday 1 November 2024
• Term ends: Friday 20 December 2024

Spring Term

• Term Starts: Monday 6 January 2025
• Half-term: Monday 17 February 2025 to Friday 21 February 2025
• Term ends: Friday 11 April 2025

Summer Term

• Term Starts: Monday 28 April 2025
• Half-term: Monday 26 May 2025 to Friday 30 May 2025
• Term ends: Monday 21 July 2025

Staff Development Days

• Monday 2 September 2024
• Friday 13 September 2024
• Monday 16 September 2024
• Thursday 24 October 2024
• Friday 25 October 2024
• Monday 6 January 2025
• Tuesday 29 April 2025
• Monday 21 July 2025

Parents Evenings

On parent’s evenings the school closes at 2:05pm.

• 3 December 2024 – Year 11 Parents Evening
• 15 January 2025 – Year 9 Parents Consultation Evening
• 13 February 2025 – Year 7 Parents Evening
• 17 March 2025 – Year 13 Parents Evening
• 2 April 2025 – Year 10 Parents Evening
• 7 May 2025 – Year 9 Parents Evening

For more information visit our school calendar, and to stay up to date with any new events or changes, enrol as a parent on our School communications App.

Vision 

• Our vision is to work together to achieve educational excellence and fulfil personal potential.

Mission

• Our mission is to unlock a thirst for learning for all so that students can successfully access a range of opportunities in an ever-changing world. To overcome barriers and embrace challenges to enrich themselves and out community.

Values 

• Scholarship
• Character
• Community

At the academy, the personal development of our students is of paramount significance to us and we have devised a dedicated tutor programme to support our students with becoming the best versions of themselves.

These strengthen the PSHE curriculum and to provide opportunities to make student learning more effective.

• Lessons are framed with class discussions based around real-life context.
• Allow time for specialist worships and external agencies to deliver engaging and interactive sessions.
• We are proactive and reactive pastoral and safeguarding issues on these days.
• Opportunity to respond to contextual issues that may arise.

• 3 full collapsed timetable days per year.
• Lessons are delivered by form tutors, subject specialists, and external speakers.
• Sensitive topics are taught by ‘specialist’ staff.
• All lessons are age-appropriate and focus on the PSHE key concepts, character education, careers, and life skills
• Relevant and age-appropriate content planned for each year group (needs assessed)
• Collaborative approach – Pastoral, Safeguarding, well-being, SEND, Careers & PD teams.
• PD days allow us to ‘zoom in’ on PSHE/RSE key concepts
• Student Voice surveys  reviewed after every PD day.

• Wednesday 11 December 2024
• Thursday 20^th March 2025.
• Tuesday 15 July 2025

Extended Form times to work with the students on the key areas of scholarship, character and community.

• Friday 29 November 2024
• Tuesday 1 July 2024

Character Education fosters the development of ethical individuals by empowering students to embrace good values. Aristotle once wrote, “we are what we habitually do.” The habits that children learn and practice when they are growing up follow them through into adulthood.  Character Education reinforces the “whole child” agenda that shifts the emphasis from academic achievement to long-term learning and personal development.  Whilst KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy are committed to ensuring that all students achieve their personal best, we are also dedicated to ensure that students flourish and become the best version of themselves by:

• Teaching students about the positive traits that inform their motivation whilst guiding conduct.

• Providing them with the knowledge, core values and skills necessary for success throughout life.

• Helping students grasp what is ethically important and how to respond appropriately in a range of situations.

• Teaching students to consider the right course of action that correlates to a given situation, basing decisions for the right reasons.

At KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy, we strongly value the development of the whole child.  We know that strong examination results are important for future success, however, we strive to provide a fully rounded education whereby our students become great citizens who can function effectively throughout life in modern Britain. To that end, our Academy virtues are at the heart of all we do; we reflect upon these across the Academy. Our 10 virtues are embedded across the curriculum, through our rewards events, assemblies, tutor time, PSHE and personal development days.

KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy Virtues:

Human flourishing requires the acquisition and development of intellectual, moral, civic and performance virtues.  All are necessary to succeed in life. KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy take pride in promoting our 10 Academy virtues to develop confident, compassionate students, successful learners and responsible citizens.

These virtues (amongst others) can be “caught” from interactions in our community, “taught” through educational experiences and reflection, and “sought” out by people who come to pursue and direct their own character development.

KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy – Character Caught

Character is ‘caught’ at KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy by using this common virtue language with students both inside and outside of the classroom.  Character is caught from staff modelling behaviours and through emotional transmission.  The positive ethos is encompassed in all aspects of Academy life.

KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy – Character Taught

Character is ‘taught’ at KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy through the direct teaching of character education in PSHE lessons, tutor time activities, personal development days, and in all subject areas.  Making character education explicit and visible helps students to understand the importance of developing their characters to embrace life’s challenges, while building an inner resilience to overcome barriers.

KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy – Character Sought

Character is ‘sought’ out at Handsworth Wood Girls Academy through ensuring that all of our students have access to the widest range of learning opportunities through our extensive enrichment programme, competitive house system and wide range educational visits and trips, that contributes to the development of good character.   These pursuits give everyone the chance to experience something meaningful regardless of where they are from or their background.

As humans, we learn and grow from new experiences.  At King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy, we ensure that all of our pupils have access to the widest range of learning opportunities through our extensive enrichment programme.   This provision provides all pupils with the opportunity to learn, develop and master a range of skills that will help to create lifelong interests, whilst building positive relationships, confidence, self-esteem and resilience.  We recommend that all students at King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy participate in at least two enrichment activities each week.

As humans we grow and learn from new experiences. KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy Pupil Pledge provides opportunities for students to develop their character by ensuring that they have access to wider experiences outside of the curriculum.

KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy understand the importance of ensuring that our students leave the academy as well-rounded young people with the qualifications, skills, knowledge and character to succeed in the future. Through the Pupil Pledge, we make a firm commitment to provide opportunities for our students to be exposed to a holistic educational experience in the time they have with us.

The Pupil Pledge provides a ‘bucket list’ of activities to complete before they leave our Academy. These activities will support students’ personal development by building skills and qualities needed to reach their full potential.

Pupil Pledge…to give you the edge

1. To attend a residential.
2. To be involved in charity/fundraising events
3. To make a change in the community.
4. To take part in outdoor and adventurous activities.
5. To take part in a performance/speak publicly.
6. To represent your house /school
7. To venture out beyond the local community.
8. Visit a place of higher or further education.
9. To visit a place of British/National history.
10. To attend a live professional performance

At KEVI HWGA, every student becomes a proud member of a house group, fostering a sense of pride and belonging in the academy. Our house system is designed to instil team spirit through a diverse array of competitions held each half term.

These competitions serve as a platform for students to actively engage, showcase their talents and contribute to a thriving communal atmosphere. Embracing the spirit of healthy competition, students not only complete but also inspire others to participate, creating an environment of encouragement and support during these exciting half- termly events.

At KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy, we believe in nurturing well-rounded individuals. The House System plays a pivotal role in providing students with opportunities to learn, develop, and master an array of skills that extend beyond the classroom. These experiences contribute to the formation of lifelong interests, the building of positive relationships, and the cultivation of qualities such as confidence, self-esteem, and resilience.

Under the careful guidance of our Director of Character and Personal Development, along with the dedicated House Co-Ordinator, each house group is led by an enthusiastic House Captain. These appointed leaders serve as catalysts for engagement, promoting and encouraging participation across all year groups. Furthermore, House Captains take charge of planning and leading their own unique house competitions on a termly basis, ensuring a dynamic and student-driven experience.

At KEVI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy, our House System is not just a structure; it is a dynamic force that empowers students to discover their voice, showcase their talents, and forge lasting connections. Join us in celebrating the spirit of unity, achievement, and personal growth as we embrace the boundless possibilities within our vibrant house community.

Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 have six houses in each year group. These houses have been named after inspirational female role models in sport.

Dame Jessica Ennis– Hill

DOB: 28th January 1986

Sport: Athletics

Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill is a retired British athlete known for her exceptional achievements in the heptathlon and 100 meters hurdles. Here are some of her key accomplishments:

• 2012 Olympic Champion in heptathlon.
• Three-time World Champion in heptathlon (2009, 2011, 2015).
• 2010 European Champion in heptathlon.
• 2010 World Indoor Champion in pentathlon.
• 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist in heptathlon.

She also held British national records in the heptathlon, 100 meters hurdles, high jump, and indoor pentathlon

Isa Guha

DOB: 21st May 1985

Sport: Cricket

Isa Guha is a former England cricketer and current sports commentator. Here are some of her key achievements:

• First woman of Indian heritage to play for England.
• 2009 World Cup and World T20 winner.
• Three-time Ashes winner (2005, 2008, 2009).
• 83 ODIs, 8 Tests, and 22 T20Is played for England.
• Ranked No. 1 bowler in ICC Women’s ODI rankings in 2008.
• BBC Asian Sports Personality of the Year in 2002.

After retiring in 2012, she transitioned to a successful career in broadcasting.

Dame Kelly Holmes

DOB: 19th April 1970

Sport: Athletics

Victoria Pendleton

DOB: 24th September 1980

Sport: Cycling

Victoria Pendleton is a highly accomplished British track cyclist. Here are some of her key achievements:

• Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist in the sprint (2008) and keirin (2012).
• Olympic Silver Medalist in the sprint (2012).
• Nine-time World Champion, including six titles in the individual sprint.
• Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist in the sprint (2006).
• Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her services to cycling.

She retired from professional cycling in 2012 and has since pursued a career in horse racing and broadcasting.

Ellie Simmonds

DOB: 11th November 1994

Sport: Paralympic Swimming

Ellie Simmonds is a highly decorated British Paralympic swimmer. Here are some of her key achievements:

• Five-time Paralympic Gold Medalist: She won two gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, two at the 2012 London Paralympics, and one at the 2016 Rio Paralympics.
• Eight-time World Champion: She has won multiple gold medals at the World Para Swimming Championships.
• Seven-time European Champion: She has also secured numerous titles at the European Championships.
• Youngest member of the British team at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics, where she won her first gold medals at the age of 13.
• Flagbearer for ParalympicsGB at the Tokyo 2020 opening ceremony.

Ellie Simmonds has been recognised for her contributions to sport with an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire).

Dame Ellen MacArthur

DOB: 8th July 1976

Sports: Yachting

Dame Ellen MacArthur is a renowned British yachtswoman known for her extraordinary sailing achievements. Here are some of her key accomplishments:

• Fastest Solo Circumnavigation of the Globe: In 2005, she set the world record for the fastest solo nonstop voyage around the world, completing it in 71 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes, and 33 seconds.
• Second Place in the Vendée Globe: In 2001, she finished second in the Vendée Globe, a solo round-the-world yacht race.
• Young Sailor of the Year Award: She won this award in 1995 after sailing solo around Great Britain.
• Founder of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation: After retiring from professional sailing, she established this foundation to promote the circular economy.

The Sixth Form students have four house groups. These houses have been named after inspirational women within history.

Joan of Arc

DOB: 6th January 1442

Joan of Arc, also known as the Maid of Orléans, was a French heroine and saint. Here are some of her key achievements:

• Leadership in the Hundred Years’ War: At just 17, she convinced Charles VII to let her lead the French army, claiming divine guidance.
• Liberation of Orléans: She played a crucial role in lifting the siege of Orléans in 1429, a turning point in the war.
• Victory at the Battle of Patay: Her leadership led to a decisive French victory over the English.
• Coronation of Charles VII: She ensured Charles VII was crowned King of France in Reims, solidifying his legitimacy.
• Canonisation: Joan was canonised as a saint in 1920³.

Her courage and faith have made her a lasting symbol of French patriotism and bravery.

Kiran Bedi

DOB: 9th June 1945

Kiran Bedi is a trailblazing Indian police officer and social activist. Here are some of her key achievements:

• First Woman in the Indian Police Service (IPS): She joined the IPS in 1972.
• Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry: Served from 2016 to 2021.
• Prison Reforms: As Inspector General of Prisons, she introduced significant reforms at Tihar Jail, earning the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1994.
• United Nations Role: First Indian and first woman appointed as the United Nations Civilian Police Advisor in 2003.
• Social Activism: Founded the Navjyoti India Foundation and the India Vision Foundation, focusing on education, drug rehabilitation, and women’s empowerment.

She has also been recognised with numerous awards for her contributions to society and law enforcement.

Rosa Parks

DOB: 4th February 1913

Rosa Parks was a pivotal figure in the American civil rights movement. Here are some of her key achievements:

• Montgomery Bus Boycott: On December 1, 1955, she refused to give up her bus seat to a white passenger in Montgomery, Alabama, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. This 381-day boycott led to a Supreme Court ruling that declared bus segregation unconstitutional.
• Symbol of Resistance: Her act of defiance made her an iconic symbol of resistance against racial discrimination.
• Civil Rights Activism: She was an active member of the NAACP and continued to engage in civil rights activism throughout her life.
• Honours and Awards: She received numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal.

Her courage and determination have left a lasting legacy in the fight for racial equality.

Mother Teresa

DOB: 26th August 1910

Mother Teresa, born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, was a Roman Catholic nun and missionary known for her humanitarian work. Here are some of her key achievements:

• Founding the Missionaries of Charity: In 1950, she established this congregation, which grew to over 4,500 sisters operating in more than 130 countries.
• Nobel Peace Prize: Awarded in 1979 for her work in helping the poor and sick.
• Kalighat Home for the Dying: Opened in 1952 in Kolkata, providing care for the terminally ill.
• Canonisation: Declared a saint by the Roman Catholic Church in 2016.
• Numerous Awards: Received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour in the United States.

Her life was dedicated to serving the poorest of the poor, and her legacy continues through the ongoing work of the Missionaries of Charity.

Students who demonstrate commitment to their house by participating in house events receives house points on Arbor, as well as participation points. Students who show regular commitment will be able to progress to achieve their Half and Full colour Awards. Additional house points are awarded for 1st to 6th place entries, with the student receiving a prize if they come 1st in a competition. All of the house points are added together at the end of the academic year and the house with the highest number of points will win overall. This house group is congratulated with the House Trophy.

1st place = 60 points

2nd place = 50 points

3rd place = 40 points

4th place = 30 points

5th place = 20 points

6th place = 10 points

And more to be confirmed during the year.

World Space Week Competition

Christmas Cookie Competition

Create your own Game Competition

Road Safety Article Competition

UK Parliament Bookmark Competition

EDI Welcome Poster Competition

Eco-friendly house model Competition

We asked the students to give shout outs to the members of the King Edward VI Handsworth Wood Girls’ Academy team who made a difference to them.

Here’s what they had to say:

“shout out to all teachers for being an inspiration for me to pursue a career in teaching as well.”

“Miss Jones works SO hard to make everybody happy and to support everyone – I know every other staff member does too but you can FEEL the support that she gives, not just experience it.”

“Mr Ali – always being great and putting a smile on everyone’s face! Thank you!”

“Ms Harte-for being an amazing club teacher and always supports us 🙂 #Miss Harte is the best”

“Mr Chai for never judging anyone’s failures and being positive about everyone’s results.”

“Miss Kavanagh – sooo sweet and amazing. – makes me feel welcomed in the lesson and I enjoy her lesson loads.”

“Miss Blanchette because she helps us when we don’t understand something and gives us helpful advice, not only on work but also mental health. She also makes students feel included.”

“I want to give a shout out to Ms Hussein, Ms T, Ms Jheeta and Ms Takhar because they have been very supportive and caring towards me during my journey in HWGA and have made me feel like i belong there and they always have smiles on their faces and always know what to say and when its the right time to say it”

“Miss Kouser for always making sure situations are dealt with and making sure her year group is ok ”

“Mrs Denley for being kind and nice”

“Miss Mazhar – really nice teacher, always able to help and give advice”

“Ms Imran because she is very kind and calm”

“Miss Aziz, Miss Dingwall, Mr Singh they all actually helped sort out stuff that had me feeling was never going to end.”

“Ms Stefan because I can talk to her about a lot of things and not feel judged about it.”

“Miss Hussain – A level psychology teacher. She is an understanding teacher who tailors her way of depending on her student. She teaching makes you feel heard and values your opinion. She is also optimistic and very supportive, which makes you enthusiastic for her lessons. She is willing to give extra time when needed and is very caring.”

“Mrs Floras lessons and teaching has got me improving in english a lot especially in Language which I used to struggle and her PowerPoints are really helpful for topic content and for GCSE revision”

“It is Miss Fox because in her classroom there are beautiful paintings and all of the paintings were so creative”

“Miss T for supporting me in lesson when she comes in and helps me improve my behaviour”

“Miss Runacres and Ms Hussain (pastoral manager). They are both fair and nice to me.”

“Ms Chen because she always helps everyone”

“Mr Din and Mr Mehmood as they understand us girls when we talk to them.”

“Miss T 💐,💐 Miss Dingwall 💐and the biggest shout out is to 💐Miss Takhar💐💐 Miss Runacres💐💐 Miss Jheeta💐 because I can talk to them about anything and when something happens they are so calm and the put a real smile on my face and every they are positive even when its a bad day and they alway make sure I’m working hard and make sure I have a smile on my face everyday so i would like to give them the biggest shout out for there hard work and what they have done for me”

“Ms Orton because she does so much for me and is just great”

“I think Miss Thind and Miss Chowdury this is because I really love the way they care about me trying to help understand the reason of why I’m worried always find a solution”

“Ms Jaouen, she is very kind to us, makes sure we as a whole form don’t get in trouble, she put a coat rack for us so we can leave our coats and not get a negative. She also helps us all the time.”

“The dinner ladies because they are nice and caring and dedicated to their work”

“Miss Hussain (history teacher) because she recognises me when I write a good paragraph and she gives everyone a chance to answer a question .”

“Miss Orton, She’s very nice and friendly and gives good advice when I need it.”

“Mr Sangha for being the most real teacher. He tells us the truth instead of sugar coating it which helps us to know what areas we should improve in. He also gives us a lot of exam practice as well to solidify our learning. I respect him so much for that.”

“Miss Adeyemo- she’s very funny and patient and she really helps with my work and guides me when needed”

“Ms Jaouen, she is lovely and helpful. She always helps me with my work and creates so many resources to use. I know that I could speak to her if i had an issue.”

“Ms Bibi she allows the class to understand the work without it feeling like a overwhelming amount as well as allowing the class to not feel bored or distracted”

“Ms Takhar because she puts effort for getting the best things for us”

“Miss Jheeta because she is always very kind and caring towards her students and if we don’t understand something she helps us by going through it in detail”

“Miss Aktar she always tries her best to teach us and tries her best to explain the concepts always checking what we do and don’t understanding”

“Miss L Hussein (the English teacher,8G form tutor) she’s really nice and funny and really easy to talk to and she gives such good vibes.”