Book your place now for a range of open evenings and events
E-ACT Willenhall Academy is embarking on a transformative journey under the guidance of its new headteacher and leadership team and you can find out more at a series of open evenings and events.
With significant investments in the school's infrastructure, including new playgrounds and classroom facilities set to open in September, the academy is committed to elevating its standards and providing an exceptional educational environment for its students.
These developments signify the beginning of an exciting chapter aimed at elevating the school from its "needs improvement" rating by OFSTED.
One of the most notable features of Willenhall E-ACT Academy is the warmth that greets every visitor and the continuous improvement journey that the school is on. This atmosphere of inclusivity is matched by a commitment to continuous improvement, fostering a strong community spirit where ambition, challenge, and confidence are paramount.
The mission of Willenhall E-ACT Academy is clear: building momentum as a strong community school with a relentless focus on providing every member of its community with the tools they need to succeed.
Guided by the values of "opening minds, opening doors," the academy aims to expand horizons and create opportunities for all its pupils.
The new headteacher, Tim Marston, who joined in December 2023, brings a fresh vision and unwavering commitment to excellence with a focus on ensuring that every student at Willenhall thrives during their time at the school.
He said: "I joined this school to take it on a journey. We are only just starting, but this will be a great time to join us."
The mixed secondary school for children in years seven to 11 is at Furzebank Way and has 1000 students. It is part of E-ACT, a multi-academy trust with 29 academies across the country.
The most recent OFSTED review highlights several strengths that have emerged under new leadership, stating that Mr Marston and his team have introduced stability and elevated expectations, while also addressing local challenges.
It also acknowledged that students exhibit good behaviour, feel secure within the school and engage positively in their lessons.
"The atmosphere during social times and class transitions remains calm and orderly," it said. "Moreover, the curriculum is thoughtfully structured by subject leaders, ensuring topics are studied in a sequence that builds on prior knowledge effectively."
High expectations and aspirations
As part of an Academy Trust, Mr Marston aims to expose students to a world of opportunity while ensuring a calm, purposeful, and welcoming daily environment.
The academy's curriculum reflects high expectations and aspirations for all students. It is designed to be rich in knowledge across a wide range of subjects, engaging students and preparing them for further study and life beyond school.
Alongside traditional academic subjects, the school supports character development through a carefully crafted PSHE programme. This dual focus on academic and personal growth is essential for enabling students to function effectively in society.
Willenhall E-ACT Academy prides itself on being inclusive and ensuring that all pupils, whatever their needs, can access a knowledge-rich curriculum.
The academy has also developed a robust careers programme which prepares students for their future by developing an understanding of the world of work and available options. Enhanced Curriculum Days further enrich learning by linking it to personal development, STEM subjects like computing, and sport.
Wellbeing at its heart
Pastoral care is another vital aspect of life at Willenhall E-ACT Academy, ensuring students feel supported both academically and emotionally.
The school's commitment to mental health is evident through its Awareness, Support, and Kindness (ASK) framework. This initiative educates the entire school community about mental health, provides various avenues of support, and promotes wellbeing in every aspect of school life.
Teaching staff are trained mental health first aiders who can spot early signs of mental health issues and the academy has its own mental health curriculum which it teaches alongside standard lessons. Based on children's everyday needs, pupils can learn more about the topic through their weekly lessons.
The school's modern facilities include a learning resource centre, dance studio, swimming pool, sports hall, gyms, science laboratories, DT workshops and astro pitches.
These facilities provide students with ample opportunities to explore their interests and develop new skills.
Student ambassadors play a crucial role at Willenhall E-ACT Academy, forming links between the community and the academy. Through activities like debating, leadership training, and teamwork exercises, these ambassadors develop essential life skills.
Mr Marston said: "My focus is on ensuring that every student at Willenhall can thrive in their time with us. Schools are measured nationally in a number of ways and it is fair to say that we have work to do to become the school that our local community deserve.
"In the five years that students spend with us, our mission is to help them academically flourish whilst also helping them develop and become inspired as young people."
Find out for yourself
Discover more about E-ACT Willenhall Academy at the following events:
- Primary school visits June and July
- Transition dates for Year 6 on July 2, 3 and 4
- Year 6 Parents Welcome evening on Thursday, July 4, from 4pm-6pm
- Open Evening for all on Wednesday, September 25, from 5pm-7pm