Celebrating Excellence in Mock Interviews!

Recently, a group of our exceptional pupils had the opportunity to meet with Mrs. J Poppleton, our Director of Careers, Information, and Guidance, to be recognised for their outstanding efforts in the Year 10 mock interviews!

Mrs Poppleton expressed her delight, stating: “It’s truly fantastic to celebrate the efforts of these remarkable pupils. They excelled in their mock interviews and were flagged by our visitors as being confident and well-prepared.”

The mock interviews, designed to instil confidence and readiness for future interviews, have proven to be an invaluable experience for our pupils. We couldn’t be prouder of their achievements!

Congratulations to all the pupils who participated and demonstrated such impressive skills. Your dedication and hard work are truly commendable.

#RespecttheCTAWay #Community #Tenacity #Aspiration

Exciting Career Opportunities in the Rail Sector!

We were thrilled to welcome Rose Rees, Head of Engagement & Skills for Midland Metro Alliance and Chair for the Black Country Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, to our school recently.

From Engineering and Construction to Law, Accountancy, Business, and even Nursing, Rose shed light on the vast array of roles within the rail industry, emphasising the immense scope for growth and development. She highlighted the pressing need for young talent to bridge the skills gap in this dynamic sector, inspiring our pupils to explore the exciting opportunities it presents.

Mrs. J Poppleton, Director of Careers, Information, and Guidance, expressed her gratitude for Rose’s informative session, remarking, “It was truly eye-opening for our pupils to discover the breadth of careers available in the rail sector. We are immensely grateful to Rose for sharing her expertise and broadening our pupils’ horizons.”

#RespecttheCTAWay #Community #Tenacity #Aspiration

Terrace Talk – Week 2!

The second edition of ‘Terrace Talk’ is now live on the MyChildAtSchool app! This weekly parental news bulletin is designed to keep you informed and engaged with all the amazing happenings at our school.

After taking into account your valuable feedback from recent parent surveys, we understand just how important it is to ensure you’re well-informed about events and opportunities available for your children.

Accessible via the MyChildAtSchool App as an Announcement, ‘Terrace Talk’ serves as a one-stop-shop for all parents and carers. You’ll find whole-school notices and updates conveniently shared with pupils during personal development lessons on a weekly basis.

Stay in the loop, stay engaged, and stay connected with ‘Terrace Talk’. Download the MyChildAtSchool app now to access this week’s edition and never miss out on important updates again!

A further update from Krakow:

Today, pupils have visited the Wieliczka Salt Mine (or at least 2% of its 178 miles of subterranean network of salt tunnels!), and the famous Krakow Barbican, St. Florian’s Gate and Old Town for lunch!

After a very insightful and enjoyable time away, pupils and staff started to make their way to the airport late this afternoon.

#RespecttheCTAWay#community#tenacity#aspiration

Another Krakow update:

Mr M Lloyd, Trip Leader has said “We are so proud of our pupils who asked insightful questions to the Holocaust survivor’s family this afternoon! All pupils have behaved as excellent ambassadors of our school when visiting Krakow Old Town this evening. We are truly proud of each and every one of them for exemplifying the community spirit of CTA.”

We have received an update from our Year 12…

Pupils have had a really interesting visit to Auschwitz that has sparked much emotion. They have been to Camp One – Auschwitz main camp, and Berkenau/Camp Two, otherwise known as the Death Camp.

Ms N Mason, Headteacher has shared that “Pupils have been exceptionally respectful and guides have helped everyone to try to understand the gravity of what happened to so many innocent people. We have walked the same path they did all those years ago. We are now on our way to speak to a survivor of the Holocaust.”

#RespecttheCTAWay#community#tenacity#aspiration

National Careers Week Highlight: Public Speaker Stephen Seki Shares…

As part of National Careers Week, we had the privilege of hosting the remarkable Stephen Seki, whose incredible journey from ‘Farmer’ to ‘Pharmacist’ left us inspired and empowered.

Stephen began his life facing adversity, growing up in poverty. However, through sheer determination and unwavering resilience, he transformed his circumstances and achieved his dreams.

During his captivating speech, Stephen delved into crucial themes such as failure, determination, innovation, and resilience. He shared personal anecdotes and invaluable insights, urging pupils to unlock their hidden potential and pursue their aspirations.

Thank you, Stephen Seki, for sharing your remarkable journey and empowering our pupils to chase their dreams.

#NationalCareersWeek

#RespecttheCTAWay #Community #Tenacity #Aspiration

Happy International Women’s Day!

Today, we came together as a school community to honour the incredible women in our lives and around the world. From teachers to mothers, sisters to friends, and every inspiring woman in between, we celebrate you all!

This year, the symbol of International Women’s Day is #InspireInclusion. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity, equality, and inclusivity in all aspects of our lives. Together, let’s continue to uplift and empower each other, breaking down barriers and creating a world where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating this special day.

#InternationalWomensDay

#RespecttheCTAWay #Community #Tenacity #Aspiration

National Careers Week: Marston’s visits CTA!

In celebration of National Careers Week, we had the pleasure of hosting Sammi, a representative from Marston’s, who brought a wealth of knowledge and insight into the world of hospitality careers and apprenticeships!

Sammi engaged our Year 11 pupils with an informative session, shedding light on the diverse pathways available in the hospitality sector post-graduation. It’s crucial to us that our pupils are equipped with the necessary information and opportunities to pursue their aspirations, and Sammi’s visit certainly contributed to that mission.

One highlight was the myth-busting session where pupils learned facts, such as how the hospitality sector has significantly contributed to the UK economy, boosting it by £93 billion over the last six years!

To wrap up the session on a fun note, we held a ‘shake it off’ mocktail competition, and Conor emerged as the victorious champion against Mr. Birt, Head of Year 11!

Thank you, Sammi, for an enlightening and enjoyable visit! We look forward to continuing to provide our pupils with valuable insights and experiences to help them navigate their future career paths.

#RespecttheCTAWay #Community #Tenacity #Aspiration

It’s Feel Good Friday!

Today, we’re celebrating some remarkable pupils who truly embody the spirit of kindness, bravery, and determination. Let’s celebrate their outstanding achievements of Ashton, Jack and Hayden.

A huge congratulations to Ashton for his exceptional performance at the many Karate competitions he has competed in recently! Meeting with Mrs. S Morgan, our Business Manager, Ashton discussed how his skill and dedication earned him a silver medal in the 14-16 age category in Kumite (fighting). Not stopping there, he also impressed with a 4th place finish in kata pairs. Mrs Morgan said: “Ashton’s unwavering dedication to his sport since a young age, coupled with his continuous pursuit of becoming a world champion, left me in awe today. His dedication is not only inspiring to me but also to fellow pupils, demonstrating the power of setting aspirations and relentlessly pursuing them.”

We would also like to celebrate Jack for his efforts in looking after the community. While attending our macramé club, Jack went above and beyond to create a special plant pot holder for a staff member’s mum, simply because she expressed admiration for his work. Your thoughtful gesture and generosity make our community brighter, Jack!

During his meeting with Mr J Cain, Deputy Headteacher, Hayden’s strength and resilience left us in awe. After his mother underwent a double transplant in 2020, Hayden stepped up to support his younger sister and mother through challenging times. Recently, when his mother experienced a seizure, Hayden displayed remarkable courage and composure, ensuring her safety until help arrived. Claire, Hayden’s mother, expressed her gratitude, stating, “Thank you, son,” simply isn’t enough. We stand in admiration of Hayden’s bravery and selflessness.

Let’s join together in celebrating Ashton, Jack, and Hayden for their remarkable achievements and acts of kindness. Their contributions enrich our school community and inspire us all.

#FeelGoodFriday

#RespecttheCTAWay #Community #Tenacity #Aspiration