Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls

Odds and Socks Day - 28th March 2025

Published 26/03/25

Join Us for Odds and Socks Day!

We are thrilled to announce that our school will be participating in the Huntington’s Disease Association's Odds and Socks Day, a cause close to our hearts. This event aims to raise awareness and funds for those affected by Huntington’s disease.

Event Details: Date: Friday, 28th March

Activity: Wear and share your most colourful and quirkiest odd socks! Students and staff are also colouring odd socks so we can make bunting with them.

About Odds and Socks Day: Organised by the Huntington’s Disease Association, the only charity in England and Wales dedicated to supporting those affected by Huntington’s disease, this event highlights the 50:50 chance of inheriting this genetic condition and its impact.

How You Can Help:

Spread the Word: Share information about the event with friends and family.

Participate: Encourage your child to wear their wildest odd socks on the day.

Donate: We ask for a minimum donation of £1, but appreciate any amount. Donate here. Just Giving - WPSfG Odds and Socks Day

Your support will make a significant difference in raising awareness and funds for this important cause. Thank you for your participation and enthusiasm!

#OddsAndSocksDay #WhatAreTheOdds #Huntingtonsdiseaseawareness #woolwichpolytechnic #woolwichpolytechnicschoolforgirls #polymat #polymatschools

World Poetry Day - 21st March 2025

Published 20/03/25

World Poetry Day, celebrated annually on March 21st, is a day designated by UNESCO to promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry, and to honour the power of poetry as a universal form of human expression and cultural identity.

We celebrate the beauty and power of poetry. From ancient verses to modern masterpieces, poetry has the unique ability to capture emotions, tell stories, and inspire change. Let's take a moment to appreciate the poets who enrich our lives with their words and creativity. 🖋️❤️

The day aims to:

Promote the reading, writing, publishing, and teaching of poetry.
Celebrate the unique ability of poetry to capture the creative spirit of the human mind.
Support linguistic diversity through poetic expression and increase the opportunity for endangered languages to be heard.
Honour poets and revive the practice of poetry recitals.
Encourage people to engage with poetry in all its forms.

History:

UNESCO first adopted March 21st as World Poetry Day during its 30th General Conference in Paris in 1999.

Links

Competitions

Games

Poetry book recommendations for teenagers

Here are some great films about poetry that are suitable for teenagers:

Dead Poets Society (1989) - This classic film follows an English teacher who inspires his students through poetry. It's a powerful story about the impact of literature and the importance of following one's passions.
Paterson (2016) - This film tells the story of a bus driver and poet named Paterson, who finds beauty in the everyday moments of life. It's a gentle and inspiring film that highlights poetry in the mundane.
The Kindergarten Teacher (2018) - This movie features a kindergarten teacher who discovers that one of her students is a poetry prodigy. It's a thought-provoking film about the power of creativity and the responsibilities of nurturing talent.
Akeelah and the Bee (2006) - While not solely about poetry, this film follows a young girl who discovers her talent for spelling and language, including poetry. It's an uplifting story about perseverance and self-discovery.
Poetry (2010) - This South Korean film tells the story of an elderly woman who discovers a passion for writing poetry while facing personal challenges. It's a beautiful and moving film that can inspire teenagers to find their own creative outlets.
The Secret Garden (1993) - This adaptation of the classic novel includes beautiful poetic elements and themes of growth and healing, making it a great family film.
The Tale of Despereaux (2008) - This animated film tells the story of a brave mouse who loves reading and poetry. It's a charming tale of courage and adventure suitable for all ages.
Horton Hears a Who! (2008) - Based on Dr. Seuss's book, this animated film features whimsical rhymes and a heart-warming story about kindness and community.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) - Inspired by a poem written by Tim Burton, this stop-motion animated film combines poetry with a unique and enchanting storyline.
The BFG (2016) - Adapted from Roald Dahl's book, this film includes poetic elements and imaginative language as it tells the story of a young girl and her giant friend.
The Little Prince (2015) - This animated adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's classic novella combines beautiful visuals with poetic themes of love, friendship, and the importance of imagination.
Kubo and the Two Strings (2016) - This stop-motion animated film features a young boy who uses storytelling and music to navigate his adventures. It has poetic elements and a touching narrative.

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2025

Published 14/03/25

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2025 takes place March 17 to March 23

Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, organisations, and others around the world with the opportunity to recognise the many skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

Did you know?

No two people are the same and so we will all have different profiles
Although we talk about specific neurodifferences such as Autism and Dyslexia, the reality is that these can co-occur
Every neurodivergent individual has a unique pattern of strengths and challenges
We tend to operate on an approach to diagnosis and labels which can mean that quite often the focus is on the challenges rather than the many strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals
It is important that we take a person-centred approach, by tailoring strategies to each individual
It is important to harness the strengths and talents of neurodivergent individuals, this helps to build confidence and self-esteem, and ensures individuals are given the opportunity to flourish in their day-to-day

Useful Links and resources

Videos

Links for parents/carers

Book recommendations

Film recommendations

British Science Week 2025

Published 13/03/25

British Science Week is a ten-day celebration of science, research and innovation - featuring events and activities across the UK for people of all ages. It is run by the British Science Association (BSA) and supported by partners including UK Research and Innovation.

What is the British Science Week theme for 2025?

British Science Week is taking place between 7-16 March 2025.

This year's theme explores change and adaptation, which is all around us and affects every area of STEM.

For example, animals and plants change and adapt to their surroundings to survive.

We've also seen technology constantly evolving which can help people in many different aspects of their lives - from learning in classrooms to finding new medical treatments.

And it doesn't just happen here on Earth, even the stars and other space objects change too. Perhaps there is life on other planets that also adapts as their environment changes?

Book recommendations

Videos

Celebrating International Women's Day at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls

Published 12/03/25

Celebrating International Women's Day at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls

On International Women's Day, we were thrilled to host an inspiring array of visitors for our Year 7 Careers Carousel. Students had the opportunity to meet incredible women from various fields, including construction, police, fire brigade, business ownership, and many more. These role models shared their journeys and insights, empowering our students to dream big and pursue their passions.

Our Year 8 students participated in a dynamic workshop with Talk the Talk, enhancing their communication skills and confidence. Meanwhile, Year 9 students were inspired by the amazing Jade Barnett, who led a workshop filled with motivation and practical advice.

For our Year 10 and 11 students, the 'Positively You' workshop provided valuable tools for personal development and self-belief. Over 1200 students engaged in these enriching workshops, making International Women's Day a truly memorable and impactful event.

Thank you to all our visitors, students and staff for making this day a celebration of empowerment and inspiration!

📢 FREE NVR Parent Programme Alert!

Published 11/03/25

Parenting teens can be rewarding yet challenging. Want to strengthen your relationship with your child and learn effective strategies in a supportive environment?

Join our 11-week course starting Tuesday, 29 April at The Moorings Sociable Club, Thamesmead SE28 8BG.

🗓️ Start Date: 29 April - End date: 15 July ⏰ Time: 10am-12noon

Limited places available! Contact Jane Prescott at jprescott@woolwichpolyboys.co.uk or call 020 8310 7000 ext 2067 for details.

#Parenting #Support #NVRProgramme #CommunityEvent

📢 East Children’s Centres Event Alert!

Published 11/03/25

East Children’s Centres

Are you a parent or carer of a child aged under 18?
Are you concerned about how many young lives are lost
because of drugs and violence?
Would you know if your child was being groomed into a gang?
Do you want the best for your child?

We celebrate the fact that most young people lead positive lives and want to ensure you are equipped with the knowledge to prevent your child becoming victims of violence and exploitation.

Join us to explore issues, discuss valuable information and practical strategies relating to social media, sexting, online grooming, gangs, and serious youth violence.

Tuesday 18 March 1 - 3pm

Moorings Sociable Club Titmus Avenue Thamesmead SE28 8BG

Please telephone Waterways Children's Centre to secure your space on 020 8311 5491 ext 1

Limited free crèche places for under 5’s please book in advance.

International Women's Day 2025

Published 03/03/25

International Women's Day (IWD) 2025 will be celebrated on 8th March 2025.

This year's theme is "Accelerate Action", emphasising the need for swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality. The campaign calls for increased momentum in addressing systemic barriers and biases that women face in both personal and professional spheres.

The theme highlights the importance of supporting organisations and groups that work tirelessly to advance women's rights and empowerment. It encourages everyone to take action in their daily lives by challenging stereotypes, celebrating women's achievements, and promoting gender equality.

Additionally, 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a significant milestone in the global pursuit of gender equality. This year's celebrations will focus on advancing women's and girls' rights, promoting gender equality, and fostering empowerment through inclusive access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities.

International Women’s Day 2025

Free resources

Book recommendations

Film recommendations

World Book Day - Thursday 6th March 2025

Published 03/03/25

On Thursday, 6^th March, we are celebrating World Book Day! We are looking forward to sharing our love of books with the school community and beyond. Here are a few of the ways we are going to be celebrating on the day:

Non-uniform day for all year groups.
KS3 (Y7-9) fancy dress as book-related characters – this is optional for those who wish to dress up. Those who don’t wish to dress in costume are still welcome to attend in non-uniform.
Book quiz in the library at lunch time.
Book-cover hunt.
All students will receive a World Book Day book token.
Masked Reader tutor group competition.

We are also launching our community book collection point! If you have any unwanted children’s books which are in good condition, they can be dropped in the school library collection point, where they will then be distributed to families through Peabody’s community projects.

World Book Day 2025 will be celebrated on 6th March 2025.

This annual event promotes reading for pleasure, offering every child and young person the opportunity to have a book of their own. The day is marked by various activities, events, and resources aimed at encouraging a love of reading.

One of the highlights of World Book Day is the distribution of £1/€1.50 book tokens, which children can exchange for a selection of specially published books. This year, there are 12 titles available across the UK. The tokens can be redeemed from 13th February to 23rd March 2025. Schools and families can access a range of resources to help celebrate, including tool kits, activity packs, and ideas for low-cost costumes related to the featured books.

There are also competitions, such as the popular "Design a National Book Token" competition.

Free secondary school resources

Free activities

Pancake Day Recipes 2025

Published 03/03/25

Tomorrow is Pancake Day, and what better way to celebrate than by sharing our favourite pancake recipes? Whether you're a fan of traditional lemon and sugar or prefer something more adventurous, it is the perfect time to indulge!

Year 10 student wins the Greenwich Regional Final of Jack Petchey's Speak Out Challenge!

Published 28/02/25

Precious, a student at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls, has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the Greenwich Regional Final of Jack Petchey's Speak Out Challenge. This event, held on February 26, 2025, is part of the largest public speaking programme in England, managed by Speakers Trust and supported by the Jack Petchey Foundation.

The competition saw 16 talented participants from the region, with a total of 967 young people taking part in the challenge. Precious delivered a compelling speech titled "My Version of Black," which emphasised embracing one's unique challenges and identity with bravery, love, affirmation, culture, and kindness. The speech highlighted the transformation of perceived weaknesses into strengths, fostering resilience.

Precious expressed pride in the achievement, stating, "I feel proud that I was able to give a voice to the voiceless. "These three minutes have given me the gift of confidence and belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to."

Jack Petchey's Speak Out Challenge provides free communication skills training to Year 10 students in every state school in London and Essex, empowering over 30,000 young people each year. The programme aims to amplify young voices by building confidence, developing skills, and creating platforms for sharing stories and ideas. More information about the challenge can be found at jpspeakoutchallenge.com

In an evening full of incredible speakers, Precious was phenomenal and rightly deserves this award. On behalf of everyone at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Precious on this outstanding accomplishment. We are immensely proud.

Information for parents/carers - Access to services

Published 28/02/25

Advice Hub

Get guidance on housing, immigration, employment, domestic abuse and other issues by coming along to the Advice Hub every Wednesday between 9:30am and 12:30pm. It’s completely free and is on a first come, first served basis. Every Wednesday 9:30am -12:30pm at Moorings Sociable Club, Thamesmead, SE28 8BG. 07815 734080 geogia.mann@peabody.org.uk

Food provisions in Thamesmead

Foodbank support

If you find yourself in an emergency situation and you need access to free food, support can be accessed via a local foodbank. It’s important to get a food bank voucher before attending. These can be accessed by calling Positive Steps on the number below. Our referral agent will also work with you to find a location and day that suits you best.

FOOD club

Family Action launched Food on Our Doorstep (FOOD) Clubs to provide good-quality food at a lower cost, while also reducing food waste. It costs £1 a year for a family to sign-up and members can purchase a bag of healthy food items worth around £15 every week for just £4.

Every Friday 11am - 1pm at Jubilee Community Centre, Lytton Strachey Path, SE28 8DU 07815 343 080

Events and activities

Winter Sculpture Park Opening Party

Thamesmead will be home to London’s largest free sculpture park as part of the former golf course transforms into a huge open-air exhibition space! Join the organisers, No.32, at the launch party of the park on Saturday 1 March 2025.

Saturday 1 March 2025 11am - 5pm SE28 8QS | what3words: ///Hedge.Thus.Reward

Healthy cookery classes

Join these tutor-led classes to learn how to prepare delicious and healthy meals! The course will take place every Tuesday across a 5-week period and is open to anyone aged 18 or over.

Tuesday 4 March 2025 - 1 April 2025 11am -1:30pm Lakeview Court, Central Thamesmead, SE28 8GL

Bike Days 2025

Learn basic bike maintenance skills from a specialist, Dr Bike. Help keep your bike secure by having it security marked or borrow one of our bikes and learn to cycle through an instructor led session!

Khadeja Chowdhury - 07765 742387 Book your space for Bike Days 2025 on eventbrite

Saturday 29 March and 26 April 10am - 12pm Sporting Club, Thamesmead, SE28 8NJ

Repair and reuse programme

We’re working with Lovell, who are helping deliver the second phase of new homes in South Thamesmead, to find out what would help you and your family to save money and to make small changes so that less items go to landfill. We would love to hear ideas on how residents can get more value from their items and cut down on unnecessary spending.”

You can fill in this short questionnaire to share your ideas with us. All participants will be automatically entered into a raffle with a chance to win a £50 voucher!

Woolwich Polytechnic

Latest News

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Odds and Socks Day - 28th March 2025

World Poetry Day - 21st March 2025

Neurodiversity Celebration Week 2025

Did you know?

Useful Links and resources

Videos

Links for parents/carers

Book recommendations

Film recommendations

British Science Week 2025

Book recommendations

Videos

Celebrating International Women's Day at Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls

📢 FREE NVR Parent Programme Alert!

📢 East Children’s Centres Event Alert!

International Women's Day 2025

World Book Day - Thursday 6th March 2025

World Book Day 2025 will be celebrated on 6th March 2025.

Pancake Day Recipes 2025

Year 10 student wins the Greenwich Regional Final of Jack Petchey's Speak Out Challenge!

Information for parents/carers - Access to services

Advice Hub

Food provisions in Thamesmead

Events and activities

Page 2

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