Proud students and staff show off school

Hundreds of visitors attended Cleethorpes Academy’s Open Evening – with staff receiving a huge amount of positive feedback.

Principal Paul Thundercliffe was delighted with how it went and the response received.

“I was really proud,” he said. “It felt authentic. Visitors saw the school as it is every day.

“The fact we had more than 200 of our current students giving up their night to support it – a quarter of the school – says it all.

“They are proud of their school and wanted people to share in the culture everyone has created.”

The hall was full for two presentations, both starting with a showcase from Mary Poppins, the school’s production last year.

“That was deliberate. School is about the children in it, not the Principal or staff,” said Mr Thundercliffe.

“There were really good vibes and energy in the hall and a great atmosphere generally around the school.

“A huge thank you to everyone who came along. I’m also grateful to the students and staff who made it such a special night.

“I was genuinely taken aback by the positive comments.”

Bursar Primary Academy pupil Matilda Pye “really enjoyed” the event, said mum Lauren.

“It was very well put together with lots of activities for the children to get involved in,” she said.

“She came home talking about it a lot, particularly baking club.

“I thought it was fabulous. Everybody obviously cares a lot about the school.

“Cleethorpes Academy is our first preference and we have everything crossed.”

Harley Beesley’s elder brother Mason is in Year 9 at the school and it was important, said father Ben, that his younger son, who attends Old Clee Primary Academy, enjoyed the event.

“Our application for him to join Cleethorpes has already been submitted and we won’t be going to any further open evenings,” Ben said.

“This was more about Harley getting an opportunity to get to know the school more than what we thought.

“Mason’s not had any issues and we think it’s a great school.

“Harley came away with a grin on his face and that’s all you can ask.

“He probably went in a little nervous but, all the kids were so welcoming, by the time he got to the second classroom he was into it.”

Positive feedback also came from emails received by the academy.

One said: “Your open evening last night was fantastic!

“The range of activities on offer was brilliant and the enthusiasm from staff and students was infectious. We now have two children who are very excited to start Year 7.

“I already have a child in Year 10, but the positive changes that are happening in the school were obvious to see last night and we were really impressed with all the academy has to offer.”

Another email said: “I just wanted to share my appreciation for the wonderful open event held at the school.

“As a parent, I have attended many similar events, but I must say, this one truly stood out.

“It was heartening to see how welcoming and engaging everyone was.

I”n particular, I wanted to commend the two boys in the history department.

“They were absolutely fantastic, entertaining us with their presentation and making history come alive in such an engaging manner. They reminded me of Ant and Dec with their charming and dynamic delivery.

“Thanks to you and your team for all the efforts put into making the event a success. It has certainly left a positive impression on me and my family.”

Mr Thundercliffe said: “Choosing the right school is an important decision and our aim was to give visitors a real sense of what we stand for.

“We are proud of the high standards we set, not only in academic excellence but also in the personal growth and wellbeing of every student.

“Our aim is to nurture confident, resilient young people who are curious about the world and prepared to thrive in the future.”

Old Clee pupil Harley Beesley has a go at basketball during Cleethorpes Academy’s Open Evening.

Matilda Pye concentrates on using a Bunsen burner in one of the science laboratories.

The cast of Mary Poppins entertain ahead of the Principal’s talk.

Principal Mr Thundercliffe addresses a packed hall.

A giant Scrabble was featured in the English department.

Isaac Lavric shows his talents on the piano.

The choir welcomes visitors to the school.

Visitor Amelie Snowden tackles one of the activities with teacher Justine Peck.

What’s in the box?

Three of the 200 plus students who gave up their evening to support the event.