Author Archives: Mr J Rennalls

Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge

A group of year 10 students have begun working on their public speaking skills as part of the Jack Petchey ‘Speak Out’ Challenge. The students will be competing against each other to represent Duke’s at the regional final.

Students have spent time learning about the craft of speech writing, structure of speeches and the importance of delivery. Students are encouraged through the Jack Petchey programme to speak from the heart – finding speeches that inspire them and others. The skills learnt from these fantastic workshops will give our students a great head start whatever profession or industry they enter. 

BIMA Digital Day

On Wednesday 8th November a group of year 9 students were lucky enough to take part in the BIMA Digital Day. The British Interactive Media Association (BIMA) hosted a fantastically informative full day workshop with our students looking at the world through the eyes of a digital marketing organisation.

BIMA Digital Day gives 11-16 year olds an insight into a world of digital careers. Students get to meet digital experts and compete in a sponsored, nationwide digital challenge for a chance to win £500 cash for their school and some fantastic prizes for themselves.

Ms Henry organised the day and it was really inspiring for our students to spend time looking at digital careers and understanding more about the world of digital marketing. Thank you BIMA!

Chickenshed Theatre Company – Back at Duke’s

The fantastic partnership with Chickenshed Theatre Company has continued at Duke’s this term. We are incredibly lucky to have been working with Chickenshed for 12 years now and every year they bring new and exciting projects into the academy. 

This year is no exception. On Friday 3rd November they kicked off their annual work with us by giving two of our year 7 drama classes the opportunity to watch a new piece of work that details a number of struggles young people face.

The performance was phenomenal and our students were engrossed from start to finish. It was also fantastic to see two ex Duke’s Students (Saffire & Alex from the cohort who left us in 2020) performing as part of the cast. Both students have now completed the level 3 Performing Arts course at Chickenshed and are now completing their degrees! It was magical to see them back performing at Duke’s again.