We were delighted to welcome Year 6 pupils and their parents and carers to our Transition Workshop on 2nd June focused on attendance and a successful start to secondary school.
As part of our transition process, we carefully review information provided by primary schools alongside national attendance data to identify pupils who may benefit from additional support during the move to secondary school. The workshop was designed as a positive and proactive opportunity to help pupils and families feel confident, supported and prepared for September.
During the evening, parents and carers learned about the importance of strong attendance, positive routines and reading habits in supporting pupils' achievement, wellbeing and confidence. Families also explored our STRIVE values, the support available at DEC, and the wide range of enrichment and leadership opportunities that help pupils feel connected to school. We also discussed common transition challenges and how our attendance, pastoral, SEND and wellbeing teams work closely with families to provide early support where needed.
Meanwhile, Year 6 pupils spent time with our fantastic Year 10 Prefects, who answered questions, shared their experiences and helped pupils feel excited about starting secondary school. The prefects represented the school exceptionally well and many have already volunteered to support future transition events, including Induction Day.
We were incredibly pleased to receive positive feedback from parents and carers following the event. Comments included:
“This evening’s workshop was great. It was useful to learn about the transition period.”
“Lots of support available.”
“My child will be cared for.”
“You understand my worries about the transition.”
“My child really enjoyed his time with the Prefects who are a credit to the school.”
“My child really enjoyed spending time with your Year 10s.”
We would like to thank all families who attended, alongside our Year 10 Prefects and staff, for making the evening such a success. We look forward to continuing to support our incoming Year 7 pupils as they prepare for the next exciting stage of their education.

Pupils from Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School recently had an exciting opportunity to attend a Future Lionesses football Talent ID Day, where they competed in fast-paced 3v3 games against talented players from across Birmingham. The standard of football on display was exceptional, and our four representatives rose to the occasion brilliantly, showcasing skill, determination and teamwork throughout the event.

All four pupils delivered outstanding performances, consistently impressing coaches with their technical ability and game awareness. Their efforts were recognised with a fantastic achievement: each of them has been invited to attend the next round of county trials.

A special mention goes to Alexa, who particularly caught the attention of the England coaching staff. They have expressed a strong interest in following her development more closely and are keen to stay in contact as she continues her football journey.

This is a remarkable accomplishment for all four players and a proud moment for the school. We look forward to supporting them as they take the next steps in their football pathways.

The pupils were:

• Amelia
• Kalsi
• Alexa
• Ronni

On Thursday 30^th April, we hosted this year's DEC's Got Talent Showcase, a celebration of Dance, Music and Singing! All pupils that took part in the evening demonstrated their abilities to the highest standards, showcasing the level of talent we have at DEC. 

A huge congratulations to all pupils that took part- 'THE' Year 10 School of Rock Band (Marcel, Will, Jacob & Lincoln) with Freya, Year 8 School of Rock Band (Scarlett, Kziah & Harley), Choir (Scarlett, Soraya & Tara), Year 7 Dance Company (Rose, Sofia & Katherine), Year 8 Dance Company (Awa, Kiera & Mandipa) and our Soloists (Mylah, Ettie, Adrian, Marcus & Kziah).

On Thursday 30th April, 20 pupils from Years 8 and 9 took part in the first stage of our exciting Physical Activity Champions project, led by Gemma from Spark Active.

The project aims to increase participation in physical activity by empowering young people to shape opportunities for their peers. During the session, pupils explored what it means to be a Physical Activity Champion and shared a range of creative ideas about how to encourage more students to get involved in sport and physical activity, whether for enjoyment, wellbeing or competitive participation.

The enthusiasm, teamwork and thoughtful discussions demonstrated by our pupils were outstanding. They identified barriers to participation, considered the needs of different groups of students and began developing innovative solutions that could make a real difference within our school community.

The session concluded with the group agreeing on their next steps. Working collaboratively, they will now design, develop and trial their own initiative to promote greater engagement in physical activity across the school.

We look forward to seeing their ideas come to life and the positive impact they will have on encouraging more pupils to lead active, healthy lifestyles.

We were delighted to welcome parents and carers to our Year 9 Transition Workshop on 17^th March, focused on supporting pupils as they prepare for the move into Key Stage 4. The session explored the key changes in Year 10, including increased academic challenge, the importance of reading and vocabulary, and how strong routines and independent learning habits underpin GCSE success.

Parents also gained valuable insight into how we support pupils with exam preparation, wellbeing, and access arrangements, alongside practical strategies to support learning at home. A key message throughout the workshop was the significant impact that consistent attendance has on achievement and long-term success.

The feedback from parents and carers was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting how informative and reassuring the session was:

• “Really helpful in understanding what Year 10 will look like and how I can support at home.”
• “Clear, informative and gave practical advice we can use straight away.”
• “It was reassuring to know what support is available for pupils.”

We would like to thank the parents and carers who attended. Workshops like these play an important role in strengthening the partnership between home and school, ensuring every pupil feels confident, supported, and ready for the next stage of their learning journey.

We are delighted to celebrate the success of the first 12 days of our new 1% Club initiative. An impressive 90 pupils were rewarded on Tuesday 17th March for attending school for 12 consecutive days — an achievement that has already led to a 1% improvement in their attendance.

The 1% Club is designed to show pupils that small, consistent steps can make a big difference. By focusing on short-term goals, pupils are building positive habits that support their learning, wellbeing and overall success in school.

It has been brilliant to see so many pupils rise to the challenge, demonstrating commitment, resilience and a determination to improve. Staff have enjoyed recognising and celebrating these efforts, reinforcing the message that every day in school really does count.

We look forward to welcoming even more pupils into the 1% Club as the initiative continues — well done to all those who have made such a positive start!

KS3

On Friday 6th March, we were delighted to celebrate the excellent attendance of our Key Stage 3 pupils with an Attendance Reward Breakfast. An impressive 185 pupils were invited after achieving 100% attendance during the six weeks of the Spring 1 half term.

The event was a wonderful opportunity to recognise pupils’ dedication to attending school every day. Staff were proud to celebrate their commitment, highlighting how consistent attendance helps pupils build strong friendships, develop confidence in their learning and make the most of every opportunity school offers.

The atmosphere at the breakfast was incredibly positive, with pupils enjoying the chance to be recognised for their hard work and perseverance. Celebrations like this reinforce our message that every day in school matters and that pupils’ efforts are valued.

Alongside celebrating 100% attendance, we also remain committed to recognising pupils who make improvements to their attendance, ensuring that progress and determination are celebrated across the school community.

A huge well done to all pupils who were invited — an excellent achievement and a fantastic example for others to follow.

KS4

On Thursday 5th March, we were proud to host an Attendance Reward Breakfast for our Key Stage 4 pupils, celebrating those who achieved 100% attendance during the Spring 1 half term. In total, 86 pupils earned an invitation to the event — a fantastic reflection of their dedication and resilience.

The breakfast was a chance for staff to recognise the effort it takes to attend school every day and to celebrate the positive habits that support both academic success and wellbeing. Pupils enjoyed the opportunity to come together, share breakfast with friends, and be acknowledged for their commitment to their learning.

At Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School, we know that strong attendance is key to achieving success, particularly for pupils preparing for their GCSEs. Events like this allow us to highlight the importance of being present every day while celebrating the pupils who consistently demonstrate this commitment.

While this breakfast recognised those with 100% attendance, we also look forward to celebrating pupils who improve their attendance throughout the year, ensuring that effort, progress and determination are always recognised.

Congratulations to all pupils who attended the breakfast — a brilliant achievement and something to be very proud of.

Yesterday, as part of our World Book Day celebrations, Dean Atta delivered two fantastic workshops for our pupils. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to meet a published author, especially as many of our Year 8 pupils are currently studying The Black Flamingo.

The sessions were engaging and inspiring, and pupils had the chance to write and share some truly beautiful poems. It was great to see them so enthusiastic about reading and creative writing.

Would it be possible to create a post about the visit for the website, social media, Matrix bulletin, and screens?

"It was also particularly exciting to welcome Dean to the school as he recently won a BAFTA for British Short Animation for the film Two Black Boys in Paradise, which is based on one of his poems. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClFxnrxWw4U

The visit was a real success, and the pupils had an amazing time. Dean delivered engaging workshops with the students, encouraging them to explore their creativity and express themselves through poetry. It was fantastic to see how quickly they embraced the activities and found their voices.

By the end of the sessions, the pupils had produced some truly beautiful and thoughtful poems. Their enthusiasm, confidence, and willingness to share their work made the workshops incredibly special."

On Thursday 26th February, our Year 7 pupils enjoyed an exciting trip to the MAD Museum and Shakespeare’s Schoolroom, taking part in a day full of learning and discovery.

At the MAD Museum, pupils saw their learning from Maths, Design Technology and Science come to life through fascinating mechanical exhibits and hands-on activities, sparking great questions and discussions.

After a picnic lunch in the sunshine, pupils visited Shakespeare’s Schoolroom where they experienced what life was like in a Shakespearean classroom. They took part in a traditional lesson, practised quill writing and even dressed in clothing from the period.

One of the highlights of the day was seeing pupils show real resilience, with some overcoming their fears of mini-beasts and butterflies and even handling them under supervision.

The day was a fantastic blend of education and fun. Well done to our pupils who were recognised by the venue for their excellent behaviour and enthusiasm.

On Wednesday 4th March, twelve of our Year 10 pupils attended the Women in STEM event at the University of Birmingham, joining over one hundred girls from schools across Birmingham for a day filled with inspiring STEM activities.

The day began with a fascinating session led by Dr Yanez, a leading researcher in Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity. Pupils took part in a challenging workshop where they had to identify AI-generated images, sounds and videos, learning about the cutting-edge methods scientists are developing to detect artificial intelligence.

The group then participated in a skills workshop where they explored different personal strengths and considered how these skills could link to future careers in STEM fields.

A highlight of the day was an all-female scientific panel, where researchers and professionals spoke openly about the barriers women can face in STEM careers. The panel shared practical advice and encouraged the pupils to pursue their interests with confidence and determination.

To finish the day, pupils worked alongside researchers, professors and female university students to create their own career pathway timelines, helping them to visualise the steps they might take to achieve their future ambitions.

Our pupils engaged brilliantly throughout the day, asking thoughtful questions and fully embracing the activities. 

It was a fantastic opportunity for our pupils to be inspired, build confidence and see the many exciting possibilities that STEM careers can offer.