We were very excited to invite a team from the Royal Navy into school to deliver a team building STEM session.

Pupils  were challenged to design, build and launch rockets/flares in a real-life scenario where a boat has capsized in the ocean and they need to be rescued. Pupils needed to think about forces acting on the rocket and how to reduce friction and drag to ensure that the rockets reached the required height. Pupils showed great employability skills and worked as part of a team in their constructions.

The Matrix App (below), is our ‘One Stop Shop’ for all communications about your child including topping up their lunch money, registering an absence and keeping up with information about trips and other important opportunities on our whole school calendar. If you are not signed up to this yet, it is imperative that you do so (and allow notifications), as this app has now replaced all text messaging. 

If you are not yet registered with the app, follow these easy steps for Android/iPhone devices: If you have not provided us with an email address at any point, please email enquiry with your child’s name (first and last name), your child’s date of birth, your name and relation, followed by an email address. 

Step 1: Download the Matrix Academy Trust app onto your phone/tablet via your relevant App store.

Step 2: Once downloaded, open the app and click the “Activate My Account” link at the bottom of the login screen. 

 Step 3: Enter your unique enrolment code (which will have been sent via email) and follow the in-app step by step instructions to complete your registration. 

 Note: Be sure to check your spam folder for your confirmation email when prompted. For frequently asked questions and a reminder of the ways we communicate via social media, please see overleaf. If you have any other questions, please contact enquiry@decschool.co.uk As always, we appreciate and thank you for your support and we look forward to developing this tool as a method of communication with you. Please ensure you do download the app, if not you will miss out on key information.

App Guidance

In the early hours of February 4th, 23 eager Social Sciences pupils from Years 10 to 13 embarked on an unforgettable educational trip to the Austrian capital of Vienna.

Our journey began with a walking tour of the city where pupils explored the scenic areas of Schwedenplatz, Stephansplatz, and Volksgarten, taking in Vienna’s stunning architecture and historical landmarks. This was followed by an afternoon activity of ice skating at Vienna Ice World, one of Europe’s largest open-air ice rinks, where pupils embraced the winter atmosphere while skating through City Hall Square.

The following day, we visited Mauthausen Memorial Concentration Camp which was a deeply moving and powerful experience. Pupils walked through the former camp, learning about the atrocities committed during World War II and reflecting on the impact of totalitarian regimes, human suffering, and resilience. This visit encouraged thoughtful discussion and reinforced the importance of historical remembrance.

Our academic exploration continued with a visit to the Sigmund Freud Museum where pupils gained an insight into the origins of psychoanalysis and even seeing his personal belongings. We then explored the Josephinum Medical Museum, home to an impressive collection of 18th-century anatomical wax models, allowing pupils to appreciate how medical science has evolved over time. We rounded off the day with a fun and interactive session of Blacklite Minigolf at the Blacklite Arena, an exciting glow-in-the-dark minigolf course featuring vibrant neon artwork and immersive lighting effects.

On our final full day, we visited Narrenturm, one of the world’s oldest psychiatric hospitals, now a museum showcasing historical treatments and medical practices. This provided a fascinating (and sometimes eerie!) insight into pathology and the history of diseases. We then explored the Natural History Museum, a world-renowned institution boasting an extensive collection of fossils, meteorites, and even a 29,500-year-old Venus figurine, linking to studies of human evolution and anthropology. To finish the day on a high, pupils enjoyed an evening at Prater Park, Vienna’s historic amusement park, where they braved thrilling rides, including the 279-foot Free Fall Tower, and soaked up the lively atmosphere.

Before heading home, the group had time for a final shopping trip at a local shopping centre, picking up souvenirs, clothing and Austrian delicacies, followed by one last visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks where pupils took in the stunning architecture in the centre of Vienna.

Throughout the trip, our pupils demonstrated excellent behaviour, embracing Austrian culture with enthusiasm and curiosity. They were regularly praised by staff at the hotel, staff at our visit locations and by members of the public for their impeccable conduct and manners. Their ability to adapt, engage, and reflect on the experiences made the trip both enjoyable and educational. A huge well done to all involved!

Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School are offering our Year 10 pupils the opportunity to experience the world of work on 2nd-3rd July 2025. The aim of the experience is to inspire pupils’ exploration of different careers, expand their networks and open their eyes to exciting opportunities. 

The Gatsby Foundation ‘Good Career Guidance’ Report states that good career guidance is critical if young people are to raise their aspirations and capitalise on the opportunities available to them. Gatsby Benchmark 5 states “Every pupil should have multiple opportunities to learn from employers about work, employment and the skills that are valued in the workplace. This can be through a range of enrichment activities including visiting speakers, mentoring and enterprise schemes.” Year 9 pupils are being offered the opportunity to accompany a family member or close family friend/relation to their place of work. 

The launch letter was given to pupils on 23rd January 2025 in their launch assembly and this provides a comprehensive overview of what is required. If pupils are unable to secure a placement, they will be required to remain in school and take part in normal lessons.

Find out more

Dame Elizabeth Cadbury School are offering our Year 9 pupils the opportunity to experience the world of work on 2nd-3rd July 2025. The aim of the experience is to inspire pupils’ exploration of different careers, expand their networks and open their eyes to exciting opportunities. 

The Gatsby Foundation ‘Good Career Guidance’ Report states that good career guidance is critical if young people are to raise their aspirations and capitalise on the opportunities available to them. Gatsby Benchmark 5 states “Every pupil should have multiple opportunities to learn from employers about work, employment and the skills that are valued in the workplace. This can be through a range of enrichment activities including visiting speakers, mentoring and enterprise schemes.” Year 9 pupils are being offered the opportunity to accompany a family member or close family friend/relation to their place of work. 

The launch letter was given to pupils on 22nd January 2025 in their launch assembly and this provides a comprehensive overview of what is required. If pupils are unable to secure a placement, they will be required to remain in school and take part in normal lessons.

Read more here

At DEC we are serious about both attendance and punctuality and we know that parental support plays a crucial role in achieving high levels in both. With this in mind, we've created a new information video on how to help your child improve and maintain their attendance and punctuality, along with some other hints and tips. Take a look!

https://bit.ly/3CbtO91

Do you find it difficult to navigate all the different online learning platforms your child has? Is it difficult to understand how to access all the platforms we use at DEC?

At DEC we use online learning platforms for homework and revision. We know that parental support plays a crucial role in the success of children using online learning platforms. With this in mind, we've created a new information video on how to help your child to access and complete work on our online learning platforms. We cover platforms such as Mathswatch, Seneca and Carousel. Take a look!

Video: WATCH HERE

We will be having a special menu day in the canteen on Monday 4th July to celebrate US Independence Day.

Mains - Cheeseburgers, BBQ Pizza, Vegetarian Hot Dogs

Sides - Fries & Seasoned Sweetcorn 

Dessert - Chocolate Brownie Mess