Student Achievements
Abigail soldering metal pipe work in the construction workshop.
Sudying at Westminister Kingsway on a Painting and Decorating Level 2 Diploma September 23.
Construction student measuring up to make the brickwork nice and sturdy!
Studying at South Thames College studying Multi-tasking and construction Level 2 Diploma. September 23
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What have you enjoyed the most whilst studying your subjects?
Learning new topics in citizenship has made me aware of the social and economic issues that are happening currently in this country. I have enjoyed learning about democracy and how young people can help to support democracy in the UK. It made me feel significant and capable of making change.
Have you had any challenges? And how did you overcome them?
I had challenges with fatigue and stress which contributed to having poor punctuality. I overcame this by having regular sessions with the Life Coach. With his support, I was able to find techniques to prevent me being less tired and stressed. The Life Coach and teachers supported me so I was able to stay positive and on track with my work.
What do you like about Harris Aspire?
Harris Aspire has a comfortable environment and pushed me to be independent. The staff are open and understanding.
How have you managed to keep on track with Covid? Has it been easy or challenging?
Covid has been quite challenging in terms of me being able to focus on schoolwork. I have tried to manage by having an open outlook towards my future because I think the ‘sky’s the limit’ with the opportunities available to be successful.
Where would you like to see yourself at the end of your studies?
I would like to go to college and take a Level 3 course studying Football Journalism with an apprenticeship. I am very grateful to the Career’s Lead for organising a TFL journalist to speak to me and other students.
What would you say to a new student coming to Harris Aspire?
Being a student at Aspire has made me confident to move into the next phase of my life. Aspire will fully support and go out of their way to help each individual student.
Shah is studying a Diploma in Creative Media Sports Journalism and Marketing at Lewisham College. September 22
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We discovered one of our students had a natural gift writing powerful poetry. With a little guidance and a few tight deadlines, we submitted her work to Open Door Magazine, a monthly e-magazine that allows ‘artists to explore the paths of their lives and the lives of others in pain, love, honour and empathy.’ The theme was Ukraine – Footsteps.
Mahayla’s piece is a wonderful read that vividly captures life in the Ukraine from her perspective.
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AJ talks about her time at Harris Aspire and her passion of art.
Why did you apply to Aspire?
I came to aspire because I was having problems at my other school and I was recommended to come here.
What have you enjoyed the most whilst studying your course?
I have enjoyed art. My teacher has been very encouraging and I have produced work that I am very proud of. I managed to produce a lot during my interventions sessions. Art lessons has given me a purpose to attend and complete it to the best of my ability.
Have you had any challenges and how did you overcome them?
Really difficult to complete my GCSEs as I have not been in school all the time, but I have managed to push myself to produce the work I have.
How would you encourage a student thinking of applying here? What would you say?
I would say that you can achieve a lot here if you put the time in.
Where would you like to see yourself by the end of the course?
I would like to be a tattoo artist. I have contacts in the industry so I can start researching!
AJ is currently at Bromley college studying mechanics October 21
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Benito Year 11 talks about his short stay at Harris Aspire.
Why did you apply to Aspire?
I came to Aspire because I was having problems at my other school and I was recommended to come here.
What have you enjoyed the most whilst studying your course?
I have enjoyed Citizenship as the topic relates to real life situations and I have used what I have learnt in my own life recently.
Have you had any challenges and how did you overcome them?
Travelling to get to Aspire has been a challenge as it’s a long distance from my house, but I pushed myself to come here with the support of my mum and the academy.
How would you encourage a student thinking of applying here? What would you say?
There are less students here, so not so overwhelming and I found myself comfortable within the Harris Aspire environment. Teachers are very caring and understanding.
Where would you like to see yourself by the end of the course?
I would like to apply to college and study business and have a part-time job.
A letter Benito wrote as part of a Citizenship assignment, writing to the local MP.
Benito has moved on to New City College to study L2 Business October 21
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2020: The Year History Can't Forget
Harris Federation is currently compiling an anthology of creative writing from students across the federation entitled ‘2020: The Year History Can’t Forget’.
Here's one of our entries from Sahil and few questions put to him about studying at Harris Academy Aspire. Sahil is currently studying GCSE English, Maths, Combined Science, Citizenship, Certificate in Enterprise and Marketing and Certificate in Creative Media.
True reality hurts.
It was the 30th of January 2020 when I heard in the news, that there was going to be a global pandemic. This was because a virus was developing, and this ended up spreading everywhere at a fast speed killing and infecting. More than 2 million people have died around the world.
On the 16th of March 2020 the House of Commons declared that the UK should go in lockdown. After a few weeks, school, businesses and restaurants were closed. I was happy personally because I had more free time to do what I enjoy most - skateboarding.
I did not pay attention to the reason why school and businesses were closed; but later, I started to understand what was actually going on… I wasn’t scared, but worried for elderly people including my family. I started to follow the lockdown rules for example ‘keep 2 feet apart’ or ‘wear a mask so you don’t get infected’. There was only one rule that I did not follow, it was staying at home, I couldn’t stop skateboarding, so I just kept on going and going even though I now it was dangerous outside.
I took the risk and went on, now every time I hear the sirens of ambulances I get this negative feeling because people are dying all around, the only way I can carry on with this scary and horrifying reality is to listen to music and skate, but even then it still hurts inside.
COVID-19 has left a scar in my heart and those around me.
Why did you apply to Harris Aspire?
I came to Harris Aspire to improve my skills as a student and help better myself.
What have you enjoyed the most whilst studying your subjects?
I enjoy when the teachers help me during my lessons even though I do not always understand the work. The teachers are supportive in helping me to understand the work.
Have you had any challenges and how did you overcome them?
Punctuality was my biggest problem but now I am more responsible and I get to school on time.
How would you encourage a student thinking of applying here? What would you say?
If you want to have a good relationship with teachers and feel supported come to Harris Aspire.
How have you managed to keep on track with work through lockdown? Has it been easy or challenging?
It’s been challenging not seeing familiar faces and not having a routine, but since school has been back open, I’ve promised myself that I will give 100% in lessons.
Where would you like to see yourself by the end of the course?
I want to have a stable life and move forward step by step.
WELL DONE SAHIL!!!
Sahil is now at Carshalton College studying L1 Vehicle engineering October 21
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It is with great pleasure to announce that Timothy was awarded the Federation Art prize for KS3 at Harris Sixth Form Westminster by Matthew Osborne (Head of Sixth Form). It was a fantastic achievement that we are all very proud of. The piece of work was a surrealist inspired paper and card sculpture of a fox. This was developed over a three month period and was crafted with patience and skill.
The work will be exhibited in the Autumn term 2019 at The Harris Federation Conference which is attended by over 4,000 members of Harris Staff.
Work by Adeseun Oloja, who also had his work nominated for the Art Federation Art show will be displayed alongside Tim’s work, congratulations to both students.
WELL DONE TIMOTHY!!!
