Pool’s Got Christmas Talent: Who Took the Top Spot?

Festive Fun and Talent Shine at Pool Academy

Students and staff at Pool Academy,  part of Athena Learning Trust, have embraced the festive season with a showcase of creativity, generosity, and fun. The Pool’s Got Christmas Talent show brought the community together earlier this month, with music, dance, and dazzling performances leaving the audience in awe.

Winners Crowned at Pool’s Got Christmas Talent

The much-anticipated event saw students and staff taking the stage for an evening of exceptional talent. Highlights included:

• 1st Place: MOTO, for their electrifying performance of “Shaker”.
• 2nd Place: Zina, Cody, and Tori, whose rendition of “In The Stars” captivated the audience.
• 3rd Place: The Pool Cheerleaders, bringing energy and spirit with their high-energy routine.

Adding to the fun, some students even joined the judging panel, showcasing their decision-making skills alongside their peers.

Festive Fridays and Christmas Cheer

Year 11 students have been busy enjoying ‘Festive Fridays’ under the guidance of Mrs Clark, creating Christmas tree decorations and crafts while listening to seasonal tunes. Meanwhile, staff embraced the holiday spirit with a lively Christmas cake bake-off and mince pie making session, filling the school with delicious aromas and hearty laughter.

The festive celebrations will culminate in a Christmas bake sale on the last day of term, with proceeds supporting students heading to Kenya for a community-based expedition. These students will run the stall, gaining hands-on experience in fundraising for their upcoming trip.

Supporting the Community

On the final Friday before Christmas, students are invited to wear Christmas jumpers in exchange for a donation to the local food bank. The school has already prepared food parcels for those in need and is hosting a community Christmas dinner, where senior students will serve members of a local community group.

Nick Ward, Principal at Pool Academy, shared his pride in the school’s collective efforts, saying:
“As we celebrate the joy and talent within our school community this Christmas, I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for their creativity, generosity, and festive spirit. The Pool’s Got Christmas Talent show was a wonderful reminder of what amazing performers we have here at Pool Academy, and it was heartwarming to see everyone come together for such a memorable evening. This season truly embodies the spirit of giving, and I couldn’t be more grateful for our community’s continued kindness and commitment to each other.”

A School That Values Aspiration and Belonging

At the heart of Pool Academy are the values of aspiration, belonging, and respect, reflected in their high expectations for student conduct and achievements. According to Ofsted inspectors, the school fosters a safe environment with strong pastoral support, ensuring pupils start their day positively. Lessons are delivered in calm, focused classrooms supported by a well-planned curriculum.