We would like to say a huge thank you to all the amazing providers and employers who joined us at our ‘Meet Your Future Careers Fair’. Your time, energy, and commitment made the event an inspiring experience for everyone who attended.
Access Creative College, Birmingham City FC Foundation, Coventry University, Global ATS LTD – Aviation Training Services Andrew Wilkins, VGC Group, JLR, Reliable Contractors, Next Level Training, Reflections Training Academy, Serco, Skills for Success, Solihull Sixth Form College, Solihull College & University Centre, South & City College Birmingham, John Henry Newman Catholic College, Taylor Woodrow, University College Birmingham, West Midlands Police Stratford-upon-Avon College, PJD Training Academy Ltd, Royal Air Force (RAF) McGinley
Your presence gave our learners invaluable insights into future career pathways, industry expectations, and the opportunities waiting for them. Events like this are only possible because of your support, and we’re incredibly grateful.
Thank you for helping us empower our students. 🙂
We look forward to continuing to work together and building even stronger partnerships for future events.
hashtag#CareersFair hashtag#FutureTalent hashtag#EmployerEngagement hashtag#ThankYou hashtag#CareersEducation hashtag#Inspiration
Whether you’re looking for something adventurous, reflective or emotionally powerful, we hope these recommendations inspire your next great read.
Join us this festive season as we dive into magical worlds, timeless tales, and Christmas adventures that warm even the chilliest winter days!
Explore Hetty Feather’s Christmas by Jacqueline Wilson, where an unexpected gift lands Hetty in trouble at the Foundling Hospital—until a dear friend whisks her away for a Christmas she’ll never forget. Step through the wardrobe into The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, where four siblings discover the enchanting land of Narnia and the mighty Aslan. Journey north with Northern Lights by Philip Pullman, an extraordinary adventure through an alternate universe filled with daemons, secrets, and stunning imagination. And of course, revisit the classic transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge in Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, as three spirits teach a miser the true meaning of Christmas.
Celebrate December with stories that sparkle with mystery, magic, and the spirit of the season!
Whether you’re looking for something adventurous, reflective or emotionally powerful, we hope these recommendations inspire your next great read.
Check out the posters above and choose your favourite to start this month. Happy reading!
Our latest October and November reading picks are now available! These carefully chosen titles offer a mix of powerful stories, unforgettable characters and themes that connect strongly with the world around us.
October Reads
October’s books explore identity, bravery and what it means to stand up for who you are. From bold contemporary voices to magical adventure, these stories are full of heart and imagination. Featured titles include:
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The Black Flamingo – A vibrant coming-of-age story about identity and self-expression.
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Lies We Tell Ourselves – A moving and thought-provoking novel set during the civil rights movement.
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The Gilded Ones – A West African-inspired fantasy about discovering inner strength.
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Windrush Child – A powerful look at belonging, change and starting over.
November Reads
November’s selection focuses on historical fiction and the resilience of the human spirit. These books shine a light on courage, kindness and the impact of ordinary people in extraordinary times:
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The Book Thief – A modern classic about the power of words in Nazi Germany.
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Goodnight Mister Tom – A deeply moving wartime story about family, hope and healing.
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Shrapnel Boys – A gripping adventure set during the London Blitz.
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The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas – A haunting and emotional exploration of friendship and innocence.
Our Wellbeing Team publishes a termly Wellbeing Newsletter to keep families informed and engaged with the emotional, social, and mental health support available. Each edition highlights strategies, resources, and practical advice to help children develop resilience, manage stress, and maintain a positive outlook. The newsletter also celebrates wellbeing initiatives across the school, shares upcoming events, and provides guidance for parents and carers to support their child’s overall wellbeing at home. By keeping wellbeing at the forefront, we aim to nurture a safe, supportive, and thriving school community.
The next Wellbeing Newsletter will be available shortly.
Congratulations to the class of 2025 with their GCSE results. Pupils and parents were proud of their achievements at our college.
Many pupils and parents were extremely thankful of the extensive support they’ve received here at our college overcoming many challenges during their time here.
Our college again saw a jump in the percentage of pupils achieving 5 standard passes (grade 4s) including English and Maths.
Pupils were equally delighted with their results across our broad and balanced curriculum with a record percentage of grades at 7 to 9 in History and Design & Technology. Standard passes (Grade 4s) in RE and Combined Science were the highest this college has ever seen!
There were many stand out performances from pupils who achieved the highest grades, these include:
Maja S who achieved eight grade 9s and 3 grade 8s
Maria G who achieved five grade 9s and five grade 8s
Bella G who achieved five grade 9s and four grade 8s
A huge shout out to Kyra H, Kamile S, Kacper S, Jamuel J and Frida M who between them achieved twelve grade 9s, twenty one grade 8s and eight grade 7s.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our parents and carers for their continued support, and my deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff, whose tireless commitment ensures that pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education and all aspects of school life.
15 May 2025 — John Henry Newman Catholic College has been awarded the Young Carers in Schools Award, recognising its outstanding work supporting students who care for family members at home.
Young carers are children and young people under the age of 18 who provide care for a family member who is ill, disabled, experiencing a mental health condition or affected by addiction. Their responsibilities can significantly impact their education and wellbeing.
The award is part of the Young Carers in Schools programme, a joint initiative by The Children’s Society and Carers Trust. The programme equips schools across England with practical tools and guidance to help identify and support effectively.
Support at JHNCC
John Henry Newman Catholic College earned the award by showcasing a strong commitment to supporting young carers. This includes:
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Dedicated staff responsible for identifying and supporting young carers.
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Homework clubs and drop-in sessions designed to provide a safe and supportive space for these students.
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Awareness-raising activities for staff and peers.
The Importance of Support
Research highlights the challenges faced by young carers:
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40% say they don’t get enough support balancing their education and caring roles.
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On average, young carers achieve one grade lower in GCSEs compared to their peers.
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Many also experience lower levels of self-confidence and mental wellbeing.
National guidance encourages all school staff to be alert to the needs of young carers and to offer early help where possible. The Young Carers in Schools programme supports schools in doing just that.
In Their Words
Vicky Morgan, Head of Young Carers and Young Adult Carers at Carers Trust, said:
“We’re delighted to present the Young Carers in Schools award to John Henry Newman Catholic College. There are two young carers in every classroom, yet many struggle without support. The staff at JHNCC have shown true dedication in identifying and helping these students — their work is vital and this award is richly deserved.”
Lisa Witherden, Head of National Programmes at The Children’s Society, added:
“Nearly 80% of schools report no young carers in their census data — we know this isn’t accurate. Young carers are We’re thrilled JHNCC has achieved this award, demonstrating a real commitment to helping these children thrive.”
