Last Thursday, we set off for a day of outdoor learning. Our journey started with an enjoyable walk down to Leigh-on-Sea train station where we boarded the train to Shoeburyness. The children enjoyed the views of the River Thames from the window and before we knew it, we had arrived. We then began our walk from the station to Friars Primary School - with the temperatures rising we were glad to arrive in their shaded nature garden. We then set off on a scavenger hunt to explor

On Thursday 9th July, 103 Year 3 children arrived at school laden with suitcases and brimming with excitement for their two-day residential trip to Danbury. The day began with some fun classroom activities before the coaches arrived and were quickly loaded for the short 30-minute journey. Upon arrival, the children enjoyed a picnic lunch on the field before organising their tents and preparing for the first of their exciting activities. The afternoon was packed with adventure

Southend Week proved to be a tremendous success, with the children showing resilience, positivity and a wonderful sense of adventure throughout—especially in the heat. Each day offered something new, and the pupils embraced every experience with enthusiasm. Our journey to the end of the pier on the first day was a highlight, with the promise of an ice cream spurring everyone on. Reaching the end felt like a real achievement, and the children rewarded themselves with a well‑ea

On Monday morning 116 extremely excited children (our record number to date) were waved off from school on their three coaches as they left for their week’s residential to Ilam Hall Youth Hostel in the Derbyshire Peak District. Despite busy traffic on the motorways and a slightly longer than usual journey,the children all arrived in high spirits. After the long coach journey, the children needed to burn off their energy – and there could be no better way than to climb eith

Thirty-four children proudly represented our school at the Essex County Finals Swimming Gala after qualifying by winning the Southend Borough Gala. Every swimmer demonstrated outstanding commitment, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the competition, giving 100% effort in every race. All of their hard work and dedication during training definitely paid off. We were crowned Essex County Champions in the Year 5/6 competition and achieved an impressive second place in t

Over the past few weeks, four Year 5 candidates have been busy on the campaign trail, working hard to secure votes for Principal for the Day. Eddie, Grace, Josh and Havisha all impressed with their applications and went on to create posters and videos, speak at lunchtime meetings, and even deliver speeches to the whole school. With a range of exciting campaign promises – including ideas for lunchtimes, non-uniform days and fun lesson activities – the children of West Leigh ha

West Leigh Junior School was transformed into a vibrant hub of imagination and creativity during a very special whole-school Art Day, inspired directly by feedback from the School Council. Following thoughtful discussions, children shared their desire for greater freedom of choice in their artistic experiences - and we were delighted to bring this vision to life. The entire day was devoted to art, offering children a unique opportunity to explore their creativity in new and e

At lunchtime today, children had the exciting opportunity to meet the candidates standing for Principal for the Day and put forward their questions. The event was a tremendous success, with large numbers of children attending and eagerly putting the candidates to the test! The candidates rose to the challenge brilliantly, responding thoughtfully and confidently to a wide range of questions. It was wonderful to see such enthusiasm, curiosity and respectful debate from everyone

A total of 36 children proudly represented our school at the recent swimming gala. Every single swimmer demonstrated outstanding commitment, determination and sportsmanship throughout the event, giving 100% effort in each of their races. The children competed with great enthusiasm and confidence, showcasing the skills they have developed through their hard work and dedication. Their excellent performances were reflected in the impressive results, with our swimmers bringing ho

Children from across Portico Academy Trust participated in our annual sports festival on Tuesday. There was a mixture of nerves and excitement ahead of the day. The nerves were soon blown away as the children competed in various sporting activities such as sitting volleyball, archery, kurling and benchball. Many of the children received certificates for displaying the School Games values (determination, passion, teamwork, honesty, respect and self-belief). Staff from all five