As the countdown to Christmas begins, schools across Quantum Multi-Academy Trust are embracing the season with creativity, joy, and community spirit. From sparkling decorations to heartwarming performances, the festive atmosphere is alive and well in every corner of our Trust. Children and staff have been busy transforming classrooms into winter wonderlands, crafting beautiful decorations, and preparing for much-loved seasonal traditions. Across our schools, pupils have enjoyed activities that bring learning and celebration together—whether through making wreaths, creating salt dough ornaments, or designing imaginative festive displays. The excitement doesn’t stop there. Families are looking forward to nativity performances, winter concerts, and special trips that promise magical memories. Our PTAs have also played a vital role, organising Christmas fairs and providing warm refreshments to make these events even more special. These celebrations are more than just fun—they reflect the values at the heart of our Trust: creativity, collaboration, and community. As we approach the end of term, we are proud to see our schools filled with laughter, music, and festive cheer.  

Road safety is an essential life skill, and we’re proud to help our pupils learn how to keep themselves safe when travelling to and from school. Recently, Reception and Year 5 pupils at Tiptree Heath Primary School, part of Quantum Multi-Academy Trust, took part in interactive sessions delivered by the Safer Essex Roads Partnership. These lessons are relevant for all primary schools within the Trust, and more tips and free resources are available at www.saferessexroads.org. Reception Pupils Reception pupils, alongside their parents, enjoyed a fun, practical activity using a large-scale road and pavement mat. They learned: Why it’s important to hold hands with a grown-up near roads How to stay safe around traffic using Stop, Look, Listen, Think! Year 5 Pupils Year 5 pupils explored road safety in more depth, building confidence for independent travel. Their session included: Practising the Green Cross Code Understanding the dangers of distractions like phones and headphones Identifying safer places to cross With guidance from trained road safety officers, pupils practiced real-life crossing skills—helping them stay safe and confident on their journeys. These sessions are a fantastic example of how practical learning undertaken at the schools within QMAT, can make a real difference to pupil safety. By equipping children with the knowledge and confidence to make safer choices, we’re helping them develop skills that will last a lifetime - both in and out of school.

Last week, the Chelmsford School Sport Partnership (CSSP) brought energy and excitement to the Chelmsford Sport and Athletics Centre with its annual Teddy ‘Lympics event. Primary school pupils from across Chelmsford – including several schools within Quantum Multi-Academy Trust – came together for an afternoon of fun, fitness, and friendly competition. Co-ordinated by School Games Organiser Chris Huartson, based at the hub school Great Baddow High School, the event aimed to inspire young children to develop fundamental movement skills while enjoying the spirit of sport. Pupils learned and practiced activities such as jumping, skipping, and running, before competing in a series of athletic challenges. The day also featured a vibrant parade, showcasing the enthusiasm and teamwork of every participating school. The atmosphere was electric, filled with determination, laughter, and encouragement. Every child demonstrated resilience and sportsmanship, making the Teddy ‘Lympics a true celebration of physical activity and community. CSSP works with over 60 schools across Chelmsford to promote and develop physical education and sport for all young people. Through competitions, festivals, teacher training, and leadership opportunities, CSSP ensures that students in primary, secondary, and college settings have access to high-quality sporting experiences. All schools within the partnership follow the School Games framework, which provides a pathway from intra-school competitions to national-level events. This structure helps young people build confidence, leadership skills, and a lifelong love of physical activity. Quantum Multi-Academy Trust is proud to see its schools actively involved in initiatives like Teddy ‘Lympics, which not only promote health and wellbeing but also strengthen community ties through sport.

If your child is due to start school in September 2026, the application window is now open. Applications opened: 10th November 2025 Deadline: 15th January 2026 Please remember, it’s really important to get your application in by 15 January. Applications received after this date will be classed as late and processed only after all on-time applications. Applying late means you’re less likely to get a place at one of your preferred schools, so don’t miss out! How to Apply You’ll need to apply directly to Essex County Council using their online admissions page:https://www.essex.gov.uk/apply-for-a-primary-school-place Come and See Us! Many of our Quantum Multi-Academy Trust (QMAT) primary schools offer the chance for parents and children to visit during the school day. These visits often include a friendly talk and a guided tour so you can see what makes our schools special. Children are very welcome to join you – it’s a great way to help them feel excited about starting school! For details about school tours, please contact the individual school concerned to see whether a school tour is available. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR SCHOOLS HERE

Pupils from Maylandsea Primary School — Kingfisher Class and Fox Class (Years 5 and 6) — attended the village Remembrance Service at the Memorial Gardens this week, joining the local community in honouring those who have served and sacrificed. The children represented the school with great respect and maturity throughout the ceremony. They sang the heartfelt song “We Will Remember Them” and read the poignant poem “They Shall Grow Not Old,” offering a moving tribute to the fallen. As part of the service, pupils also placed hand-made poppies into the ground — a beautiful and thoughtful gesture of remembrance. Parents and staff attended in support, proud of how brilliantly the children represented the school and demonstrated the true spirit of respect and reflection. Across Quantum Multi-Academy Trust, all schools will have marked Armistice Day in their own meaningful ways, from classroom reflections and creative displays to community events. These acts of remembrance are an important tradition for pupils, helping them understand the significance of honouring those who served and sacrificed. By taking part each year, children learn about respect, gratitude, and the value of peace — lessons that remain vital for future generations. This commitment to remembrance reflects the Trust’s core values of Learning, Respect, Inclusion, Family Values, and British Values, ensuring that pupils not only achieve high academic standards but also experience a deeply life-enriching education that fosters empathy, collaboration, and a sense of shared responsibility.  

Last summer term, Year 5 pupils at Meadgate Primary School embarked on an exciting English unit focused on persuasive writing. As part of the project, pupils were encouraged to write letters advocating for a cause they felt passionate about. Paddy, one of their imaginative and articulate pupils, chose to write to none other than His Majesty the King! In his letter, Paddy made a compelling case for extending weekends to three days, arguing that two simply aren’t enough for rest, play, and family time. Using emotive language, powerful vocabulary, and persuasive techniques learned in class, Paddy crafted a heartfelt appeal that captured the spirit of the assignment—and, as it turns out, the attention of Buckingham Palace. To the schools delight, Paddy received a formal response from the Palace, thanking him for his thoughtful letter. While we haven’t yet seen a royal decree for longer weekends, the acknowledgement itself was a proud moment for Paddy and the entire school community. This wonderful exchange highlights the real-world impact of developing strong writing skills in primary education. Letter writing not only enhances literacy and communication, but also teaches children how to express their opinions respectfully and effectively. Persuasive writing, in particular, empowers pupils to think critically, structure arguments, and use language to influence change. We’re incredibly proud of Paddy’s initiative and creativity, and we hope his story inspires other students to pick up their pens and make their voices heard. Who knows? Perhaps the next big idea from our classrooms will shape the future!

Meadgate Primary School were very impressed with the number of pumpkins that arrived into school for their annual pumpkin carving competition.  Once again, the creativity and imagination that went into some of the carvings was impressive, making it very tricky for the Head of School to judge.  This regular event at one of our trust primary schools, is just one example of how fun and simple activities, such as carving a pumpkin, is a great way to work on skills such as fine motor, visual motor, coordination, along with imagination and creativity - and of course our pupils just love taking part every year! "Well done to everyone who took part, we hope you had a great time creating your entries and we’re sure they all looked fabulous on doorsteps over half term."   

The start of the new term is a busy one for the secondary school within our trust, as Great Baddow High School invites pupils and their parents from primary schools from the local area into their school for their annual Open Evening. Prospective parents and students have the opportunity to see the school in action and experience first-hand the outstanding educational facilities they have at GBHS. "The evening was a resounding success with everyone impressed by the offer at Great Baddow High School. I can honestly say the students at Great Baddow High School represented the school so positively, and each and every one of them was outstanding on the night and portrayed our community in the best possible light." Paul Farmer: CEO & Headteacher This week, it was the Sixth Form that had the opportunity to shine at their Open Evening, with Year 11 students touring the school to find out about the range of courses on offer, with current Sixth form students on hand to talk to them about life after GCSEs. The open evening events are an important part of our school offer, enabling prospective students and their parents to visit the school, meet the Headteacher and departmental staff and get a feel for it's culture and values before making an application. These events are crucial for parents and children to gather information, ask questions, and determine if a school is the right fit for their needs. We are extremely proud of the staff at all our schools, and it is never more evident than when we are opening our doors  to welcome visitors to these events, that our staff are just as proud to be working here too. Application Deadlines If your child is in Year 6 of a primary or junior school during the 2025/26 academic year, you will need to apply for their secondary school place for September 2026 via Essex County Council  Admissions | Essex County Council.  The closing date for applications for Year 7 in September 2026 is 31st October 2025. The application form to apply for a place at Great Baddow High School Sixth Form in September 2026 is now open and will close on Friday 12th December. APPLY FOR GBHS SIXTH FORM HERE.  

This month saw the official opening of a new football facility at Great Baddow High School. Over the past 5 months they have seen the development of the new facility, which includes an exceptional 3G football pitch and first-class changing rooms. Students from Years 7-11 were invited to take part in specifically designed football sessions led by the coaches from the West Ham Football Club Foundation. Students were actively involved in a range of small-sided possession games, passing drills and shooting activities, challenging them as football players. It was fantastic to see the coaches working with  students, providing them with an additional opportunity to improve their skills and receive feedback. The coaches complimented the quality and commitment of all of the students involved. Staff spoke with students at the end of the session and Mr Farmer officially declared the facility as open. The Sports Department at Great Baddow High School are delighted to be able to now fully utilise the pitch, with PE lesson taking place on there daily and also the extra-curricular clubs and fixtures. The facility will also be used by the local community, providing an additional space for local clubs and groups to hire, as well as the opportunity for the West Ham Football Club Foundation to use the facility for their Holiday Hammers Football Camps for young footballers aged 5 to 14. West Ham United Foundation Holiday Camps.

Maylandsea Primary School launched a brand-new Scrap Store Play Pod this week, designed to transform playtimes by offering children a unique opportunity to engage in creative, imaginative, and active play. The Play Pod, developed in partnership with Suffolk at Play, is filled with a wide variety of recycled and repurposed materials – from fabric rolls, cardboard tubes, and crates to ropes, tyres, and dressing-up items. These open-ended resources encourage children to invent games, collaborate, problem-solve, and use their imagination in new and exciting ways. "This is about giving children the freedom to create their own play, The Play Pod will help transform lunchtimes – children will work together, be active, and have fun in a way that builds resilience, creativity, and teamwork."  Clare James Headteacher, Maylandsea Primary School Research shows that access to open-ended play improves children’s wellbeing, social skills, and problem-solving abilities. By using recycled materials, the Play Pod also helps promote sustainability, showing children the value of re-use and environmental responsibility. The Maylandsea Primary School Scrap Store Play Pod officially opened on Monday 29th September and is already being met with excitement and enthusiasm from pupils, parents, and staff alike.  

Over the past two weeks we have welcomed our new students into our schools. We have been impressed with how well the children are settling into school life. For our new Reception pupils in our seven primary schools, it has been great to see the children playing together, making new friends and building positive relationships with the adults in the classes. This can only be achieved thanks to the brilliant children, their families and our school staff that work tirelessly every year to ensure a smooth start to our reception children’s education. Year 7 students at GBHS, were welcomed by the Year 11 Prefects, with an induction day organised to help them settle in and meet their tutors on the first day of term. The sports department offered a number of activities before their first day to enable them to meet their new classmates and many attended the Summer Camp during the holidays. It is fantastic to see that the Year 7 students at GBHS are now starting to find their way around their new secondary school and parents have been invited to their first Curriculum Information Evening, which provides important information on the expectations and ambitions in Year 7 and how they can work with the school to support their child's progress and success.      

Our seven primary schools achieved strong academic outcomes once again in the summer of 2025. The pupils leaving our primary schools, to start their secondary school adventures, left with the vast majority achieving the expected standard in reading, writing and mathematics, higher than the national averages once again. A significant number of our pupils achieved the higher standard, well above the national averages. "Good luck to you all as you start secondary school." Joseph Figg: Deputy CEO of Quantum Multi-Academy Trust

Great Baddow High School celebrates another year of outstanding GCSE results, and record-breaking A Level and Vocational results. GCSE results in 2025 reflected the hard work, dedication, and resilience of students and staff. Their achievements marked a significant milestone in their academic journeys, and provided a strong foundation for future success. They are also proud to announce their best-ever set of A Level and vocational results, with a record 59% of grades at A*-B and 100% A-E*, and many of their vocational students achieving top grades. These results open the door to a wide range of exciting opportunities for their students. The GB Medic Programme continues to support students aiming for careers in medicine and dentistry, with several students securing places on these highly competitive courses. Reflecting the different further education pathways available to students, a number of students successfully gained places on competitive apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships such as BP and Bellway Homes.  Special mention must go to their Head Boy and Head Girl for their outstanding grades: · Daniel H achieved A*, A, A, B and will study Physics with Astrophysics at York University. · Ellen S achieved A, A, A, B and will study History and Politics at the University of East Anglia. “I would like to congratulate all of our students and staff on an exceptional set of results. We are delighted that these outcomes provide our students with a strong platform for future success.” Mr P Farmer, Headteacher at Great Baddow High School Photos from the Exam Results days can be found on the GBHS School Gallery.

We are pleased to announce the launch of the new Quantum Multi-Academy Trust website, designed and developed by school website design agency Cleverbox.  QMAT aims to provide the highest standards of education by: Providing all pupils within the trust with an education that enables them to fulfil their potential while developing social and interaction skills that prepare them for adulthood. Creating a culture within which all members of the schools' communities demonstrate outstanding practice and learning. Identifying potential leaders and providing the opportunities to develop this potential through collaborative practice. Ensuring that all members of staff are given a structured and rigorous programme of development that ensures they become creative and skilled practitioners, able to deliver excellence.