Phoenix St Peter Academy Receives Visual Arts School Award at Black History Month Celebration

Phoenix St Peter Academy in Lowestoft has been awarded the Visual Arts School Award at Lowestoft Town Council's Black History Month celebration, held at The Victoria Hotel.

The school’s artwork, inspired by Alma Thomas, a renowned artist known for her “powerful form of brilliantly coloured and richly patterned abstract art,” caught the attention of the event judges.

Amy Gloss, head of art at Phoenix St Peter Academy, said: “We chose Alma Thomas as our inspiration for our artwork this year and the children were incredibly enthusiastic about her style of art.” The students’ artwork, described as a “vibrant expression” of Alma Thomas's style, created a “beautiful river of Black History art” when displayed together.

The evening, which was opened by the Mayor of Lowestoft, Nasima Begum, included a welcome video from former boxer Antony Ogogo. Poetry was performed by Ivya Scott of the Suffolk Windrush Celebration Committee, accompanied by Gambian music from Julla. Awards were presented by Ivy Scott, poet, author, and ambassador of The Hold. The evening closed with the poem A Windrush Child by Windrush elder John Agard.

Terri Freeman, deputy headteacher at the school, said: “This acknowledgment extends beyond artistic prowess; it is a testament to the values that define our school and those that resonate throughout our academy trust. We are committed to ensuring an environment where every child can truly realise the greatness within themselves and others.”

“We are particularly proud of Ben and Willow who have chosen to attend the awards evening, instead of the school’s Children in Need Disco this evening, and extend our heartfelt thanks to the children who poured their hearts into this artwork, the dedicated staff who guided them, and everyone who believes in the transformative power of inclusion,” she added.

Phoenix St Peter Academy's recognition highlights the school's ongoing commitment to fostering creativity, celebrating cultural diversity, and empowering children to express themselves through art.

REAch2 Launches Pioneering Carbon Literacy Course for Primary School Leaders

November is ‘Cut Your Carbon’ Month, and on November 14, we’re marking Carbon Literacy Action Day in a significant way!

In partnership with Cambridge University Press & Assessment and the climate education charity Climate Adapted Pathways for Education (CAPE), REAch2 Academy Trust is thrilled to announce the launch of a new Carbon Literacy course tailored specifically for primary school leaders.

This groundbreaking course aims to raise climate awareness, enhance understanding of carbon emissions, and equip school leaders with actionable strategies to reduce their schools’ carbon footprint. The Carbon Literacy course—created as part of a unique collaboration with Cambridge University Press & Assessment and CAPE—is designed to address the specific needs of primary schools and empower educators to take decisive climate action.

A photo of a boy smiling at the camera for Carbon literacy day

It will provide essential training on climate science, carbon reduction practices, and case studies on sustainable school initiatives. It will also align with REAch2’s ongoing sustainability initiatives, like the commitment to more remote meetings to lower travel emissions.

Christine Ozden, Global Director for Climate Education at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, emphasized the impact of these kinds of partnerships, noting, "Building knowledge and capacity to tackle climate change is crucial, and partnerships play a central role in achieving this. We’re proud of this initiative with REAch2 Academy Trust and CAPE, which will empower schools with the knowledge and tools to become champions of environmental sustainability and confidently discuss climate change with their students."

In celebration of Carbon Literacy Action Day on November 14, REAch2 held its Headteacher strategy meeting remotely, calculating the reduction in CO2 emissions and financial savings achieved through this choice. "Every action counts," remarked REAch2’s Head of Sustainability, Elaine Brook, “and it’s a great way to demonstrate the real impact of carbon-conscious decisions.”

Picture of a teacher helping a child in the playground

With November as 'Cut Your Carbon' month, we are encouraging our school communities to reflect on ways they can contribute to a more sustainable future—whether through changes at school, home, or even during the commute.

This Carbon Literacy course is an important part of our commitment to fostering a climate-aware educational environment all year round, with the goal of training all REAch2 staff over the next three academic years.

By equipping primary educators with the knowledge and tools they need to discuss climate change effectively and implement sustainable practices, we hope to inspire lasting change in our schools and communities.