Class 10a
Art – Fashion Workshops
March ’26
In the Spring term Art students at MNE were involved in a series of fashion workshops delivered by local designer Kirsty Doyle in conjunction with our Art department.
These were designed to provide an enterprising environment in which our students could experience working in a collaborative way. This enabled them to use their own ideas and creative thinking alongside the ideas and technical ability of a professional designer.
The workshop sessions provided insight into some of the opportunities and working methods in the industry. Students had the opportunity to learn new techniques by using the latest digital sewing machines, this was incorporated into their own project work, enhancing GCSE projects. Due to it’s success this will be an on-going Art/Enrichment activity at ACE.
“I am delighted to be working with the wonderfully talented students at ACE, each student is encouraged to be themselves and given space to be fully creative. Jules and the team have created a warm and welcoming space for students and visitors alike.”
(Quote: Kirsty Doyle CEO The KD club)
World Book Day 2026
March ’26
Reading a book and being able to enjoy a story is one of the most satisfying things you can experience. We try to encourage all students to pick a book up and read!
This year we celebrated World Book Day on 5th March with a range of different activities. Students chose a book and discussed and encouraged reading for pleasure. Individual staff, across all subjects, created a range of quizzes and tasks.
English – Poetry
February ’26
Year 10 have been working through their poems from the GCSE Anthology. They have been looking at context, what the poem is about and using a range of poetic techniques to help create a structured analysis. Keep up the good work!
Maths – Negative Numbers
January ’26
Year 10 are working on negative numbers, we used double sided counters to help visualise the question. This concept helps students understand the importance of zero pairs. We will progress onto simplifying the questions to simple addition and subtractions, which will allow for calculations with larger numbers, well done 10a!
Science – Culturing Micro-Organisms
December ’25
We have been learning how microorganisms (such as bacteria) can be grown in a controlled environment using agar plates. We prepared and inoculated the plates safely and measured the effect of different variables (for example, antibiotics or disinfectants) on bacterial growth.
Pupils had to use their knowledge of Aseptic Techniques to gather a range of micro organism samples.
Learning Objectives We Met
✔ We understood how microorganisms reproduce and what they need to grow.
✔ We applied aseptic techniques to prevent contamination.
✔ We explained why specific temperatures are used in school labs.
✔ We interpreted results to compare the effectiveness of antibiotics or disinfectants.
✔ We linked practical work to the concept of variables (independent, dependent, and control).
Maths – Balancing Equations
October ’25
Year 10s have been studying algebra. As we approached Halloween, they got to grips with the concept of balancing an equation by finding the weight of various spooky items such as bones and spiders (plastic not real!).
Art – Tote Bag Designs
June ’25
Year 10 students spent the summer working on a project based on ‘Street Art’ and understanding how it can be a powerful form of artistic expression that addresses important social issues. Students focused on their own individual interest of either a social or political theme, and applied their creative ideas to design and make a ‘Tote’ bag using textile dyes, pens and materials. Students were introduced to a number of Artists who have used ‘The power of art’ in their work throughout history.
GCSE English- Creative Writing
May ’25
This summer term we have been creating some descriptive stories. Students have been looking at using different language techniques and using some sophisticated vocabulary. We have looked at what a good story looks like and how we can create interesting characters. Well done!
GCSE Biology Required Practical – Osmosis
Who doesn’t love potatoes?
May ’25
In Science we have been learning about Osmosis. Students have been planning a practical investigation to test the effect of salt concentration on the mass of a potato. Students have now completed this along with the required exam style questions.
GCSE Biology – Bioenergetics
April ’25
In year 10 this half term we have been learning about Photosynthesis. Pupils have been learning the word and chemical equations for photosynthesis. We have been learning the difference between reactants and products and how plants use glucose for a range of activities.
Biology – Use of Glucose
10A Enrichment Programme Feb-March 2026
This half term the Year 10 classes have been visiting local parks and museums as part of the Enrichment Programme. Aiming to develop confidence and social skills in an out of class environment, participating pupils find these activities perfect for getting to know one another, explore the outdoors and learn about local attractions in a relaxed and informal manner.
