It's been a busy term for Media students at both Level 2 and Level 3. Students have worked hard to create a variety of professional quality products for realistic client briefs which provide plenty of scope for creative freedom.

As Mr Shearer steps down as Head of Sixth Form, he will be passing the baton to Mrs Nicholson, one of his former students. She will be supported by Mrs Lobb as Assistant Head of Sixth Form.

At King James we believe in providing a variety of opportunities to build independence, develop life skills and learn about other cultures. International travel is an exciting prospect for young people so we strive to organise as many overseas trips as possible. These are our current options.

In September, our Sixth Formers will be able to enjoy brand new facilities in a bespoke detached building including a new Common Room and Study Zone.

Cllr Joy Allen, the Mayor of Bishop Auckland has visited King James to present three of our students with some very special awards. The presentation was a special occasion for all involved as it was also the first official engagement as Mayor for Cllr Allen.

This year has seen an exciting display of creativity and determination by the Dramatic Arts Department. Students have produced dynamic and electrifying performances and have achieved both academically and personally.

A group of 40 students in Year 12 have attended a UCAS event at Teesside University as part of our Aim Higher programme. The event focused on carer planning.

Sixth Form Music students have produced their own 15-minute set for a festival setting. They rehearsed four songs, created mash-ups, composed their own song and developed lighting and set design for their performance, as well as developing their skills for live sound and PA systems.

A group of students and leaders from our RTS Theatre Group have recently returned from a week-long trip to Paris. The students had been specially selected to attend the trip as a reward for their outstanding work and commitment to the group.

To support their studies and reinforce their learning, A-Level Mathematics students in Years 12 and 13 have competed in the annual UKMT Senior Team Maths challenge. This is a prestigious competition which encourages teamwork whilst solving non-routine maths problems.