Students have recently enjoyed a Scuba Diving taster session at Freeman's Quay, Durham in preparation for their forthcoming expedition to the Philippine Islands in South East Asia.

It's a sad fact that thousands of young drivers are involved in tragic car accidents every year in the UK and many of these accidents are caused by dangerous driving. That's why we do everything we can to raise awareness and educate our students long before they get their provisional license.

Our Art department continues to go from strength to strength due to its strong teamwork and inspirational ethos. The department continues to develop as a cutting edge team at the forefront of Art and Design education and we are very proud to report that, last term, it has been judged as "Outstanding' by the LEA Inspector (Local Education Authority).

Year 11 students have visited the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh to interview the Cabinet Secretary for Justice, Mr Kenny MacAskill MSP. The students are all members of the editorial team who write and design Exclaimer magazine, a free online national publication launched as a platform for aspiring journalists and graphic designers to showcase their talents.

Following confirmation that Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd will build King James I Academy as part of the Priority Schools Building Programme (PSBP) we have met with representatives of the company, 'Space Group', who will be the designers of our new school and the Education Funding Agency (EFA).

A group of students have recently travelled to the beautiful city of Liverpool to explore two of the universities. All students are currently studying Drama and Performing Arts subjects at King James and this was an opportunity for them to see what progression routes are available when they leave Sixth Form.

Our Sixth Form is growing rapidly and so is our provision. This September will see improved study and social facilities and an even greater choice of subjects.

Our English department is successful, creative and constantly exploring new ways to make sure that our students excel. Since joining us in 2011, Miss Larkin has thoroughly embraced this ethos; she has made a huge contribution to the development of the department, and a big impression on her students too. Last term, she was appointed as Assistant Director of Learning for English.

King Gym, a brand new fitness facility that will not only benefit King James students, but members of our local community too has officially opened.

Health and Social Care students recently joined in celebrations as they ushered in the Year of the Snake as part of their Equality and Diversity studies at Level 2 and Level 3. It was an ideal opportunity to visit Newcastle upon Tyne, the City of Culture, to celebrate the Chinese New Year.