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  • Lighting Up Our Community: Celebrating Diwali Together

    Published 17/10/25

    Lighting Up Our Community: Celebrating Diwali Together

    At PolyMAT, we understand how important it is to support and celebrate the rich cultural traditions of our diverse community. Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a time of joy, reflection and togetherness. Diwali is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in India and across South Asian communities around the world.

    How Diwali Is Celebrated:

    • Lighting diyas (oil lamps) and candles
    • Decorating homes with rangoli (colourful patterns made with powders or flowers)
    • Sharing sweets and festive meals
    • Wearing new clothes
    • Visiting temples and offering prayers
    • Fireworks and community gatherings
    • Exchanging gifts and spending time with loved ones

    To everyone in our school community celebrating Diwali, we wish you a wonderful time filled with light, love and laughter.

    Looking to join in the celebrations? Here are some free and local Diwali events happening in London:

    Diwali at Greenwich Peninsula

    • Peninsula Square, SE10
    • Saturday 18 October, 2pm–7pm
    • Garba dancing, Dhol drummers, Bollywood DJ sets, lantern-making workshops and a glowing evening procession.
    • Free entry – just turn up!

    Illuminate: Diwali at the National Maritime Museum

    • Saturday 25 October | 10am–5pm
    • National Maritime Museum, Romney Road, London SE10 9NF
    • Free Entry

    Diwali at Marble Hill House, Twickenham

    • Marble Hill House, TW1 2NL
    • Saturday 18 October, 2pm–7pm
    • Illuminations, Dhol drumming, Bhangra and Bollywood dance workshops, and a puppet parade.
    • Free entry

    Let’s celebrate the light within us and around us.
    Happy Diwali from all of us at PolyMAT.

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  • FREE accessible online grief support to children & young people

    Published 17/10/25

    Winston's Wish 

    We understand how important it is to support our young people who are facing bereavement. That is why we are highlighting the incredible work of Winston’s Wish.

    Winston’s Wish is a charity that offers free, accessible online grief support to children and young people (aged 25 or under) across the UK who are bereaved or facing the death of someone important.

    Support is available Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm via phone, live chat, email, text or WhatsApp.

    No appointments or waiting lists.

    Free online tools, guides, and tailored resources for those who need extra support.

    Resources also available for parents, carers, teachers and professionals supporting bereaved young people.

    Winston’s Wish is here to give hope and help to those navigating grief.
    winstonswish.org

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  • Wear it Pink - Friday 7th November 2025

    Published 17/10/25

    Dear Parents/Carers,

    Breast Cancer Now - Wear it Pink is a charity event that Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys have supported over the years, it is a charity close to our hearts as we have had several colleagues who have benefitted directly from their support.

    This year we will be holding our special day on Friday 7th November 2025, staff and students can wear something pink to school with a suggested donation £1. Students should hand in their £1 donation to Ms Hawgood in the Library when they enter school. Students will still need to wear their normal school uniform (blazer, trousers, school shoes etc) but are able to wear an item such as:

    • Pink socks
    • Pink tie
    • Pink shirt
    • Pink ribbon
    • Pink scarf
    • Pink accessories

    We will be sharing information with students throughout the week so that they understand how important it is for us to take part and support this cause.

    In addition to the ‘Wear it pink’ event we are also holding our very own ‘Staff Poly Bake Off’, staff will be asked to submit their entry of a homemade dessert to Learning Support before school. These bakes will be judged before break by three judges with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places up for grabs. We will then be holding a bake sale of these delicious desserts at breaktime for students and staff to purchase. Students will need to bring cash with them if they want to purchase any items from the bake sale.

    We will be sharing our activities and photos on the school website and social media platforms. We hope that you will support us in our promotion of such an important charity.

    Please speak to Mrs Hawgood for more information. 

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  • Transport Options to Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form

    Published 13/10/25

    Transport Options to Woolwich Polytechnic Secondary Schools

    Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys/Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form, located in Thamesmead, benefit from great public transport links, making them easily accessible for students across South East London.

    Bus Routes Serving Both Schools

    Students can travel conveniently using several Transport for London (TfL) bus routes:

    • 244 - Connects Thamesmead with Woolwich and Abbey Wood
    • 301 - Runs between Bexleyheath and Woolwich via Abbey Wood
    • 472 - Links North Greenwich to Thamesmead via Charlton and Woolwich
    • 229 - Runs between Thamesmead and Sidcup via Bexleyheath
    • B11 - Runs between Thamesmead and Bexleyheath via Abbey Wood.
    • 401 - Runs between Thamesmead and Bexleyheath via Belvedere
    • 177 - Connects South East London to Thamesmead via Greenwich and Woolwich.
    • SL3 - Offers fast connections between Thamesmead, Abbey Wood, Bexleyheath, Sidcup, Chislehurst, and Bromley North
    • 672 - A dedicated school service operating during peak times

    Rail & Elizabeth Line Access

    Nearby Woolwich and Abbey Wood stations offer Elizabeth Line and South-eastern services. From these stations, students can take a short bus ride to either school using the 244, 301, 229, or SL3.

    Both schools are located within walking distance of key bus stops, making them accessible for students from a wide range of local communities.

    Travel Times to Woolwich Polytechnic Secondary Schools

    Estimated Bus Travel Times

    • Thamesmead: Most routes begin or pass through Thamesmead - approx. 5-10 minutes walk or bus ride depending on location
    • Abbey Wood: Direct via 301, 244, or SL3 - approx. 10-15 minutes
    • Woolwich: Direct via 244 or 472 - approx. 15-20 minutes
    • Plumstead: Via Woolwich, then 244 or 472 - approx. 20-25 minutes
    • Charlton: Direct via 472 - approx. 25-30 minutes
    • Bexley: Via 301, 229, or SL3 - approx. 30-35 minutes

    These travel times make both schools highly accessible for students across the borough, supporting punctuality and ease of commute.

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  • Year 12 & 13 Product Design Trip to IKEA

    Published 29/09/25

    As part of their enrichment in product design and art, Year 12 and 13 students recently visited IKEA Greenwich for a tailored educational experience exploring the brand’s design ethos and workplace culture.

    The trip offered students a unique opportunity to engage with IKEA’s sustainable design principles, democratic design philosophy, and customer-centric innovation. Through guided tours and interactive sessions, students gained valuable insights into how IKEA balances functionality, affordability, and aesthetics – providing real-world inspiration for their coursework. The visit also included conversations with staff about career pathways and the collaborative, inclusive environment that defines working at IKEA. It was a rewarding experience that brought design theory to life and sparked fresh ideas for future projects.

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  • Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form at Futures Fair 2025 at Woolwich Works

    Published 18/09/25

    Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form were thrilled to take part in the Futures Fair at Woolwich Works on Tuesday 16th September 2025. This fantastic event is designed to support students as they explore the wide range of pathways available after Year 11 - from local schools and colleges to universities and apprenticeship providers across the Greenwich Borough.

    With GCSEs on the horizon, now is the ideal time for students to begin planning their next steps.

    It was a pleasure to meet so many enthusiastic young people who are thinking about joining our vibrant Sixth Form community. A big thank you to everyone who signed up for our Sixth Form Open Evening Waiting List. If you didn’t get a chance to visit our stand, don’t worry - you can still register your interest here:

    Sixth Form Open Evening Waiting List

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  • Watch Our Brand New A Level Results Day 2025 Video!

    Published 01/09/25

    Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form is celebrating another phenomenal year, and we are so excited to share the celebration with you!

    Over 80% of grades A-C*
    98.5% pass rate
    Offers from several Russell Group universities
    Apprenticeships at OFCOM and top firms

    Our Class of 2025 has truly raised the bar. This is a day of pride, joy, and well-earned celebration and it’s all captured in our latest video.

    Whether you're a future student, proud parent/carer, or part of our amazing community, this video is for YOU. Watch now and see for yourself what makes Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form so special.

    Subscribe for more student success stories, behind-the-scenes life and updates across our PolyMAT Schools!
     

     

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  • Return to School - September 2025

    Published 28/08/25

    Return to school - September 2025

    Date Information
    Monday 1st September 2025 INSET DAY - STAFF ONLY
    Tuesday 2nd September 2025 INSET DAY - STAFF ONLY
    Wednesday 3rd September 2025
    • Year 12 ONLY - 8.40-12.30
    • ALL OTHER YEAR GROUPS TO REMAIN AT HOME
    Thursday September 2025
    • Year 7 Induction - 9.30-2.30
    • Year 12 Faculty Trip 
    • Year 13 Induction - 10am arrival
    • ALL OTHER YEAR GROUPS TO REMAIN AT HOME
    Friday 5th September 2025 
    • Year 8 - 11 Target Setting Day - by appointment time only
    • YEARS 7, 12 & 13 - HOME STUDY
    Monday 8th September 2025  ALL YEAR GROUPS IN SCHOOL - 8.40am start
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  • Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form Celebrates Outstanding A-Level Results with 80%+ A*-C Success

    Published 14/08/25
    Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form Celebrates Outstanding A-Level Results with 80%+ A*-C Success

    Woolwich Polytechnic School is proud to announce another year of exceptional A-Level results, with 80+% of all grades awarded falling within the A* to C range. This remarkable achievement reflects the hard work, dedication, and ambition of our students, supported every step of the way by our dedicated teaching and support staff.

    Director of Sixth form, Ms Bassi said, “We are incredibly proud of the entire Year 13 cohort. They have shown outstanding resilience, maturity, and determination, and their achievements today are a true testament to their efforts and to the commitment of our staff team.”

    Among the many success stories this year are Tamim and Oladapo, who both achieved an incredible four A grades each including A*s in some of their subjects. These phenomenal results have placed them among the top-performing students in the country and have secured them places at prestigious Russell Group universities.

    In fact, Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form students have likely once again outperformed both the London and national average for Russell Group university offers - Exeter, UCL, Birmingham, Kings, Warwick, Queen Mary and Imperial - demonstrating the school’s consistent focus on academic excellence and student aspiration.

    Beyond university, many students have also secured competitive apprenticeships at top firms across Finance, IT, Insurance and Engineering sectors. A number of students are set to begin exciting roles at OFCOM, the UK’s communications regulator - highlighting the diverse range of successful pathways our students are now pursuing.

    “Whether our students are heading to university, starting an apprenticeship, or entering the world of work, we are incredibly proud of each and every one of them,” said head of year 13, Mr Tatton. “This cohort has shown what is possible when high standards meet belief and support.”

    Headteacher, Mr Tom Lawrence stated, "Our class of 2025 have done themselves proud, achieving admirable A Level and vocational results that will enable nearly all students to get their first choice of university or apprenticeship. Our headline figures show an impressive 98.5% pass-rate, and for those grades that really matter to get into university, C-A* grades, our overall percentages hold up very well indeed. The results day itself has been a great day of rightful celebration for staff and students. I am immensely proud of their considerable achievements and wish them well in their next stage, confident that they have built a great foundation for future success at the Poly."

    Woolwich Polytechnic School congratulates all its students and looks forward to following their continued success in the years ahead.

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  • A Level Results Day = Free Treats! Here’s Where to Claim Yours

    Published 11/08/25

    A Level Results Day on Thursday 14th August 2025 comes with more than just envelopes, there is a whole menu of freebies and treats waiting for students across the UK. Here's a curated list of what you can claim to celebrate your hard work:

    Top Tips for Students

    • πŸ“„ Bring your results slip, student ID, and proof of age

    • πŸ“± Some deals require app sign-ups or loyalty memberships

    • πŸ•’ Offers may be limited by time or quantity, so go early!

    • πŸ‘₯ Many deals are valid for groups, so bring your mates!

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  • From Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys to Eton: A Journey of Excellence

    Published 11/08/25

    From Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys to Eton: A Journey of Excellence

    We are bursting with pride as we celebrate former student Judah Cummings, who’s now thriving at Eton College on a fully funded Orwell Award scholarship.

    Judah’s story is one of exceptional talent and determination. From earning an A* in A Level Maths while still in Year 11 to now thriving at Eton, where he is a member of elite academic societies and the First XI football team - Judah exemplifies the power of ambition, resilience, and opportunity.

    His success is not just personal, it is a powerful symbol of what’s possible for young people across South East London. Judah’s journey continues to inspire, and we’re proud to have been part of his foundation.

    Judah’s success shines far beyond his own achievements, it lights the way for other young men in our community. Judah, we are cheering you on every step of the way!

    At PolyMAT, our vision is Success for Everyone and Judah’s achievements reflect exactly that. His story reminds us that with the right support and belief, every student can reach extraordinary heights.

    Read more about his inspiring journey

    #etoncollege #woolwichpolytechnicschoolforboys

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  • Save the Date: Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form Open Evening - Wednesday 5th November 2025

    Published 24/07/25

    Save the Date: Woolwich Polytechnic Sixth Form Open Evening - Wednesday 5th November 2025

    We’re excited to announce that our Sixth Form Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 5th November 2025.

    Whether you're a current student considering your next steps or an external applicant exploring new opportunities, this is your chance to discover what makes our Sixth Form a vibrant, supportive, and ambitious place to learn.

    External students - Join our waiting list to be the first to receive full event details, including timings and how to register your attendance

    Information will be shared closer to the date for both internal and external students.

    We look forward to welcoming you and helping you take the next step in your educational journey.

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Hutchins Road
Thamesmead
London
SE28 8AT