After 26 years at King James, Mrs Stead is leaving us, and the teaching profession, to pursue a whole new career path.

Showing support for local and national charities is an important part of our Academy life and we organise a programme of activities and events throughout the year to raise funds.

We reward our students for hard work, achievement, attendance and positive behaviour in many ways.

In the last week of term, an excellent time was had by competitors and spectators alike at our Year Group Sports Day events, which were held over two beautiful sunny days.

The Library at King James is a much-loved space for lessons, homework, virtual learning, independent reading and a host of extra-curricular clubs both at lunch time and after school.

Each year, our Year 12 students take part in Work Experience Week, with placements in a wide range of sectors.

Year 12 students at King James I Academy have won ‘The KEY+ Pitch Innovators of the Year’ award at The Key Awards 2026, which was held at Newcastle Crowne Plaza.

Members of our Sport and Healthy Lifestyles Ambassador Group have taken on a Ready, Steady, Cook challenge to design and prepare a healthy, balanced meal in just 60 minutes.

In our Science Department, teachers focus on planning creative and fun lessons to inspire students; and our Physics specialist and STEM Co-ordinator, Miss Thompson, organises a calendar of special activities and events to boost interest and engagement.