Slam poetry is a, exciting, high-energy form of performance poetry, designed to be spoken aloud rather than read from a page. It combines writing, theatrical delivery and audience interaction.

This year, over 40 students in Years 9, 10 and 11 have earned one of the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Awards following completion of tasks in four main sections of the programme: Volunteering, Physical, Skills, and Expedition.

This month, as part of our equality, diversity and inclusion programme, we held a special Day of Welcome event where students explored different cultures and experiences through a range of fun activities, including the popular Shine a Light cycling challenge.

At the end of the GCSE exam season, students attended the annual Year 11 Leavers’ event where they enjoyed hot food, speeches and the traditional leavers’ video with photos from their time in Years 7-11.

Two teams of Year 12 Media students at King James I Academy have been shortlisted to receive an award at The Key Awards 2026. The teams, calling themselves ‘The Gourmet Gurus’ and ‘The Escape Artists’ have been nominated in the category of ‘Key+ Innovators of the Year’.

Students in Years 7 and 8 have had the chance to participate in a practical workshop featuring games and drama activities with the award-winning performance artist, Victoria Melody. Victoria is the artist in residence for the Shildon-based project called PLACE Lab.

A group of Year 8 girls have recently used their Stage 1 Key Challenge funding for a trip to the cinema and a meal at Nando's in Darlington. The team of five students call themselves The Aqua Girls.

A team of Sixth Form students, calling themselves 'Gourmet Gurus Go Glamping', who have been taking part in The Key+ Challenge, have used their funding to organise an overnight glamping experience.

Each year in May, Year 10 students at King James take part in Work Experience Week, which is supported by a host of local organisations and businesses from different industry sectors.

We would like to extend our thanks to Andrew Loads, Co-owner of Brotherton's Music in Newgate Street, for his support in loaning us an electric stage piano for our Young Musician of the Year competition.