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October 2025

  • Wishing You a Restful Half Term Break

    Published 24/10/25

    Wishing You a Restful Half Term Break

    As we wrap up this half term, we want to thank everyone across our Polymat schools - students, staff, and families for your continued energy, commitment, and positivity.

    We hope you enjoy a safe and relaxing break, filled with time to recharge and connect with loved ones. Don’t forget, there are plenty of free local activities happening throughout the week that we’ve shared previously - perfect for keeping minds active and spirits high.

    FREE Activities in Greenwich & London in half term

    Also, a reminder that various locations across Greenwich are offering free lunches for children during the break. It’s a wonderful initiative to support families and ensure everyone has access to nutritious meals.

    Take care, stay safe, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon!

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  • London Trust Leaders Network (LTLN) Event - Tuesday 7th October 2025

    Published 20/10/25

    London Trust Leaders Network Gathers at Drapers’ Hall for Insightful Autumn Session

    On Tuesday 7th October, the London Trust Leaders Network (LTLN) convened once again for a dynamic morning of discussion and collaboration at the stunning Drapers’ Hall in London. The event brought together senior education leaders from across the capital to explore key developments in policy, planning, and inclusion.

    The morning began with refreshments and informal networking from 9:30am, before the agenda officially opened at 10:00am with a session led by Alan Parnum, Acting Regional Director at the Department for Education, who was joined by colleagues Dominic Riddex and Judith Fuller. Together, they provided a comprehensive overview of current headlines in education, pupil place planning, and strategies for mainstream inclusion. Their insights were followed by a contribution from Matt Jones, RISE Advisor, who added further depth to the discussion with practical strategies and sector-wide perspectives.

    Following a short break at 11:30am, attendees heard from Steve Rollett, Deputy CEO of the Confederation of School Trusts (CST), who provided valuable updates on national policy and the evolving landscape of trust inspection.

    Reflecting on the event, several founding members and attendees shared their thoughts:

    Tim Plumb, CEO of PolyMAT:
    “The strength of the London Trust Leaders Network lies in its ability to bring together diverse voices and experiences. Events like this allow us to stay ahead of policy changes and ensure our schools are best placed to support every child.”

    Matthew Kleiner-Mann, CEO of The Ivy Learning Trust:
    “Having the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and tackle shared challenges with fellow trust leaders is what makes the LTLN so impactful. These moments of genuine connection are where real progress begins.”

    Sian John, Chief Talent Officer at E-ACT:
    “It is so exciting to see how the LTLN continues to grow. We are expanding our reach and connecting with more leaders-especially through LinkedIn. The momentum we are building is a reflection of the passion and commitment across our sector.”

    Gill Kemp, CEO of University Schools Trust:
    “It was lovely to be back at Drapers’ Hall. Thanks to a valued contact from our Trust, we’re fortunate to be able to host an LTLN event here annually. The setting adds a sense of occasion and tradition that perfectly complements the forward-thinking spirit of our discussions.”

    The LTLN was established by Gill Kemp, Matthew Kleiner-Mann, Tim Plumb, and Sian John—leaders who envisioned a collaborative space for London-based trust leaders to share best practice, influence policy, and drive meaningful change across the education sector.

    The atmosphere throughout the morning was one of genuine engagement and shared purpose. We thoroughly enjoyed welcoming colleagues to Drapers’ Hall and look forward to even more trust leaders joining us for the next LTLN event.

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  • Enjoy FREE activities in Greenwich & London this October Half Term 2025!

    Published 20/10/25

    Discover Free Local & London Events This October! 

    We know how important it is to keep families engaged, inspired, and entertained - especially during the half term. That is why we have put together a fantastic list of free events happening locally and across London!

    From creative workshops and nature walks to museum exhibitions and youth activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking to explore South East London or venture into the heart of the city, these events are a great way to make memories without spending a penny.

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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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  • Crunchy Leaves & Classroom Wins

    Published 17/10/25

    Crunchy Leaves & Classroom Wins

    There is something truly special about this time of year. As autumn settles in, the green spaces surrounding our secondary schools in Thamesmead are transforming into a patchwork of crunchy leaves and warm colours, making the walk to school feel a bit more magical.

    With October half term just around the corner, it is the perfect time to pause and reflect on the progress our students have made and what we have achieved so far this term.

    We are also putting together a list of free local and London-based events happening during the half-term break - a great way for families to explore, relax, and make the most of the season. We look forward to sharing this with our school community next week.

    Here’s to a restful break ahead!

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  • Transport Options to Woolwich Polytechnic Secondary Schools

    Published 13/10/25

    Transport Options to Woolwich Polytechnic Secondary Schools

    Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys and Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls, both 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

    Whether attending Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys or Girls, students benefit from quick and reliable travel options from nearby areas:

    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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  • PolyMAT Trustee & ACM Conference - Strengthening Governance for Impact

    Published 03/10/25

    PolyMAT Trustee & ACM Conference - Strengthening Governance for Impact

    Yesterday, Woolwich Polytechnic School for Girls proudly hosted the PolyMAT Trustee & ACM Conference, welcoming over 25 Trustees and Academy Committee Members for a powerful day of strategic learning, reflection, and collaboration.

    The theme - 'Confident, Curious, Connected: Strengthening Governance for Impact' set the tone for a day focused on building confident governance, fostering curiosity, and deepening connections across our Trust.

    Headline Speaker: Mel Aitken, Founder & Director of Simply Professional Governance Ltd, delivered an insightful keynote on exclusion panels, equipping governors with the clarity and confidence to navigate complex processes ethically and effectively.

    Training Workshops Included:
    Exclusion Panels: Legal, ethical, and procedural confidence
    Challenge & Questioning: Tools for effective oversight
    Strategic Priorities Discussion: Aligning governance with PolyMAT’s evolving vision, including the Children’s Strategy
    Committee & Board Reflections: Identifying strengths, gaps, and opportunities for development

    "It was fantastic to see our Trustees and ACMs come together with such energy and purpose. Days like this remind us of the strength of our community and the impact we can have when we lead together." - Mr Tim Plumb, CEO, PolyMAT

    The energy throughout the day was inspiring, with meaningful conversations and a shared commitment to shaping the future of governance across PolyMAT.

    Thank you to all who attended and contributed to such a successful and impactful event.

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October 2025

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Hutchins Road
Thamesmead
London
SE28 8AT