​Filming for a new drama for Acorn and Channel 5 TV took place in and around the Shropshire town of Bridgnorth. Murder Before Evensong was the first in a series of books by Church of England vicar, Reverend Richard Coles, who also appeared on the most recent edition of I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, and was one half of a synth-pop duo, The Communards. 

Among the long list of stars, the case included Harry Potter star Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom and starred in Line of Duty; Happy Valley actor Amit Shah; Vigil’s Adam James; Amanda Redman of New Tricks; and Tamzin Outhwaite of The Wives and EastEnders. Another very important cast member is our very own staff member Mrs Downing.

Mrs Downing said, “ I am a member of the St Mary Magdalene Church Choir and was asked to play the role of a local village parish choir member and sing along with other choir members and cast.  I enjoyed the makeup and wardrobe experience and was amazed at how much work goes into filming each scene. I can’t wait to see the drama in the autumn.”

For more information click here: Murder Before Evensong

Adventure Awaits!

On Monday, March 3rd, ten sixth-form students from St Edmund’s Catholic Academy took their first big step toward their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award by heading to Laches Wood Outdoor Education Centre for an action-packed training day!

With their four-day, three-night expedition fast approaching, this was their chance to sharpen their skills and prepare for the ultimate challenge: navigating a pre-planned route on foot while carrying all their own gear—including food, clothing, tents, and stoves. Self-sufficiency is the name of the game!

Learning the Ropes (and Maps!)

The day kicked off with an in-depth navigation session, where students got hands-on with maps and compasses to plot their routes through the stunning Peak and Lake Districts. They also explored essential expedition skills, including:

✅ Equipment selection ️
✅ Choosing the right clothing for unpredictable conditions ️
✅ Emergency procedures
✅ Basic first aid

Putting Skills to the Test

The real fun began when students tackled a stove assembly challenge—but with a twist! They had to put it together blindfolded, racing against the clock. The fastest time? An incredible 1 minute and 3 seconds!

Next, they set up their tents—their home away from home during the expedition—learning how to pitch them quickly and efficiently. The day wrapped up with an orienteering challenge, testing their ability to read maps under pressure.

A Team to Be Proud Of!

Every student showed fantastic teamwork, resilience, and focus, proving they’re more than ready for the challenges ahead. They were a true credit to themselves and St Edmund’s Catholic Academy.

️ What’s Next?

With their training day successfully completed, the countdown is on for their practice expedition in the Peak District at the end of June. Stay tuned for more updates as they take on this incredible adventure!

A huge congratulations to Henry Aneke and Daniel Slodowski, two of our brilliant Year 13 students, who took on the challenge of the British Physics Olympiad in November 2024—one of the toughest physics competitions in the country!

This national competition pushes students to their limits with complex problem-solving questions that test their mathematical and analytical thinking. Henry and Daniel rose to the occasion, achieving an impressive Bronze 1 award—matching the best-ever result in St Edmund’s history!

This is a fantastic achievement that highlights their dedication, intelligence, and passion for physics. Well done, Henry and Daniel! We are incredibly proud and wish you the best of luck with the rest of your A-Level studies.

On Wednesday, February 12th, our talented Year 11 and 13 3D Design and Art students embarked on an inspiring trip to the Oxford University Museum of Natural History and the Pitt Rivers Museum. This exciting visit was a crucial part of their Unit 2 exam preparation, allowing them to gather primary research in a truly immersive way.

Students explored a fascinating collection of natural history specimens and cultural artifacts from around the world, capturing their findings through detailed sketches and striking photographs. From intricate fossils to ancient treasures, they delved into a world of creativity and discovery, gaining valuable insights to fuel their projects.

Throughout the trip, our students demonstrated exceptional curiosity, creativity, and professionalism, proudly representing both themselves and our school. We can’t wait to see how their research will inspire their final pieces!

Our incredible Eco Club students have made us proud once again! A huge shout-out to Caleb, Maja, Felicity, Riley, Elena, Amelia, and Patrycja, along with some other helpers. Special thanks also to the Year 11s who contributed to the planning, despite having exams today—what a team effort!

Working alongside Severn Trent and the amazing Friends of Smestow Valley volunteers, the team rolled up their sleeves and got stuck into improving the habitat-spirits were high, teamwork was strong, and the results were fantastic! We even spotted a couple of smooth newts, which was a real highlight. With the habitat now in better shape, these little creatures (and many more) have a much-improved home.

But we’re not done yet! Time for Round Two on Friday, 14th March, when we’ll be tackling the overgrowth around the pond to further enhance the area.

Exciting news on the horizon—we have funds set aside for bridge repairs and are actively seeking additional funding to make this happen. Stay tuned for updates!

A massive thank you to everyone involved—your dedication is making a real impact on our environment!