Congratulations to Judith Hughes A New Board Member Of Habia 14 Jun 2024 12:08 AM (last year)
Congratulations to Judith Hughes!
We are thrilled to celebrate Judith Hughes, a highly experienced Lecturer, Internal Verifier, and Hair Consultant, for her remarkable contributions to the hair and beauty industry. With many years in the field, Judith has amassed an incredible wealth of knowledge, skills, and understanding. Her expertise spans a diverse range of teaching, learning, assessment, and classroom management strategies that have significantly impacted the progress of her learners.
Judith’s passion for the hair and beauty industry is evident in her dedication to developing best practices. She has been a pillar in education, training within the Further Education (FE) sector, and community work. Judith’s impressive career includes owning an award-winning hairdressing, barbering, and beauty salon business for over 13 years.
Currently, Judith is making strides as the Vice Chair of Habia’s Expert Working Group on new hair standards, advocating for inclusivity by ensuring all hair textures are represented. Her commitment to excellence and innovation in the industry is truly inspiring.
Join us in celebrating Judith Hughes for her outstanding achievements and ongoing dedication to the hair and beauty sector. Her impact on learners and professionals alike is invaluable, and we are proud to honor her contributions.
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Welcome Jack and Jill: Our New Furry Friends at SMS! 11 Jun 2024 2:52 AM (last year)
We are thrilled to announce the arrival of two adorable new members to the SMS family: Jack and Jill, our new school rabbits! These delightful bunnies have already captured the hearts of students and staff alike, bringing joy and excitement to our school community.
Jack and Jill are settling in nicely to their new home, and the students are over the moon to have these furry friends as part of their daily lives. The presence of these rabbits is not just about having pets; it’s about the valuable lessons and experiences they bring. Caring for Jack and Jill teaches responsibility, empathy, and the importance of animal welfare. Students are eager to take turns in looking after them, ensuring they have fresh food, clean water, and plenty of playtime.
Our dedicated staff has created a cozy and safe environment for Jack and Jill, where they can hop around and explore. The rabbits’ area is designed to be both stimulating and comfortable, with plenty of toys and activities to keep them engaged. Watching the rabbits play and interact is not only entertaining but also therapeutic, offering a calming influence and promoting a sense of well-being among the students.
Jack and Jill have already become popular figures at SMS, and we encourage everyone to take the opportunity to spend time with them. Whether it’s during a break, a quiet reading session, or a science lesson, these rabbits are bringing smiles and creating wonderful memories.
We extend a warm welcome to Jack and Jill and look forward to the many happy moments and learning experiences they will bring to our school. The arrival of these lovely bunnies marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter at SMS. We are confident that Jack and Jill will thrive in their new home and become cherished members of our community.
Let
‘s all give a big, warm welcome to Jack and Jill! 
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Exciting Visit to Stretford Fire Station: A Day to Remember 11 Jun 2024 2:46 AM (last year)
Before we finished for half term, the students at SMS had the incredible opportunity to visit Stretford Fire Station. This visit was not only educational but also an exciting experience for everyone involved. The amazing staff at Stretford Fire Station went above and beyond to ensure that our students had a memorable and enriching day.
One of the highlights of the visit was the chance for students to ascend the Aerial Ladder Platform. For many, this was a significant challenge as it meant confronting and overcoming their fear of heights. Watching our students face their fears with courage and determination was truly inspiring. It was a fantastic exercise in building confidence and resilience.
Beyond the thrilling experience of the Aerial Ladder Platform, the students received valuable training and information on fire safety. The dedicated fire service team provided hands-on demonstrations and detailed explanations about the importance of fire safety in our daily lives. The students learned about the different types of fire extinguishers, how to use them, and the crucial steps to take in case of a fire emergency.
The visit was not just about fun and excitement; it was also a critical learning experience. The knowledge and skills imparted by the Stretford Fire Service are invaluable, equipping our students with the awareness and preparedness needed to handle fire-related emergencies. This practical education is essential for their safety and well-being.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Stretford Fire Service for their hospitality, dedication, and the essential training they provided. The visit has left a lasting impression on our students, sparking interest in fire safety and emergency services.
Overall, the visit to Stretford Fire Station was a remarkable day out. It combined adventure, learning, and personal growth, making it a perfect prelude to our half-term break. We look forward to more such enriching experiences in the future. Thank you once again to the incredible team at Stretford Fire Station for making this day possible. 
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SMS honoured for international Forum for School Principals in China 12 Feb 2024 2:20 AM (last year)
SMS were honoured to be invited to the international Forum for School Principals in Jiangsu, China, to share our expertise in the area of school strategy and education reform.
This visit was extremely successful and we are delighted to announce that we now have the privilege to be twinned with not one, but two sister schools in China:
Shuren Middle School and Yangzhou Middle School.
As part of the excursion, the proprietor, Johnathan Davies and executive Head Teacher, Hecabe Dufraisse were treated to a tour of the province’s schools and cultural heritage sites. What a propitious start to our new intercontinental venture!
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VR Film and Creative Arts Workshop Make ‘Round Midnight’ Knife Crime Course an Eye-Opening Success 18 Oct 2023 7:54 AM (2 years ago)
Dear valued readers of the SMS Coaching newsletter,
We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news with you today! Thanks to the generous grant of £1000 from the Executive Committee of Greater Manchester Magistrates, led by Paul Brearley, Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and Chair of Greater Manchester Magistrates, SMS Coaching has successfully hosted an innovative “Round Midnight” Knife Crime Awareness Course, powered by virtual reality (VR). This fantastic initiative was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the West Midlands Police and the Home Office, who funded and created the powerful VR film, Virtual_Decisions: KNIVES.
The 11-minute VR film, Virtual_Decisions: KNIVES, took our students on a thought-provoking journey, addressing the serious issues surrounding knife-carrying and its tragic consequences. It proved to be an eye-opening tool in our collective efforts to combat the rising instances of knife crime and protect young lives in our communities.
Following the immersive VR film experience, our students eagerly engaged in a creative arts workshop to delve deeper into the themes explored in the film. Through discussions and drama exercises, they had the chance to reflect on their own experiences within the virtual reality and share insights with each other. This interactive approach ensured that the learning journey was driven by the students themselves, making it a powerful and meaningful experience for all.
We’re delighted to report that the “Round Midnight” Knife Crime Awareness Course was met with resounding success! Our students were deeply impacted by the VR film, gaining a profound understanding of the consequences of knife crime. The creative arts workshop allowed them to express their thoughts and emotions freely, fostering a sense of empowerment and unity among the participants. We caught up with some of the kids who attended the “Round Midnight” Knife Crime Awareness Course and their enthusiasm was infectious! One student exclaimed, “I loved every moment of it! The VR experience was so realistic. One young participant said, “I think every student should have this opportunity. It really opens your eyes”
None of this would have been possible without the exceptional efforts of our Head Teacher, Hecabe DuFraisse, who played a crucial role in securing the grant and making this vital initiative a reality. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to her for her dedication and commitment.
As we continue our journey to make a difference, SMS Coaching remains steadfast in our mission to raise awareness and empower our students, teachers, and parents. Together, we stand against knife crime, nurturing safer and stronger communities.
We’re proud of our students and their engagement in this significant project. Their enthusiasm and response to the “Round Midnight” Knife Crime Awareness Course have inspired us to pursue further impactful initiatives in the future.
Stay tuned for more updates as we strive to create a safer and brighter future for everyone.
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SMS Art Gallery Exhibition: Ice Gallery 16 Oct 2023 1:28 PM (2 years ago)
Hey there, SMS Coaching readers!
We’ve got some incredible news to share about our students’ recent artistic adventure! Collaborating with the visionary Graham Finch, the gallery director at Beyond Lies More Ice Gallery in Wilmslow, Manchester, SMS School organized a special visit that ignited the creative sparks within our talented students.
The focal point of this captivating event was none other than ‘Beyond Lies More,’ a mesmerizing artwork. SMS Art students were eager to explore the deep layers of meaning behind the piece, which was jointly crafted by the skilled artists, Nicholas J Smith, Dave Moli (Boogie), and James Blinkhorn. The artwork’s message transcended racial boundaries, emphasizing the essence of our shared humanity, a powerful reminder that we are all part of one single race – the human race.
The students say they had an incredible experience! Upon arriving at ICE Gallery based in Wilmslow Manchester, our young artists were greeted warmly by Graham Finch, whose genuine passion for art and community radiated throughout the space. Graham, driven by a mission to make a difference, was actively raising funds for Mission 44 and FareShare Food, supporting those in need and vital community causes.
Throughout the visit, Graham personally guided the students, unveiling the beauty and depth of ‘Beyond Lies More.’ Our students were captivated, as Graham’s explanations sparked profound reflections on unity, diversity, and the shared experiences that bind us all together. The trip had a profound impact on the students; Sonny, in a letter to Graham, wrote ‘It was an amazing new experience for me since I’ve never been to a place like that until I came to your gallery.’ He described the effect the artwork had on him too, stating ‘The painting I was most deeply pulled in by was the Life Tree. I love the painting since it’s got such a deeper meaning and hidden messages and many stories and characters’. Enthusiasm was shared by fellow art student Princessa who wrote ‘As a black girl I was so grateful to see a painting of famous people of colour with different backgrounds.’
As they immersed themselves in the artwork, the students found their creative spirits awakened, inspired by the seamless collaboration of three distinct artists. They were empowered to embrace their own unique perspectives and talents, recognizing the power of artistic expression in fostering understanding and compassion.
This extraordinary gallery visit left a lasting impact on our students, igniting a passion for art and a desire to celebrate diversity in all its forms. As they continue their artistic journey at SMS School, we’re excited to witness their growth and creativity flourishing, guided by the powerful experience they shared at Beyond Lies More. It appears that Graham was also left moved by the experience, writing to Headteacher Hecabe DuFraisse ‘It was a joy to receive Sonny and Princess at the gallery and give them a tour and a few goodies to take away. Thank you for allowing them to come with two very capable teachers.’
At SMS Coaching, we’re dedicated to providing enriching opportunities like this for our students, fostering an environment where creativity and empathy thrive. With each step, we’re empowering our students to become compassionate and open-minded global citizens.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Graham Finch and Beyond Lies More Ice Gallery for welcoming our students with open arms and inspiring them to embrace art as a tool for unity and understanding.
As we look forward to more artistic endeavours, let’s celebrate the unique talents and diverse voices that make our school community truly special.
Stay tuned for more exciting adventures and inspiring events, as we continue to learn, grow, and make a difference together!
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Expanding Educational Horizons: SMS at the 2023 International Principals Forum in China 4 Oct 2023 5:08 PM (2 years ago)
After the resounding success of the SMS Summer Chinese Education Programme, we are thrilled to announce a prestigious invitation from Suman Education International and their Chinese partner, JESIE. SMS has been invited to participate in the 2023 International Principals Forum, hosted by the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Education (JPDE) and Jiangsu Education Services for International Exchange (JESIE), set to take place in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China, this November.
This esteemed opportunity will see our Proprietor, Jonathan Davies, and our Head Teacher, Hecabe DuFraisse, embarking on a journey to Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, where they will attend the conference. The event serves a crucial purpose in the realm of education: to foster the exchange of ideas and best practices among educational leaders worldwide, ultimately strengthening our school’s global partnerships.
The forum promises a rich tapestry of experiences, from insightful discussions to immersive visits to local schools. It offers a unique platform for educational leaders from diverse cultural backgrounds and countries to come together, share their expertise, and learn from one another.
At SMS, we recognize the immense value of cross-cultural educational collaboration. Such initiatives not only enrich our understanding of global education but also allow us to bring innovative approaches and insights back to our own school community. We believe that this event will further empower us to provide a more comprehensive and dynamic educational experience for our students.
As we prepare for this exciting journey to the 2023 International Principals Forum in Xuzhou, we look forward to representing SMS and continuing our commitment to excellence in education on the international stage. Stay tuned for updates as we embark on this educational adventure, and join us in celebrating the boundless possibilities that await us in China this November.
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Building Character and Ambition Through Sports at SMS 4 Oct 2023 4:46 PM (2 years ago)
With one of our main focal points at SMS being physical wellbeing, the new sports department in our facility provides our learners with everything they need to build character and discipline whilst learning about the beneficial effects of sport and healthy competition.
“The new site is working well; we have access to more equipment, for example, the weights programme. The students are working closely with Gaz and Hamam to build more strength and learn about different exercises, which is reinforced in the theory part of the programme.” – Dylan Izzard (Staff)The department is home to a range of multiple gym accessories and equipment including a ‘5-a-side’ football pitch, boxing ring, weights room and cardiovascular equipment such as a treadmill and a cross trainer.
The sessions are structured in a way that our learners can be educated on the theory of Sport in our IT suite to ensure the learning outcomes are being met for the qualification, and then we move over for the practical aspect within the gym setting.
“The new gym has loads of variations of all the different types of weights, so light weights for people who can’t lift a lot and heavy ones for those that can.” – KA (Year 11 learner)As well as upgrading our facility with the new equipment, we have also enhanced the experience with new and vibrant motivational aesthetics. We commissioned the supremely talented local legend John Culshaw to paint murals of inspiring athletes such as Marcus Rashford, Lionel Messi, Paul Scholes, Erling Haarland, Diego Maradona and our very own SMS staff, Hannah Baggaley and Jake James, who are both incredible boxers and an inspiration to our learners. John is a living legend in the northwest of England where his mesmerizing work of the likes of Ringo Starr adorn the walls of Liverpool.
“The kids now have the option to do sports as well as gym, including cricket, boxing and football. The murals are so aesthetically pleasing that it seems the kids want to spend all their time in there.” – Gaz Preston (Staff). Our learners establish core values and discipline, working hard to gain qualifications and transferable skills that will benefit them throughout, and beyond, their education setting. One of the most important values we promote at SMS is ‘Ambition’. We recognise that our students must be nurtured with a ‘can-do’ philosophy that encourages them to reach their full potential and aspire to be the best versions of themselves that they can be.
“We use sports, linked in with behaviour, to give the kids an opportunity to not only learn sports but to learn the fundamentals of team spirit and healthy competition, as I believe that sport is a crucial part of young people’s development.” – Hamam El Fitouri (Staff)With the new academic year in full swing, we are excited to see just where our learners can and will set and smash their individual goals. With our tenacious and dedicated staff, our state of the art facility and energised and enthusiastic students, the sky’s the limit!
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Brushstrokes of Inspiration: John Culshaw’s Artistic Legacy at SMS School 28 Jul 2023 4:04 AM (2 years ago)
SMS School takes immense pride in showcasing original artwork that adorns our campus, created by none other than the esteemed local legend, John Culshaw. Renowned for his iconic murals that grace the streets of Manchester and Liverpool, John Culshaw has generously shared his exceptional talent with our school community. Among his notable creations, the mesmerizing mural of Ringo Starr in Liverpool stands as a testament to John Culshaw’s artistic prowess. This masterpiece captures the essence of a legendary figure and exemplifies the impact of art on our surroundings. Within the walls of SMS School, John Culshaw’s creativity has flourished, resulting in captivating murals that pay tribute to inspiring figures such as Marcus Rashford, Lionel Messi, Alan Turing, and rapper Aitch. These vibrant artworks serve as constant reminders to our students that greatness knows no bounds and that they too can achieve remarkable things. John Culshaw’s artistic contributions extend beyond the canvas, as he enriches our school with his unique vision and dedication to fostering a culture of aspiration. Through his impactful murals, he has ignited a sense of ambition in our students, encouraging them to dream big, aim high, and embrace the transformative power of creativity. With deep appreciation, we extend our gratitude to John Culshaw for these exceptional artistic contributions that adorn our school walls and inspire our students. His remarkable legacy continues to shape our environment and nurture the aspirations of each individual within the SMS School community.
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Building Character: The ACE of SMS Education 13 Sep 2020 11:35 PM (5 years ago)
Association for Character Education.
“Character becomes your destiny.” – Lao Tzu, Philosopher
SMS are proud to announce that we are working towards our Quality mark from the Association for Character Education (ACE).
Character education is the process of learning common attitudes, beliefs and behaviours that are important for people to have as responsible citizens. Parents, teachers and families can help youth positively develop character.
Morals and values are key parts of character education. Children will learn about considering right and wrong, making informed decisions, exercising empathy, and reflecting on their thoughts and actions. These skills will help children consider what role they play in their community.
Our core character education values at SMS are:
Ambition : To be the best at something – An ambitious person doesn’t settle for second best. They’re always striving to be at the top of their field. This could include being the best in your career field, the best parent, the best friend, or the best in a particular sport.
Community Spirit : The underpinning philosophy of community development and spirituality is the connection of the individual to the collective, acknowledging that the wellbeing of the individual influences and is influenced by the wellbeing of the community.
Curiosity : The key to turning curiosity into insight is to refrain from criticism and all-or-none thinking, and instead accept the multitude of possibilities and continue asking questions. Being curious is a skill that can become a lifelong habit, helping people to develop a growth mindset and opening minds to a wealth of knowledge.
Honesty: Honesty helps in developing other positive traits such as kindness, discipline, truthfulness, and moral integrity. Honest people are sincere, trustworthy and loyal throughout their lives.
Resilience: Resilience is the process and outcome of successfully and confidently adapting to difficult or challenging life experiences, especially through mental, emotional, and behavioural flexibility and being able to adjust to external and internal demands.
Respect: Showing respect is an essential part of building and maintaining relationships. Without it, you can’t devleop healthy relationships with others. Showing respect means giving other people the space and freedom to be who they are, to think what they think, and to do what they do.
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