The Excellence Challenge

Executive Headteacher, Mr Gillett, recently hosted an inspiring assembly for our Year 7 students, praising them for the fantastic impression they have made since joining Hertswood Academy. The session focused on how small, consistent actions and positive choices can lead to excellence, encouraging every student to recognise their own potential for greatness through hard work and dedication.

To illustrate this, Mr Gillett shared the story of Sam Priestley’s 'Expert in a Year' challenge, where he attempted to break into the top 250 table tennis players in England in a single year, through sheer commitment and expert coaching. Students were encouraged to apply this same mindset to their studies by listening to their teachers and practicing effectively. As Sam famously noted, "If you put in the work, anything is possible."

The assembly concluded with an exciting challenge as students took to the stage for a mini table tennis match against Mr Gillett and Head of Learning, Miss Elvins. Those bold enough to try, and skilled enough to score a point, were rewarded with Amazon vouchers.