Youth Engagement Schools Trust - YES Trust

📚 It’s been wonderful to see so many of our schools getting involved in World Book Day last week📚

Here are just a few highlights showcasing the fantastic activities that took place!

(Keystone Academy)
This year is the National Year of Reading and at Keystone they are showing how much they value reading even more than usual. This year so far, they have launched the Go All In campaign with a whole day dedicated to reading.
The day included workshops lead by staff focusing on graphic novel art skills, a Mad Hatter's Tea Party, a Secret Seven orienteering adventure and a musical workshop exploring The Gruffalo and Dracula. Alongside this, they had a local author, Amy Douglas, who delivered some brilliant storytelling sessions for primary and secondary pupils.
They took a trip to Shrewsbury Library as their aim this year is to get every pupil a library card. Some of the year 10s and 11s read to local residents of a nearby care home, sharing stories and cake!
World Book Day then saw a hive of activity with staff and pupils decorating their doors with book covers and dressing up. There was a photo booth for pupils and they hosted a scavenger hunt and a whole school quiz via Teams and Kahoot.
Two incredible days of reading with plenty more to follow!

🌟 Proud Moment for The Vireo Academy! 🌟
We are immensely proud of one of our pupils, Adam, who was selected to represent The Wolves Foundation during a special half‑time match at the recent Premier League clash between Wolves vs. Aston Villa! ⚽🐺
The squad took to the pitch wearing a unique kit they designed themselves in honour of Rare Disease Day. Adam told us that although he felt a little nervous walking out in front of the crowd, it was an amazing experience he’ll never forget. 💛
The Wolves Foundation, the official charity of Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, is a true pillar of the Wolverhampton community. Their mission focuses on creating opportunities, inspiring local people, and transforming lives through education, wellbeing, and community support.
They work closely with local partners to deliver incredible projects aimed at:
✨ Encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles
✨ Supporting lifelong learning and skills
✨ Building safer, stronger communities
To learn more about their fantastic work, visit: https://foundation.wolves.co.uk/
👏 Well done, Adam! What a fantastic achievement 🤩

🎉 Celebrating Success at The Raise Academy! 🎉
Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award Achievement

In just their first year, The Raise Academy continues to grow, thrive and create life changing opportunities for our students. This week, we are incredibly proud to celebrate their Year 10 and Year 11 students who have officially achieved their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award! 🥉✨

The DofE programme is a powerful way for young people to build resilience, independence, teamwork and personal wellbeing. The students have spent months developing new skills, taking part in physical activity, volunteering in the community and completing their two day, one night expedition.

For many, the expedition included major first time experiences — sleeping in tents, cooking for themselves and spending a night away from home. They faced these challenges with positivity, humour and determination, supporting one another every step of the way. 💪⛺🔥

Staff were especially proud of how maturely students handled their independent time at the campsite. They showed that the trust placed in them was truly deserved. 🌟

The journey doesn’t stop here!
🔸 7 students are already working towards their Silver Award
🔸 14 students are preparing to begin their Bronze Award

The Raise Academy is also excited to launch a brand new KS4 pathway for 2026/27:
Level 2 Skills for Employment in Horticulture, Environmental and Animal Care 🌿🦎🐾

This will build on our expanding facilities — including reptiles, small animals, garden and forest spaces, and a new specialist classroom.

This milestone is a testament to the dedication of their staff, the determination of the students and the supportive, aspirational culture we are building at Raise.

In just one year, the students have grown in confidence and shown exactly what they are capable of. 🌱💚

🌟 Celebrating National School Governors’ Awareness Day 2026
Today, we’re proud to join organisations across the country in celebrating National School Governors’ Awareness Day 2026—a moment dedicated to recognising the remarkable volunteers who help shape the future of our education system.

School governors and trustees play a vital role in ensuring every child has access to high quality learning. They bring their expertise, passion, and perspective to crucial decisions that help schools thrive. From strategic oversight and safeguarding to championing pupil outcomes, governors and trustees make a real and lasting impact on young people, staff, and the wider community.

🎉 Why We’re Celebrating
• They give their time freely to support education.
• They ask important questions that help schools grow.
• They bring invaluable skills from across sectors.
• They make a difference—every day, behind the scenes.

🙌 Thank You to All Our Governors and Trustees
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the governors and trustees across our Trust and schools. Your commitment, insight, and dedication help build stronger schools and brighter futures. We appreciate everything you do and thank you for the invaluable difference you make for all the young learners in our schools!!

🌟 Feeling inspired?
Becoming a school governor or trustee offers a chance to influence the future of education while developing valuable personal and professional skills. It’s an opportunity to grow as a leader, broaden your network, and use your experience to make a positive impact on children and young people in your community. Curious about the benefits?

We are looking to increase our Local Governors and Trustees across the Trust, to work with headteachers and our staff teams to ensure pupils are receiving the very best outcomes. No previous experience of being a school governor is necessary, for an informal chat about the role please contact our Governance Officer, Ilona Adu-Gyamfi at [email protected] or Tel: 01260 490042. Alternatively, an application form can be found at https://theyestrust.org/vacancies/ - we would love to hear from you.

We are so grateful to see that Keystone Academy hosted some special visitors last week. Their contributions enrich learning and spark curiosity in our students!

✨ Wonderful to see our pupils embracing new experiences and growing in confidence every step of the way! These are the moments that matter - growing skills, growing confidence, and having fun throughout!✨

⭐ The Axis Academy ⭐
⭐⭐ Open Day ⭐⭐
Wednesday 10th December 2025, 3.30pm and 5.00pm

See attached for more information to book your place!