STUDENTS at Pool Academy, part of Athena Learning Trust, have dazzled a packed audience at the Pool’s Got Christmas Talent show earlier this month.

From music to dance, the performances were nothing short of spectacular. Some students stepped up to sit on the panel of judges and some acts even saw students and staff members performing together.

After much anticipation, the winners were crowned:

  • 1st Place: MOTO, with their electrifying performance of ‘Shaker’
  • 2nd Place: Zina, Cody, and Tori, for their breathtaking rendition of ‘In The Stars’
  • 3rd Place: The Pool Cheerleaders, with their high-energy routine
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Staff and students performed together in some acts (Picture: Pool Academy)

In addition to the talent show, ‘Festive Fridays’ have been a hit with Year 11 students. Under the guidance of teacher Mrs Clark, they’ve enjoyed making Christmas tree decorations and other holiday crafts while listening to festive tunes. Staff have also been getting in on the act, taking part in a spirited Christmas cake bake-off and mince pie making session, filling the school with delicious aromas and lots of laughter.

On the last day of term, the school is holding a Christmas bake sale. The funds raised will go towards students’ upcoming expedition to Kenya, where they will work on community-based projects. These students will also be running the stall, offering a great opportunity for them to get hands-on with their fundraising efforts.

Pool Xmas Fair.
Pool Academy students at the Xmas fair (Picture: Pool Academy)

Students are also invited to wear their Christmas jumpers on the final Friday before Christmas in exchange for a donation for the local food bank. The school has already put together some food parcels for those in need and is also hosting a community Christmas dinner where members of a local community group will come along for a meal, served by senior students.

Nick Ward, principal at Pool Academy said: “As we celebrate the joy and talent within our school community this Christmas, I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for their creativity, generosity, and festive spirit.

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Principal Nick Ward gets stuck in (Picture: Pool Academy)

“The Pool’s Got Christmas Talent show was a wonderful reminder of what amazing performers we have here at Pool Academy, and it was heartwarming to see everyone come together for such a memorable evening. This season truly embodies the spirit of giving, and I couldn't be more grateful for our community's continued kindness and commitment to each other.”