Message for Parents/Guardians from Principal Jill Davies

During next week's assemblies, we are discussing with all students our principles regarding make up to ensure that it is appropriate for a school setting. This is to ensure that we remain professional and appropriate for a school environment, similar to expectations in a workplace.

English Revision – Half term!

On Wednesday 1^st April, the English department will be running a revision booster session from 10am-12pm, in school, with all students welcome.

We know it is April Fools' Day. However, this is not a joke. We will be here and hope to see as many of our students as possible in attendance. 

Year 11 English Masterclasses

Students are able to attend the following dates for English support with Miss Connolly in the Cinema. Each session will focus on a specific area. All sessions take place on Wednesdays from 3:00–3:45pm.

• 18th March: How to write thoughtfully in Literature (for students aiming for Grade 6).

• 25th March: How to secure a Grade 4 in English Language – resit students welcome.

English After-School Provision

Our English department is pleased to offer the following after-school provision for students. They will take place every Monday from 4–4.30pm:

• Library with Mr Corner – come along and borrow books from our extensive selection.  There will also be a space to read quietly.
• Culture Club with Mr Murphy – gain a deeper understanding of what is going on in the world, develop your general knowledge and expand your viewpoints and perspectives.

For Year 10 only:

• Support with GCSE content with Miss Jackson.

For Year 11 students only:

• Target grade 7+ revision with Miss Connolly.
• Target grade 5+ revision with Miss Manzoor.
• Target grade 4+ revision with Mr Mackenzie.
• Grammar and writing development support with Miss Gymnopoulou *This intervention will be particularly helpful for those students whose first language is not English.

High-Tech Water Fountains and Reusable Bottles

In school, we have new high-tech water fountains for students to fill their bottles. Students are advised to bring a reusable bottle into school each day if they wish to use this facility. Staying hydrated throughout the day is important for concentration and wellbeing, and using a reusable bottle helps reduce plastic waste.

These students participated in the judging sessions throughout the day. This was made up of multiple rounds of 5-minute presentations with small groups of judges. Each of our teams were wonderful presenters, and while they must have been nervous, it was clear that they knew what they were talking about.

We have reason to celebrate as one of our groups came in second place, only missing out on the top spot by half a mark.

Therma-Ease was selected by the judges for its wonderful idea and how well the students all knew their project and could communicate it well.

Sociology Jodie Comer Prima Facie Performance

Miss Ashton’s Year 12 sociologists had the opportunity to exclusively view the sold-out Jodie Comer performance Prima Facie. The one-woman play, written by Suzie Miller, followed a defence barrister named Tessa Ensler who specialises in defending men accused of crimes of a sexual nature. 

They later attended the Liverpool Playhouse workshop hosted by ‘Everyone’s invited’ and ‘Schools consent project’, who are volunteer lawyers in school that teach young people to understand consent to prevent crimes of a sexual nature. 

The students set a great example of how to professionally handle sensitive content while they showcased their knowledge. They applied well-balanced, sociological contributions throughout the event when conversing with barristers and charities.

Work Experience Opportunities

In February, Yossel and Mason completed placements at Government Cyber/STEM, as well Jake and Charlie who gained experience at Skyhook Games. 

Placements coming up:

• 13 AHP Cadets - offered by Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, in 13 different hospital departments across 3 hospitals 
• 12 week-long AstraZeneca – pharmaceutical company
• 5 Alfred H Knight – expertise in analysing metals and other components 
• 2 Bristol Myers Squibb – global biopharmaceutical company
• 2 Sellafield – nuclear site 
• 1 Bachem - chemical manufacturer 
• 1 Mast Group – world class manufacturer and supplier of diagnostic products for clinical, industrial and veterinary testing
• 1 IntroMed 2026 Programme – hosted by Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
• Arm – software design company 
• DWF Law LLP – Legal service company 
• Aviva Insurance – multinational insurance company 
• Walton Safari @ The Walton Centre – engaging, hands-on sessions that bring the world of work to life, offering the opportunity to explore a variety of job roles
• Lime Pictures – television company 

Northern Schools Trust Science Competition at Liverpool Life Sciences UTC

Last week, we held the NST Science Competition which saw 30 finalists, aged just 4 to 14, present their ideas with confidence, passion, and remarkable scientific understanding. Since then, 192 entries from across the trust have been made to the Business of Science Innovation Awards, which will be held in May, giving students a second chance to shine. 

Student Neonatal Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society

Once a fortnight, Year 12 Health and Social Care students are visited by a team from the Society for Neonatal, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, one of the student guilds from Liverpool University, who are giving a series of workshops on various aspects of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and neonatal care.

The teams are made up of students form the faculty of Medicine and allied subjects such as pharmacology. This week, we explored pregnancy, including a 'MythBusters' section and lots of information about how patients should proceed when trying to conceive and what they should expect when pregnant. We had lots of questions from the class, which was lovely, and we look forward to the next session on birth. 

Judge Buzzard Visits Our Social Sciences Department

On Thursday, Judge Buzzard visited our Sixth Form Criminology students, delivering an insightful overview of the criminal justice system and engaging them in a detailed mock trial exercise.

He started by discussing how he became a judge and the difficulties surrounding witness evidence. Judge Buzzard completed a conversion course to become a solicitor after completing his degree. After being a solicitor for several years, he then taught at the university of law. He then became an Immigration Judge, a Judge for the doctor’s Regulation Tribunal, and is now an Employment Judge.

Outstanding Achievement and Attendance in Sixth Form

We are delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Sixth Form students this week.

Congratulations to Yvie, our Year 12 Student of the Week, and Ashton, our Year 13 Student of the Week, for their exceptional dedication, positive attitude, and commitment to their studies.

We also commend Ava-Mae Year 12, and Dominion Year 13, for achieving an impressive 100% attendance, demonstrating exemplary reliability and determination.

These students truly embody the values of CUC6, and we are incredibly proud of their hard work and success. Keep up the fantastic effort!

Science Primary Outreach at Thomas Gray Primary School

On Tuesday, Miss Linkman, teacher at Liverpool Life Sciences UTC, led a Year 4 class on the topic of teeth. Here they planned and completed two tests; one was an investigation into three types of toothpaste, the other was to test the difference between the effect of toothbrush types, electric vs manual. 

The students were very engaged and completed these tests in a sensible manner. In addition to this, the students learnt about the different teeth we have and their roles (incisor – cut, canine – tear & molar – grind). Students also continued on from last week's theme of asking questions, with them asking lots of information about teeth. 

We look forward to having another group from Thomas Gray visit Liverpool Life Sciences UTC next week for a cookie jar "crime scene". 

Ignite STEAM

Ignite students have been making natural dyes from beetroot, turmeric, cabbage, avocado and onions. They have been considering the history of fabric dying around the world, the use of mordants in the dying process and have explored the effect of pH on their dyes. Once the dyes were made, they used a resist technique to achieve patterns such as stripes and swirls. 

This topic links to Widnes's historical and ongoing links to the dying industry, and this will be explored next week. 

1. The Tech Mentor National No-Code Hackathon 14–18 year old: STEM Enrichment Opportunity

This is a STEM enrichment experience where students work in teams to solve real-world challenges using modern digital tools, set on the day. Previous themes have explored areas such as sustainability, education access, and digital wellbeing.

Students can register individually here. Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

When? Sunday 12th April, 10:00am-4:00pm (online)
£15 per student

About the event:

• Using beginner-friendly no-code platforms such as Lovable, students design and prototype a digital solution with guidance from experienced mentors.
• No previous coding or technical experience is required.
   

The experience focuses on developing skills that are increasingly valuable across many fields, including:

• Collaborative working and communication
• Creative problem solving
• Analytical thinking and idea development
• Presenting ideas clearly and confidently
• Understanding how technology can be applied across different sectors

Participants receive:

• A certificate recognising participation in a national technology competition
• A completed project or prototype suitable for portfolios or applications
• Experience presenting ideas and solutions
• Exposure to potential technology career pathways

Winning teams will also progress to the National Finals on 11th July 2026, where teams compete for the following prizes:

• 1st place: £1,000 for the team and £100 to each winning team member’s school
• 2nd place: £750 for the team
• 3rd place: £500 for the team

2. UK Junior Water Prize 2026 

This competition provides a fantastic opportunity for young people in STEM to tackle one of the world’s most urgent challenges: the global water crisis.

Organised by CIWEM in partnership with Arup and Jacobs, the competition invites students aged 15-18 years to develop innovative yet practical water-related research projects.

The winning UK entry will represent the nation at the prestigious Stockholm Junior Water Prize in Sweden, with: an all-expenses paid trip to World Water Week, a chance to win the grand prize of US$15,000, international recognition on a global stage.

Find out more and apply here.

3. Placed Academy Programme

If you are successful in your application, you will be expected to commit to attendance and completion of the programme, which consists of a mixture of evening, weekend, half day and full days between July 2026-March 2027. Dates will be circulated to you before the programme begins.

You'll work towards 10 credits to graduate from the programme. These will be delivered in Liverpool and Manchester. Summer school consists of 4 days of fun, interactive workshops. It's usually held in Liverpool at the end of July / early August.

Apply here.

1. Boost Your University Application With InvestIN

With competition at an all time high for top university courses in the UK, students must find ways to strengthen their applications.

InvestIN know what universities are looking for. Their career-focused summer schools are designed to help students stand out in their applications and boost their chances of success.

Students could spend this summer earning valuable UCAS points and a Level 3 Award in Work Experience while gaining real-world industry experience to aid their UCAS Personal Statement.

Find out more here.

2. University Open Days for Entry 2027

1. Engineering Apprenticeships at National Cyber Force

The National Cyber Force (NCF) is a partnership between GCHQ, the Ministry of Defence (MOD), the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) and the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).

Every day, NCF experts work online to stop cyber attacks, protect the UK, and make sure our country stays safe. They help stop serious crime, support the military and keep people and information secure.

You do not have to be a tech genius to join NCF. They need people with all kinds of skills and interests. Whether you are creative, logical or curious about how things work, there could be a role for you.

Search for vacancies here.

2. CMA CGM UK Global Shipping and Logistics Company Princes Dock Liverpool

2 fantastic apprenticeship opportunities to join their UK Customer Care team.

The company is launching their 18-month Level 3 Customer Service Apprenticeships, designed to support young people at the start of their careers while strengthening the organisation’s talent pipeline.

Key details include:

• Two positions available within Customer Service
• An 18-month fixed-term contract while completing the qualification
• A starting salary of £23,500, with incremental increases throughout the programme based on performance and qualification progress
• Apprentices working toward a Level 3 Customer Service Specialist qualification, delivered by Linden Management
• Targeted at current 6th form students seeking an apprenticeship as an alternative to university, with the potential for a longer-term / permanent role after completion
• A proposed start date of early September 2026, aligned with the academic year, with some flexibility

These roles provide an excellent entry point into the organisation and a structured pathway for developing future talent and building a long and meaningful careers within a truly global organisation.

For full details and how to apply, please click here.

**closing date may be extended, but you are encouraged to apply at the earliest possible opportunity.

3. Fletchers Solicitors​ Apprenticeship

Office Locations: Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Southport and Birmingham.

Do you have a passion for the law but are put off by the cost of university? If so, their six-year Solicitor Apprenticeship could be the perfect solution for you.

• Hybrid working available – with the flexibility to work from home and collaborate in-office when needed.
• Earn While You Learn – A Debt-Free Route to Becoming a Solicitor​

Application close date: Friday 10th April - Apply here.

​What is the Solicitor Apprenticeship?​

• This fully funded programme, in partnership with The University of Law (ULaw), offers an alternative to the traditional university route, allowing you to achieve an LLB (Hons) Law Degree and prepare for SQE1 and SQE2 exams.
• Gain hands-on legal experience while earning a salary.
• The programme combines full-time legal work (five days a week) with a dedicated study day to ensure you are fully prepared for the SQE assessments.
• Upon passing SQE1 and SQE2, and subject to a character and suitability assessment, you can apply for admission as a solicitor.

Who Can Apply?​

• Motivated individuals who want to pursue a career in law without the financial burden of university.
• Only open to candidates who will be under the age of 22 on the programme enrolment date. ​​

​Entry Requirements

• 8 GCSEs (Grade C/4 or above) including Maths and English or equivalent.
• 3 A-Levels (Grade C or above) or BTEC equivalent.

What Experience Will You Gain?​

• Comprehensive experience in the field of clinical negligence, working on a broad and varied caseload of claims arising from medical errors.
• You will be involved in matters ranging from cosmetic and dental treatment issues to more complex and high-value cases, including catastrophic injuries, birth injuries, and delayed cancer diagnoses.
• This position offers the opportunity to develop a strong understanding of the legal and medical aspects of clinical negligence, as you support clients through often sensitive and challenging circumstances.
• You will also build practical skills in case management, investigation, and client communication, while gaining exposure to both straightforward claims and highly complex litigation.​

4. Fletchers Graduate Solicitor Apprentice

Fletchers solicitors have a fantastic opportunity to join their growing team as a Graduate Solicitor Apprentice.

• You will begin a structured 2–3-year pathway toward qualification as a solicitor while gaining hands-on experience within a dynamic legal environment.
• You will work alongside experienced legal professionals, supporting a range of legal matters including research, drafting documents, preparing case files, and assisting with client communications.
• Throughout the programme, you will combine practical, on-the-job training with formal study, developing strong legal knowledge, analytical skills, and professional judgement.
• This role offers an excellent opportunity to build a long-term legal career while contributing meaningfully to the team and delivering high-quality support to clients.​

Application close date: Friday 10^th April 2026 (they may close earlier depending on application volume) - Apply here.

What is the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship?

• ​Two-to three-year programme in which you will study with the University of Law, the UK’s largest legal training provider, to prepare for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).
• The programme combines full-time legal work (five days a week) with a dedicated study day to ensure you are fully prepared for the SQE assessments.
• Upon passing SQE1 and SQE2, and subject to a character and suitability assessment, you can apply for admission as a solicitor.​

1. Just Eat, STEM Work Experience Placement Week Y12 Students

Date: Mon 25th -Friday 29th May

Where? London and Bristol

Bristol, Monday 25th May @ 10:00 AM

London, Monday 25th @ 10:00AM

Find out more here.

2. Sixth Form Work Experience Finder

• Healthcare & Medicine
• Media & Film Studies
• Enterprise and Marketing
• Maths
• Business & Economics
• Science
• History

3. Year 12 The Schools’ Observatory Work Experience Week (WexWeek) 

Join Harker, a Liverpool-based software development company, for a week-long work experience placement. They're a fast-paced and forward-thinking company working to create an innovative software platform for homelessness charities. Alongside shadowing team meetings, you'll also get to complete your own independent software project guided by their full-time software developers.

Dates are flexible throughout the summer. They're also dedicating SEND half-week placement, so students from SEND settings can register.

Apply here.

Liverpool Mental Health Support for Children and Young People 

23rd March

• 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Using Routine Outcome Measures to Support Wellbeing – Book here.

• 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm: Understanding ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) – Book here.

24th March

• 10:00 am – 4:30 pm: ROAR Response to Racial Trauma – Merseyside Youth Association Ltd, Liverpool - Book here.

• 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Child & Adolescent to Parent Violence & Abuse Session (CAPVA) - Book here.

• 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Emotionally-Based School Avoidance – Book here.

25th March

• 9:30 am – 10:30 am: Children in Care Pathway – Book here.

• 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Growing Stronger: ACE AWARE Training – Book here.

• 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm: Understanding Mental Health Support for Children and Young People in Liverpool - Book here.