ORMISTON Bolingbroke Academy in Runcorn has launched this academic year with ‘The OBA Way' - a new initiative aimed at promoting three key concepts, 'ready, respectful, and resilient'.

The academy champions its strong ethos of the three Rs and is committed to ensuring that students are properly organised for school with high attendance and punctuality records, developing a positive mind-set, having the courage to do the right thing, taking pride in both their school and community.

The programme was met with a great deal of support and will help to continue to drive crucial values across the school.

As part of The OBA Way, subject lessons were collapsed over the course of the first week of the academic term and students in Years 7-11 participated in a series of activities dedicated to promoting and embedding ‘The OBA Way’.

For Year 7, an innovative induction week involving reflection, listening, discussion and problem-solving tasks culminated in a team-building trip of sand castle competitions and sport-based challenges at Thurstaston Beach in West Kirby.

Year 7 leader, Mrs Stitch said: “It was a pleasure to see how well the students gelled and worked together in teams.

"The innovative lessons the students have received this year as part of their induction on respect and resilience have really contributed to an extremely calm and settled start to their OBA life."

Year 11 students began their pivotal year with an inspirational visit from youth empowerment expert Action Jackson.

They heard anecdotal stories from the guest about his journey from childhood to becoming the man he is today, as well as picking up fantastic tips on how to set goals, achieve them, be happy and relieve stress.

Year 11 leader, Mr McIntyre said: “The visit was a brilliant way to focus our Year 11s and motivate them for such an important year. Lots of the students commented that they felt inspired after his sessions had come away with a real ‘can do’ attitude.

“The session with Action Jackson was brilliant. He inspired me in every workshop to achieve more and be happy. His sessions were full of comedy and motivation and has had a major impact on my outlook on life. He taught me to keep my aspirations high and be the best me.”

Year 11 student Ewan Jago, said: “Action Jackson was extremely inspirational. The topics discussed resonated with me while contemplating my future goals and career options. Extremely beneficial and enjoyable.”