January Y11 Mocks 2026
Now the world’s go-to short video platform, TikTok captivates young audiences with its endless stream of engaging clips, but not without potential pitfalls. From unsettling or age-inappropriate content to harmful viral challenges, misinformation and even radicalisation, this ever-popular app can expose children to content that may not always be suitable for them.
Our #WakeUpWednesday guide explores TikTok’s hidden hazards, including in-app spending, compulsive screen time and privacy concerns, offering clear advice for parents and educators. With expert insight and practical safety tips, it aims to help families ensure that TikTok use remains fun, positive and, most importantly, safe.
Kicking off our whole-school with the help of our amazing Duke’s staff!
Each year we aim to donate as many calendars as possible, and this time we were proud to contribute 40 calendars to support the incredible work the food bank does for our community. Collections start this week in tutor time for can and dry goods.
AI can now generate realistic looking videos that are almost impossible to distinguish from genuine content. From hoax news to abusive deepfakes, these synthetic clips can mislead, manipulate and even harm. As AI tools become more advanced, and more accessible, young people are increasingly at risk of encountering fake but convincing footage online. This #WakeUpWednesday guide unpacks the dangers of AI-generated videos, from the emotional impact of fake distressing content to the potential for impersonation and bullying. With practical tips to help young users spot deepfakes and navigate online spaces with confidence, this guide is an essential read for parents and educators navigating this rapidly evolving digital landscape
A reminder to all of our students and their families…
We are collecting for the Wansbeck Valley Food Bank until 2nd December!
Let’s pull together and give a hand to people in our community who could really use it right now. Every bit makes a difference! No donation is too small; tins, basics or even just spreading the word all helps. If you are not in a position to donate but still want to try and help, why not share their Facebook page with your friends? To share, click the link below.
https://www.facebook.com/wansbeckvalleyfoodbank
Remembrance Sunday
On Sunday 9th November, Duke’s Secondary School’s Combined Cadet Force proudly took part in the Ashington Remembrance Parade, standing shoulder to shoulder with local community members to honour those who have served and sacrificed.
Our cadets showed true courage and composure as they marched through the town, representing Duke’s with pride and respect. A particularly special moment came when CDT CPL Isla Blake laid a wreath on behalf of Duke’s Secondary School – a touching tribute to those who gave their lives in service.
Colour Sergeant John Langan acted as Parade Commander, leading the contingent with discipline and professionalism, while Second Lieutenant Kirsten Osman provided vital support in coordinating the march. A huge thanks to John and Kirsten!
This year’s parade was the first attended by Duke’s CCF as a full contingent under the new leadership of Mrs Georgia Goodfellow, marking the start of an important tradition that will see our cadets continue to take part in future Remembrance events.
We are incredibly proud of all our cadets for their commitment, bravery, and sense of duty. Their efforts embody the light values we strive towards every day at Duke’s. Well done to each and everyone involved, we couldn’t be prouder of you!
Lest we forget.
We have been informed of some LGBT+ workshops at Hirst welfare over the next few weeks. All info below.
Descriptions and links to book each workshop below 
. All are welcome!
. All are welcome!Saturday 8th November – 10 – 12:00 – 
Hirst Welfare Centre
Hirst Welfare CentreCharacter Design with MegÂ
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In this workshop we will discuss the concept of chosen family, and the importance of the being able to recognise the characteristics that we need when deciding who our chosen family are going to be. We will be exploring these concepts through the use of portraiture and character design, and seeing how this can change how characters are designed.
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Meg is a local illustrator from Newcastle whose work encapsulates humour, social issues, and portraiture through bright and bold illustrations.
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Saturday 8th November – 12.30 – 15:00 – Hirst Welfare Centre
Hirst Welfare CentreWe are Family with Phyllis Christopher and Kate Sweeney
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The workshop will use the archive as a source of inspiration for ideas and conversations. Drop into this fun interactive photo studio, be inspired by pride themed photos then use the cameras provided to create new portraits and moments exploring the diversity and beauty and expansive possibilities of ‘queer life’ in Ashington in 2025. Please bring any objects that represent ‘diversity’, ‘belonging’ and ‘home’ to you – but not required – just come along and have a fun time!
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Kate Sweeney (https://katesweeney.
Saturday 15th November – 10 – 12:00 – Hirst Welfare Centre
Hirst Welfare CentreCollage Poetry with Amy Langdown
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The workshop will focus on the idea of ‘home’ – what home means to each individual person and how we create ‘home’. We will explore the theme via poetry and collage.
Amy Langdown is a poet and participatory artist who focuses on community and creating safe spaces for people to share their lived experience.
Saturday 15th November – 13:00 – 15:00 – Hirst Welfare Centre
Hirst Welfare CentreTea Tray Painting and Mosaics with Lily Daniels
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Welcome, Karibu, خوش آمدید! Welcoming people to your home is so important, whether they’ve popped by for a cuppa, a chat or to celebrate. Welcome them with creativity by making a painted or mosaic tea tray, your work of art can be used at home again and again to welcome neighbours, friends and families.
Lily Daniels is an artist who works with old fashioned materials to connect to heritage and tradition. She works at GemArts to bring cultural arts to communities and schools.
Saturday 22nd November – 11:00 – 13:00 –Â Hirst Welfare Centre
Hirst Welfare CentrePop-up Houses with Mack Sproates
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Make and decorate pop-up houses and explore themes of home, family and belonging in this relaxed creative session
Mack Sproates is a theatre maker, facilitator, artist and zine maker based in Newcastle. Their work is joyful, playful, cut and stick, silly and raw; aiming to help marginalised people’s voices feel seen and heard. They are inspired by DIY punk scenes, pop-culture, music and comic books.
Book here: Pop-Up Houses with Mack – Fill out form
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Saturday 13th December – 12 – 15:00 – Hirst Welfare Centre
Hirst Welfare CentreFestive Wreath Making with Yve Anthea Ngoo
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Handmake your own sustainable festive wreath, which can be traditional, reflective of your culture or just decorative! Strictly limited to 20 places.
Yve Anthea Ngoo is a North East-based artist who makes wearable and sustainable art and adornments
Book here: Festive Wreath Making with Yve – Fill out form
has exploded in popularity, with over 100 million downloads worldwide. The mobile trading card game is packed with quick battles, colourful decks, and the thrill of opening booster packs – but the excitement can come at a cost.Â
This week’s #WakeUpWednesday guide helps trusted adults navigate the risks – from addictive spending habits to endless new card sets. With tips on monitoring purchases, managing play time, and encouraging fairness, our expert advice supports parents and educators in keeping young players safe while still enjoying the game.
Portal for Admission is Closing in 24 hours!
Applications into Year 7 for September 2026 at Duke’s Secondary School are filling up extremely fast. This is a final reminder that the last opportunity to apply is this Friday, 31st October 2025 – Tomorrow!
Please be aware that sending an application does not automatically mean that your child’s place is guaranteed. Where the number of applications for admission is greater than the published admission number, applications will be considered against the criteria as set out in the Academy’s Admissions Policy.
Unless there are exceptional circumstances, an application received after 31 October 2025 will be considered late. This will lower your chance of being offered a place at your preferred school. If you return your application after 31 October 2025, you must give a reason why it is late.
If you have not yet submitted your child’s application, we urge you to do so as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. To apply for admission into Year 7 at Duke’s Secondary School, please visit the website below immediately.
