The Faith, Family and Fellowship Newsletter will be sent to all families across the Federation each term. 

We hope you enjoy reading our good news and stories. 

Faith, Family and Fellowship Federation Newsletters - 2025/2026

Edition 3 - Spring Term 1

Edition 2 - Autumn Term 2

Edition 1 - Autumn Term 1

Faith, Family and Fellowship Federation Newsletters - 2024/2025

Edition 6 - Summer Term 2

Edition 5 - Summer Term 1

Edition 4 - Spring Term 2

Edition 3 - Spring Term 1

Edition 2 - Autumn Term 2

Special Edition - Autumn Term 2

Edition 1 - Autumn Term 1

Staff joined in the celebrations by dressing up as their favourite book characters and sharing the books and authors they love with students during lessons. It was a brilliant way to model a passion for reading and spark conversations about favourite stories and new books to try.

Our library was at the heart of the day’s activities, hosting a variety of events during break and lunchtime. Students took part in book hunts, quizzes, riddles and creative book cover design challenges, all of which proved extremely popular.

In English lessons, Key Stage 3 students enjoyed special World Book Day activities, including literature quizzes, reading games and creative writing group competitions. These sessions encouraged collaboration, imagination and, most importantly, enjoyment of reading and storytelling.

During Family Group, students had the opportunity to watch impressive performances from their peers who are taking part in the Greenwich Poetry by Heart competition. Students performed poems of their choice from memory, and it was inspiring to see such confidence, creativity and appreciation of poetry from our talented students.

Another highlight of the day was the Teacher Character Hunt. Students were given clues to work out which book characters their teachers had dressed up as, creating lots of excitement and discussion throughout the day.

To ensure every student could continue the celebration beyond the classroom, all students were given a World Book Day token. These tokens can be used at major retailers to collect a free book or to receive £1 off a book of their choice.

Overall, the day was a fantastic celebration of reading and storytelling. Events like these reflect the importance we place at St Mary Magdalene C of E School on reading for pleasure.

We look forward to continuing to promote a love of reading throughout the year and to celebrating World Book Day again next year.

Miss Asuquo and Miss Baah

The production, brought a mythical version of ancient Peking to life with bold colours, striking costumes and a huge chorus that filled the stage. Students were fascinated by how the show blended elements of Chinese and Italian theatrical traditions to create something that felt both imaginative and dramatic.

The opera tells the story of Prince Calaf and the icy Princess Turandot, who challenges her suitors with three riddles—answer correctly, and you win her hand; answer incorrectly, and you face execution. The tension of Calaf’s gamble, along with Puccini’s powerful music, kept the whole year group completely absorbed.

I wanted to shine the light on experienced performers as well as the most unexpected students – giving them a platform to build their confidence, and the courage to display it.

For the last two months we have been working towards this night, and alongside me, I had the help of some amazing 6th form students and Ms Aberese & Ms Steele.

This is an idea I wanted to see come to fruition for a while and I’m glad it was able to happen. I also want to say we are very proud of the performers who have been working hard in rehearsals for the past few weeks. I hope this night has inspired other students.

Thank you to all the staff, students, and parents who came to support.

Ms Da Costa

On Sunday 12th October, our Girls Flag (American) Football Team experienced a truly unforgettable day as special guests of the New York Jets at their NFL game against the Denver Broncos at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Upon arrival, the team received an incredible surprise — they had been invited to play a Flag Football showcase match on the very same pitch where the NFL game would later take place, performing in front of a crowd of more than 50,000 fans.

The girls rose to the occasion, playing brilliantly and showing great teamwork and determination. One of the standout moments came when Rebecca Akabueze-Mbah ran in a spectacular touchdown for StMM, earning cheers from the stadium.

But the surprises didn’t stop there! The girls were then invited to form a guard of honour on the pitch, welcoming the New York Jets as they entered the field from the tunnel — an incredible moment and a memory they’ll cherish forever.

Throughout the day, the team also had the chance to meet a number of familiar faces, including Aitch, Nella Rose, and members of the Great Britain Flag Football Team.

The day concluded with the pupils enjoying the thrilling NFL game between the Jets and Broncos from their seats in the stands — the perfect ending to a day of celebration, reward, and inspiration.

This fantastic experience was a well-deserved recognition of the girls’ hard work, dedication, and commitment to the Flag Football Team over the past two years. We couldn't be prouder of them!

This year we are delighted that more of our Year 11s than ever before have chosen to continue their journey with us into Sixth Form. We are also welcoming our largest ever Sixth Form intake, a real testament to the strength of our school community and the trust families place in us.

Our Year 13 students have also excelled, with over 90% securing their university places, while others have accepted prestigious degree apprenticeships with leading companies. Their success reflects not only academic excellence but also the ambition and character that makes our pupils so special.

Across both Year 11 and Year 13 there have been some truly standout performances, but every single student has achieved something to be proud of. We celebrate them all, and we are excited to see what the future holds for each of them.

From the moment they arrived, students threw themselves into a wide range of exciting activities. Whether they were navigating obstacle courses, testing their nerve on the high ropes, or solving challenges in team-building exercises, each pupil had the opportunity to step out of their comfort zone and discover new strengths.

Evenings were filled with fun and laughter, with group games and time to relax and reflect with friends. Staff were incredibly proud of the way students supported one another, displayed resilience, and embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and positivity.

The trip was not only a chance to build confidence and independence, but also a wonderful way for students to strengthen friendships and create lasting memories early in their secondary school journey.

The highlight of the day was a hands-on workshop, where students tried their own codebreaking skills, had an opportunity to use a real surviving Enigma machine from the war, and gained a deeper appreciation for the logic and problem-solving at the heart of this remarkable history. The trip was a fantastic experience for all involved, bringing history and mathematics to life and showed the students the impact the problem-solving skills they gain in the mathematics classroom have had on the world.

We are delighted to extend a cordial invitation to you for our highly anticipated Annual Art Exhibition, showcasing the creativity and talent of our students. This event promises to be a celebration of artistic expression and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our budding artists.

Date: June 24th 

Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM 

Location: GMV Community Centre

2 Oswald Gardens,
London, SE10 0SH

(5-min walk from school)

We look forward to welcoming you to this enriching event and sharing the joy of artistic expression together. Refreshments will be provided. 

Best Wishes,

Ms Anderson

Head of Art

Our itinerary was packed with incredible experiences. We explored the breathtaking Plaza de España, where students marvelled at the intricate tilework and even reenacted scenes from famous films shot there. The Alcázar was another highlight, transporting us back in time with its stunning Moorish architecture and lush gardens. We also had the chance to visit the iconic bullring, La Maestranza, where we learned about Spain's deep-rooted bullfighting traditions.

One of the most exciting parts of the trip was experiencing an authentic flamenco dance performance. The passion and energy of the dancers left us in awe, and some of our students even tried a few moves themselves! Another unforgettable day was our visit to Córdoba, where we explored the breathtaking Mezquita-Catedral and strolled through the charming Jewish Quarter, soaking in the city's rich history and culture.

Beyond the sightseeing, students had the chance to practice their Spanish in real-life situations, ordering tapas, navigating the city, and engaging with locals. Some even discovered a new love for churros con chocolate! A particularly memorable moment was when a few brave students joined a spontaneous flamenco performance, impressing even the locals with their enthusiasm.

This trip was more than just an educational experience—it was a chance to bond, step out of our comfort zones, and embrace the beauty of Spanish culture. Many students returned with a newfound confidence in their language skills and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

A huge thanks to everyone who helped making this trip possible. We can’t wait for the next adventure!

Ms P Tormo

Renowned for its global contributions to plant conservation, Kew Gardens showcases the importance of gathering and safeguarding biodiversity. Students explored the Millennium Seed Bank, which protects plant species from extinction by collecting and storing seeds from around the world. They also engaged with Kew’s vast living plant collections, herbariums, and archives, witnessing firsthand how species are gathered, classified, and preserved for future generations.

In addition, the visit encouraged students to reflect on the broader meanings of "gathering"—from the physical collection of plants to environmental conservation and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. This immersive experience provided inspiration for their creative projects, helping them develop new artistic perspectives for their GCSE exam work.

Ms Anderson

The workshop is designed to inspire and support students considering Art for GCSE, offering them a unique chance to learn from professional artists.

Ms Anderson

Ms. Anderson, the Head of Art at SMM, met with Councillor Jit Ranabhat, Mayor of the Royal Greenwich Borough, to discuss the importance of schools engaging with broader community events. Displaying students' artwork in such spaces elevates the profile of Art in our community and serves as significant publicity for our school.

We are incredibly proud of our student's achievements for this opportunity to share their creativity with the community. We invite you to join us in celebrating the students’ work by visiting the  GMV Community Centre located at 2 Oswald Gardens, London, SE10 OSH ( just 6 mins walk  from SMM school)

Ms Anderson

At this year’s annual GCSE and A Level Exhibition, we welcomed parents, students and the wider school community for a night of music and art. The theme this year was "Urban Visions", aiming to capture the cultural diversity of our student body. Each piece serves as a testament to the boundless imagination and skill nurtured within our school community.​

As you step into the gallery, you are immediately greeted by a monumental sculptural piece that explores identity and feminism. Another standout piece is a stunning mixed-media installation that captures the dynamic interplay of race and what it means to be a black female. The exhibition incorporates digital art, multimedia installations, and other media, showcasing the students' adaptability and proficiency with modern technologies, adding to the emotional depth and technical sophistication on display.​

Please click here to view our digital brochure

We were delighted to have our primary students across the Federation visit the Art exhibition in secondary. This enriching experience not only fostered a deeper appreciation for the Arts but sparked inspiration and excitement for their own creative journeys as the young learners envision their own potential as future artists.​

Congratulations to our young artists for their remarkable contributions, and a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated art staff and Ms Anderson the Art Lead, who made the event possible. This year's exhibition is a resounding success, promising a bright future for the Arts in our school.​

The experience in Valencia proved to be unforgettable for all, not only due to its renowned festivals, but also for leisurely strolls along its bustling streets and charming squares, where one can't resist stopping at a bar for refreshing drinks and delectable tapas. The highlight undoubtedly was the famous 'Fallas' festival, an integral part of Valencia's cultural heritage.

Our itinerary included visits to iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral, Europe's largest aquarium (el Oceanográfico), La Plaza del Ayuntamiento, the Malvarosa beach, and the Mestalla, home to Valencia football stadium. Additionally, students had the unique opportunity to participate in a paella cooking lesson, sourcing fresh vegetables for their salads directly from the land. Exploring local markets and indulging in souvenir shopping added to the enriching experience.

It was truly a pleasure to accompany such an exceptional group of students on this journey. I couldn't be prouder of each and every one of them.

The event was an opportunity for students to show off their literature knowledge, enjoy the teamwork and group activities while competing between schools.  

Students also had a chance to meet Young Adult author Gita Ralleigh and were able to buy a signed copy of her book ‘The Destiny of Minou Moonshine’ – Gita also signed a copy of the book for our school Library.  Well done to Grace, Shien, Abida and Psalm who competed so well!

Students in Year 8 visited the Guildhall Art Gallery as part of the Jack Petchey Culturally Speaking Programme. This involved a guided tour of the gallery and an exploration of the stories, themes and issues behind various pieces of art. This was followed by a workshop where students took part in an oracy workshop to develop their public speaking skills by an expert trainer. Students wrote fantastic speeches on the issues they explored on their visit to the Guildhall Art Gallery on topics including colonialism, identity and love. Both events were highly enjoyable and all students represented our school excellently. They each received a certificate for this achievement.

https://koinoniafederation.applicaa.com/year12

Please complete asap to avoid disappointment, as subject choices are on a first come/first serve basis where capacity fills up quickly. 

Deadline for application- 29th February 2024

Interviews to be held in March 2024

** Late applications may be accepted (interview will be held at a later date. You will be contacted directly)  

Our class of 2023 have been celebrating our wonderful results today. A huge congratulations to all of our students on their hard work and accomplishments, no matter what grade they are awarded; the excellent accomplishments of St Mary Magdalene students are testimony to their hard work, and the dedication and support of their teachers.

 Grades at 4 and 5 in English and Maths have significantly increased, crucial for future study, with 74% of our students achieving a grade 5 or above in English. The achievements of our students are significant given the level of disruption they have experience over the years and even within their final year of education in year 11. Our results match up favourably with those of the Local authority pre-pandemic. 

A huge congratulations to our staff team. Not only through the daily timetabled lessons, but all the additional sessions they led before and after school, as well as weekend and half term sessions. I know our students are truly grateful and from a staff perspective, witnessing the joy in our students today, I can say that all the effort was truly worth it. 

It was also pleasing to see a number of students also have met the grades they needed to meet their entry requirements for the next phase of their education.

Raz Hussain

Principal

GCSE results

School and college performance data 

The temporary gallery space was filled with an amazing turnout of attendees. Witnessing our students' artworks in a professional setting was an impressive and inspiring experience. It was also heart-warming to see our students discussing their pieces with guests.

The exhibition was enjoyed by a diverse group of attendees, including students, parents, school governors, staff, and even primary school students who were visiting a secondary school for the first time. We would like to extend our gratitude to everyone who came to support the students' accomplishments. Once again, congratulations to our talented art students for their remarkable work!

The winner of the poster competition is Eniola in 11GAO, who will receive an R5 and a £50 gift voucher. There are also three runners up: Victoria in 10PTO, Malaiyah in 9JAN and Neriah in 8AGZ, who will each receive an R4 and a prize. Their posters are below. 

There were many other fantastic entrants, the best of whom will receive R3s. A list of all the winners can be found below. Many of these posters will be displayed around school to celebrate our school’s values, and our students’ talents.

Eniola, 11GAO

Victoria, 10PTO

Malaiyah, 9JAN

Neriah, 8AGZ

Full list of winners:

Winner: R5 and prize

Eniola Oladimeji, 11GAO

Runners-up: R4 and prize

Neriah Hilton-Kwebiiha, 8AGZ

Malaiyah Monlouis, 9JAN

Victoria Abdul, 10PTO

Special commendation: R3

Chisom Okoronkwo, 7MMA

Esther Papini, 8KHS

Charlotte de Jesus, 8AHN

Glorian Adetayo-Eyesigha, 8AHN

Rachel Olukan, 8DGO

Daniella Gayon, 8AGZ

Adebola Adbede, 9DLH

Haley Henry, 11VNE

Mount-Zion Obulor, 12ODA

Isabel White, 13AON

Our collective vision and ethos at the Koinonia Federation is to live as a family, grow in faith and be united in fellowship. We welcome the Department for Education’s decision against making over-simplistic comparisons with other local and national schools and its move to recognise the ‘uneven impact’ that Covid has had on schools. We are keen to highlight and celebrate the diversity of our school family; and this also means recognising the particular challenges our students faced during Covid, with nearly 60% coming from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Overall, we are encouraged to see the progress our students are making and pleased to share some of our most notable successes with 60% of our students achieving grade 4 or above in English and maths and 60% Grade 5 or above in English. Some individual subjects also did particularly well, with Music and BTEC Sport both performing well above even their aspirational targets. We congratulate all of our students on their successes, including those with particularly fantastic results: indeed, 79 Grade 8s or above were achieved. 

The students who achieved these results did so in challenging circumstances during a global pandemic and they should be commended for their displays of courage, resilience and motivation in the face of such extraordinary circumstances that have been unseen in a generation. We are delighted to have welcomed many of them back to our newly completed 6^th Form and for the others starting new exciting adventures we wish them every success in the future.

9:15am to 10:30am on 05/10/2023

9:15am to 10:30am on 12/10/2023

Open Event - Now Concluded

4:20pm to 6:30pm on 03/10/2023

4:20pm to 6:30pm on 16/10/2023

We congratulate all students on their successes, and note the particular achievements of some individuals. Two students achieved all of their GCSEs at grades 7 to 9, seven students achieved more than half their grades at 8s and 9s, and twenty-five students achieved at least four grade 7s or above.

Whatever our students’ ​GCSE results, we know their determination and persistence has helped them to achieve these outcomes. We are proud of their efforts and look forward to welcoming students from St Mary Magdalene and other secondary schools to our Sixth Form in September.

The RBG Quiz was a great event and among many teams, our pupils were awarded 4th place.

On the first weekend students embarked on a 16km trek through Epping forest before arriving at campsite. Despite some of our students over packing they all kept the morale high whilst working together to navigate a map with an instructor. Students worked in groups to set up tents, cook dinner and prepare breakfast and set up a camp fire for the evening. 

The weekend was finished off by a 16km walk back to the station without the help of an instructor. 

The day was led by an inspirational facilitator Graham, who encouraged our students to feel more hopeful for their future, develop confidence, overcome barriers, consider their behaviour and understand themselves and each other better.

 The day began by helping students consider their circumstances, past and barriers that have led them to who they are today. They then took part in a number of activities that were designed to empower students to work to overcome these barriers, think more positively about their lives and develop more confidence. 

Although a challenging and thought-provoking day, feedback from students was extremely positive and we look forward to hosting Graham at school to work with the whole year group later in the term.

Alexander Hamilton was played by Jericho Baruwa 8CDK,

Definitely a superstar in the making! 

Oceanne Serago 11 LHN - “Christmas Chaos!”

Divine Balogun 10JBN - “ A Christmas Night”

Funanya Odu 11KMS - “A Very Different Christmas Time”

These amazing short stories will be featured as part of our student library collection of stories where all members of school community will have a chance to read them.

Well done all! 

Eniola’s poem “Other” stood out to many of the judging panels for its emotion and powerful use of repetition to challenge attitudes effectively. The use of questions also added to the overall effect.

As a result poem “Other” by Eniola Oladimeji 10AOU is the runner up in the whole KS4 in the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

We are pleased to announce that the following poems;