HUNDREDS of prospective students took a look at a school on a journey of improvement.

Mark Hall Academy, in Harlow, opened its doors to future Year 7 students at its annual open evening.

The event was just the second since the school joined the BMAT family in 2021 and gave young people and their families an opportunity to see the improvements which have been made.

Principal Manjit Hazle and Mark Hall students gave presentations to visitors who were also welcomed on a tour of the school.

Guests were able to visit every department of the school and experience – 

• cooking and baking activities
• a photoshoot
• the new fiction library 
• a rock band performance 
• the acoustic band rehearsal
• Year 10 students performing a play they created
• drama club’s pantomime rehearsals
• The Orchard’s sensory room, zones of regulation and Lego therapy
• a netball showcase
• a football showcase
• curriculum themed activities in English
• speedy keyboard skills
• maths puzzles
• rainbow making in science
• building a geographical landscape in Lego
• designing their own banknote featuring a famous historical person
• French and Spanish food tasting

They got to try lunch samples in the canteen, find out about breakfast club and after-school homework club, and hear about the enrichment clubs available, ranging from reading, science and technology to gym, athletics and film.

Ben Clark, deputy principal, said: “We were thrilled to welcome upwards of 300 groups of prospective students.

“The atmosphere and engagement by all was fantastic to observe with Mark Hall students proudly touring, explaining and encouraging our guests to strongly consider the new Mark Hall as the place to come on the next stage of their journey.

“Our students spoke with such pride when they were speaking of their school. The change in their attitudes and dynamics were clear to see and further encouragement of the progress being made in transforming Mark Hall once again into a leading school within Harlow.”

Coffee mornings are also being held for prospective students and their parents to see the school during a working day.