Since the start of the academic year in September, The English Martyrs Catholic School & Sixth Form College (EMS) has proudly welcomed all five BHCET feeder primary schools through its doors, offering a wide range of enriching experiences designed to support transition and strengthen community links.

Primary pupils have visited EMS on multiple occasions to take part in sporting festivals, science lessons and enrichment activities, creating valuable opportunities to build familiarity with the secondary school environment. This proactive approach supports children to feel confident and excited about the next stage of their education, while fostering meaningful relationships between pupils across our Trust.

Since September, EMS has hosted:

  • Two brilliant weeks of basketball with Year 5 and 6 pupils from St. Teresa’s and Sacred Heart. Pupils involved demonstrated exceptional confidence, resilience and honesty, alongside outstanding teamwork and determination.
  • Science lessons for pupils from St John Vianney, St Bega’s and Sacred Heart, allowing children to experience EMS’s specialist laboratory facilities firsthand and begin preparing for science at secondary school in a supportive and exciting environment.
  • Another lively football festival for Sacred Heart and St Joseph’s girls, showcasing brilliant sportsmanship, teamwork and energy throughout the event.
  • Celebrations for Black History Month, where Year 1 and Year 2 pupils from St Bega’s and St Joseph’s took part in inspiring Black Excellence Games, honouring influential Black athletes through sport. Activities were inspired by Simone Biles’ quote: “Remember to have fun, when I’m smiling and having fun, I perform my best.”
  • A wonderful multi-sports event with Year 1 and Year 2 pupils from Sacred Heart, whose enthusiasm and effort impressed everyone involved.

A special thank you goes to the EMS Sports Leaders, whose leadership, compassion, self-belief and professionalism ensured each event ran smoothly and created a welcoming environment for younger pupils. Their role in mentoring and guiding primary pupils exemplifies the power of peer support within our Trust.

This growing programme is a shining example of EMS’s excellent transition offer, helping pupils feel connected, confident and ready for secondary school, while bringing the Hartlepool community together through shared learning and values.