Principals Weekly Update

Welcome to this week’s update. There has been a great deal happening across the school, with a strong focus on Year 11 progress, sporting success in PE and important information for our Year 7 families.

Year 11 Final Drop-Down Day

On Wednesday our Year 11 students took part in their final drop-down day, this was an important opportunity for them to step away from their normal timetable and focus on targeted support in preparation for the exam season.

Students across a wide range of subjects were involved in key activities designed to maximise progress. This included:

• Completion of coursework and internally assessed units in subjects such as hospitality and catering, engineering, art and photography;

• PE students finalising their PPE exercise programme coursework;

• Hospitality and catering students preparing and cooking two assessed dishes as part of their final unit.

All coursework is being carefully planned to ensure completion by February half term, allowing students to fully focus on revision and exam preparation.

Alongside this, students took part in walking-talking mocks in subjects including science, history, geography and languages, supporting students to understand how to approach exam questions effectively.

These interventions are guided by detailed data analysis, ensuring students receive support where it will have the greatest impact.

With over 130 sixth form applications received, we would like to thank Year 11 parents and students for the strong response to sixth form application process. If you are considering applying, please ensure applications are submitted as soon as possible. We are very much looking forward to welcoming students to interview and continuing their journey with us in our sixth form.

Supporting Students Across the School

While Year 11 have been a key focus this week, we also recognise the hard work of:

• Year 10 and Year 12 students, who are currently completing internal assessments;

• Year 13 students, who are securing university or apprenticeship destinations while preparing for their final exams.

PE Fixtures, Enrichment and Sporting Success

It has been a fantastic period for PE, with several teams achieving success in cup competitions and fixtures across football and other sports.

PE also plays a vital role in our wider enrichment offer. We are extremely grateful to our PE staff who consistently go the extra mile to provide additional opportunities for students and to parents who support participation beyond the school day.

Sport develops far more than physical ability, it helps build leadership, resilience, teamwork and respect. These qualities are closely aligned with our PROUD values. We strongly encourage all students to get involved in sport or physical activity, both within school and in the wider community.

Please note that our school facilities are available for community use in the evenings and at weekends. If you would like further information about activities available, please contact the school.

Year 7 Progress and Parents’ Evening

As we reach the halfway point of the academic year, our Year 7 students continue to impress us with how well they have transitioned to secondary school life. They have embraced the UHS way, our golden ethos and PROUD values, and have settled in exceptionally well.

A Year 7 Parents’ Evening will be taking place soon. This will provide parents with the opportunity to:

• Share feedback on your child’s transition and experience so far;

• Meet with all subject teachers to discuss progress and celebrate the high standards seen across lessons.

Year 7 parents should look out for a letter with further details shortly.

Thank you for taking the time to read this week’s update and for your ongoing support. We look forward to sharing more news with you next week.