Good morning, everyone!
It's wonderful to connect with you again. Last time, we celebrated the success of our Sports Day event. Today, I want to highlight three key areas: opportunities, events, and extra-curricular activities for our students. Additionally, I'll discuss the curriculum for this half-term and how you, as parents, can support our young people at home.
Exciting Opportunities and Events
We recently had a fantastic Sports Day, which showcased the enthusiasm and sportsmanship of our students. A special thanks to all the parents who supported the event. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the teachers' race, which generated a lot of excitement among the students and spectators alike. The event ran smoothly, thanks to the efforts of both students and staff. It was a proud moment for me as the principal to see everyone enjoying and participating wholeheartedly.
Extracurricular Activities – Cyber Security Club for Girls
This initiative aims to encourage more young women to explore computer science. The club, designed for Key Stage 3 students (Years 7, 8, and 9), meets bi-weekly and engages in various coding and technology activities. Last year, the club visited the Deloitte office in London, providing invaluable insights from senior women in cybersecurity. This year, they had the inspiring experience of visiting Downing Street.
Curriculum Focus
For Key Stage 3 students, please review the curriculum on our website and use DPR to track their progress. The goal is for every child to be secure in their key objectives by the end of the year. Teachers are currently assessing these objectives to identify areas where students need additional support.
Our Year 10 students are preparing for their exams, which will help them identify gaps in their knowledge and build confidence. The same applies to Year 12 students as they prepare for their A-levels and BTEC exams. Encourage them to balance preparation with adequate rest and relaxation.
Parental Support
We need your support in reinforcing school policies, such as ensuring mobile phones are switched off and kept in bags during the school day. This policy has significantly reduced distractions and negative impacts associated with social media. Your co-operation in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Looking Ahead
We have many exciting events planned for the rest of this academic year. Our Year 7 and 8 students are participating in the district athletics, rewarding their excellent performance on Sports Day. Next week, we'll share updates from our business department, highlighting our new business mural and its focus on representation.
Stay informed about upcoming events by checking our communication channels regularly. Together, we can ensure the success of our young people.
Have a fantastic weekend, and we look forward to seeing you next week!
Sincerely,
Louisa Seymour
Principal
* Check out our Preloved School Uniform Shop for high-quality used uniforms at great prices! Save money while supporting sustainability. Visit us here: https://app.uniformd.co.uk/items/228 The current uniform skirts are now being sold at a discounted price.
Exploring Opportunities, Preparing for Exams, and Strengthening Partnerships: A Recap of the Week
Hi everyone, and welcome to our third week of the summer term! In the bustling corridors of our school, opportunities abound, and this week's message delves into three key themes: seizing opportunities, gearing up for exams, and fortifying the partnership between the school, parents, and students.
Exploring Opportunities:
The school prides itself on offering a holistic curriculum that extends beyond textbooks. In a recent Year 9 Design and Technology (DT) class, students showcased their prowess in hands-on learning—a testament to the diverse opportunities available. Moreover, partnerships with external organisations continue to broaden their horizons. A select group of year 9 students will participate in a STEM-focused event where they'll glean insights into career pathways, courtesy of a collaborating company we are working with. As if that weren't enough, an array of excursions, reward trips, Year 10 careers events, and sports day will be taking place this term. Letters will be sent out regarding these events.
Preparation for the Exam Season:
With exam season in full swing, the corridors hum with focused energy. Year 11 and 13 students are leaving no stone unturned, attending extra intervention sessions, and diligently adhering to revision schedules. Recent practical and language exams have showcased their dedication, but the real litmus test lies ahead. Both students and parents are urged to prioritise rest and support, ensuring peak performance on the day.
Strengthening the School-Parent-Student Partnership:
Central to the school's ethos is the tripartite partnership between the school, parents, and students. Clear communication channels are essential, with parents urged to monitor online activities to foster a safe digital environment. Equally crucial is minimising disruptions during school hours and encouraging students to seek guidance from school staff for prompt resolution of issues. Trust forms the bedrock of this partnership, with collective efforts aimed at nurturing each student's potential to shine.
Please help us promote a safe and positive online environment for students by monitoring their social media use.
DT Club: Crafting Futures with Mr Buckley:
The DT Club serves as a melting pot of ideas, where students from Years 7 to 9 delve into diverse projects, from sweet dispensers, acrylic birdhouses, and phone holders to mini pinball machines. With enthusiasm brimming, Mr. Buckley extends a warm invitation for aspiring innovators to join the club and unleash their creative potential. The club takes place every Tuesday after school.
Two final reminders: next Thursday is Year 10 Parents' Evening, and if your child has school dinners, please top up their account as some accounts are in deficit.
Thank you, as always, for your incredible support. Have a wonderful weekend. Together, let's make this a term where every student achieves and shines! I look forward to speaking to you again next week.
Open to 14 to 18 year-olds and their parents.