Principals Weekly Update
Remembrance, Enrichment and Attendance Focus at UHS
This week’s blog was filmed on Wednesday 12th November 2025, the day after Remembrance Day. Ms Seymour opened the update by reflecting on the importance of remembrance, before discussing this week’s other themes, which included enrichment, attendance and punctuality.
Reflecting on Remembrance
As part of the school’s remembrance activities, students and staff across Uxbridge High School took time to pause and reflect on those who made great sacrifices for others, both in past and present conflicts.
Ms Seymour proudly wore a handmade poppy created by her personal assistant, Ms Denson, as a symbol of remembrance and respect. She highlighted the continuing importance of remembrance in 2025, reminding the school community that conflicts still affect lives around the world and that taking time to reflect remains vital.
Students Laila and Zach, both in Year 11, joined the vlog to share their thoughts on why remembrance matters. Laila spoke about the importance of honouring those who gave their lives during the First World War, while Zach reflected on those who continue to serve and protect in modern-day conflicts, reminding us that remembrance helps everyone appreciate the value of peace and freedom.
Developing Skills Through Enrichment
Ms Seymour also shared an update on the school’s enrichment programme, now in its second year. Every student at UHS takes part in enrichment each Tuesday after school, giving them opportunities to develop new skills, interests and personal qualities beyond the classroom.
Following feedback from last year’s student and staff surveys, the structure has evolved so that students now take part in three different enrichment sessions across the academic year. This allows them to spend more time building meaningful connections with staff and peers while developing a wider range of experiences.
The school is currently surveying students and staff to evaluate how the new model is working. Parents are also encouraged to share their thoughts, either through future surveys or by contacting the school directly. As Ms Seymour explained, “We genuinely want enrichment to be a successful and distinctive feature of UHS, and we always listen to feedback.”
The Importance of Attendance and Punctuality
Finally, Ms Seymour spoke about the ongoing focus on attendance and punctuality. She reinforced that arriving on time and attending school consistently are both signs of respect for teachers and vital for academic success.
The school’s bell system supports punctual movement between lessons, ensuring students are settled and ready to learn. Ms Seymour encouraged parents to continue reinforcing the importance of attendance at home, sharing that national research shows students with attendance above 95% can achieve up to two grades higher than those who attend less frequently.
“As we move through this busy half-term,” she said, “we want every young person to feel motivated to come to school, arrive on time and make the most of every learning opportunity. Together, staff, parents and students can make sure that happens.”
In Partnership with Our Students and Families
Uxbridge High School remains committed to promoting reflection, growth and success across every aspect of school life. Through remembrance, enrichment and attendance, students continue to build the values, knowledge and character that prepare them for life beyond school.