End of Week Newsletter
June 5th 2026
A Message from the Principal
I hope our entire school community had a restful half term break.
The first week has flown by and it’s been another busy one with trips, educational visits and year 11 exams. Year 11 are so close to the end now. It’s been delightful to see how they have remained resilient and continued with purposeful studies during this incredibly tiring and stressful period for them. I am pleased that we’ve been able to adapt their curriculum to match their exams. I understand that this has a knock on effect to other year groups but they will get the same courtesy when it’s their turn for their GCSEs.
Shirt signing
Year 11s final day will be Monday 15 June and we are inviting all year 11s to partake in shirt signing after their final exam. Students have an exam in the morning, starting at 9am. Once this exam has finished they will be making their way to the study hub where they can get their school shirt signed by their peers and teachers before leaving site. A separate letter has been sent to year 11 parents outlining this. Students must not have their shirt signed prior to the exam. There is a further maths exam in the afternoon. The students who are in this exam must bring a separate shirt if they want to partake in shirt signing. They cannot enter the afternoon exam with a signed shirt.
New staff
On Monday, we welcome our new Second in Department for English; Francesca Turner. Mrs Turner joins us with a wealth of experience with many years of teaching and I am delighted with her appointment. Since Mr Cowley departed at Easter to relocate with his family, we’ve been supported by our colleagues from our trust central team; Mr Rogers, Mr Carter, Mr Holledge, Ms Nial and Ms Macdonald-Fawcett. I want to place on record my thanks to them for their support for the last two months.
Uniform reminder
I just want to remind parents/carers about uniform. Students are expected to wear black shoes/trainers, black trousers (not joggers/leggings), a white collared shirt (with a top button, not a blouse), a school tie and a school jumper. We do have a stock of uniform to loan if necessary but please support us in ensuring that your child is in full and correct uniform. Students must also come equipped to school. They should all have a school bag with the necessary stationery, their school planner including their timetable and a bottle of water. Please support us in ensuring that your child is fully equipped for school.
Get ready for the school discos in July!
We are excited to announce our upcoming school discos, and we want to see as many students there as possible!
To celebrate the hard work and dedication of our school community, we are offering a significant discount on ticket prices for students who consistently demonstrate excellence in their daily routines.
How to secure a discount
Students can qualify for a reduced ticket price by meeting the following criteria:
- Perfect attendance and punctuality: attending school every day and arriving at all lessons on time.
- Positive learning behaviour: consistently showing a great attitude and high engagement during lessons.
We want to reward those who show up and give their best effort every single day. Let’s make these events really memorable!
Useful Tips for Parents/Carers
Safeguarding
Monitor Money and Valuables:
If your teenager is losing money or valuables, they may be being taken advantage of. Ask them about it calmly and try to understand the situation. Inform the school so we can provide guidance and support to you as the parent, alongside direct support to the student.
Attendance
Reward Good Attendance:
Celebrate and acknowledge when your child has excellent attendance. A simple reward or high praise can motivate them to keep attending regularly.
Reading/Literacy
Make Reading Fun:
Turn reading into a game by creating challenges like “Can we finish this chapter together?” or “Find three new words today!” Making literacy fun keeps them engaged.
