Dear Students, Parents, and Carers,

As we near the end of this term and the season of advent, I wish to take this opportunity to reflect upon the accomplishments and experiences over the past few months.

Firstly, I extend my heartfelt commendations to our students for their unwavering dedication and diligence. Your commitment to academic excellence and participation in various school activities has been exemplary. Whether excelling in academic pursuits, engaging in sporting competitions, or showcasing artistic talents, each of you has contributed to the vibrant life of our school. We are proud of you! We will have some rewards activities for students throughout the final week of term.

I am thankful to the dedicated staff we have in school – teaching and support staff – who are committed to encouraging and supporting students to achieve their potential.

To our parents and carers, I extend my sincere thanks for your continued support and involvement in your children's education. Your partnership is invaluable, and your contributions are deeply appreciated.

As well as the developments in terms of the academic, pastoral and spiritual life of the school, we have also made and are making exciting changes in relation to the school site which we hope will provide an even better learning environment for our children:

  • We have extended the dining hall and installed a canopy on the side of the building so that there is more space for students to sit comfortably in the hall and stand undercover when queuing.
  • We have plans to reopen the ‘Food Pod’ situated outside so that we can offer an even more efficient service for students supported by this additional catering facility.
  • We are installing some additional doors to help with privacy and to support our internal systems in terms of ensuring toilets are kept clean throughout the day. This will not affect students using the toilets before school / after school, at break or lunch or during lesson times when students have medical passes or planners signed by their teachers. Any queries regarding the pass system can be referred to Mr. Gray and Mrs. White.
  • We are excited that students will be able to use our tennis courts as we move into the spring and summer months. This is an excellent resource that we really want students to enjoy and benefit from.

As we approach the break, I encourage everyone to take some time to rest, rejuvenate, and enjoy quality time with family and friends. This period offers a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the term's achievements and to set new goals for the forthcoming year.

Some key dates for next half term to be aware of in advance include:

Monday 6th – Friday 17th January – Year 13 Preparation Exams
Thursday 9th January – Year 11 Meet the Teacher Evening  - (Letter here)
Thursday 23rd January – Year 7 Meet the Teacher Evening
Thursday 6th February – Year 13 Meet the Teacher Evening
Thursday 20th February – Sixth Form Open Evening
Friday 21st February – Teacher Professional Development Day (school closed to students)

We have numerous exciting events and initiatives planned for the next term, and I am confident that we will continue to achieve great things together. I will be leading assemblies with students on their return to reaffirm our high expectations and ensure they are focused for the year ahead. I wish you all a safe and enjoyable break and look forward to welcoming you back in the new year.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs C. Hogarth
Head of School