“CHS South is a welcoming and supportive community. Pupils are proud of their school.”
OFSTED, JANUARY 2023
As we reach the end of another busy and rewarding Spring Term at CHS South, I want to take a moment to thank our students, staff, and families for their continued commitment to making our school community such a vibrant and inspiring place to learn. Your ongoing support plays a vital role in shaping the experiences available at CHS South, and it is always a pleasure to see the positive impact this has on our journey.
This term has been packed with fantastic achievements and memorable moments, reflecting the creativity, happiness, and success that define the CHS South experience. Our students have continued to embrace every opportunity, whether through academic progress, sporting triumphs, or creative endeavours. From the excitement of National Offer Day as we welcomed our newest Year 7 cohort for September, to the incredible participation in numeracy challenges and literacy celebrations, there has been no shortage of highlights.
One particular moment of pride has been witnessing the dedication of our Year 11 students as they continue their preparations for GCSEs. Their focus and determination during mock exams and revision sessions has been commendable, and we are confident that their hard work will pay off in the summer. Meanwhile, our younger students have demonstrated fantastic engagement in both their studies and enrichment activities, showing resilience and optimism in all they do.
Beyond the classroom, this term has been one of celebration and togetherness. Our Grand Iftar event was a true testament to the strength of our school community, bringing students, staff, and families together in a wonderful evening of unity and reflection. It has also been fantastic to see our sports teams thriving, with record participation in training and fixtures across multiple disciplines.
Looking ahead, we are excited for all that the summer term has in store. From end-of-year events and performances to final preparations for examinations and transition activities for our newest students, there is so much to anticipate. As always, we remain committed to providing every student with the support, challenge, and encouragement they need to flourish.
I hope that over the break, you all find time to relax and recharge, whether you are celebrating Easter, spending time with family, or simply taking a well-earned rest. Thank you once again for being part of our CHS South journey - we look forward to an exciting and successful summer term together.
Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable break.
Mr. David Prophet Headteacher
PERFORMING ARTS STUDENTS WIN PRESTIGIOUS
SKILLS FOR LIFE AWARD
CHS South’s talented performing arts students have won the Skills for Life award from Manchester City Council, recognising their outstanding teamwork, communication, and collaboration in their production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. The students received the award at a special ceremony held at Manchester Art Gallery on Thursday 27th February, where their hard work and dedication were celebrated by an audience of students, staff, and city representatives.
The judging panel praised the students for their ability to work together seamlessly, bringing the classic tale to life with creativity and passion. Their production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. showcased not only their artistic talents but also their ability to communicate effectively and support one another throughout the rehearsal and performance process.
As part of their award, the students received a £250 voucher to go towards a school trip, further enhancing their learning and artistic development. Their performance at the awards ceremony captivated the audience, earning admiration from those in attendance and further cementing CHS South’s reputation for excellence in the performing arts.
Following the ceremony, the students had the opportunity to explore Manchester Art Gallery, immersing themselves in its inspiring collections. This experience provided them with a deeper appreciation of careers in the arts, sparking new ideas and ambitions for the future.
CHS South is incredibly proud of its performing arts students and their remarkable achievement. Their success in winning the Skills for Life award is a testament to their dedication, resilience, and passion for the arts.
“This award is a fantastic recognition of the hard work and dedication our students have shown throughout the production. Their ability to collaborate, communicate, and support one another has been truly inspiring.” – Ms. Brain
A POWERFUL PERFORMANCE
OF ORWELL’S CLASSIC
CHS South students recently had the opportunity to experience the gripping stage adaptation of Animal Farm at the Octagon Theatre. Based on George Orwell’s iconic political fable, the production brought to life the story of a group of animals who rose up to overthrow their human oppressors and create their own society.
What began as a hopeful revolution soon spiralled into a powerful tale of power, corruption, and betrayal. The performance captivated students, leaving them reflecting on the themes and messages that remain just as relevant today.
It was an unforgettable theatrical journey into the heart of Orwell’s chilling allegory.
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER: STUNNING PERFORMANCE OF BLOOD BROTHERS
Our Year 9 students recently took to the stage for a breathtaking performance of Blood Brothers, Willy Russell’s thought-provoking and emotionally charged masterpiece. Tackling the play’s powerful themes of fate, family, and class, they brought each character to life with remarkable depth, passion, and dedication.
From moments of laughter to heart-wrenching tragedy, the performance was a rollercoaster of emotions that captivated the audience from start to finish. The students demonstrated incredible energy and stage presence, delivering every scene with authenticity and impact. Their commitment to rehearsals, teamwork, and attention to detail ensured a polished and engaging production.
The audience was truly moved by the students’ ability to convey such intense emotions and complex themes with maturity and confidence. Their hard work and perseverance paid off, making this performance a standout moment in their creative journey.
A huge thank you to everyone who attended and supported our talented performers. Your encouragement and enthusiasm meant the world to them. We couldn’t be prouder of what they have achieved - this was a night that will be remembered for a long time!
MUSIC SHOWCASE RETURNS WITH AN
UNFORGETTABLE EVENING OF TALENT!
CHS South’s Music Showcase made a spectacular return, delivering a night of outstanding performances that will be remembered for years to come. With students from all year groups taking part, the evening kicked off with a selection of incredible vocal performances, followed by standout Year 11 GCSE music pieces. The audience was captivated, with moments so powerful that the theatre fell silent as students performed works by Liszt and Guns N’ Roses.
The night featured full band performances, with musicians supported by the talented house bandcomprising Year 10 students and staff. A wide range of genres, from jazz and hip-hop to grunge and pop, showcased the versatility of CHS South’s young performers. The school choir also took to the stage, delivering beautifully harmonised pieces that had clearly been rehearsed to perfection.
Adding a surprise twist to the night, the Masked Singers took centre stage. The audience erupted with laughter and applause as ‘Horse,’ ‘Duck,’ ‘Pigeon,’ ‘Fish,’ and ‘Cow’ performed a fully rehearsed rendition of Jocelyn Brown’s Somebody Else’s Guy. The big reveal saw Miss Brain, Ms Galbraith, Ms Jackson, Mr McGill, and Miss Shah unmasked as the secret singers, much to the delight of the crowd.
The evening reached a thrilling conclusion with a powerful performance of School of Rock’s Teacher’s Pet, featuring the full house band, choir, and a sensational lead vocal. Reflecting on the event, Mr. Prophet described it as a “triumph,” praising the dedication and passion of the performers.
CHS South is incredibly proud of its talented musicians, and we can’t wait to see where their musical journey takes them next!
CHS SOUTH CELEBRATES SEND ACHIEVEMENT
In February, CHS South proudly hosted a special SEND Celebration Award Morning, recognising the dedication, progress, and resilience of over 60 students who have actively engaged in their interventions throughout the Spring 1 term. The event was a fantastic opportunity to highlight the hard work, commitment, and personal growth of students who have embraced the support available to them and made positive steps towards achieving their goals.
The celebration acknowledged a range of achievements, from academic progress to personal development, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and engagement in learning. Speaking about the event, a member of the SEND team shared: “We are incredibly proud of every student who has taken part in these interventions. Their willingness to engage, challenge themselves, and strive for success is truly inspiring. This event is all about recognising their efforts and reminding them how much they have accomplished.”
At CHS South, we are committed to ensuring that
STUDENTS EXCEL IN WHITWORTH ART GALLERY STUDY TRIP
Year 11 students took part in a valuable study trip to the Whitworth Art Gallery, designed to support their preparation for upcoming mock exams and GCSEs in Maths and English. Throughout the day, students engaged in targeted revision sessions, focusing on key topics to strengthen their understanding and boost their confidence.
The trip provided a fresh and inspiring learning environment, helping students to refine their skills ahead of their exams. One student reflected on the experience, saying, “Miss Baig’s session really helped me feel prepared and confident for the mock exam the following day.”
A big well done to all the students who attended - their exemplary behaviour and dedication to learning made the trip a resounding success!
every student feels valued and supported on their journey. The SEND Celebration Award Morning was a moment to reflect on the incredible progress made and to continue fostering an inclusive and supportive school environment where every achievement is recognised and celebrated.
WORLD BOOK DAY 2025: A CELEBRATION OF READING
World Book Day 2025 was a huge success, filling the school with excitement and a shared passion for reading! The day was packed with engaging activities that encouraged students and staff alike to immerse themselves in the world of literature. Staff embraced the spirit of the event by dressing as characters from their favourite books, including comics, graphic novels, and scripts. Their creativity and enthusiasm added to the fun, with prizes awarded for the bestdressed staff members.
Throughout the day, Year 7, 8, and 9 students participated in a unique reading challenge, engaging with a portion of a book in each lesson. By the final bell, they had completed an entire short story, reinforcing the joy of reading across different subjects. Year 7 students also took part in an exciting treasure hunt, solving clues hidden around the school to uncover the title of a book they had studied in English. Those who cracked the code were rewarded with prizes!
World Book Day was a fantastic celebration of literature, creativity, and the power of storytellingwell done to everyone who took part!
BRINGING HISTORY TO LIFE FOR YEAR 5 STUDENTS
Year 9 students took on the role of teachers in a captivating lesson on the 1348 Black Death, delivering an engaging and interactive session to Year 5 students at Moss Park Primary. With confidence and enthusiasm, they led the entire lesson, incorporating a variety of teaching strategies to bring history to life for their younger peers.
The session featured thought-provoking follow-up questions, the use of mini whiteboards, and visual aids to help deepen understanding. To make the experience even more immersive, students performed a role-play activity, allowing the Year 5 pupils to step into the shoes of medieval doctors and villagers. As a final task, they guided them in creating their own Black Death First Aid medical boxes, demonstrating creativity and historical knowledge in a hands-on way.
This was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 9s to develop leadership and communication skills while inspiring a love of history in the next generation. Well done to all involved!
Get ready, CHS South - something big is on the way! We’re launching our very own school podcast, Sounds of South, bringing you the latest music throwbacks, book reviews, sports action, breaking news, and much more.
Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at CHS South? Want to hear student opinions, teacher interviews, and hot topics straight from the heart of our school? This is your chance to tune in, listen, and even get involved.
Each episode will feature a mix of content, from deep dives into classic and current music, to reviews of books that are making waves in the CHS South library. We’ll cover the latest sports highlights, including key wins and competitions, as well as discussions on breaking news and events shaping the world. Along the way, we’ll be chatting with students and staff, sharing different perspectives, and delivering a fun and engaging experience for all listeners.
Our first episode is coming soon, and we can’t wait for you to hear it. Keep an eye on the CHS South website and social media for updates. Soon, you’ll be able to stream, and even take part in the conversation!
YEAR 7 BMX OUTREACH PROGRAMME:
SKILLS, CONFIDENCE AND FUN!
Year 7 students at CHS South have been taking part in the exciting BMX Outreach Programme, an initiative designed to introduce them to the fast-growing sport of BMX biking while promoting health, fitness, and confidence. This fantastic opportunity has allowed students to step outside of their comfort zones, develop new skills, and engage in a sport that requires balance, control, and resilience.
With expert coaching, students have been guided through the fundamentals of BMX riding, including essential techniques, safety measures, and the importance of perseverance. As they navigated ramps, turns, and jumps, they not only improved their physical coordination but also built self-discipline and determination. The programme has been a thrilling and rewarding experience, giving students a chance to challenge themselves in an encouraging and supportive environment.
Their enthusiasm and dedication have been truly inspiring, and it has been fantastic to see their confidence grow with each session. Whether mastering a new trick or simply enjoying the ride, every student has embraced the challenge with energy and enthusiasm. Well done to all who took part - keep pedalling towards success!
“The BMX Outreach Programme has been a fantastic opportunity for our Year 7 students to develop new skills and build confidence. Their enthusiasm and determination have been inspiring, and it’s great to see them pushing their limits and embracing the challenge.”
- Mr. Bircher, Teacher of PE
EMBRACING A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE
WITH COUCH TO 5K CHALLENGE
Our Year 10 girls have been taking on an exciting new challenge in PE, embracing a healthier and more active lifestyle through the Couch to 5K programme, alongside walking
and jogging activities. This initiative has been designed to help students gradually build their endurance, improve their fitness, and develop a long-term appreciation for physical activity.
The programme has provided students with the opportunity to set personal goals and push themselves at their own pace. Some have taken on the challenge with steady walking, while others have progressed towards jogging and even running a full 5K. Throughout the journey, they have shown incredible resilience, determination, and teamwork, supporting and encouraging one another along the way.
The benefits of this initiative go beyond just physical fitness - students have gained confidence, motivation, and a sense of achievement in their progress. Well done to all who have participated in this fantastic journey towards a healthier, more active future!
SUCCESS AT THE MCR SCHOOLS DISABILITY CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Manchester Secondary Schools Disability Championships took place in March, at the Etihad Sports Campus, welcoming students from both mainstream and special schools across the city.
CHS South was proudly represented by a group of Year 7 students who demonstrated outstanding determination and skill throughout the event. The track and field competitions featured the 60m, 200m, and 400m races, alongside javelin, shot put, long jump, and high jump. Our students achieved some of the highest scores and fastest times of the day, showcasing their hard work and dedication.
Their flexibility and enthusiasm were evident as they moved between events, and they took on new challenges with confidence - excelling in both shot put and high jump despite having limited prior experience.
A huge congratulations to everyone who took part and contributed to a fantastic day of competition, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
CHS SOUTH SPORTS TEAMS THRIVE WITH DEDICATION AND SUCCESS
This season has been an outstanding one for CHS South’s sports teams, with students showing incredible commitment, resilience, and teamwork across a variety of disciplines. From Football and Netball to Badminton, Basketball, and beyond, our athletes have been training harder than ever, leading to impressive performances and results in competitions.
Record numbers of students have been attending training sessions, demonstrating their passion for sport and their determination to improve. Their dedication is paying off, with teams across all year groups achieving fantastic successes in fixtures and tournaments. Whether securing victories on the pitch or displaying sportsmanship and perseverance in challenging matches, CHS South students are proving that effort and teamwork lead to progress.
A huge well done to everyone who has taken part in training and competitions this season - your hard work and enthusiasm are inspiring. We can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings for CHS South sport!
MATHS MIND RETURNS –
WHO WILL TAKE THE TROPHY?
MathsMind was back and bigger than ever! Now in its third year, this exciting competition saw students put their mathematical skills to the test, battling it out for points, pride, and the ultimate MathsMind trophy.
With Pi Day on the 14th as our inspiration, this year’s theme focused on circles, Pi, and numeracy in all its forms. Across the week’s assemblies, students from five year groups competed, with nine forms in each year facing off in a test of speed, accuracy, and problem-solving. After an intense series of challenges, only two forms emerged as the Maths Mind Champions.
A huge well done to all who took part - your enthusiasm and mathematical skills were truly impressive. And, of course, congratulations to our winners.
EXPLORING THE WORLD OF MEDICINE: A HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
A group of Year 10 students recently attended a Medical Careers Day, where they took part in a series of engaging and interactive workshops designed to introduce them to the vast world of healthcare. Throughout the day, they explored human anatomy, practiced essential diagnostic skills, and gained valuable insights into emergency medicine and medical ethics. From handling medical equipment to understanding patient care, the experience provided a real-world look at the challenges and rewards of working in the medical profession.
Many students left the event feeling inspired, with a newfound appreciation for the dedication and expertise required in healthcare. For those considering a future in medicine, this experience was an invaluable opportunity to explore potential career paths and develop a deeper understanding of the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field.
EXPLORING MANCHESTER’S LITERARY TREASURES
As part of our school’s reading reward programme, students had the fantastic opportunity to visit Manchester Central Library. They enjoyed an insightful tour, explored the library’s impressive archives, and took part in a book-making session led by Angela Rawcliffe.
During the visit, students signed up for library cards, giving them access to borrow books from any Manchester library. From discovering rare historical texts to marvelling at the library’s stunning architecture, the trip was an inspiring experience that deepened their appreciation for literature.
“I enjoyed going to Central Library because I got to see all the remarkable architecture in Manchester.” - “We learned that the oldest book in the library is over 800 years old and that the bookshelves on the reference floor are electronic!” - Student Feedback
EXPLORING OUR LOCAL LANDSCAPE:
SEND & EAL JOINT VISITS
This term, the SEND and EAL teams have taken students on two fantastic visits to Lyme Park in Disley, providing those with English as an additional language or additional learning needs the chance to explore the local area. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Peak District, Lyme Park offers a mix of history, nature, and adventure.
One of the highlights of the trip was the climb to the historic Bowstones, offering breathtaking views over the Manchester skyline. Students also had a great time at the Crow Wood playscape, nestled among the trees near the Timber Yard. From spotting Deansgate skyscrapers to watching planes descend into Manchester Airport, the trip offered a fresh perspective on the region we call home.
With excellent facilities, including covered lunch areas and a café, Lyme Park proved to be the perfect setting for an engaging and memorable learning experience.
YEAR 8 REWARDED FOR OUTSTANDING CONDUCT
Earlier this term, CHS South staff were given the opportunity to nominate Year 8 students who consistently demonstrate outstanding conduct in every lesson. The response was overwhelming, with a huge number of students being recognised for their dedication, positive attitude, and commitment to our school values. This is a true reflection of the fantastic year group as a whole!
Among those nominated, around 30 students stood out, each receiving five or more nominations - a remarkable achievement! To celebrate their hard work and exceptional behaviour, the Year 8 staff team organised a special reward: a pizza party. These outstanding students were invited to enjoy their lunch early, where they shared delicious Domino’s pizza, listened to music, and spent time together in recognition of their efforts.
A huge well done to all who were nominated! Keep up the fantastic work, Year 8 - we’re incredibly proud of you!
CHS SOUTH RECOGNISED
AS
A MUSIC MARK SCHOOL
CHS South is proud to announce that we have been awarded Music Mark status, a prestigious recognition that highlights our dedication to highquality music education.
Music Mark, the UK Association for Music Education, champions access to music for all children and young people. This accreditation reflects our commitment to ensuring that every student at CHS South has the opportunity to develop their musical skills, creativity, and confidence through a diverse range of musical activities.
As a Music Mark school, CHS South will gain access to a range of benefits, including exclusive resources, training opportunities, and sector news that will further enrich our music curriculum. Our students already engage in a variety of musical experiences, from instrumental lessons to performances, and this recognition reinforces the importance of music in our school community.
CHS South is excited to continue expanding our music education offer and looks forward to taking full advantage of the opportunities that come with being a Music Mark school.
Miss. Wheatley, Teacher of Music,
shared her enthusiasm about the
achievement: “Music is a vital part of our students’ education, helping them to develop creativity, teamwork, and confidence. Being recognised as a Music Mark school is a fantastic achievement that celebrates the hard work of both our students and staff in making music a core part of school life.”
ILLUMINATING CREATIVITY: YEAR 10 NIGHTLIGHT PROJECT
Our Year 10 students recently showcased their impressive CAD CAM and electronics skills by designing and creating fully functional nightlights, each inspired by a chosen art movement. This project combined creativity with technical expertise, challenging students to bring their unique ideas to life through careful design, precision manufacturing, and electronic assembly.
From initial sketches to final production, students demonstrated outstanding problem-solving and craftsmanship, ensuring their nightlights were both visually striking and fully operational. The variety of designs reflected their artistic influences, with each piece showcasing individuality and attention to detail.
This project not only strengthened their understanding of CAD CAM technology but also encouraged innovation and hands-on learning. A huge well done to all involved - your dedication and creativity truly shone through!
A NIGHT OF COMMUNITY & CELEBRATION: CHS
SOUTH’S GRAND IFTAR
CHS South was delighted to host this year’s Grand Iftar, an evening filled with unity, reflection, and togetherness. As the sun set, students, families, and staff gathered to break their fast, share a meal, and celebrate the values of compassion, gratitude, and community. This year’s event was bigger and better than ever, with a fantastic turnout and an atmosphere filled with warmth and joy.
One of the highlights of the evening was the incredible variety of food on offer, showcasing the diverse cultures within our school community. Guests enjoyed a delicious spread of traditional dishes, from fragrant biryanis and hearty tagines to freshly baked samosas and crisp pakoras. There were also refreshing fruit platters, sweet dates, and an assortment of homemade desserts, including baklava, kunafa, and gulab jamun. The spread reflected the spirit of Ramadan – generosity, sharing, and appreciation of different traditions.
As everyone gathered to break their fast, there was a real sense of unity, with students and staff sitting side by side, enjoying meaningful conversations and embracing the shared experience. The atmosphere was lively and filled with laughter, as friends and families reflected on the significance of the occasion.
“I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you who supported our Grand Iftar.” – Miss Hussain, Event Organiser
A huge thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making the night such a success. A special mention goes to the staff who came along to support the event – your presence added to the sense of community and made the evening even more memorable. Events like these highlight the importance of coming together, celebrating our diversity, and strengthening the bonds that make CHS South such a special place.
We can’t wait to continue this tradition and make next year’s Iftar even more extraordinary!
