“CHS South is a welcoming and supportive community. Pupils are proud of their school.”
OFSTED, JANUARY 2023
As we bring another action-packed and rewarding term to a close, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on everything that makes CHS South such a special place to belong, and to thank our students, families and staff for their continued enthusiasm, support, and shared ambition.
This term has seen the CHS South community go from strength to strength. I am proud to share that we have once again been awarded a National School Attendance Award, placing us in the top 10% of schools nationally for attendance. This is a remarkable achievement, and one that reflects the strong partnership we share with families in ensuring excellent habits, routines, and attitudes to learning. We were also thrilled to be recognised with the Leading Parent Partnership Award, a powerful reminder of the trust and teamwork that underpin our success. Our connection with families plays such a crucial role in supporting our students to thrive, and I’m delighted to see this acknowledged at a national level.
Across all year groups, students have once again embraced opportunities in and out of the classroom, whether that’s through academic progress, sporting achievements, leadership roles or cultural enrichment. From national competitions and city-wide awards to drama productions, reward trips, summer transitions, and even being crowned the Manchester U16 Basketball Champions, there is so much to celebrate.
On the creative front, we were proud to be named a Music Mark School, recognising the breadth of opportunities and high-quality music education available to our students. Whether on stage, in classrooms, or beyond the school gates, our young people continue to express themselves in ways that inspire and amaze us every day.
As always, our Year 11 students deserve a special mention for the maturity and focus they’ve shown throughout their final months at CHS South. Their preparation for the GCSE exams has been exceptional, and I know that staff and families alike will join me in wishing them the very best as they take their next steps.
Looking ahead, the summer break offers a well-earned opportunity to rest, reflect and recharge. I hope that all members of our CHS South community are able to enjoy time with family and friends, make special memories, and return in September refreshed and ready for the year ahead.
Thank you once again for your continued support. I am so proud of what we’ve achieved together this year, and even more excited for what’s still to come.
Wishing you a safe, restful, and happy summer.
Mr. David Prophet Headteacher
“I loved every part of the trip, especially Disneyland and seeing the Eiffel Tower in real life! It was amazing to experience the city with my friends and practise some French too. I’ll never forget it!” - Year 10 Student
A WEEK OF CULTURE, CONFIDENCE & CROISSANTS
This year’s school trip to Paris was an incredible experience from start to finish, offering our students a perfect mix of culture, fun, and friendship. Over the course of the week, they explored world-famous landmarks, practised their French in real-life settings, and made lasting memories with classmates.
The trip began with a relaxing boat ride along the River Seine, where students enjoyed stunning views of Paris from the water. It was the perfect way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and many of the beautiful bridges that cross the river. Cameras were out and spirits were high as everyone began to take in the magic of the city.
Next, it was time to explore Paris on foot. We took a walking tour through the heart of the city, stopping at key landmarks along the way. The Eiffel Tower was even more impressive up close, and our visit to the Montparnasse Tower gave students the chance to see Paris from above, with breathtaking 360-degree views across the rooftops, monuments, and gardens of the capital.
One of the most enriching parts of the trip was our visit to the world-famous Louvre Museum. Home to some of the most celebrated artworks in history, the museum was a real highlight. Students were particularly excited to see Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, as well as the Venus de
Milo and countless other masterpieces. For many, it was their first time in an art museum of such scale, and the experience sparked lots of discussion and curiosity.
Midway through the week came one of the most anticipated moments, our full day at Disneyland Paris. The atmosphere was magical from the moment we arrived. Students explored both parks, went on thrilling rides, watched live shows, met Disney characters, and soaked up the magical surroundings. It was a day full of laughter, excitement, and a shared sense of wonder.
Another unique moment came during our visit to a local French bakery. Here, students had the chance to use their language skills in a real-life setting, ordering fresh croissants, pains au chocolat, and other delicious treats. Staff were impressed by their confidence and politeness when speaking French. Afterward, we enjoyed a relaxed picnic in the park, reflecting on everything we had experienced during the week.
Throughout the trip, students were not only excellent ambassadors for CHS South, but they also showed great independence, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. Many commented on how much they had discovered, not just about France, but about themselves too. Whether it was navigating a new city, trying different foods, or simply sharing time with classmates in a new environment, the trip offered valuable lessons beyond the classroom.
We are incredibly proud of all the students who joined us on the Paris trip this year. It was a week filled with discovery, growth, and joyful moments that we’re sure they’ll remember for years to come.
“The students were an absolute credit to the school. They embraced every opportunity, whether it was navigating the Metro, trying new foods, or engaging with French culture.” - Miss Osborne
CHAMPIONS AND COMPETITORS: A SEASON TO REMEMBER
It’s been a milestone year for sport at CHS South, and nowhere was that more evident than in the incredible journey of our U16 boys’ basketball team. Crowned Manchester League Champions, the team remained unbeaten all season, securing their title with a thrilling victory against Manchester Communication Academy. Their commitment, resilience, and teamwork have set a new benchmark for sporting success at our school.
Meanwhile, our Year 7 girls made their mark with pride and passion at a recent basketball tournament. Each game they played was filled with energy, determination and support for one another, showing that the future of girls’ sport at CHS South is in very safe hands.
From the basketball court to the rugby pitch, our students also impressed at the T20 Rugby Festival, held in partnership with Sale Sharks. Their teamwork and drive were clear in every match, and the event helped spark new interest in the sport across year groups.
Not to be outdone, our Year 10 GCSE PE students tackled indoor climbing with enthusiasm as part of their practical coursework. Each climb tested their strength and determination, and every student pushed themselves to new heights, literally and figuratively. These experiences prove that success at CHS South isn’t just measured in trophies, but in attitude, effort, and courage.
LEADING BY EXAMPLE: SPORT, LEADERSHIP & LOCAL CONNECTIONS
At CHS South, sport is about far more than winning, it’s about growing, leading, and connecting. Our Sport Studies students have done just that, stepping into leadership roles to design and deliver PE sessions to Year 7s. Their thoughtful planning and enthusiastic delivery made for fun, engaging lessons, helping younger students build confidence while sharpening their own coaching and communication skills.
The Primary Football Festival was another huge highlight this term. Hosted by our incredible Year 9 and 10 sports leaders, the event welcomed young players from local schools for a day of exciting games and friendly competition. Our student leaders were praised for their professionalism, and the tournament was a great way to celebrate community and talent. It’s clear that the next generation of CHS South footballers is already taking shape!
This term also saw the return of cricket at CHS South, reigniting a passion for the sport with afterschool clubs, inter-class matches, and a growing sense of team spirit. Interest has soared, and students are embracing the opportunity to play and compete once again.
Finally, our brand-new Orienteering Club brought adventure to the school week, with Year 7 and 8 pupils exploring new locations near school. Combining fitness, friendship, and a little navigation know-how, the club was a hit with all who took partproving that sport at CHS South takes many forms and offers something for everyone.
ADVENTURE & ACHIEVEMENT: DUKE OF EDINBURGH EXPEDITION
DofE participants completed a two-day hike and overnight camp that tested their endurance, teamwork, and problem-solving. The expedition was the final step toward their Bronze Award, following months of volunteering, skill development and physical activity.
Around the campfire, students bonded over toasted marshmallows and shared stories from their journey. The hikes offered stunning views and plenty of personal challenge, and the teamwork involved helped strengthen friendships. Their perseverance through blisters and unpredictable weather paid off. Each student returned more resilient, confident, and proud of their achievement.
S TEPPING IN, STANDING OUT
WELCOMING OUR NEXT GENERATION OF
LEARNERS
STARTING THE JOURNEY TOGETHER
Induction Day was a fantastic opportunity to welcome our new Year 6 students as they begin their journey into the CHS South family.
From the moment they arrived, there was a real buzz of excitement in the air. The day was filled with curiosity, confidence, and joy as students took part in a carefully planned series of engaging taster lessons, including RE, History, Art, Music, English and Maths. These sessions gave students the chance to explore new subjects, meet future teachers, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of life at CHS South.
Staff were incredibly impressed by the students’ positive attitudes, creativity and enthusiasm throughout the day. They threw themselves into every activity, asked great questions, and supported one another with kindness and maturity.
New friendships began to blossom, nerves settled quickly, and by the end of the day, smiles were everywhere. One student shared, “I’ve had the best day ever!”, a perfect reflection of the welcoming, joyful atmosphere we work so hard to create.
Feedback from parents and carers was equally encouraging, with many praising the care and organisation behind the day, and noting how much more confident and excited their children felt afterwards.
SCIENCE SPARKS CURIOSITY
A group of budding scientists from local primary schools got hands-on with Chemistry, Physics, and Biology in our CHS South science labs. Highlights included flame tests, building circuits, and even dissecting real lungs, activities that sparked fascination, endless questions, and wide-eyed amazement.
The sessions were designed to challenge and excite, giving young learners a taste of the engaging, practical science that awaits in secondary school. The Biology session proved especially popular, inspiring curiosity and confidence in every pupil. We can’t wait to welcome some of these enthusiastic scientists into Year 7 very soon.
A SLICE OF CHS SOUTH LIFE
Soon-to-be CHS South students joined us for a tasty introduction to secondary school life, creating their own pizzas while debating the age-old question: pineapple or no pineapple? The session was a fun, creative way to break the ice, explore new surroundings, and start forming friendships ahead of September.
Staff joined in too, making it a relaxed, communitydriven event where laughter, teamwork, and delicious smells filled the room. Events like this help build early confidence, reduce first-day nerves, and ensure new students feel part of our school long before their first official day. It was a slice of secondary school life everyone enjoyed.
HISTORY IN THEIR HANDS
Our Year 9 historians stepped into the role of teachers for a day, delivering an engaging and interactive lesson on the Black Death to Year 5 pupils at Moss Park Primary. Bringing the sights, sounds and stories of medieval England to life, they led games, activities, and thoughtful discussions that captured every pupil’s attention.
The professionalism and enthusiasm of our students impressed everyone involved. Not only did the primary pupils leave inspired, but our own students developed new confidence and leadership skills through this brilliant peer-teaching opportunity. We hope to run more cross-school collaborations like this in future!
QUIZ TIME AT CHS SOUTH!
To help our new Year 7s settle in, we hosted a fun-filled quiz night packed with excitement, friendly competition, and plenty of laughter. Students worked in teams to answer questions about CHS South, pop culture, and general knowledge, all while getting to know their future classmates.
It was a brilliant way to explore the school in a lowpressure, welcoming environment. Events like this support our transition programme by helping students feel confident, connected, and genuinely excited about joining our community. The smiles, high-fives, and laughter proved it was a night to remember.
SET FOR SUCCESS EVENT AT THE ETHIAD
A group of CHS South students took part in the Set for Success Empowerment Event, an exciting day designed to motivate and prepare young people for future success in both education and employment.
The event brought together students from a range of schools and gave them the opportunity to meet professionals from various industries. These guest speakers shared powerful stories about their career journeys, challenges they overcame, and the skills that helped them succeed. It was a brilliant chance for students to ask questions, explore different career paths, and gain insight into the world beyond school.
As part of the day, our students delivered a presentation to the entire room, outlining how they had organised and run a fundraising event for a local charity. Their PowerPoint reflected their hard work, planning, and teamwork, and was met with applause from peers and guests alike.
The event also included interactive team-building games that encouraged communication, leadership,
and collaboration. It was inspiring to see students stepping out of their comfort zones, engaging with new people, and growing in confidence.
Events like this are a valuable reminder that the future is bright, and it’s in very capable hands.
BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE ETIHAD: SPORT MEETS MEDIA IN UNFORGETTABLE TRIP
A group of CHS South students were given an unforgettable insight into the world of professional sport and media during a special visit to the iconic Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City FC.
The day began with an exclusive behind-the-scenes stadium tour, where students explored some of the most famous areas of the ground. They walked through the players’ tunnel, visited the home and away dressing rooms, sat in the pitch-side dugout, and even had a look at the press and media zones used on match days. It was a unique opportunity to experience the spaces where world-class athletes prepare, perform, and reflect.
But this visit was about more than just football.
Students also took part in a Match Reporter Workshop, where they learned how to analyse live football action and write engaging match reports. Guided by media professionals, they explored the power of storytelling in sport and how creative writing, observation, and critical thinking all play vital roles in sports journalism.
The experience opened students’ eyes to a range of exciting careers connected to the game they love, beyond just playing. They left inspired, equipped with new skills, and buzzing from a day that blended sport, creativity, and career insight.
YEAR 10 COLLEGE TASTER WEEK
Over 100 of our Year 10 students had the exciting opportunity to explore their post-16 options by taking part in a full week of college taster sessions. With a wide range of subjects on offer, from Criminology and Mathematics to Drama, Biology, and Physical Education, students were able to personalise their timetable and get a real taste of what further education could look like.
The experience provided a valuable glimpse into the next stage of their academic journey. Sitting in real college classrooms, learning from subject specialists, and being surrounded by like-minded students helped demystify the college environment. For many, it was their first time in a sixth form or college setting, and it gave them a new sense of confidence and clarity about their future choices.
The sessions didn’t just expand their subject knowledge, they also sparked ambition. Students reflected on potential career pathways, developed fresh interests, and began to visualise what they might want to pursue after GCSEs. Staff were incredibly proud of how positively our students engaged throughout the week, asking thoughtful questions and behaving with maturity.
Feedback from both students and college staff was overwhelmingly positive, with many students leaving the week feeling inspired, focused, and ready to take the next steps towards a bright future.
Our CHS South Awards Evening was a spectacular celebration of everything that makes our school community so special. Bringing together students, staff, families, and governors, the event honoured the achievements, progress, and resilience of our young people in a night filled with pride, positivity, and powerful moments.
The evening shone a spotlight on students who have demonstrated excellence across a wide range of areas, from academic success and outstanding progress to leadership, creativity, kindness, and contributions to the wider school community. The awards highlighted not just results, but the values and character that define a CHS South student.
“The evening shone a spotlight on the values that define a CHS South student, celebrating creativity, happiness and success.” - Mr Prophet
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
From the moment guests arrived, there was a real sense of anticipation and excitement. The stage was beautifully lit, the hall filled with applause, and our student hosts led the evening with confidence and charm. Each award was presented with a short introduction, allowing the audience to understand the story behind every success, whether it was quiet perseverance, exceptional creativity, or going the extra mile to help others.
Between the presentations, the audience enjoyed outstanding performances from our talented students, including musical acts and a moving spoken word piece, which brought energy, inspiration and even a few tears to the room. These performances served as a reminder of the depth of talent across CHS South and the many ways our students express themselves beyond the classroom.
Students stepped up proudly to collect their awards, beaming as they crossed the stage to accept trophies, certificates, and the well-earned applause of their peers and families. It was especially heart-warming to see the encouragement they gave one another, cheering, clapping, and celebrating each other’s achievements.
“The student performances were a powerful reminder of the creativity, confidence, and talent that thrive at CHS South, leaving the audience inspired and full of pride.” - Miss Osborne
WORDS OF PRIDE
Mr Prophet, Headteacher, summed up the evening perfectly:
“This Awards Evening isn’t just about trophies and certificates, it’s about recognising the incredible journeys our students take. Whether it’s showcasing a creative talent, finding joy in learning, achieving academic excellence or making a positive impact in our community, tonight we celebrate every step they’ve taken I am so proud to lead a school filled with such determination, joy and talent.”
One Year 10 student who received an award for progress said: “It was such a proud moment for me and my family. I’ve worked really hard this year, and it felt amazing to have that noticed in front of everyone. I’ll never forget tonight.”
A huge thank you goes to all the staff who helped make the evening such a success, whether organising awards, supporting rehearsals, setting up the space, or simply cheering on students. Your hard work and dedication made the night run seamlessly and ensured it was a moment to remember.
The CHS South Awards Evening wasn’t just a ceremony, it was a celebration of who we are as a school: Creative, Happy, and Successful. And with students like ours, the future looks very bright indeed.
THE POWER OF PERFORMANCE: CHS SOUTH TAKES THE STAGE
At CHS South, performance is more than just a spotlight moment—it’s a platform for expression, empowerment, and connection. This term, our students stepped into that spotlight in incredible ways, taking part in major events that celebrated creativity, collaboration, and community impact through the performing arts.
CHS South Shines at Salford Dance Explosion
Held at the iconic Lowry Theatre, the Salford Dance Explosion was a four-day festival that brought together performers from schools, colleges, academies, and studios across Greater Manchester. CHS South was proud to be part of this vibrant celebration of movement, style, and story
Our students joined dancers of all ages and backgrounds to showcase work across a range of genres—from street and contemporary to jazz and cultural dance. Performing on a professional stage was both a challenge and an honour, and our students rose to the occasion with confidence and flair. It was a true celebration of creative spirit and a reminder of how performance can unite and inspire.
Take 2: Hip Hop with Heart
A standout moment of the festival came with the debut of Take 2—our most ambitious student dance production to date. Created by our talented performers with the guidance of Miss Ali, Take 2 packed explosive hip hop
choreography, pulsing beats, and unmissable energy into one powerful performance.
Premiering at The Lowry to an audience of over 2,000 people, the piece captured the rhythm, style, and attitude of hip hop culture, with each dancer adding their own twist to the high-impact routine. The result? A bold, unforgettable performance that left the audience cheering and our students beaming with pride.
Drama with a Difference: Year 9 Theatre in Education
Meanwhile, our Year 9 drama students took their talents beyond the stage and into the community. As part of a Theatre in Education project, they visited Chorlton Park Primary School to perform original plays designed to help Year 5 pupils prepare for the move to secondary school.
Drawing from their own experiences, the students explored themes of nerves, excitement, friendships, and resilience through engaging, heartfelt performances. The session also included interactive warm-ups and a Q&A segment where the younger pupils asked insightful questions—and even improvised a few scenes of their own! It was a brilliant example of how the arts can educate, support, and bring generations together.
“These performances were more than just showcases—they were powerful expressions of who our students are. From commanding the stage at The Lowry to engaging younger pupils through Theatre in Education, they demonstrated creativity, confidence, and compassion. It’s incredible to see how the arts can empower our students not only to entertain, but to connect, lead and make a real impact.” - Miss Ali
PRIDE ON THE RANGE: CHS SOUTH LEADS WITH PRIDE, PASSION
AND PURPOSE
Pride on the Range, held in Whalley Range on 24th May, was a vibrant celebration of equality, inclusion, and community spirit — and CHS South was at the heart of it all.
This joyful event brought together people of all ages and backgrounds in a powerful display of unity and support for the LGBT+ community. Flags waved, music played, and a sea of colour swept through the neighbourhood as the Pride parade took to the streets — led proudly by students from CHS South.
Our students didn’t just participate; they made a lasting impact. Taking centre stage, they delivered moving, inspirational speeches that spoke of courage, identity, and the importance of standing up for what’s right. Their words resonated deeply with the crowd, many of whom commented on the students’ confidence, clarity, and authenticity.
It was an incredibly proud moment for our school community. These students not only represented CHS South, but also the values we stand for — kindness, respect, and the belief that everyone deserves to feel seen, safe, and celebrated.
Pride on the Range was more than an event; it was an experience that inspired hope and togetherness. For our young people, it was also a moment of empowerment — a chance to step up, speak out, and be part of a movement bigger than themselves.
We are immensely proud of our students for their leadership, passion, and determination to drive change. They reminded us all that equality is not just a word — it’s something we must live, celebrate, and protect every day.
CHS South’s presence at Pride on the Range was a beautiful example of youth leadership in action and a powerful reminder that when young voices are given the platform, they can move hearts and minds.
A TASTY ‘MERCI’ FROM MFL
Bonjour! Buenos días! Students at CHS South were surprised with a delicious reward from the MFL department to celebrate their hard work and dedication in language lessons this year.
In collaboration with local French bakery La Chouquette, the team organised a special breakfast treat featuring freshly baked croissants and pains au chocolat. The pastries were warm, flaky, and very well received, with only a few crumbs left behind!
It was a small but meaningful way to say thank you and remind students that learning a language is not just about grammar and vocabulary, it’s about culture, connection, and shared experiences.
A huge well done to all our linguists for their fantastic effort this year. Merci! ¡Gracias! We’re proud of the progress you’ve made and look forward to more language adventures ahead.
FAITH IN FOCUS: A VISIT TO THE MOSQUE
As part of their Religious Education curriculum, CHS South students had the valuable opportunity to visit a local mosque and deepen their understanding of Islamic faith and practice. The visit offered rich insight into the beliefs, rituals, and community life that shape Muslim identity.
The experience began with a warm welcome from the imam, who gave an engaging introduction to the Five Pillars of Islam, the foundational practices that guide a Muslim’s life. His talk provided students with context about the meaning and purpose behind Islamic beliefs, creating a strong starting point for the rest of the visit.
Students were then taken on a guided tour of the mosque. They explored the grand prayer hall, a peaceful and sacred space where Muslims gather for worship. They were fascinated to see shelves lined with copies of the Qur’an translated into multiple languages, symbolising Islam’s global reach. One highlight was viewing the 99 names of Allah, beautifully displayed in an intricate design, each reflecting a different attribute of God.
The imam also showed students the ablution facilities,
where Muslims perform ritual cleansing before prayer, reinforcing the values of purity and discipline. The tour continued through the women’s prayer space and classrooms used for Islamic studies, before ending in the mosque’s kitchen, where food is prepared regularly for community meals and charitable events.
The visit concluded with an open Q&A session. Students asked thoughtful, ethical questions, many linked directly to their GCSE Paper 1 topics. The imam’s responses were informative and respectful, creating space for meaningful dialogue and reflection.
This visit was not only educational, it was a powerful experience in understanding and respect, helping students see how faith is lived out in real and relatable ways.
GROWING TOGETHER AT HOUGH END ALLOTMENTS
A dedicated group of CHS South students have been digging deep, literally and figuratively, at the Hough End Allotments, just a short walk from school. As part of a hands-on outdoor learning initiative, students took on the challenge of managing and maintaining their own allotment plots, showing incredible dedication, teamwork, and curiosity along the way.
Over several weeks, the group planted a wide range of crops, including lettuce, herbs, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, garlic, and peppers. Watching their hard work grow into thriving produce has been a powerful reminder of patience, care, and responsibility. One of the project’s most impressive milestones was the construction of a functioning greenhouse, built entirely by the students. This collaborative achievement not only supports the crops, but also showcased their planning, problem-solving and perseverance.
Beyond gardening, the experience has nurtured personal growth. In the calm, green setting, students developed resilience, independence, and practical life skills. The allotment also provided a peaceful space for mindfulness and reflection, supporting emotional wellbeing alongside learning.
TRAVEL CONFIDENT: LIFE SKILLS THAT GO THE DISTANCE
The Travel Confident life skills intervention has given a group of our SEN students an incredible opportunity to build real-world independence by using public transport to explore Manchester and beyond. Designed to empower pupils with confidence and practical mobility skills, the programme challenged them to plan, manage, and lead their own journeys across the city.
Participants visited key cultural and public landmarks, including the Manchester Art Gallery, Central Library, and Media City in Salford. But this was more than just sightseeing, students were in the driving seat, responsible for route planning, ticketing, timing, and navigation. The result was an authentic, empowering experience that helped each participant discover their own capability and confidence in unfamiliar environments.
Throughout the programme, students developed essential skills in communication, problemsolving, and resilience. Navigating busy transport systems and unexpected changes helped them
This project is about more than growing vegetables, it’s about growing confidence, connection, and a sense of pride. The allotment is blossoming, and so are the students who care for it.
adapt and think on their feet, while the support of staff helped nurture a sense of safety and achievement.
Perhaps the most powerful takeaway was the realisation that they could do it, and do it well. Feedback from students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive, and the success of the intervention has encouraged more pupils to take part. Travel Confident is a shining example of how life-changing learning can happen beyond the classroom.
CULTURE NIGHT CELEBRATES THE RICH DIVERSITY OF CHS SOUTH
In June, CHS South opened its doors for a vibrant evening of music, colour, creativity, and community.
Our annual Culture Night was a spectacular celebration of the many cultures that make CHS South such a special place. From start to finish, the event was filled with energy and pride as students, families, and staff came together to share in a rich tapestry of traditions, talents, and experiences.
The evening began with the uplifting sound of steel pans echoing through the canteen, setting the tone for a lively and joyful atmosphere. Inside, the space had been transformed into a cultural festival, with student artwork lining the walls and performances taking place throughout the evening.
On stage, students delivered powerful monologues, spoken word, and poetry in a variety of languages, while others showcased cultural dance routines and musical talents. One of the highlights of the evening was the Fashion Frenzy runway show, where students proudly modelled traditional dress from across the world, celebrating identity and heritage with confidence and flair.
The event also featured a wide variety of activities and experiences: guests explored henna stations, hair braiding, and eyebrow threading, tried their hand at Chinese calligraphy, browsed a vibrant Asian jewellery stall, and even took part in tarot card readings. A continental buffet and selection of Indian sweets added a delicious culinary element, while a professional DJ kept the energy high throughout the night.
The evening was a resounding success, not only as a showcase of student talent, but as a celebration of the inclusive, welcoming spirit that defines CHS South. A huge thank you goes to all staff, students, families, and volunteers who helped bring the event to life.
At CHS South, we don’t just celebrate culture - we live it, learn from it, and grow together because of it.
“Culture Night was an inspiring reminder of everything that makes CHS South so special. Our students brought energy, creativity, and authenticity to every performance and display. It was a powerful celebration of our diversity, and a wonderful way to bring our community together. I couldn’t be prouder of everyone involved.”
ARTISTS SHINE IN CITYWIDE COMPETITION
Three of our incredibly talented Year 10 students were proudly shortlisted for the Young Artist of the Year competition, run by Manchester College. Their artwork was selected from entries submitted by students across the entire city, an outstanding achievement that speaks volumes about their creativity, skill, and passion for the arts.
Each shortlisted piece demonstrated not only strong technical ability, but also originality, thoughtfulness, and emotional depth. From bold use of colour and composition to powerful storytelling through visual
SOUNDWAVES AND INSPIRATION AT SPIRIT STUDIOS
Students were welcomed into Spirit Studios, a legendary part of Manchester’s music history and the birthplace of iconic bands like The Stone Roses and The Smiths. The visit kicked off with a guided tour of the studio’s cutting-edge spaces, offering a glimpse into where music legends once recorded.
The real excitement came during the hands-on
BEYOND
THE CLASSROOM: ELE WEEK AT CHS SOUTH
Extended Learning Experience (ELE) Week at CHS South brought learning to life in ways that textbooks never could. Designed to stretch minds, lift spirits and build community, it offered a packed programme of activities that helped students explore, create and grow, both personally and together.
From the energy of Sports Days to the calm of yoga sessions, from immersive cultural trips to hands-on workshops, every year group had the chance to step out of their usual routine and into new experiences. Students danced the night away at our much-loved Silent Disco, cooked up new skills in enrichment sessions, and explored exciting locations during reward trips across the region.
The week was about more than just fun – it was about broadening horizons and celebrating all the different ways young people can learn and thrive.
media, the students’ work impressed the judges and earned its place among the city’s finest. This recognition is not just a personal success for the three students involved, but a moment of celebration for our entire Art department. It highlights the high standard of teaching, support, and inspiration that enables our students to flourish creatively.
Being shortlisted for such a prestigious competition has already sparked interest and excitement across the school, encouraging even more students to pick up a pencil or paintbrush and explore their own artistic journeys.
We couldn’t be prouder of our young artists, this is just the beginning of what we’re sure will be bright creative futures.
workshops led by professional sound engineers. Students had the opportunity to compose, mix, and record their own tracks using industry-standard equipment. From laying down beats to experimenting with effects, it was an exciting deep dive into the world of music production.
The day wasn’t just about making music—it was about sparking ambition. Students came away with a better understanding of the creative possibilities in audio engineering and production, and many felt inspired to pursue music beyond the classroom. A truly energising experience that combined creativity, collaboration, and career insight in one unforgettable session.
Whether solving team challenges, reflecting through mindfulness, or showing school spirit on the field, CHS South students made the most of every moment.
ELE Week once again proved that learning happens everywhere – and when it’s done with enthusiasm, curiosity and togetherness, it becomes something truly special. We can’t wait to see how these experiences inspire our students in the year ahead.
SUN, SIGHTS & SPANISH FLAVOURS
Our trip to Barcelona was packed with culture, discovery, and unforgettable moments. From the very first day, students threw themselves into local life, starting with a cooking class where they prepared (and ate!) traditional Spanish dishes. This fun, hands-on activity set the tone for a week full of rich cultural immersion.
The city’s landmarks left everyone in awe. The towering Sagrada Familia captured imaginations with its dramatic architecture and stained-glass windows. In Parc Güell, students explored winding mosaic walkways, posed beside Gaudí’s famous lizard sculpture, and soaked up panoramic views of the city skyline.
An action-packed day at PortAventura theme park added high-speed thrills, while a relaxing day on the beach gave everyone a chance to unwind under the sun. Between gelato stops and souvenir shopping, students practised speaking Spanish in real-life settings, boosting their confidence and cultural awareness.
This trip wasn’t just about sightseeing, it was about developing independence, bonding with friends, and discovering more about the world. The group made memories to last a lifetime and represented CHS South with pride at every step. From the excitement of new foods to navigating a new city, this was a week that brought learning to life.
