Chessinton School: Spring 2026 Newsletter

SPRING

newsletter

ISSUE 28

MESSAGE FROM MS WILSON Dear parents, carers and all in the Chessington community, The end of another busy term for all of us at Chessington. So many awesome lessons and opportunities for our students.

Our sports teams continue on their winning streak, with a special shout out to our Sixth Form basketball team who have been promoted to tier 2 having been champions of the Southeast Division - a huge thank you to all of the PE teachers and coaches for the additional hours that goes in to support our students with training and fixtures. We are running a second round of trials for the Year 6’s joining us in September, recruiting our future sporting stars!

importance of great school attendance but to celebrate those students who have good attendance or who have improved attendance. The queue at his office door to claim their attendance prizes has definitely shown that the students have been engaging with this initiative! We have celebrated many other students in the reward assemblies this week, where certificates were issued for the GREAT values and also for 100% and improved attendance it was wonderful to see so many students collecting their certificates and Easter eggs!

Our recent uniform push has hugely improved standards, students consistently look smart and presentable, a credit to the school. A reminder that for the Summer Term students can wear the new branded polo shirt instead of their shirt and tie. They must still wear their blazer. This is completely optional, students are still welcome to wear the normal school uniform.

NOW AVAILABLE AT

The Year 9 Options process is coming along nicely, almost all students have submitted their choices and we will now begin the challenge of trying to give everyone their first choices, students and parents will be notified of the final decisions next term. I would like to remind students to continue giving all of their subjects 100% effort right up until the end of the year.

I wanted to thank our parents that are part of the Parents Think Tank that Mrs Cooper and Mrs Gonyora facilitate. Giving up their time to give feedback and solutions is definitely helping us improve our school.

Over the Easter break 77 students and 10 staff embark on the ski trip to Italy. I am lucky enough to be going with them and cannot wait to see the students having the experience of a lifetime! Look out for updates and photos on our social media pages. There will also be many Year 11 revision sessions led by teaching staff taking place over the 2 week break. These sessions will be invaluable for the students ahead of their formal exams starting at the beginning of May - thank you to the staff who are delivering them.

I wish you a relaxing Easter break.

Throughout this term we have a huge focus on attendance. Mr Caven has worked incredibly hard to not only remind students and parents of the

Enjoy reading the rest of this newsletter. I know that the staff who have written articles are so incredibly proud of our students and all that they are achieving.

Ms Wilson Headteacher Chessington School

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MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNORS Another busy term draws to a close and we say goodbye to Mr Paul Moralee, who is retiring. Paul has been a stalwart of the success of Chessington School and the Ever Child Every Day Trust. Paul was one of the first people I met when I became a Governor and he has been an integral part of the senior leadership team as 'the' finance and business management expert. Thank you on behalf of everyone past, present and future for your wonderful leadership and contribution towards our successful school.

on; I hope students (and staff) also find time to switch off, rest and have some fun over the two week break, coming back refreshed and recharged once again.

Good luck to all those taking exams in the Summer term.

Once again I shall end with an ask - if you think you might have any interest in becoming a school governor please do get in contact with me and have a chat - we are friendly and committed bunch.

Mr Moralee Director of Finance and Operations This term Governors have focussed on a full range of topics including hearing about the school's ongoing focus on the importance of school attendance.

I see and hear first hand how the staff at Chessington go above and beyond to support our students and this is such a strong part of what makes Chessington special. Closely linked to this is school behaviour and standards, again a critical part of supporting all our students to achieve their potential. The Governor Body fully support the ongoing approach to ensure greater consistency and clarity.

The Easter break is a critical one for Year 11 students as the final break before exam season really takes off.

There will be a lot of revision and preparation going

aevans@chessington.kingston.sch.uk I hope you enjoy and have a restful Easter Break

Andrew Evans Chair of Governors

HEAD OF YEAR UPDATES MISS SWAYSLAND Head of Year 7

MRS CHAPMAN Head of Year 8

MISS RUTLEDGE Head of Year 9

MR LUCAS

Head of Year 10

MR POWER

Head of Year 11

MR DAVEY

Head of Year 12 and 13

YEAR 7

Miss Swaysland

It is hard to believe that we are already over halfway through our first year at Chessington!

The transition from primary to secondary school is a major milestone, and this term has shown just how well our youngest students have adapted. The initial nerves of September have been replaced by a sense of belonging and confidence. Whether it’s navigating the halls with ease or managing a busier timetable, the growth in independence across the year group has been a joy to watch.

In the classroom, Year 7 has been buzzing with activity.

This term, students have moved beyond the basics and are diving deeper into their subjects. From conducting hands-on experiments in the labs to exploring new perspectives in the humanities, their enthusiasm for learning remains high. It’s fantastic to see so many students reaching for their personal best and earning well-deserved points. As a year group, they have earned over 40,000!

For alternative learning day, they took a trip to the docklands museum which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

With the final term of the academic year approaching, the focus is on finishing strong. We encourage all Year 7s to keep up their excellent attendance, stay curious, and continue to treat one another with the kindness and respect that has defined their year so far.

Miss Swaysland Head of Year 7

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YEAR 8

Deputy Headteacher

It has been a great pleasure working with Year 8 this term. The year group are maturing and beginning to become young adults.

We held our termly rewards assembly on Tuesday where over 100 certificates were given out for our GREAT values. Students had to achieve over 100 ClassCharts points to be awarded certificates in the categories of Enthusiasm and Ambition - some students managed to get both!

attendance and building resilience to develop habits to set us up for GCSE success. Please continue to share the importance of attendance at home so that students continue to see the value. Well done to Ms Sherrifs tutor group for once again winning the group attendance prize!

Partiv and Pippa were in receipt of additional awards this term as a result of their consistent outstanding attitude and kindness. Across the day and the curriculum these two students go above and beyond.

Enjoy your chocolate eggs!

We are now looking forward to the summer term and preparing for end of year exams and ensuring that we have the knowledge and skills to achieve our potential.

Have a wonderful holiday.

In addition to these prizes we also celebrated those who have 100% attendance and who's attendance has improved over time. We have spent a lot of assembly and tutor time focusing on the importance of

Mrs Cooper Deputy Headteacher

Year 8 Students on Their ALD Trip to Hampton Court Palace, 31/01/2026

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YEAR 9

Miss Rutledge

Alternative learning day was fun packed with the scholars going to Wembley and the rest of the year group heading to the science museum.

I look forward to the summer term where I hope to see increased maturity and focus in subject areas linked to options, and also for students to show that they are ready for their GCSE years at Chessington.

Miss Rutledge Head of Year 9

Year 9 have now chosen their options and are looking forwards to Year 10 now with excitement about their new courses.

I have been impressed with their maturity surrounding the process and their engagement with the PDW sessions and 1-2-1 meetings. Options Evening was a real success and so good to see so many parents turn up to talk to staff.

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YEAR 10 Mr Lucas

It has been a fantastic spring term for Year 10, and I am incredibly proud of how well students have applied themselves in the lead-up to their mock examinations, which will take place in the first weeks after the Easter break.

This term, there has been a real and noticeable shift in students’ attitudes towards their academic studies.

Across the year group, students have demonstrated determination, maturity, and a genuine commitment to achieving their very best. It has been particularly pleasing to see such a strong focus on preparation and readiness for the upcoming mocks.

In the final week of term, students were guided through how to create realistic and effective revision timetables. As we approach the Easter holidays, we have strongly encouraged all students to make full use of this time to revise consistently and purposefully. I have every confidence that Year 10 will take this advice seriously and approach their revision with the same positive attitude they have shown throughout the term.

We were also delighted with the excellent turnout at the recent Year 10 Parents’ Evening. It was a valuable opportunity for meaningful and productive conversations between staff, students, and parents.

Staff were particularly impressed with the maturity and engagement shown by students in discussing their progress and next steps.

Year 10 is a fantastic year group, and they are firmly on track to achieve great success as they move towards Year 11. I look forward to seeing the results of their hard work in the upcoming mock examinations.

During tutor time, we have placed a significant emphasis on developing effective revision skills. A structured revision programme has been delivered weekly, equipping students with a range of strategies to support their independent study. These have included techniques such as mind mapping, the use of flashcards, and, importantly, reflecting on individual learning preferences to identify what works best for each student.

Mr Lucas Head of Year 10

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YEAR 11 Mr Power

The atmosphere in the Year 11 wing has shifted into high gear following the successful completion of the Spring Mock Exams. Teachers have been quick to praise the cohort, noting that the collective effort and resilience shown during this assessment period were truly positive, setting a strong foundation for the summer season.

This dedication isn't just limited to the exam hall. A wave of academic focus has swept through the year group, with record numbers of students sacrificing their free time to sharpen their skills. Whether it’s early morning sessions or quick-fire reviews during breaks and lunch, the commitment is visible across the school. In particular, Mr. Power’s classroom has become a hub of productivity, consistently packed with students working through past papers and revision guides.

While the "anytime, anywhere" revision culture is thriving, there is still room to grow. Staff are encouraging students to boost attendance at afterschool revision sessions, viewing these as the final "golden hours" to bridge the gap between their mock results and their target grades.

Candidate Exam Handbook 2025-26

Exams Timetable Summer 2026 Looking Ahead: Rewards and Red Carpets It’s not all hard graft, however. The year group is eagerly anticipating the final Leavers Assembly, a culminating celebration to recognize the progress and character shown by the students throughout their five-year journey. Of course, the biggest buzz revolves around the fast-approaching Prom. With tickets officially on sale, the corridors are alive with talk of venue details, sharp suits, and elegant dresses. It serves as a glittering reminder of the celebrations that await once the final exam paper is turned over.

Mr Power Head of Year 11

Year 11 Students Supporting Our Sixth Form Basketball Team at the Championship Game.

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YEAR 12/13 Mr Davey

The term started with a Year 12 and Year 13 Teambuilding trips. Both were good fun and the students are keen for the next ones in the summer term.

In January, the year 13 students completed their University applications and have already started to receive offers for places in September 2026. Also in January, both year 12 and year 13 Sport students sat unit exams with grades published at the end of March.

Both year groups are working hard with their coursework, at the end of two years they will have completed 14 units, and the qualification they achieve is equivalent to 3 A-levels. Year 12 & 13 Child Development students have had a busy time with exams also, with the latter completing a 20 hour exam, and year 12 students completing a mock exam.

The Child Development students continue to make progress, and make use of their work experience in the onsite nursery, developing the skills needed to work in a nursery once they finish their qualification. This is proving to be an excellent relationship and the Nursery Manager provides regular updates with student progress, which has been excellent for all students. It has even resulted in a couple of job offers for our students once they finish. The students also had a visit to a local school with specialist provision, looking at how children with various needs are supported and a valuable trip to the Child & Education Expo at Earls Court.

Both year groups have been on careers related trips during the term, including Kingston University, to look at degree options and the Sports students had two taster sessions in Biomechanics and Fitness Testing.

Secondly, a visit to the National Apprenticeship Fair at Sandown Park to look at apprenticeship opportunities. There were also some University exhibitors there, giving information on Degree Apprenticeships which is a growing option for students These trips are arranged to ensure our students can make informed decisions about their future pathways.

Our Sixth Form Basketball 1st Team have finished the season convincingly, winning the League title and also the Playoffs. Well done to Coach Addy and the players.

The football team have had a difficult season with key players struggling with injuries. Nevertheless, the connection with Chessington & Hook FC has been a good link particularly for one of our Y12 students who is the U18 captain.

Mr Davey Head of Sixth Form

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G N I R E T A C C I N A G R O DUCTS

O NATURAL PR

MRS FORD

chefs for ar st ed d ar aw ve e’ w , is Spring term term th r fa so s ne to those es o d cc l su el w ch u so m n o ti So ta ro t rs at the end of the fi 3 S K ss ro cticals and ac ra n p o r ei ss le th l al ch n ea o rk o w d edication and har students who showed d period! rm te f al h e th r ve o ts en homework assignm skills such as en h tc ki y ke g in n ar le hard at work Yr 7 students have been and making staples such as bread rolls, fruit ty knife, hob and oven safe usage rolls. d sa crumble, bolognaise an using the rolling ta as p h es fr g in ak m s ill their sk Yr 8 have been pushing mousse te la co o ch d an e gu in er machines, curries, m ure probes, at er p m te e th h it w ly fe king chicken sa making fish cakes sh fi h it Yr 9 have mastered coo w g in rk o w f o s nt example and we saw some excelle . ry as well as eo th e th h it w s ip gr to g n gettin Yr 10 students have bee mplexity level. co d an ill sk h ig h a f o s and the Health and completing practical n o ti ec sp in O H E an t u g abo They have been learnin Safety laws etermination and d d an rk o w d ar h h it w A g their NE Year 11 have been tacklin nges alle battling through the ch Mrs Ford Head of Catering

USE B 16/0 Y: 4/26

This Spring Term in Computer Science, students across Key Stage 3 focused on developing their coding and programming skills. Programming is a key part of the Computer Science curriculum as it helps students develop logical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity when designing digital solutions.

Year 8 - Introduction to Python Year 8 students began learning Python, one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. This marked an important transition from block-based programming to text-based coding, where students must write precise instructions using correct syntax.

Throughout the term, students explored different programming languages and techniques appropriate to their year group, building confidence and independence when writing and testing their own code. _________________________________________________________________ Year 7 – Scratch Programming Year 7 students continued to develop their programming skills using Scratch, a block-based programming language that many students have already encountered during their time in primary school. This familiarity allowed students to quickly begin building their own projects while reinforcing core programming concepts.

During the term, students focused on key programming principles including sequencing, selection, and repetition.

They created a range of interactive projects such as simple games, quizzes, and animations. Students learned how to use loops, variables, broadcasts, and conditional statements to control the behaviour of their programs.

A strong focus was placed on debugging, encouraging students to identify and fix problems in their code independently. This helped them develop resilience and logical thinking when solving programming challenges. _________________________________________________________________

As their confidence grew, students moved on to selection statements using if, elif, and else, allowing their programs to make decisions based on user input. They applied these skills to create simple interactive programs such as number guessers, calculators, and quiz games.

Students also began learning how to test and debug their code, an essential skill for any programmer.

Year 9 – Developing Advanced Python Skills Year 9 students started the term by recapping key Python programming concepts to refresh their knowledge and strengthen their foundations. Once these core skills were revisited, students progressed to more advanced programming techniques.

Throughout the term, students explored:

Students applied these concepts to solve more challenging programming problems and began developing longer and more sophisticated programs. They were encouraged to plan their solutions carefully before coding and to evaluate their programs once completed.

This approach helped students further develop their computational thinking, problem-solving abilities, and independence as programmers.

More complex conditional statements Loops including for and while More structured and efficient ways of designing programs Breaking larger problems into smaller manageable tasks

Looking Ahead It has been fantastic to see students across all year groups showing enthusiasm and creativity when developing their coding skills. Programming can be challenging at times, but students have shown great perseverance when debugging their work and improving their programs.

In the Summer Term, students will continue to build on these skills while exploring new areas of Computer Science and applying their programming knowledge in different contexts.

Mr Cosgrave Head of Computer Science

GEOGRAPHY MR FORSYTH

The Spring Term has seen great improvements in Geography, with students investigating a range of topics, including a study of Africa, Rivers & Coasts, and Resource Management. Students have engaged brilliantly and have showcased their efforts in a new assessment model across each year. The new form of assessments have seen great improvements, helping to build confidence and inspire students to continue their efforts.

Students will continue their studies of Geography, exploring Global Issues in Year 7, The Middle-East in Year 8, and Geopolitics in Year 9. Year 10 students will be preparing for their first formal mock; Paper 1 - Physical Geography. Whilst Year 11 prepare for their formal GCSE examinations, beginning in Early May. Please continue to support the Geography department by encouraging students to engage in lessons, and continuing to put high effort into homework at home.

Mr Forsyth Head of Humanities

y ry or to st hiis h Spring Term Spring Term has has been been fantastic fantastic for for our our historians, historians, with with studies across studies across Anglo-Saxon Anglo-Saxon England, England, Transatlantic Transatlantic Slavery, The Slavery, The Holocaust, Holocaust, and and Weimar Weimar Germany.

Germany.

Students have Students have engaged engaged fantastically fantastically in in lessons lessons and and assessments alike, assessments alike, with with many many continuing continuing to to improve improve their grades. their grades. The The History History department department has has also also sought sought to develop to develop independent independent study study with with a a range range of of homework tasks homework tasks focusing focusing on on reading reading and and writing writing at at Key Key Stage 3, Stage 3, and and revision revision at at Key Key Stage Stage 4.

4. We We feel feel that that success will success will come come with with great great lessons lessons in in school school and and increased independent increased independent study study from from home. home.

AA standout standout moment moment for for History History was was the the residential residential in in Berlin. Sixty Berlin.

Sixty Year Year 10s 10s and and 11s 11s took took the the flight flight to to Berlin Berlin for the for the weekend, weekend, along along with with five five members members of of staff, staff, to to engage in engage in a a historical historical study study of of Germany.

Germany. Students Students had had access to access to engaging engaging museums museums around around the the Second Second World World War and War and the the Cold Cold War, War, and and a a trip trip to to Sachsenhausen Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp.

Concentration Camp.

We look We look forward forward to to the the Summer Summer Term, Term, with with aa key key focus focus on exams on exams in in each each year year group, group, culminating culminating in in aa range range of of excellent trips excellent trips in in Alternative Alternative Learning Learning Week.

Week.

Thank you Thank you for for your your continued continued support support and and engagement in engagement in History.

History.

Mr Forsyth Mr Forsyth Head of Head of Humanities Humanities

Religious Studies

As we reach the end of a productive and engaging spring term, the Religious Studies Department is proud to share the fantastic work and progress of our students across all year groups.

Year 7 – Judaism Year 7 students have been exploring the foundations of Judaism. They have learned about key beliefs, practices, and traditions, including the importance of the Torah, the role of the synagogue, and significant festivals.

Students have shown great curiosity and respect when learning about one of the world’s oldest religions.

Year 8 – Buddhism Our Year 8 students have been studying Buddhism, focusing on the life of the Buddha and his teachings.

They have explored concepts such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, developing thoughtful reflections on how these ideas can be applied to everyday life.

Year 9 – Ethics

Year 9 have been engaging in ethical discussions, considering important moral issues and different viewpoints. They have explored topics such as justice, equality, and human rights, building strong skills in debate, reasoning, and critical thinking—key skills for both GCSE and beyond.

Year 10 – GCSE Religion and Life (AQA)

Year 10 students have made an excellent start to their GCSE course, focusing on the “Religion and Life” unit. They have begun examining important topics such as the origins of the universe, the value of human life, and ethical issues surrounding the environment. Their engagement and maturity in handling complex topics has been very encouraging.

Year 9 Options Evening Year 9 Options Evening, which was a great success. It was a pleasure to speak with students and parents about Religious Studies and the many opportunities it offers. We highlighted how the subject develops critical thinking, empathy, and analytical skills, all of which are highly valued in a wide range of future careers.

Thank you to all students for their hard work this term, and to parents for their continued support. I look forward to another exciting term ahead.

Ms Sheriff Head of Religious Studies

SAFEGUARDING UPDATE Staying Safe and Balanced Online This Easter As we head into the Easter break, we want to support you build on the work our students have been doing in school regarding Digital Wellbeing. Following becoming a phone free school students have had dedicated assemblies and PDW lessons, to help them know how to explore and navigate the online world with more confidence and caution.

We have also reminded them on the importance of managing screen time, and understanding the impact of social media on mental health We are pleased to share that the strategies we discuss in school are fully supported by our Parents’ Think Tank. We met recently in March and want to encourage all families to maintain a healthy digital balance over the holidays: How about having a device free hour: Encouraging a set time each day (especially before bed) to focus on an activity away from their phone.

Parental controls : please do check on app access and remind your children to review their follower lists and privacy settings, this is key theme from our online safety assembly.

Use the holiday break to ask your child about the apps they are enjoying and the content they are seeing. They may benefit from muting or leaving larger WhatsApp chats over the break We hope by sharing the messages students hear in school you can share them again in conversations they have at home, and we can help them enjoy a safer, more positive experience online.

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Mrs Cooper Safeguarding Lead

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100% 98%

ATTENDACE UPDATE

96% 95% 94%

Compared with this point last year, our school attendance has improved 2% and has secured almost 9,700 additional hours of additional classroom learning for our students.

Also, we began the second half of the Spring Term, we launched our “24 to Achieve More” attendance challenge. There were 24 school days in this halfterm and every single one plays a crucial role in helping students thrive academically, socially and emotionally. We are encouraging all students to go all in and aim for full attendance across all the 24 days. We will continued to remind students “we’re better when you’re here.”

We are pleased to recognise the 395 students that have achieved 100% school attendance. This achievement is a direct result of your constant support at home. Thank you for your support.

90% 85%

Did you know...?

Parents/carers are legally responsible for ensuring their child attends school regularly.

90% attendance or below is classed as persistent absence. At this point, schools are expected to increase support and may involve other services where concerns continue. This threshold matters because lower attendance has a clear negative impact on learning and outcomes.

Mr Caven Assistant Headteacher

CAREERS CAREERS MR DAVEY

A busy term with regards to Careers. The highlight was a visit from South West Trains to talk to our Year 10 students about Apprenticeships with an engaging activity for the students to take part in. In National STEM week, students took part in a range of activities throughout the week during Tutorial sessions and those who were most enthused were invited to attend a STEM Day. This involved a lesson from The National Physical Laboratory, Science Challenges and presentation from guest speakers who work within STEM industries. Year 9 students have been looking at future pathways in PDW lessons. This tied in with Options Evening, with the knowledge that decisions students make regarding key stage 4 subjects, may influence career choices in future.

The Sixth Form students have had various trips over the term, including a visit to Kingston University and to the National Apprenticeship show at Sandown Racecourse. The students got valuable information about Apprenticeships, Degree Apprenticeships and University degrees from the exhibitors.

Our Year 13 and Year 11 students have all had a one-to-one Careers Meeting with our specialist Careers Advisor, helping the students to plan next steps.

Year 10 They have just started content area 3 learning about play and activities to suit children of all needs. Both classes are progressing well and seem to be really enjoying the course. I would encourage the attending of sixth form college a year early to look at potential courses. Remembering we do the T level here at Chessington. It would be nice to see students complete their child care journey with us.

Year 11 Students have finished the NEA coursework task and are prepping for the final exam in June. I am very proud of the hard work and effort they have put into the coursework element. As it is 50% of the overall grade, I hope the results are reflective of the effort put in.

Year 12/13 Friday 13th march - Year 12 and 13 visited St Phillips primary school for some SEND research, they took part in morning sessions and learning throughout the age groups. This was a really valuable experience and highlighted the importance for SEN provision for these children. The sessions were RS for primary school, Food technology for year 6,7,and 8 combined class, and English with year 9. Our students loved joining in and supporting them for the morning. Aliyah and Mia especially loved the baking of ginger bread men.

On Friday 20th March the sixth form visited the child care and education expo at Kensington Olympia. This is linked to the recommendation section of each unit of work where the students have to make recommendations for their settings using a EYP manager mindset. We were lucky enough to meet and talk to Michael Rosen who wrote we are going on a bear hunt, a book we use a lot in child development.

Miss Rutledge Head of Child Development

maths We have had another great term in maths, which has seen lots of students gaining many positive points for focus in lessons, star learners, resilience and more! We have seen movement in some classes which the students have taken in their stride trusting we know which classes they can best be supported in, and stretched in to fulfil their ability.

Please encourage your children with completing their Sparx homework on time - data shows that students who regularly complete this make significant progress in their maths grades.

As a department we have been really impressed with Year 11 on their commitment to their maths in the final stretch before their GCSEs. Many have been coming to the morning and after school interventions that we have been running, as well as lunchtimes! We really hope their effort reflects in their results as they are working so hard.

After Easter, Year 10s will begin their mocks which I know many have started working on, followed by the rest of the school in summer term 2. As always, please ensure your children are preparing themselves for these and following our revision lists which will be sent out.

Can I also take this opportunity to remind you how important it is for the students to be fully equipped each maths lesson - including calculators and ideally geometry sets.

Have a lovely easter and we are looking forward to a positive summer term!

Miss Spink Head of Maths

MS HUDSPITH HEAD OF ART YEAR 11 - EXAM PAPERS It is an exciting time for year 11 as they work on their exam topic. Students are carrying out their contextual and visual research with rigor and dedication - they are happily experimenting with fantastic results, and I can’t wait to see their final outcomes in their final exam at the end of April. Each student has worked tirelessly over the last 2 years to create an incredible body of work that we are all super proud of.

YEAR 9 - IDENTITY Year 9 students are looking good in their self portraits.

Inspired by the work of Loui Jover, we are using abstract elements and symbolism to create lively, expressive, layered, multi media self portraits. Leading up to this, students have researched their own identity through objects and places. They have studied facial features in detail and explored monoprint and wash techniques.

YEAR 8 - NATURAL PATTERNS Year 10 - NATURAL FORMS Our year 10 art students are coming to the end of their first topic of Natural Forms. They are currently working on the first final pieces of their GCSE, which are looking really strong. The research, talent and focus means outcomes look fabulous and students will have banked 30% of their GCSE by Easter. After Easter we look forward to starting the next project - CITY LIFE

Building on our experiences with different media, this term year 8 have created repeat patterns in block printing, and are currently making ceramic coil pots, with organic patterns. They build their pot from the base up using different patterns (coils) for each layer.

Here at Chessington we are very lucky to have specialist clay equipment so students can look forward to seeing how their work turns out after firing.

YEAR 7 - COLOUR THEORY Year 7 are looking at colour through the lens of food.

Learning all about colour theory, colour mixing and brush techniques, creating a great base for future paintings.

PROP CLUB After-school prop making club is making steady progress towards the props and scenery of this year's play SHREK. If anyone would like to join after Easter, we are running on Monday after school in S28 - just turn up.

YEAR 7 - COLOUR THEORY Year 7 are looking at colour through the lens of food.

Learning all about colour theory, colour mixing and brush techniques, creating a great base for future paintings

PROP CLUB After-school prop making club is making steady progress towards the props and scenery of this year's play SHREK. If anyone would like to join after Easter, we are running on Monday after school in S28 - just turn up.

COLOUR THEORY

English

Year 7 This term, the students of Year 7 ha ve been busy reading and analysing the novel Wonder by R. J. Palacio. This is an important text for secondary children to read , because it explores incredibly important ideas about kindness, inclusion and acceptance. Our reading has spar ked many valuable conversations and discussions. W ell done on a second successful term in English at Chessington!

Year 8 This term, we have been studying George Orwell’s Animal Farm. It is always fascinating to see how this short novel continues to spark both intrigue and outrage in young readers. In our discussions, Year 8 students have been able to see that many of the themes of Animal Farm are still relevant and worthy of debate today.

Year 9 In Year 9 this term, we have been learning all about New Zealand Maori culture in our read ing of The Whale Rider by Witi Ihimaera. For many students, this was their first time finding out about this culture, and it has been a valuable journey into learning about difference, equal rig hts and inclusion. As students of English, it is so importa nt that we read and value writing cultures from across the wo rld.

Year 10 r Year 10! They It has been a term of ‘Macbeth’ fo raft, regicide and hc tc wi e th th wi ll we ed pl ap gr ve ha bean play. It is co Ja t ea gr is th in ed ain nt co y nn tyra of this term, they satisfying to think that, by the end ary to complete a will have studied both texts necess ared to sit a full Literature Paper 1 and be prep d to seeing some Language Paper 1. We look forwar and progress in rk wo rd ha of ce en id ev l fu er nd wo ar 10! their summer exams. Well done Ye

partment held a De sh gli En e th y, Da ok Bo ld or W On students up to all r fo n io tit pe m co w vie re ok bo House st array of and including Year 10. We had a va e two winners incredible entries, and choosing th Well done from each House was a challenge. nderful Chessington students for your wo contributions.

Mrs Elmas Head of English

MUSIC MR DUBOCK HEAD OF MUSIC

Music Department Melodies & Milestones The music department is currently a hive of activity! Whether it’s the energy of lunchtime music clubs or the focused talent of after school band rehearsals, there is a fantastic atmosphere across all year groups.

BTEC Spotlight: Year 11: A massive "well done" for completing your final piece of moderated coursework. The finish line is in sight!

Year 10: You’re up! We are excited to see your creativity shine as you started your first moderated project recently. Remember the final deadline is 28th of April.

Band Rehearsals: A reminder that Music club is Tuesday and Thursday afternoon and Musical production: Rehearsals still on Monday after school and Wednesday after school. Performance dates TBC. Instrument lessons - as ever we are supported by a fantastic team offering individual instrument lessons please email me for details if interested in a free taster lesson. jdubock@chessington.kingston.sch.uk

h s i n a Sp

knowledge of ir e th d e p lo e v e d e ol. Students hav o h c S n to g in s s e e more creative h m C o t c a e b ts is to u g rs n e li d r il u u o their sentence b utumn term for A h t g a u re ro g nguage. th r la e t g th rn in a o c n le u a d e n g ro e a e p u b g n n s e a h la h w It manipulate the to g in rt ta s w o n re key verbs and a ck exam and o m ir e th d te le p m ms. They have co a x e g in k a e p s ir e end of April. e th th t r a fo m g a n x ri e a l p a re re p e prove before th working hard on n im e e to b o e d v a to h d ts e n e e n d y Our Year 11 stu ne and what the o d e v a h y e th w o t on h nts after e m s s e s s a r e m m are ready to reflec u t ready for their s e g y e th s a e g a their own. u g n n o la g f n o ti y ri it w x f le o p s e m c o veloping their c much longer pie e d te ri d n w a g to g in d in il rt u b ta s n confidence and Year 10 have bee in g in p lo e v e d re a s. They at take place th ls a v ti s the Easter holiday fe t n re fe discussing the dif g in y jo n e d n a peaking world. ls s a v h ti is s n a fe p d S n e a s th n t u io o it through out Spanish trad b a g in rn a le n e e b Year 9 have cy. This is a ra u c c a ir e th g in p time and develo e e fr ir e th g in s s plexity to it. u c m is o c d r d n fo a ry th la p u e b d a d c ing different vo SE when we buil C rn a G t le a n e rs e a b e p e v p a a h re 7 topic which Year 8 and Year r holidays with te s a E e th g n ri u d e kills into practic s e g a u g e into an n n la tu ir r e o e th g t a u u p g n to la e t u guists to contin eries in the targe n s li r r o u s o ll lm a fi d e n v e ti s m g for gist? fe m in n te ri te s u li o v y a fa d r a u o s y te g u I thoroughly reco ne for a few min y not try watchin li h n W o . n e s o u ti e ta g s a u io g d n ra la international examples of real

MR MLUARNRGAUYAGES

HEAD OF

library, lit&eracy L A E

This term in the library we’ve been growing the skills and experience of our Student Librarians, who have now learned how to scan, return and catalogue books using our library software. The end of term also saw our first ever Student Librarians meeting, in which Mr. Ashton listened to ideas about how we could improve everyone’s experience of the library. Suggestions included a rotating Book of the Week voted for by our Librarians, an International Fiction display, and a book suggestion box by the library door, which we hope to get started on after the Easter Break.

World Book Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the school this year, with students and staff taking part in a range of fun and creative activities. The highlight of the day was our annual World Book Day costume celebration, for which staff and students came to school as their favourite book characters. Years 7 and 8 made a particularly strong showing, impressing everyone with imaginative costumes ranging from The Cat in the Hat, Sherlock Holmes and the Lorax to Harry Potter and several characters from Hayao Miyazaki's Spirited Away. The library was also buzzing throughout the day as students dropped in to take part in a variety of interactive wordbased games, a book-themed treasure hunt and a Scrabble competition, while students in Accelerated Reader lessons competed in a specially created literary escape room challenge.‌ In English lessons, students from Years 7 to 10 had the opportunity to participate in a house book review competition, writing engaging and persuasive reviews of their favourite books to share with their classmates. The winners will accompany Mr. Ashton on a trip to Kingston Waterstones to pick out a book of their own in celebration of their enthusiasm for reading: well done to Grace-Mai Rose, Dylan Nori, Melora Mhondera, Amor Jimenez-Wallace, Yianna Nottingham-Mills, Jack Moore, Lily Reid and Diseni Wannakuwatta! The celebrations concluded with our annual online World Book Day quiz, with winners set to be announced soon. It was wonderful to see so many students embracing the joy of reading and storytelling throughout the day, and we look forward to continuing our celebration of reading across the school over the summer term.

EAL interventions have continued apace since the Christmas break, comprising regular phonics, maths and vocabulary interventions for those students in the early stages of English acquisition, alongside more advanced English practice for students who are building their confidence in the language. We’ve also been lucky to have students contribute to our new multilingual ‘Welcome to the Library’ display, writing a message in their first language which will be displayed on the library doors, showcasing the astounding diversity of languages spoken at our school. As ever, it’s been wonderful to see the dedication, enthusiasm and unfailing effort our EAL students have brought to their studies so far, and we’re all immensely proud of the progress they’ve made while they’ve been with us at Chessington.

You will remember that last term our Year 10 Jack Petchey finalists took part in our school Assembly Final. Maisie Donovan, Regan Vigor, Emily Burton, Maria Alexandre Camara, Miillie Burch and Drayke Grove all did a fantastic job.

We are very proud of all the students who stood up in assembly and delivered their speeches to the rest of their Y10 peers. As our winner, Millie Burch qualified for the Regional Final, which took place on Tuesday 24th March at Coombe Girl’s School. A huge thank you to Mr Ashton for supporting her on the day - Millie thoroughly enjoyed the experience of speaking in front of an audience in a contest that saw all winners from Kingston Borough schools perform. Well done Millie!

Mr Murray - Head of Languages‌ Mr Ashton - Reading and Literacy Support Assistant

science MRS ANDREW

curriculum corner

It has been another busy term in the Science department! Y11 students completed their second set of mocks at the beginning of Spring term two and we are now preparing them for their final summer exams.

Students worked hard in preparation for their mocks and have identified the areas that they need to work on for their GCSE final exams. We have been so proud with the way that they have approached this and the revision materials that they produce in response to ‘The Climb’ initiative that commenced this year.

Y10 students have been exploring units of Homeostasis and Response, Chemical and Energy changes and Electricity and Forces in their lessons. The team are currently delivering revision lessons to students in preparation for the mock exams that will commence after Easter.

Y9 students are currently studying the unit of Organisation which has involved exploring the functions of different types of organ and plant systems. Some students have already had the opportunity to carry out a heart dissection which they loved.

Y8 students have been exploring the structure of both the circulatory and respiratory system and how they function. This includes learning about gas exchange and connecting to the activities they do outside of school like sports and why they feel tired after playing.

Lastly, Y7 students have delved into the topic of Forces, Cells and learning about how the body moves. Y7- 10 students have also sat round two of their progress check assessments and worked very hard to prepare for these.

sparx science The Science Department wants to encourage all parents to explore SparX Science with their children. It is a fantastic resource that has made revising for both KS3 and KS4 easier than ever! With constant updates to its interactive flashcard system, the platform is thoughtfully designed to support all types of learners and make studying at home highly effective.

The Science Behind the Flashcards Did you know that flashcards are scientifically proven to be one of the most successful study methods? They encourage: Active Recall: Instead of just passively re-reading notes, flashcards force the brain to actively retrieve information. Cognitive science shows this significantly strengthens connections and improves exam performance.

Long-Term Retention: Using flashcards regularly helps move information from short-term into long-term memory. This means your child won't just memorize facts for tomorrow, they’ll remember them for their final exams!

Plus, there are great incentives for your child to dive in! Students earn SparX Science XP by:

Completing flashcard sets Finishing their homework to 100% Engaging with independent learning modules The Rewards: Each week, the Science Department tracks this progress. The students who engage the most and top the weekly SparX Science Leaderboard receive 3 achievement points! You can even spot these leaderboards proudly displayed on screens across the school.

We highly encourage you to sit down with your child, check out their progress, and use SparX Science as a go-to tool for revision at home.

science club Science Club has continued to be a fantastic opportunity for students at Chessington School to explore the practical and exciting side of science outside the classroom. I have been involved with the club since joining the school, and at the start of this academic year I began running the sessions. It has been great to see students engage with science in a more relaxed and exploratory environment.

Throughout the year, we have run a range of hands-on experiments and activities spanning biology, chemistry, and physics. The aim is to give students the chance to experience science in action and develop curiosity beyond the curriculum. From practical demonstrations and mini investigations to activities such as identifying and learning the different parts of the brain, students have been able to explore a variety of topics in a fun and interactive way.

We also enjoy watching short science explainers and discussing big ideas in science, which often leads to some really thoughtful conversations about how science connects to everyday life. Science Club has become a space where students can ask questions, share ideas, and develop a deeper interest in the world around them.

primary outreach This half term, Year 5 at Lovelace have been in our science department building on their Science theme of Space. Mr West held three sessions on Rocket Science, where children were able to successfully build and launch balloon rockets, release a variety of Pop-rockets using film canisters and finally ignite a whoosh rocket, launching it across the class. Mr West said “It was a delight to welcome Year 5 from Lovelace back to Chessington. We have a special relationship with their school, with lots of siblings naturally coming to us as they move from junior to secondary school. It was a joy to see all three classes so excited in the work they were doing, and literally everyone got involved, even the teachers!!”

STEM Day On Friday 20th March, our Deputy Head of Maths planned another Super special STEM day with a whole load of amazing activities. The first two sessions of the day were run by the National Physical laboratory (NPL) which is based in Teddington. They bought Liquid Nitrogen and gave the students a show of what the substance can do. We also had an engineer from the UK Civil Aviation Authority who spoke about careers in aviation and carried out activities involving making planes.

Finally the students were off timetable periods 5 and 6 where they engaged in a number STEM based activities including a Maths Challenge and a Spatula and bean race!

cHILD cHILD DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT Year 10 They have just started content area 3 learning about play and activities to suit children of all needs. Both classes are progressing well and seem to be really enjoying the course. I would encourage the attending of sixth form college a year early to look at potential courses. Remembering we do the T level here at Chessington. It would be nice to see students complete their child care journey with us.

Year 11 Students have finished the NEA coursework task and are prepping for the final exam in June. I am very proud of the hard work and effort they have put into the coursework element. As it is 50% of the overall grade, I hope the results are reflective of the effort put in.

Year 12/13 Friday 13th march - Year 12 and 13 visited St Phillips primary school for some SEND research, they took part in morning sessions and learning throughout the age groups. This was a really valuable experience and highlighted the importance for SEN provision for these children. The sessions were RS for primary school, Food technology for yr 6,7,and 8 combined class, and English with year 9. Our students loved joining in and supporting them for the morning. Aliyah and Mia especially loved the baking of ginger bread men.

On friday 20th march the sixth form visited the child care and education expo at Kensington Olympia. This is linked to the recommendation section of each unit of work where the students have to make recommendations for their settings using a EYP manager mindset. We were lucky enough to meet and talk to Michael Rosen who wrote we are going on a bear hunt, a book we use a lot in child development.

Miss Rutledge Head of Child Development

Everyone valued Every day an opportunity Every moment focused on success

Garrison Lane, Chessington KT9 2JS 020 8974 1156 chessington.kingston.sch.uk