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HEADTEACHER’SINTRODUCTION

We are working incredibly hard to ensure that our Year 11 and Year 13 students are ready for the forthcoming exam season and the completion of the most recent preliminary exam programme will help them in their final preparations

Staff also work exceptionally hard to provide opportunities for all students to think outside the box, practise skills and abilities that they have gained during their educational journeys and to absorb additional knowledge that will prepare them for a successful life beyond school.

Whether it’s physical activity, problem solving, learning new skills, visiting new places, or preparing for pathways beyond school, these vital opportunities enable students to expand their horizons, make new friends and develop their confidence and character.

Please take the time to read about some of the opportunities and experiences that they have been participating in since the half term break. I am always amazed at the enthusiasm and commitment our students show in taking on new challenges and learning new things

NATIONAL CAREERS WEEK

During National Careers Week, a number of guest speakers came into school to talk about their career experiences in a number of different fields, including engineering, finance, and law. Students were also given the opportunity to workshop CV writing, take part in a mock magistrates trial and, as a grande finale, hear from a panel of successful career women from a variety of industries in acknowledgement of International Women’s Day. An invaluable opportunity to get a glimpse into the world of work, and explore different career pathways!

Year 7 and Year 8 participated in a reflection task, brainstorming where they would like to be in the future. We have displayed their posters throughout national careers week as a means of raising aspirations across the school.

WORLD BOOK DAY - 5 MARCH 2026

As always, the school celebrated World Book Day in style, with staff and students dressed as their favourite book characters - Alice In Wonderland was a particular theme for the English department, but there were many different books and literary genres represented. A fun day with an important message - reading is important as a lifelong skill that improves memory, builds a robust vocabulary and foundation of knowledge and can help to boost confidence and self esteem.

JACK PETCHEY WINNER

Anton

'Anton loves languages especially Mandarin and is a real asset to the class, helping others and displaying real skill. He always gives 100 per cent in every lesson and is a wonderful role model'

'Anton has shown an aptitude and talent in drama and is really enjoying playing various characters and exploring varying texts. He has shown excellent leadership skills during group work and is a real team player'

'Anton is a really kind and considerate student'

'Anton is a great friend and peer, he always helps me with my work if i get stuck'

ROBOTICS UPDATE

The Year 12 robotics team competed in a regional competition recently in which they were placed second overall - an amazing achievement!

The event tested their critical thinking skills, involved them in complex problem solving; fostering creativity and confidence. These are important skills that will prepare them for possible future careers in fields like engineering, AI and healthcare. Getting to have fun and work together as a team was also very rewarding.

YEAR 12 PATHWAY TO MEDICINE

A huge thank you to Rachael, Lecturer at UCL, who delivered an insightful presentation to Year 12 Pathway to Medicine students. These students are aspiring to a career in the field of medicine and these insights are so valuable.

WHAT’SBEENHAPPENING...?

DUKE OF EDINBURGH SILVER AWARD

Our Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award students recently took some time out to practise their tent building skills before their practice expedition in April when they will be exploring Kent, the Garden of England - We wish them the best of luck!

The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme is a youth development program designed to help 14 – 24 year olds build life skills, confidence, and resilience through volunteering, physical activity, skills development, and expeditions.

YEAR 8

Year 8 students enjoyed a careers workshop to support them when it comes to choosing their GCSE options. They learned how different areas of the curriculum can develop skills that can be transferable to various careers

YEAR 9 AND YEAR 10

Motivational speaker, Mervyn Mensah, visited the school and spoke to Year 9 and 10 students about choices, consequences and actions, particularly in the local community. Important messages in a challenging world for our young people.