I am delighted to recommend this edition of Headlines to you with so much evidence of the strong engagement in learning, wider opportunities and enrichment that our students have shown. It makes me feel really proud to see all that our students have available to them and how they respond to it.
I have also been delighted to see so many students securing awards and recognition at the end of this term. We have been very mindful to recognize improvement as well as high performance, we know that some students are working hard at their attendance and engagement in school and this is to be acknowledged. As is the amazing work that so many of our students are doing to invest in their own education and future: nearly 50% of students received a Community Award this term, celebrating high attendance and positive behaviour. It is these habits of success that will help Year 10, 11 and 13 as they prepare for their exams. More details on revision guidance can be found here: https://www.heathfieldcc.co.uk/?page_id=997924.
We have also been working hard to involve students in celebrating the school environment and culture, introducing some small scale and fun activities that brighten all our days in a world that can seem confusing and complex. From egg hunts to Samba Bands students have had reason to smile and this will continue during the next few terms as we continue to build on a strong culture of positivity.
If you need any support with accessing the recommendations then please contact Mr Hatchard. Reading matters and we are happy to support, guide and encourage students as much as possible.
YEAR 7
Mr Holden
Year 7 have been involved in a variety of tutor time themes this term, including World Book Day, International Women’s Day and Science week. These topics have helped broaden student’s horizons and promoted positive discussions within the year group.
Themes such as World Book Day have been explored in assemblies recently, where the benefits of reading were explained in detail, such as; reducing stress, expanding knowledge and improving memory. Students were encouraged to try and read for 10 to 20 minutes a day to see if they felt more positive after doing this.
In PSHE, students have learnt about internet safety and being responsible online. Students have been very honest about how being on social media and spending too much on their phones has had a negative impact on them. Through our discussions, hopefully students feel more aware of how to keep themselves safe online and understand how to conduct themselves.
Year 7 have shown their sporting ability this term, with the Year 7 netball team remaining unbeaten this year and have qualified for the State School’s County finals. We are wishing them all the best of luck!
This term has focused on Year 8 students choosing their GCSE options choices. Students attended our Options Fair where they had the opportunity to talk to staff about subjects on offer to them at Key Stage 4. Options forms have now been submitted and are being processed. Students will be informed of choices soon.
YEAR 8
During PSHE lessons, students have been focusing on wellbeing, self care and healthy eating. They have been exploring what it means to be 'healthy' and how to use our resources around us to support living a healthy lifestyle. We have also explored topics such as 'Fighting Inequality' in assemblies, with tutor times also focusing on LGBTQ months and International Women's Day.
Year 8 have also had the exciting visit from the Wild Science team, providing opportunities for students to get close to a variety of animals, including a snake, gerbil and a scorpion.
Mrs Woodland
YEAR 9
Ms Krouwel
Year 9s have had a very busy term!
We have had a visit from a theatre company with a performance to the year group that focused on a variety of themes including alcohol, drugs and tobacco. Students have also had the opportunity to apply to become a sports leader, with over 30 students being successful. They will now go forward to have some training prior to supporting primary events during Terms 5 and 6.
Alongside this, Year 9 had their Employability Skills day on 1st April, where they rotated around different workshops covering topics including personal finance, business, digital skills, labour markets and oracy, with the aim to assist them with their future career opportunities.
This term also saw students and parents engage in a face to face Subject Feedback Evening to find out how students are getting on with their new GCSE subjects. Hopefully the feedback provided can now support students to push on and achieve their potential.
Firstly, a big well done to all of Year 10! This term, students have taken part in the second set of mocks for their intensive exams that they will complete this summer. Students have worked exceptionally hard for these mocks. Alongside this, some students have completed essential
YEAR 10
Ms Adams
examination work for their intensives, including performances in Drama, Food and Nutrition and Media. Students have shown excellent attitude and focus throughout.
With the upcoming Easter holiday, students have been supported with managing their revision, whilst also enjoying their leisure time and supporting their wellbeing. Your mind and memory are far more effective when they are properly rested.
Following the mocks, students had the opportunity to meet with their teachers as part of the subject review evening that took place in the last week of term. The continuous praise and support being heard between teachers and families was lovely to hear and it will be important that students now take this advice and use this to prepare for their summer exams.
Next term, we look forward to the Big Futures trip on 29th April. This is the first big event in a series of opportunities and inschool sessions focused on careers and next steps. Year 10 have big decisions to make over the next year and these events are designed to help them feel informed and capable of making the right decision for their futures.
YEAR 11
Mr Richardson
Mocks 2 are now complete, and Year 11 have done themselves proud. We have seen excellent progress, and a renewed focus on exam technique and effective revision. Year 11 are well set up to achieve great things in the summer exams.
The final stretch now begins for Year 11. With only a handful of full ‘teaching weeks’ left before the first core exam on 12th May, all subjects are focused on intense revision and practice.
It’s important to remember that while teachers have very limited time left, students themselves have a great deal more. Evenings, weekends and upcoming breaks (Easter and May Half Term) are perfect opportunities to keep momentum with revision and studying. Of course, Of course, students must also plan in breaks and time away from the books – it’s vital that students are looking after themselves and managing their workload and leisure time. It’s the final stretch, but it needs to be sensibly paced.
Also on the horizon are the celebration events – including leavers’ day and the Year 11 Prom. The whole staff body are behind Year 11, wishing them all success and looking forward to the celebrations
VI FORM
Ms White
Sixth Form Praise
This term we have been rewarding students for their independent study in the LRC and in the Library.
Students have received a mini scratch card to either win prizes from the lucky dip, entry to our end-of-term praise raffle or a free drink from Café Six. We have given out around 200 of these cards which acknowledges students’ hard work and commitment.
Year 13 Drama
Year 12 Progression
Year 12 students have started their progression research this term. Along their journey, they are encouraged to consider all different options available to them post 18. The events that have happened so far include:
Year 12 Progression Day
See more information on Page 24
Year 12 Progression Evening
Parent/Carer Information Evening held last week. Resources on College Website
Year 12 UCAS Trip
A trip to the Brighton Centre to meet with University and Apprenticeship providers
Term 5 PSHEE
Students will increase the number of PSHEE lessons to two a fortnight. This is our primary route of progression support. Attendance is compulsory.
Careers Advice Meetings
Meetings can be arranged with our Careers Advisor at any time. Students can see Miss Reed to book.
Ongoing Opportunities
Opportunities to meet with Alumni and speak to current professionals in different careers will be made available to students.
Congratulations to our Year 13 Drama students who completed their final performance for their A Level coursework. We recognize all of the hard work that will have gone into this production. Well done!
• Academics
• Anxiety
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Mental Health
• Next Steps
• Resilience
Wellbeing Hub
Calling all parents! Sign up to ‘The Wellbeing Hub’
The Wellbeing Hub is a website that supports both parents and students with all things related to young people’s mental health and wellbeing, including:
• Alcohol & Drugs
• Careers
• Friendships & Relationships
• Money Matters
• Online Safety
• Sleep
Recent resources include:
❖ The healthy selfie - how to like yourself in the digital age Click here to listen
❖ Supporting your child with friendship issues Click here to read
❖ Vaping addiction: what to know, what to do, what to look out for Click here to watch
❖ Five reason why it’s hard to quit gaming Click here to listen
❖ Summer term content line up @ The Wellbeing Hub Click here to view
Sign up for the parent account: https://club.teentips.co.uk/register/parents/?ca= f32d418dd4057878b809d2d95de2e8c3
Even more support:
NHS Sussex partnerships has put together pre-recorded webinars for parents and carers on a range of mental health and wellbeing related topics: https://www.sussexcamhs.nhs.uk/resources/resources-for-families-carers-andprofessionals/parent-and-carer-workshops
Support young people with disordered eating or an eating disorder https://giveusashout.org/latest/how-to-support-a-young-person-with-an-eatingdisorder/
The Family Hub
The Family Hub is an East Sussex County Council service that offers support for families around emotional wellbeing, SEND, financial, housing or employment challenges, supporting with our child’s behaviour. familyhubs@eastsussex.gov.uk 01323464655
• Ask your son/daughter about the
they have experienced
• Encourage them to talk about their understanding and interests with you.
• For more detail on ANY subject look at the Knowledge Organisers on line here: https://www.heathfieldcc.co.uk/?page_id=2446506
What are KS3 students learning in …
English
Students in Year 7 have been immersed in Shakespeare's ‘A Midsummer Night's Dream’ and other than the everchanging affections of the teenagers in the play, students have focused on analysing the character of the mischievous spirit, Puck. There has been a strong emphasis on the use of effective vocabulary and how to structure an analytical essay in their skills development.
Year 8 students have reported how much they have enjoyed the drama of the rival gangs in The Outsiders: the Greasers vs. the Socs. With a focus on identity, students have explored the strong desire in young people to belong to a group, but also the negative influence that people within a group can have on others. In response to the text, Year 8 have worked on closely analysing Hinton's writing style and have recreated an additional scene with some of the characters from the novel.
X
Maths
This term, Year 7 have been introduced to ratio. We use proportionality tables in lessons as they help organise our thinking and understand things that are in proportion in a visual way. These tables will be used throughout their maths lessons all the way to Year 11 and will support with topics such as percentages, fractions, recipes and compound measures.
Year 8 have been focussing on formulae, specifically for area, perimeter and volume of shapes. They have been using ‘geoboards’ on their ipads to create shapes with specific criteria, like the example below. Can you draw the rectangle with a perimeter or 18cm and an area of 20cm2?
What are KS3 students learning in …
History
Year 7 historians are investigating persecution in the Early Modern Period. They are looking at different groups of people, such as those accused of witchcraft, who experienced discrimination. They began by studying the Pendle Witch Trials of 1612 and are now moving on to the English Civil War. They will end the unit by evaluating an interpretation about the types of people accused of witchcraft.
Science
KS3 are taking part in British Science Week by entering a national competition. The theme this year is "Change and Adapt" and the aim of the competition is to see if students can come up with a way to have better ventilation in buildings they visit regularly; a cinema, a cafe, library, or classroom. Students are being given time in lessons to research different ideas and then present their ideas in a clear and concise way. Classes in Year 7 and Yeaer 8 will produce their work over a couple of lessons and then decide on a class winner. https://www.britishsciencewee k.org/
In Year 8, History students have moved on to study the battles of Imphal and Kohima that took place during World War Two. They will be judging the significance of the battles for the outcome of the war using a criteria. Students will then look at the dropping of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki to determine how the war in the Pacific ended.
What are KS3 students learning in …
Geography
Year 7 have shifted their focus in Geography lessons from studying migration and the MENA region, to studying weather and climate. This shows just how broad and diverse a subject Geography is.
We have been learning about extreme weather events, world climate zones as well as the UK climate. Some classes have been making the most of the spring weather to complete a fieldwork project investigating microclimates around the school site. All pupils will get the opportunity to do this and develop important fieldwork skills before we finish the module by learning about climate change, one of the most important issues facing our planet.
Year 8 have started a module on ecosystems after previously learning about the Geography of Haiti. Pupils will learn about global biomes, for example rainforests, deserts and tundra and how they are distributed around the world. We will then learn about tropical rainforests in detail, which is one of the most important biomes on the planet. Students will get to take part in a fieldwork project in the upcoming weeks as we investigate some of the efforts being made around the school site to increase biodiversity in our ecosystems. Hopefully they will pick up some ideas as well as developing important fieldwork skills.
Computing
Year 7 have been learning all about computer networks and how the Internet works. They've discovered how data travels across the world through a vast network of submarine cables.
Year 8 are building essential skills that will support them as they progress towards GCSE Computing. This term, they have been learning about computer architecture, focusing on fundamental components such as RAM, ROM, and the CPU. They have also been developing their understanding of how computers process data by revising binary number systems and exploring logic gates, which form the basis of modern digital circuits.
What are KS3 students learning in …
Year 8 have been learning about different design movements including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Memphis and De Stijl, and using this as inspiration to design and make a lamp.
Design
& Technology
Year 7 have been learning about metals, their properties and working characteristics alongside developing workshop skills including pewter casting to make a keyring.
Year 7 have been exploring some of the food science behind their recipes. They have examined shortening and gelatinisation and used this knowledge when making jam tarts, fruit crumble and macaroni cheese. They have also learnt about seasonal produce and how this can support local farmers and businesses. During independent learning, pupils have researched food from different cultures and how this has resulted in changes to the food we eat.
Year 8 have been exploring the different nutrients in food with a focus on protein. They have also been looking at the wider issues of food security and how food production affects the environment. They have completed Bolognese and fajita practicals where they had an option of using vegan alternatives. Their independent learning has explored different food packaging to link in with our focus on the environment.
What are KS3 students learning in …
French
Year 7 have been learning how to use the third person with ‘il’ or ‘elle’, and adjectival agreement, to describe members of their family: mon père est amusant et ma mère est intelligente and then they talked about going out to have fun (s’amuser). They continued their learning journey with a pretend visit to the town of Boulogne Sur Mer, planning what they're going to do there in the future tense.
Year 8 have been able to compare English and French schools: the timetable, the uniform (or not!), 2-hour lunch break during which they could go home, and the famous detentions on Saturday mornings. The use of the past tense was very much needed to explain what English schools were like before their pretend move to France. Furthermore, they all like the sound of going home for lunch and an 8-week summer holiday!
Spanish
In Term 4, Year 7 students are beginning to learn how to use their prior learning of adjectives to describe members of their family. Students are being introduced to bigger numbers so they can talk about how old family members are. Spanish phonics continue to be embedded and students will have these skills assessed in their next assessment. Students continue to show high levels of engagement in lessons and it is a pleasure to see them develop their confidence with Spanish and the journey they have made already since September! ¡Seguir avanzando!
In Year 8 during Term 4 students are taught how to order food like a native using phrases including: Para mí…, Voy a querer…, va a ser… and quiero… So they are ready to head off to any Spanish speaking country and order food and drink! They are also learning how to form and use the near future tense - a really important area of grammar that they will need as they continue into Key Stage 4. It is really exciting to see Year 8 engage with this part of the curriculum as this means they are able to talk about their own future plans as well as continue to develop their confidence in both spoken and written Spanish.
What are KS3 students learning in …
Physical Education
Pupils within Key Stage 3 core PE have completed their winter activities carousel. They have developed skills, the understanding of competition and have transferred their learned aspects to competitive contexts in a range of activities, including; Basketball, Rugby, Football, Netball, Badminton, Dance, Gymnastics and Hockey.
Students in Year 8 have now made their Options choices. Thanks to their previous exposure to the physical education curriculum, many have elected GCSE PE to continue their understanding of how the body moves for exercise, alongside their competitive practical elements.
We are also pleased to report that two teams from our Year 7 boys and Year 8 girls will represent Wealden borough at the county finals in April after winning their indoor athletics heats.
Drama
Year 7 have been in the final stages of rehearsal of their Roald Dahl scripted extracts and have been performing these entertaining pieces in their Drama lessons. We have been really proud of their achievements and the confidence and enthusiasm that they have shown.
Year 8 are continuing to explore how to create tension and suspense through lighting, sound, language and vocal and physical techniques to convey a ghost story. They have created soundscapes, scary still images of the chamber of horrors and have been trying to frighten each other with their own spooky stories. They are now developing these narratives into devised pieces of theatre designed to make the audience feel uneasy.
What are KS3 students learning in …
Art
Year 7 have now moved onto the next scheme of work for the year. After spending time learning the basics of marking-making colour and tone, students have now moved into applying this knowledge to observational drawings of birds. They have started with a wonderfully creative ‘mark making bird’. This involves using all the different types of marks they created on their very first lesson in Year 7, and applying them to a drawing of a bird, to show changes in tone, colour, texture and pattern.
Year 8 have now finished their initial explorations into portraiture and are now focussing their attention on objects. We are
using visual references from Artists such as Jim Dine, Morandi and Wayne Thiebaud to explore different and exciting ways of recording. Students are learning that ‘realistic’ observational drawing does not define how ‘good’ you are at art. They are learning that something can look amazing and also be really fun to create, by using more expressive methods of using and applying media.
It has been really enjoyable working through this new scheme of work with Year 8, and they have really responded well to the subject matter and are producing some stunning outcomes.
Music
Year 7 this term have finished off their keyboard projects and have all shown a great ability at focusing on hand position and ensuring they are playing pieces of music fluently. It has been great to see a range of different students performing in front of their class. We are now moving onto either a ukulele project or a vocal project.
Year 8 have either been focusing on Blues Music or Cover versions this term. In the Blues projects students have been developing their understanding of why Blues Music is so important to Music history and learning key musical techniques from the style, such as the 12 bar blues and the walking bass. In cover versions students have been working as groups in practice rooms and working together to play a song of their own choosing.
What are KS3 students learning in …
PSHEe
This Term, Year 7 students embark on learning about Relationships, Sex and Health Education. This develops on from the curriculum at primary school as PSHEe is taught in a spiral way. Our first secondary focus is Puberty which is part of Health Education. We will explore the emotions puberty provokes, young people’s growing sense of self, and negotiating our journey into adulthood.
Students in Year 8 start a series of units on Healthy Lifestyles, building on the Drug Education work before Christmas on tobacco smoking and vaping. We will be exploring the importance of good food and its link to a longer and healthier life both in terms of physical and mental well-being
Philosophy and Religion
Year 7s began the term by completing their extended writing. It was really impressive to see how well the students have progressed with their essay writing skills and their ability to complete long answer questions, since the start of the year. The theme of the term has been worship; students have enjoyed exploring how people of different faiths worship through the arts, with a particular focus on Christian music and Islamic art.
This term, Year 8s have been looking at the conflict between Israel and Palestine, surrounding control of Jeruselum. We began by looking at the history of Jerusalem, before exploring why this place steeped in history is so important to three major religions. Students have been able to apply this to the very real ongoing conflict that they have heard about on the news
Focus on Key Stage 4 and 5
Pride . Ambition . Community Business & Economics
Philosophy, Religion & Ethics
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
Business & Economics
Key Stage 4
Year 9 extended students have just finished the introductory unit of work on Business Enterprise and are now working on a topic about spotting business opportunities (investigating all about market research). Year 9 intensive students are working on a different topic with each of their two teachers. They are currently studying the topic “External Influences”, which is all about the effect of the government and the economy on businesses and “Growing the Business”, which means they are now about half way through their GCSE course!
Year 10 and Year 11
Year 10 extended students are just moving towards completion of the topic on the external influences on business”, which is all about the effect of the government and the economy on businesses and “Growing the Business”, and will be moving onto a topic on the issues surrounding the implications of businesses growing in size. Both the Year 10 intensive students and the Year 11 Students have finished the teaching of their specifications as they sit their second mock exams, looking to show progress from the mocks they sat in November. They have been working amazingly hard with focus and dedication. From now until the actual exams they will be using the Revision clock to revise with past papers, key terms, online quizzes, flash cards and other strategies!
What are KS4 and 5 students learning
Business & Economics
Key Stage 5
Year 12 classes are preparing for the upcoming mocks in March, reviewing the year’s work so far and starting on the journey towards being really good with their exam technique.
Year 12 Business students with Mr Perkins have most recently been studying operations management, which includes: Capital Vs labour intensive production, capacity utilization, productivity, stock control, working with suppliers, managing supply chains and the different approaches to quality. With Miss Lynch they have been investigating everything marketing, including: detailed analysis of each of the 7Ps, product life cycles, the Boston Matrix and marketing research.
Year 12 Economics students have most recently been studying macro economic performance indicators such as unemployment and economic growth, focusing on the economic cycle and the trend rate of growth. They have already completed this year’s work on micro economics, studying the operation of market forces, why markets fail, government policies such a minimum wages, rent controls, indirect taxation and subsidies as well as why governments might fail to improve the outcome of a market.
Year 13 have completed their mock exams and feedback process and are now moving onto the last sections of their courses before we start the revision process.
Year 13 Business students have been studying strategic innovation, network analysis and managing strategic change, with in depth looks at things like “intrapreneurship”, contingency planning and crisis management.
How I can help my child learn in Business & Economics?
✓ Talk to them about what is happening in the outside world e.g. inflation; Bank of England interest rate changes and how do these have an impact on you.
Year 13 Economics students have been studying financial economics, looking at how the structure of the banking system caused the 2008 financial collapse. They also had a visit from a guest speaker from the Bank of England talking about liquidity traps and Japanese negative interest rate policy. Shortly, they will be looking at their last topic: international economics.
✓ Talk to them about the positi8ves and challenges of your job / the business that you work for / the business you run.
✓ Ask them “what’s the opportunity cost of that decision?”
What are KS4 and 5 students learning
PHILOSOPHY, RELIGION & ETHICS
Key Stage 4
Year 9 began by exploring creation theories, starting with the Christian perspectives on Genesis 1, examining both fundamentalist and liberal interpretations. They then explored the Big Bang Theory and empiricism, reflecting on how knowledge is formed. Aquinas’ Cosmological argument was introduced, linking it to the Big Bang Theory, sparking discussions on science and religion co-existence.
In Term 2, students studied Aristotle's Virtue Ethics, focusing on Eudaimonia and the Golden Mean. They then examined Kantian ethics, questioning duty and its challenges. The term concluded with an exploration of Utilitarianism and its real-life applications.
In Term 3, Year 9 explored the Problem of Evil, questioning how suffering aligns with belief in an all-loving God. Term 4 focused on the sanctity of life, discussing topics like animal testing and euthanasia.
Year 10 began their year with a philosophical unit, where students were challenged with the question ‘what is reality?’. We looked into the powers of perception and questioned whether one person’s reality will differ to another’s.
In Term 2, they studied Islam's Five Pillars, engaging deeply with their meaning and practice.
What are KS4 and 5 students learning in..
PHILOSOPHY, RELIGION & ETHICS
In terms 3 and 4, Year 10 have been looking at crime and punishment. During term 3, we discussed different types of crimes, whether certain crimes were inherently evil and questioned what causes crime.
Term 4 has focussed on punishment of crime; students have explored the aims of different types of punishment, And discussed how effective they believe them to be. The term ends with looking at different religious views on forgiveness.
Year 11 students started the year by reflecting on their future lives, starting with the question: Do we have free will, or are our paths predetermined?
In Term 2, they explored ancient philosophies like Stoicism and Confucianism, considering their relevance today, before examining existentialism and whether purpose is inherent or self-created.
Term 3 focused on ethics in sports, discussing gender pay gaps, attitudes toward athletes, sportsmanship, and the morality of performance-enhancers.
In Term 4, students will reflect on their social responsibilities, including relationships, spending habits, and their roles in a global society.
Term 4 Wider Curriculum
These pages include details of the wider curriculum events followed by all year groups over the course of the last term.
Pride . Ambition . Community
YEAR 9 WIDER CURRICULUM
“The best bit about the day was that there was a lot of helpful information to know for the future.”
This term, our Year 9 students engaged in a number of workshops all centred around Employability Skills: Finance, Business, Oracy and Finance. In Finance students learnt about different salaries for different jobs, discussed what they thought of these salaries and whether they were fair and learnt about the tax system. In Business they heard from entrepreneurs who had started a company from one idea and learnt about merits of the different employment options. In Digital Skills they learnt the high percentage of jobs that require strong digital skills and had fun building a Pizza Company in teams. In Oracy they learnt the secrets of confident speaking and had the opportunity to put these skills to practise and speak in-front of each other.
The students also had the opportunity to work with Wealden Works on the personable skills Employers look for and Ms Taylor, our Careers lead, on opportunities in the local area. Wealden Works is an Employability Programme based in Heathfield and we were thrilled they took the day to work with all our Year 9 students. Students engaged in discussions about what is acceptable and not acceptable in the workplace and it gave everyone the opportunity to think about life as an employee and how to work with each other. Our Careers Lead, Ms Taylor, also spoke to the students about local opportunities and the skills employers are looking for. It also gave Ms Taylor the opportunity to explain the support that is offered over the next couple of years including Careers interviews and a chance to visit a Careers Fair in Year 10.
YEAR 12 WIDER CURRICULUM
Our annual Year 12 Progression Day took place this term, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the most popular opportunities available after A-levels. The event featured guest speakers who shared insights into university pathways, apprenticeships, and gap year experiences. Additionally, we
introduced Unifrog,an innovative online platform designed to support careerbased research and decision-making.
Students actively engaged in the day’s activities, asking insightful questions and independently exploring potential future routes. This event follows a term of assemblies on post-18 progression and will be further reinforced through upcoming PSHE lessons focused on future planning.
To build on this momentum, we will be taking all Year 12 students to the UCAS Convention in Brighton in April, where they will have the opportunity to connect with representatives from universities and apprenticeship providers nationwide. Furthermore, our Parent/Carer Progression Event is scheduled for this week to help families navigate the wide range of options available.
As always, students have access to their tutors, PSHE teachers, and our dedicated College Careers Advisor to support them throughout their research and decision-making process.
STEAM Trip
Wider-Curriculum
The University of Brighton recently hosted a fantastic STEAM day for students that attend our STEM and carnival clubs.
The students were excited and engaged as they took part in different workshops that combined engineering and technology with design and the flair of art. Students were able to understand both the science behind dyes, fabrics, construction and animation whilst also exploring their creativity.
Wild Science
The College was host to a myriad of animals this term as we welcomed @Wild Science, with the chance to interact with and hold a corn snake, tree frog, giant land snail, leopard gecko and gerbil. As a bonus the students were able to see (but not hold!) an Asian Forest Scorpion – one of the largest scorpions in the world! The students were very enthusiastic, engaged and asking lots of questions.
They had a great time, engaged and showing a lot enthusiasm. They learnt some interesting facts about the animals, with lots of knowledge on show by the students and some really good questions being asked of the expert.
Wild Science helps the students understand about the habitats that different types of animals live in and the adaptations that they have to help them survive. This ties in with the module they have been doing on evolution, which looks at bio-diversity, as well as natural selection with an emphasis on how different animals evolve to adapt to their environments.
Year 9 Time Out
Wider-Curriculum
In the culmination of weeks of preparation in PSHEe lessons, Year 9 students watched Solomon Theatre Company’s production of ‘Time Out’ in the Main Hall on Thursday, 20th March.
Preparatory lessons on the subject of Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Education, meant students were prepared for the story of Tom and Lucy negotiating adolescence and school and making risky choices in terms of their use of legal and illegal drugs. The young actors unfolded a story of parties, vaping and alcohol which spiralled into using illicit substances and seeing a negative effect on the quality of their life and relationships.
Music Students Theatre Trip - Wicked
GCSE Music students had the opportunity to watch ‘Wicked’ on Wednesday, 26th March. This is set work for all GCSE Music students, so it was great for pupils to see it being performed live. As always, our students behaved impeccably and thoroughly loved the performance.
One Year 10 student said “Thank you for taking us on the trip, it was so good, I really enjoyed it. All the actors were amazing and I loved all the songs, as well as the set. Definitely one of my favourite trips I've been on with school.”
Wider Curriculum
Year 9 & 10 Art/Photography Trip: Kew Gardens
WOW! What a day for a trip to Kew Gardens! The students were so engaged with the environment and actively sought out interesting plants to photograph. I saw some beautiful shots which students proudly showed me.
We walked the full perimeter of the gardens, making visits to many of the wonderful exhibits. We collected some stunning photographs that students will use for the next part of their art coursework and we brought back some very tired but very engaged students. What more could you ask for?
Intermediate Maths Challenge
Last term, Year 10 and 11 students took part in the UKMT Intermediate Mathematical Challenge, which is organised by the UK Mathematics Trust, and is aimed at the most talented young mathematicians in the country. Students complete a series of challenging, non-calculator maths problems designed to stretch them well beyond the standard curriculum.
We are extremely proud of our students’ achievements - a number of them were awarded Bronze, Silver and Gold certificates – a reflection of their hard work and talent. A very special mention goes to Robert Socha in Year 10, who achieved a Gold certificate and was awarded Best in School for the fourth year in a row – a truly outstanding accomplishment. Robert was also invited to take part in the Pink Kangaroo, a prestigious follow-on round reserved for the top performers across the country. We eagerly await his results and wish him the very best as he continues to demonstrate his mathematical abilities at the highest level.
Wider Curriculum
Motivational Speaker – Tim
Robbinson
We were delighted to welcome premiership referee Tim Robinson to speak to students from across all year groups. Drawing on 9 years in full time refereeing and 2 years in the Premier League, Tim engaged students with the realities of what it takes to be one of the top 20 in the profession. He spoke of the importance of training, focus and ambition; being willing to have a goal and work hard to achieve it.
However, with honesty and authenticity Tim also spoke about how to manage oneself when you get things wrong, learning to welcome mistakes as important moments to learn from and how to reach out when you need help from those around you.
Students were able to see moments from games and have them explained first hand, they were able to ask questions and of course stop for selfies. A fantastic opportunity to learn from someone at the top of their game who had important messages for all whether approaching final exams, overcoming challenges or seeking to work towards a personal ambition.
Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Practice Walk
Students successfully completed their second Duke of Edinburgh practice walk this term, navigating a 9km circular route from Buxted via High Hurstwood.
Passing through a variety of terrain, including hills, woods and fields, the students enthusiastically focussed on developing their map reading and navigation skills. They had clearly gained confidence since their first practice walk and were able to demonstrate proficiency in orientating their OS maps in the direction of travel, observing the landscape and identifying key features on their maps, as well as continuing to practise their compass skills to confirm route directions.
This route was slightly longer than their first practice walk, yet students showed great stamina and perseverance. Teams worked well together sharing map reading
Girls’ Rugby Festival
Wider Curriculum
Our girls rugby has blossomed, with prominent numbers at club each week culminating in a girls’ rugby festival hosted at Heathfield and Waldron rugby club. A mixture of Years 7-10 girls finished 3rd in the tournament last week with excellent displays from Zoe Piper and Edith Wynn.
Girls’ Rugby Club
Years 7 – 10
Every Wednesdays from 3.05pm – 4.20pm on the Sports Field
Easter Charity Bake Sale
Our final charity event of the year was a Bake Sale held on Friday, 28 March in aid of an environmental charity. Thank you to all who contributed cakes and bakes; we were sold out in record speed, such was the enthusiasm for purchasing the cakes, and raised a fantastic amount of £311.15.
The Executive Council will decide short as to which environmental charity the money raised should go towards
Let’s Dance 2025
On Tuesday 1st April, 26 students took part in the Let's Dance performance. This vibrant community showcase bought together young people from primary and secondary schools and colleges in a unique celebration of dance, with many taking to the stage for the first time. This group of students certainly did the college proud with their performance of "Strength of the Pride".
RAF Careers Talk
RAF - Cpl Ryan Walker came to visit our students to discuss his career in the RAF and provide an insight into careers in the Armed Forces.
Careers
Cpl Ryan Walker discussed all the careers available to young people in the RAF along with their progression routes. It was useful for our young people to get an understanding of the commitment required to work for the Royal Air Force, along with the benefits of a career in the Forces such as support with qualifications, opportunities to progress but also try new things and the benefits such as cheaper living costs and access to a good pension at the end of service.
Careers at Sea
Alumni Aidan Kirby came to visit students to promote careers within the Merchant Navy. Aidian is undertaking a Deck (Navigation) Officer Cadetship in the Merchant Navy. He is working towards his BSc(Hons) degree in Nautical Science at Warsash Maritime School (Solent University, Southampton) and completing 12 months of required sea-time onboard the Princess Cruises fleet of ships who are his sponsoring company.
Aidan discussed the huge variety of roles available on a ship from Deck Officer to Engineers keeping the ships in working order, to the chefs ensuring that the entire crew on board are well nourished. Aidan came along with some amazing facts, such as confirming there are currently over 50,000 merchant ships currently out in the water. Students learnt about the different pathways into the various careers in the Merchant Navy and how to access an industry that is responsible for 95% of the goods arriving into the UK.
Literacy Ambassadors
We are fortunate to have close working partnerships with our local primary schools and always look at how working together can benefit our students.
Our Literacy Ambassadors visit Parkside Primary school once a fortnight, to read with Key Stage 1 students. Supporting younger students with the decoding of unfamiliar words and helping them to become fluent readers is vitally important work, and our Literacy Ambassadors are hugely appreciated by the staff and students at Parkside for the time they give to reading with the students.
One Literacy Ambassador said, “I love being able to help younger students achieve a life skill. The Year 1s are really keen to improve their reading and I am glad to help them out.”
While the younger students get a head start with their reading skills, our Literacy Ambassadors are developing their leadership credentials. Adapting their communication skills to suit a younger audience, building confidence by sharing their expertise and taking responsibility for others are some of the skills our Literacy Ambassadors have demonstrated.
Mrs Derbyshire, our school librarian who accompanies the Literacy Ambassadors to Parkside reflected, “Our Literacy Ambassadors have really impressed me. The way they interact with the Year 1 children is so natural; they seem to connect with them more easily than it is for an adult to. It is also lovely to see them have fun while reading.”
Battle of the Boards Competition
This March, the Heathfield Houses participated in the annual House Battle of the Boards competition. Students had lots of fun at lunch times playing board and card games. We were delighted With the high level of student participation this year and the friendly, but competitive nature of the competition.
Thank you also to our House Prefects who supported the event and ensured that the event ran smoothly. There were great Chess tacticians and a lot of drama in games of UNO and KerPlunk. New games added to this year’s competition included Connect 4, Jenga and the Muddles card game.
In a competitive week, Tower won on Monday in the Year 7 competition, Heffle won on Tuesday in the Year 8 competition and Batemans won on Wednesday in the Year 9 competition, leaving it all to play for when Years 10 and 11 took part on Thursday.
The overall winner of the Battle of the Boards competition was Batemans. Well done Batemans.
Inter-House PE Competition
This term saw our students across years 7-11 compete in Girls Football, Boys Football and Table-tennis as individuals represented their houses of Bateman, Cade, Heffle and Tower against fellow students in their PE lessons.
Guided by the Year 11 sports leaders, who officiated extremely well, there was a host of close-fought battles and narrow victories, with Heffle ultimately coming out victorious through points won across all year groups.
Alumni News
From Heathfield Community College to the RAF: Jack’s Journey of Determination and Success
Jack, a former Heathfield student (2005–2010), admits he wasn’t always the most well-behaved pupil, however, he achieved the essential GCSE grades - foundation that would prove crucial for his future.
After setbacks in his AS Levels, he pursued a BTEC in Engineering at Sussex Downs College, earning a university scholarship. He later graduated with a Mechanical Engineering degree from Brunel University London.
In 2018, Jack joined the RAF as a Commissioned Officer and now serves as a Flight Lieutenant, soon to be promoted to Squadron Leader. In his current role as Officer Commanding Communications Infrastructure Systems Operations at the Joint Electronic Warfare Operational Support Centre (JEWOSC), he leads 40 personnel managing a secure network for electronic warfare data.
Jack credits perseverance and lifelong learning for his success. “Without my GCSEs, I wouldn’t have been able to attend college or university,” he says. “You never stop learning - not just day-to-day, but through continuous personal and professional development.” This year, he is furthering his expertise by completing ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) and APMQ (Agile Project Management Qualification) certifications.
Jack’s journey highlights resilience and determination, inspiring students to pursue their goals without limits.
We are incredibly proud of our alumni and love hearing updates about life beyond Heathfield. Please get in touch using the QR code or by emailing alumni@heathfieldcc.co.uk.
Tuesday, 22 April
Wednesday, 23 April
Thursday, 24 April
Friday, 25 April
Dates for your Diary
Start of Term 5
Year 12 Drama Devised Piece
Library Quiz
Speak Out Challenge
Year 12 English Trip: Ticehurst Literary Festival
Saturday, 26 April
Tuesday, 29 April
Thursday, 1 May
Thursday, 8 May
Saturday, 10 May
Tuesday, 13 May
Thursday, 15 May
Monday, 19 May
Silver & Gold DofE Practice Walk
Year 10 Wider Curriculum Day – Big Futures Fair
Start of House Competition - Baking
Junior Maths Challenge
Year 12 Subject Feedback Evening (remote)
Dance Rehearsal for VE Day Commemoration Event, Rushlake Green
Year 9 Drama Pieces to Parents
Friday, 23 May
DofE Bronze Assessed & Silver Practice Expedition
Army Engineering Roadshow
Strawberry Hill Farm Trip – Year 8 Farming Careers
Start of GCSE Exams
Start of A Level Exams
Start of Supercurricular Fortnight
Steps to Success Programme
Broadbridges Uniform Sales, 3.15pm – 4.15pm, Link Hall
