Message from the headteacher
Somehow or other (nothing to do with school) I ended up in the VIP area at Wimbledon on Saturday along with Sir Cliff Richard, Ronnie Wood of the Rolling Stones and various other people who are far more important than I am. By the time I left at the end of the day I found myself questioning my way of life which involves quite a lot of stress and not a lot of glamour. I was still on a little bit of a downer when I arrived at work early on Monday morning. And then I opened my emails to find your response to my plea for positive feedback to staff last week. I want to thank you SO, SO much for taking a moment to thank those staff who try their best to look after our students. I enclose a small selection of your remarks below…
“My daughter wants to thank Mrs Ruston for being the best Maths teacher ever, and Mr Stacey for being Mr Stacey. My son wants to particularly thank Mr Rowley for being an oasis of calm and Miss Owens for being the best.”
“My daughter has already thanked the A-Level teachers who taught, supported, mentored and motivated her out of lockdown and through Y12 & 13 (Mrs Stafford, Dr Tout, Ms Burgess, Dr Atkins, Mrs Harrison, Mr Alan, Mrs Cruise, Mr Flett and Mr Warrington).”
“A huge thank you to Mrs Cruise, Miss Bruno, Mrs Key, Mrs Andrews and Mrs Scattergood for instilling confidence in my daughter in Y7. These teachers are the reason she loves school and I cannot thank them enough for a wonderful first year at Highfields. You are the teachers who are always spoken about with such joy at the dinner table, you've turned [her] opinion of school upside down!”
“Thank you to Miss Mitchell who has been a calming influence on [my daughter] and always there should she need anything. Thank you to the office team who have ensured [my child] received anything she'd forgotten in the morning (quite a few of them). The SEN team who have helped me lots in the past week.”
“Dear Mr Marsh and all staff at Highfields School, I am emailing to say a big thank you for all your work with [my year 7 daughter] this year, with the pinnacle being Grease the Musical where the students literally shone!! I was so proud and was blown away with the efforts of the staff and students- the talent was like anything seen on the West-end stage. We are amazed at her progress and know she will be as keen to do as well in her time at Highfields.”
“Maths (Mrs Ruston)- [Y7] loves her lessons in this subject and is ready to push herself as things get more difficult- Thank you! History (Mr Copeland)- great subject and great teacher. She really enjoyed learning about the Medieval period- Thank you! D and T (Miss Marshall)- she loved this subject especially making the butterfly and superhero. I can't wait to see the pottery- Thank you! Food tech (Mrs Hakin)- she has loved being independent with her cooking and we have loved the food each week- Thank you! Thank you all for inspiring her and apologies for those I have missed.”
“As September came, we took the obligatory first day of school photo of a beaming [boy] and sent him on his way. His first few weeks went well and then our worst fears played out; he had encountered the first taste of bullying. It was enough to wipe the smile off his face, stating that he didn’t want to go to school, and it was enough to make us worry that his beautiful spirit was being dampened. The boys concerned probably meant little harm. It was “just” a few homophobic comments…Thankfully, an email to school was responded to swiftly and professionally, and the no-
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tolerance policy advertised was delivered. Your head of year worked with my son to quickly resolve the issue, educate the boys concerned, and reassure us unequivocally that we really could believe that times have changed. The rest of the year has flown, and [boy] has continued to thrive academically. I would particularly like to highlight the team of maths teachers that have encouraged him to excel, evident in his success in the maths competition, of which he was very proud.”
“I came to watch the Grease performance with my 15yr old daughter, my 20yr old daughter and my 17yr old niece last night and we were all absolutely blown away. We don’t have any family or any particular connection to anyone in the performance, but there were a few friends faces we recognised and each and every member of the whole cast were exceptional. The quality of this production is a huge credit to the school and all involved in making it happen on stage and behind the scenes, and we personally wanted to say thank you for a wonderful evening.”
“As [Y7 son] is approaching the end of his first year at Highfields I would like to thank Mr Allsobrook.
I was anxious to send [son] off to his “big” school in September 2022. After primary education in a school of a 100, with his year only consisting of his class of only a few pupils. It hasn’t been without its ups and downs. One person has reassured myself and [my son]- supported him and given him the courage to face each day as a new. [My son] absolutely loves school, cannot wait to tell me about his encounters with Mr Marsh and his rapport with Mr Allsobrook. Thank you for your commitment to the kids! Have a great summer break.”
After I finished reading your very generous reflections on the work of our staff team I decided to put a message together to all those VIPs from Saturday, who almost certainly read this Newsletter.
“Cliff, Ronnie and others (you know who you are). Alright, you may have champagne on tap and automatic entry to the tennis match of your choice, and a free afternoon tea (yes, I DID notice that you didn’t pay for yours) BUT…you will never, EVER know how it feels to be part of the most wonderful school community in the world and for this I am deeply, deeply sorry. PS. We are Highfields.”
So…thanks to every single person who has contributed to this being another great year in the story of Highfields School. Stay safe over the summer and we’ll see you in September to do it all over again.
A Marsh, Headteacher, Highfields School.
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NewCommunicationsApp
Thanks to those who have already downloaded the new My Ed app by Iris. If you have not signed up please use the QR codes below to download the app and register. It takes 24 hours to sync to your children. New students will sync when they start at Highfields.
MyED (Apple Devices)
MyED (Android Device)
GeneralSchoolInformation
Pleaseseeour updatedwebsiteforthefollowinginformation:
School Uniform
Contact details
Governor information
School Calendar and term dates
Extra-Curricular Clubs/Activities
Exam Timetables
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WeareHighfields
On Tuesday 18th July the Maths department took 57 students to Bletchley ParkMuseum to learn about the impact mathematicians had in shortening WW2 by cracking the German Enigma code. Students took part in a codebreaking session as well as having a guided tour where they learnt how Alan Turing and his team deciphered the German code. Head of Maths Mrs Brown said “It was great for our students to see how maths was used in the wareffortandlearnhowtheseskillsarenowusedinmoderndaycomputing. Credit must go to the students involved for their excellent behaviour and engagement on the day.”
GreaseistheWord
ReviewbyformerstudentLilyR
Highfields School's production of 'Grease: The Musical' was a musical extravaganza which perfectly showcases the abundance of talent the students at this school possess. The cast was filled to the brim with talented students who let their beautiful singing, spectacular dancing, and impressive dramatic skills shine through to create a well-rounded production, thanks to the brilliant direction from the school's Head of Drama and Dance, Miss Bonsall.
The iconic score- performed by a staff and student band, led by Musical Director Mr Rowley - provided the perfect soundtrack for breathtaking solos, as well as electric group numbers. Jack H opened the show brilliantly as the charming Vince Fontaine, and we were whisked straight into the opening song of the show. The opening track 'Grease' was an immediate attention grabber, with powerful vocals displayed by the cast and ensemble; shortly followed by the iconic song 'Summer Nights' which displayed the infectious energy and joy that the students continued to radiate throughout the rest of the show.
Leading lady Olivia S showcased her spectacular acting abilities by perfectly portraying the sweet and innocent Sandra Dee - a stark contrast to the extroverted and joyous Sister Mary Patrick whom she played inlastyear'sproductionof'SisterAct'-and delivered aheart-wrenching renditionof'Hopelessly Devoted to You', hitting the high notes with impressive ease and clarity. She also left the audience speechless with her transformation at the end of the show, performing the final numbers in Sandy's iconic black outfit and red heels. Starring opposite her Finley H played the smooth-talking Danny Zuko, who displayed his wonderful voice in his solo 'Sandy' as well as hitting the iconic high note at the end of 'Summer Nights'. Not only this, but Finley showed off his impressive dancing skills in a section of 'Born To Hand Jive' where he and his dance partner Cha-Cha (Charlotte D) dazzled the audience with their fast-paced moves and impressive lifts. This number not only demonstrated the impressive moves of the Principal Dancers and the Chorus, but also the talent of the leading cast members as they competed to win the Hand Jive competition. The dance routines- choreographed by Mrs Scattergood-Grantham and assisted by Dance Captain Charlotte D - wowed throughout the show.
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Our Year 10 geography students visited the site of new flood defences in Matlock this morning with engineers from Jackson Civil Engineering to learn about the project.
Both the show's gangs also provided impressive performances, with the Pink Ladies- Rizzo (Abigail H), Frenchy (Emily S),Jan(MeganL),Marty(TildaO)andPenny(ChloeR)-performingalight-hearted group number to 'Look At Me I'm, Sandra Dee', as well as a sweet rendition of 'Freddy My Love' lead by Marty. Abigail H played the iconic role of Rizzo and excellently displayed her character's tough exterior and sass, whilst also letting the vulnerable side shine through with an astounding and emotional performance of 'There Are Worse Things I Could Do'. Emily S also perfectly portrayed bubbly Pink Lady Frenchy, and starred in the iconic number 'Beauty School Drop Out' alongside Imogen C who led the song as the Teen Angel and impressed the audience with her flawless vocals.
The T-Birds put on an equally impressive performance, notably in the iconic group number 'Greased Lightnin''with Nicholas Mleading the number as the gang's tough leader Kenickie. With his impressive vocals and equally magnificent dance moves, Nick wowed in this mid-show performance, with the help of the other T-Birds - Doody (Charlie B), Roger (Jake L), Sonny (Nancy O) and Danny Zuko. We sawDoody andRoger star in theirownsongsduring theshow.Charlie B executed a hilarious rendition of 'Those Magic Changes' as Doody, hitting some purposefully questionable notes, and thoroughly entertaining the audience; whilst we also saw Jake L team with Megan L to perform the romantically amusing number 'Mooning' as Roger and Jan - the two continued their lovable connection throughout the rest of the show.
The other characters also put on equally outstanding performances with Evie B perfectly capturing the eager and overly enthusiastic Patty and Eben V channelling a geeky yet endearing Eugene. Not only this, but we also see Year 9 Sapphire P showing off her occasionally strict tone and quirky dance moves as Miss Lynch and The Gamblers provide us with beautifully rich and vibrant tones whilst singing throughout the show.
Overall, the cast and crew put on a truly awe-inspiring performance that was a truly wonderful watch, making 'Grease: The Musical' arguably Highfields School's best performance yet, adding it to the long list of phenomenal musicals the school has put on so far. It is undeniable the hard work, dedication and lovethatwasputintomakingthisproductionasincredibleasitwas.Ahugewelldonetoeveryone involved!
Schoolsportandsportsleadersnews
Mrs Allen, School Sports Co-ordinator
Play Your Way To Wimbledon Derbyshire County event
Saturday 15 July
Unfortunately our winner Ruby C from Year 7 was on another school trip and Phoebe H from Year 8 also unable to attend due to other commitments . The girls event the morning and was interrupted by heavy rain which flooded the courts so the Boys event in the afternoon was on the indoor courts. Sam W and Joseph OB from Year 7 gave it a great effort against Derbyshire players.
Eleanor H from Year 12 was one of 100 young people who attended a residential at Loughborough University on Friday 14 - Sunday 16 July. The summit was themed “The Power of Connection” and gave the young people opportunities to work on a call to action for their organisations. They want to ensure that physical activity celebrates diversity, encourages choice and promotes wellbeing. Mrs Allen kept in touch with Eleanor over the weekend. She had an amazing time, especially trying out Wheelchair Basketball. We are sure the fruits of this experience will benefit both Eleanor and Highfields.
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Careers,College&ApprenticeshipNews
Careers Information
Explore BBC Bitesize’s brand new collection of free, online careers resources offering a wealth of inspiration and advice for students.
This new resources offer a rich collection of case studies across a wide range of sectors, linking curriculum subjects and the world of work:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/careers
Unifrog Careers programme
The careers programme ‘Unifrog’ offers students careers advice, support and guidance and students. Students in years 10 and 11 will be given log on details during the year to access Unifrog. www.unifrog.org
My Future app and website
My Future is a virtual gateway to support students with their next steps.
• Meet local employers and explore apprenticeship opportunities
• Work with training providers to learn about and access courses that are available
• Virtually visit post 16 institutions including colleges and universities
• Learn about the employment opportunities in your town
To access My Future click on the link below:
https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/learning/myfuture/
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Speakers for Schools - Youth Card for students
Speakers for Schools has a free mobile app that provides a one-stop shop for 11-25-year-olds for selfled discovery of educational, career and personal development opportunities in a safe environment. Youth Card is uniquely placed to help students by offering:
Free access to UK-wide work experience placements and workshops with leading employers, including: Spotify, Bentley Motors, bp, Google, NHS, Virgin Atlantic, The Financial Times, Santander and the BBC.
Free access to UK-wide financial and enterprise programmes.
Free access to a UK-wide network of 7,000 youth organisations.
Freeaccessto inspiring podcasts,broadcastsandshortfilms byheadsofindustryandhigh-profile speakers
Free access to a wide range of youth-friendly discounted services in the UK and Europe.
To find out more about Youth Card, visit www.youthcard.org
Apprenticeshipopportunities
Step-by-step guide to applying for an apprenticeship
The Step-by-step Guide to Applying for an Apprenticeship is a new resource available through the link below:
https://amazingapprenticeships.com/naw2023/?utm_source=mailing&utm_medium=naw+pg&utm_ campaign=naw2023
Finding an apprenticeship
Full details of apprenticeships available can be accessed through the government website on the following link - https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
Higher & Degree Listing - Amazing Apprenticeships
Recent vacancy listings can be found through the link to Amazing Apprenticeships below: https://amazingapprenticeships.com/higher-degree-listing/
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