HEADLINES
By James Saunders
FAREWELL C11
Looking back at the last five years, I honestly can’t believe how fast the time has gone. It feels like just yesterday we were welcoming you into Cohort 7, and now we’re getting ready to say our goodbyes. I can still envisage that first day meeting so many of you. You’ve faced challenges none of us could have ever predicted. You joined the school at the tail end of a global pandemic and then, right at the start of Year 9, we had to close half the school because of RAAC? Who can forget the endless fire alarms and temperamental heating of the space village. But through all of these unexpected hurdles, you’ve shown amazing resilience, grit, and a real commitment to your learning here at Honywood.
It’s been an absolute privilege to be your headteacher over the last five years. We’ve brought in a lot of changes to try and make your time here better, and I hope when you look back, you can see it was all about helping you do your absolute best. I’ve been constantly impressed by your maturity, enthusiasm, and dedication. You’ve navigated a school experience unlike any other year group, and you’ve come out on top. Huge congratulations!
Watching you all mature over the last few years has taught me that we shouldn’t take time for granted. Going through a pandemic forced us all to slow down, notice the little things, and figure out what really matters in life. As you leave Honywood and step out into the real world, you’re taking with you a toughness built from your own hard work. Honestly, very few people will be as prepared as you are—when you’re on top form, you’re unstoppable.
School is really just about getting you ready to keep learning for the rest of your life. My biggest hope is that you leave here knowing yourselves inside out— your strengths, your weaknesses, your wins, and your mistakes. Owning all those parts of who you are gives you great self-awareness. When you know who you
are and take charge of your choices, you set yourself up for success.
At Honywood, we’ve always just wanted you to be happy and successful. But you can’t have either without being honest and taking responsibility for your own life. This is your life—not the school’s, not your teachers’, not your parents’. As summer gets closer and your exam results come out, some of you will be thrilled, and others might feel a bit disappointed. Whatever happens, be incredibly proud of your hard work, because those achievements belong entirely to you.
Is there a secret formula for success and happiness? If there is, I haven’t found it yet! But I do know that if you actively go looking for them, you’ll find them. I’ve talked to you before about the value of time: every moment is unique and it flies by. Wasted time just leads to regret. As you move forward, time is going to become way more valuable to you than money. Grab every opportunity, give it your all, and be proud of the person you are.
As you head into this next chapter, I wish every single one of you all the happiness and success in the world. I want to leave you with a thought from the Disney film Up. Carl spent his whole life, and all his savings, trying to get his house to Paradise Falls. But in the end, he realised the real adventure wasn’t the destination, but the journey itself. Embrace your own adventure. Don’t forget to enjoy the present moment, because life can easily pass us by while we’re busy chasing big dreams. Remember to have fun along the way.
Best of luck, and take care.
James Saunders
Congratulations to Jayden Fulcher in C11 who was awarded the Young Achiever of the Year award by Marks Tey Parish Council this week. Jayden has his own luxury car detailing business. He does: full valet, exterior valet, machine polishing, waxes, sealants, ceramic coating in Marks Tey from his house but has plans to expand the business soon! Congratulations Jayden, fantastic achievement.
DRESS CODE INFORMATION
When we return to school on 1 June, for the final half term of the school year blazers and jumpers are optional. Please ensure your shirts are tucked in, ties are the appropriate length (Honywood logo should be beneath the knot of your tie), top buttons are done up. All other elements of the dress code remain compulsory.
The Essex Music Service are hosting a fully-funded vocal workshop this summer for young people. Learners can sign up and be part of a fun day of singing that could support them to continue singing beyond the work they do in school.
Essex Music Service are pleased to share an exciting free singing opportunity for learners. This may be particularly useful for those who have recently taken part in a school vocal festival and would enjoy developing their skills further.
• Sunday 5 July 2026
• FitzWimarc School, Rayleigh
• 10.00am to 5.30pm (Performance: 5.00pm)
• Suitable for ages 8-18 years
This one-day workshop will give learners the chance to build confidence, learn new skills and experience the excitement of singing together. There will be a short performance for families at the end of the day.
The workshop is suitable for all abilities, with no prior experience required, while also offering stretch and challenge for more experienced singers.
The workshop will be led by experienced vocal specialists:
• Greg Link, an internationally recognised singer, conductor and choir coach who has worked with leading organisations including the BBC and VOCES8
• Emma Sweeney, an Essex-based Musical Theatre vocal coach with extensive experience working with young performers.
This event is part of a wider initiative to grow singing opportunities locally and support the development of a future Essex Youth Choir. Parents can book directly (free of charge) here
Don’t delay as spaces are limited.
7th May to 19th June
25th May - 29th May
Mon 1st June
Thurs 4th June
Thurs 4th June
Sun 7th June
Wed 10th June
Wed 17th June
Wed 17th June
Dates for the Diary
C11 GCSE Exams continue
Half term holidays
All learners return to school
Rearranged Science Museum trip
C10 Geography field studies to Walton and Colchester
C8 Belgium trip departs
Braxted Park careers trip
C10 parents’ evening
District Sports