We are well into the swing of the new term and it really has been a very positive start. The students look great in their uniforms and are working hard in their lessons. I have visited many classes over the last two weeks and I am delighted to see the students' thirst for knowledge. We have the highest expectations of all students and we work hard to ensure that every individual is driven to reach their targets whichever year group they are in. Our focus is very much on student progress and it has been lovely to give out so many awards and certificates in assemblies this week celebrating the impressive levels of progress that the students made last academic year. It was great to see so many parents of Year 10 students at the Parent Information Evening yesterday. It was a chance for Mrs Jenner to review the changes to the nature of GCSEs that the students will be taking in 2018. Mr Vermaak and Mrs Routledge then outlined the demands of the new Maths and English courses before Ms Dyer provided a range of suggestions to help parents support their sons and daughters to achieve highly. We are well aware that public examinations are more challenging than ever and it can be a stressful time for all concerned. We want to provide as much support as possible for the students and parents as I believe that by working together we can ensure that every individual is given the best opportunities to succeed. With this in mind I would like to mention two important events being held next week. On Wednesday the 21st we have the UCAS evening for Year 13 students and their parents. This an opportunity for the students to receive valuable advice about the process of university applications and gain an insight into maximising their chances of getting into the university of their choice. This will take place in the Sixth Form Study Centre starting at 5pm. Then on Thursday 22nd we are holding Parent Information evenings for Year 8 and 12. These will be held in the Hall with the Year 8 presentation starting at 5pm and the Year 12 session beginning at 6.30pm. I would urge as many parents as possible to come along as there is a huge amount of vital information that will be provided. I would also like to mention the Music Concert on Thursday 8th September. This was chance for a number of students to perform in front of an audience and people have said that the quality of the performers was higher than ever. I would like to thank Mr Savage and his team for organising the evening and supporting the students. I very much look forward to the next concert later in the term. Have a lovely weekend James Luck Headteacher
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