I think that it is fair to say that this half term has flown by incredibly quickly but we have certainly packed in a huge amount in the space of a few short weeks. This week it was the turn of our Year 10s to come in to school on Thursday evening for their parents' evening. It was great to see so many families attending on the night and the atmosphere was very positive. Students were receiving a lot of praise for their work but teachers were also keen to share formative comments focusing on how every student can improve further and aspire to maximise their rate of progress across their subjects. With the move to the 9 to 1 Curriculum in most subjects to be examined in May 2018 it is crucial that all students and parents are fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead and it was great to see the students rising to the challenge at the Study Skills Day that we ran on Wednesday this week. The whole day was focused on supporting all Year 10 students to develop their revision skills but also look to guide them in setting up revision timetables, using mind maps as well as looking at how Apps can play a useful role in preparing them for the examinations. Thank you to those parents who have already been in touch commenting on how useful their sons and daughters found the day. It is something that all of our students will benefit from in the months to come. Last Friday evening was the first Year 7 disco of the year. It was lovely to see that it was so well attended and I would like to thank the PTA for their sterling work in putting the event on. It was a great way for the Year 7s to let their hair down and show that they have settled into life at Roding Valley with apparent ease. It was also a good fund raiser for the PTA who provide great support for the school and have raised monies for a number of school improvements and work in departments. If you would like to join the PTA they are always keen to welcome new members. Please contact David Hilton or Natalie Sellears via the School Office on admin@rodingvalleypta.net. On the first day back after half term in place of the Parent Forum I will be running a Headteacher clinic from 6pm to 8pm. If you have any issue that you would like to discuss with me please contact my PA, Sue Sabin, on ssabin@rodingvalley.net and make an appointment. I find that these evenings can be incredibly useful so please do not hesitate to get in touch. Finally, I would like to thank Mr Keith Bailey, doyen of the PE Department, who is taking early retirement as of today. Keith is leaving us after 27 years at Roding Valley High School where he has become very much part of the fabric of the school. A huge character and a first rate teacher, this is certainly the end of an era for the school and I have not been surprised to hear so many comments from students and parents saying how much he will be missed. I, and the rest of the staff, wish him well on his return to West Wales. Iechyd da. Have a lovely weekend. James Luck Headteacher
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