I would like to start by congratulating everyone for battling into school this week despite traffic problems and freezing temperatures at times. Clearly we highlight the importance of excellent attendance as there is a very close link between students attending very well and students achieving very well. I fully understand that it can be a struggle to make it in on some days but it is definitely worth it as it will mean that students' progress is not hampered. With this in mind I would like to draw your attention to the "Alternative School Day" letter that is attached to this Bulletin. It is likely at some point this Winter that we will experience some particularly inclement weather and roads may be blocked and travel may be an issue. If this is the case a Risk Assessment will have to be carried out to see whether it is feasible to open the school safely. I will make every effort to avoid closing the school as I realise that this causes problems with regard to childcare for parents. However, it may be necessary to run an "Alternative School Day" to allow time for staff to battle in and be ready to receive the students. A later start and an earlier finish should mean that in many cases we will be able to run lessons and enable the students to enjoy their learning without disrupting their progress too much. Please ensure that you view the school's website for information. If we are going to run an Alternative School Day you will receive a text to this effect. If no text is received then it will be school as normal. Some great news this week from Miss Potter as her group of dancers have made it through to the Semi-finals of the "Great Big Dance Off". This is a National competition and the standard is always incredibly high so a huge well done to all the girls involved and to Miss Potter for her hard work and choreography. Sophia Filaitis, Louise Gilbert, Jodie Simm, Maisie Fellerman, Sarah Bagshaw, Ellie Marshall and Melis Emin all deserve a huge well done and I wish them every success in the next round at the New Wimbledon Theatre in March. Their hard work and commitment has certainly shone through. I would also like to draw your attention to the item regarding the Duke of Edinburgh Award in the Bulletin. This is something very close to my heart and I would certainly encourage as many young people as possible to get involved in what is an excellent opportunity to develop new skills, test themselves against the elements while at the same time making friends and enjoying the experience. I know that a number of our students are already interested and involved with the DofE and it really is a great opportunity. When students come to write Personal Statements for the Sixth Form or for University Applications this is always a great thing to include as it shows that they are the sort of person who is up for a challenge. Do go along to the Loughton meeting on a Tuesday evening if you can. Finally could I remind all those interested that the next Parent Forum will be held at 6pm on 2nd February in the School Library. The main topic for discussion will be Homework, so if you have any views or comments I would appreciate your attendance. I wish you all a very enjoyable weekend. Mr J Luck Headteacher
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