Our students and staff have returned from the half term break rested and ready to work hard. I have been fortunate enough to go into a number of lessons this week and see the high quality teaching and learning that is taking place and it is clear that the students are keen to make progress. I have observed a wide range of teaching methods being adopted and this certainly makes for a vibrant and positive atmosphere in which students can learn. I've also spoken to many students about which lessons they enjoy the most and I've been delighted to hear that their comments are overwhelmingly positive and they have lots of praise for their teachers and the school as a whole. The introduction of the Behaviour Plan has taken place in recent weeks and I have previously outlined to parents and students how we are making sure that every effort is made to ensure a consistent approach to student behaviour throughout the school. Thank you to those parents who have emailed and telephoned to add their support to the new system and I have been encouraged that so many parents feel that it is already making an impact. I have also been canvassing student opinions and many have said that they have noticed a change in the behaviour of certain students and it has allowed them to get on with their work and avoid distractions. Clearly this is still a work in progress and I am grateful to parents who have contacted me to outline some issues that still need to be addressed but I will certainly follow up any enquiry and ensure that these matters are dealt with effectively. If we are to become an Outstanding school it is imperative that students know that the highest standards of behaviour are required. They should follow instructions at the first time of asking and comply with the school's behaviour code. I am pleased to say that the standard of behaviour throughout the school is Good but I am keen to ensure that our students are aiming for exemplary behaviour both in and out of lessons. Today we are in the privileged position of hosting the Epping Forest Schools Parliamentary Debate in the School Hall. This is a prestigious event with Eleanor Laing MP in attendance. As a school we have an excellent record in this event and have been winners of three of the last four competitions. I have spent a little time today with our two protagonists and I can tell you that we have a very good chance of a further triumph. Hannah Smith and Olivia Tinker are making the case for under 18s not to have the vote and I was very impressed with the strength of their argument and their eloquence as speakers. They have been ably assisted in their preparations by Ms Atkinson and Mr Murray and I am grateful to them that they have put so much time and effort into supporting such an important extra-curricular opportunity. I wish the girls every success this evening and I will hopefully be able to provide some good news next week. I wish you all a good weekend and thank you for your continued support of Roding Valley High School. Mr J Luck Headteacher
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