HOLYHEAD SCHOOL PRESENTS
PULSE
Teach What Matters
Foreword
Principal’s Foreword
It is my sincere pleasure to welcome you to the Autumn term’s Pulse magazine, a perfect snapshot of Holyhead, a school with its own special buzz about it!
As ever, none of this would be possible without the enormous support for what we do here from parents who play a vital role in their child’s education. We have welcomed more parents in person than ever before this term through Parental Engagement evenings for all year groups in the first half-term, alongside a number of Community Cafe events this term. We look forward to seeing you all through the year at Subject Parents’ Evenings and many more events and opportunities that we will be hosting for the remainder of the year including the return of our School Show in February with Sister Act (you can read more about the preparations for the show in this edition!).
Pulse is not intended to capture the day to day normality of the lessons and learning that takes place within our walls, it is there to showcase the extra-curricular activities and experiences that make school life special and create lasting memories for the students who take part in them.
You will read about students being stretched and challenged, engaged and inspired, and vitally for who we are, involved in celebrating and learning more about our cultures collaboratively including through the school’s Black History Month showcase in October and the Remembrance Day service in November. You will also read about a range of visits to and from school with students visiting Oxford and Warwick Universities to further their knowledge and inspire their aspirations as well as leading by example at the Blue Earth Summit in London in October.
We’ve welcomed in many guests to the school to support the students in lots of different ways, whether that’s been through the Talk the Talk workshops for Year 7 and Year 9 students to help them to become more confident communicators, or the Medical Mavericks sessions to support students with a better understanding of the wide range of careers available in the NHS. You can find out more about our Careers work in the first ‘Futures Newsletter’ section.
We’ve also had author visits, cybersecurity workshops delivered by visitors from the world famous Bletchley Park and a talk to students in the Sixth Form from the recently elected MP for Perry Barr, Ayoub Khan, who also delivered a session for BTEC Applied Law students with the experiences from his day job as a barrister!
There is a very active Student Council with newly formed Charity, Eco, Diversity, Sports and Civic committees and you can read more about these. Each committee leads a focus for a half-term and the first to take the hot seat has been the Charity Committee with the challenge of helping to raise £15,000 alongside the other CRST schools to support the designated charity, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Trust. Alongside this there has been a major push to support the local community through the annual Christmas Food Drive as well as the school’s first Clothing Drive.
It’s also been a term of real success for many of our sporting teams, so please read the PE Sports Report, including more information on our Sports Leaders cohort of 24 students.
I really hope you enjoy reading more about these experiences, the vast majority of them, as always, in the words of the young people of Holyhead including our fantastic BBC School Reporters.
I also wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to all the staff whose dedication and creativity make these experiences possible. Without their dedication and commitment to source and provide these opportunities the students and Pulse would be the worse for it.
At the end of this term though, we also sadly bid a fond farewell to:
• Mrs Rashid, our Sixth Form Student Engagement Officer who is moving on to a new role.
• An extra special thanks to Miss Francis who has richly deserved the opportunity to retire at the end of this term. Miss Francis has served the school exceptionally since joining in 1997 and supported so many students to achieve their aspirations, building longlasting relationships with staff and students alike.
We thank them both for what they have given to the school community over years of dedicated service and wish them all the very best for the future, including many years of joy and relaxation in retirement for Miss Francis!
I hope you all have a fantastic holiday season whether you are celebrating Christmas or not, and of course we wish you a Happy New Year as we move towards 2025 and more opportunities for the students who make the school so special.
Mr D Knox | Principal
Graphic Designer: Miss Dhanjal Proofreader: Mrs Mistry
Elliot the Elf Bangla
Head Prefects Announcement
As with the start of every new school year, important decisions are made that shape our community. One of these is the selection of our Head Prefects — a process involving votes from both staff and prefects. This year’s voting was incredibly close, reflecting the outstanding qualities of many candidates. After much deliberation, we are thrilled to announce our Head Prefects for this academic year:
• Jed 11H
• Mobashar 11F
• Arissah 11G
• Gurman 11A
Being a Head Prefect is a significant role within the school. These students are tasked with setting the highest standards for themselves and others, leading by example, and serving as role models for their peers. Our Head Prefects have already embraced their responsibilities, participating in key events such as the annual Remembrance Day service. Looking ahead, they are preparing to step further into the spotlight as hosts for our prestigious Presentation Evening later in the academic year.
We are incredibly proud of their dedication and are excited to see how they continue to grow and inspire the Holyhead School community.
Mr
C Goodison | Humanities
This year, the School Council collaborated with the 12 other schools in our trust to launch an exciting new initiative: five dedicated committees focused on Eco, Civic, Charity, Sport, and Diversity.
At the launch event, each secondary school was tasked with leading one committee, presenting ideas on how it could be implemented across all schools. Holyhead is proud to lead the Diversity Committee, a fitting choice for a school that celebrates diversity so brilliantly each year!
Representing Holyhead, Rsophia and Hamza (both Year 13) delivered a powerful presentation. They inspired fellow students and staff alike by explaining the importance of celebrating diversity and sharing creative ideas to foster inclusivity.
Looking ahead, the School Council has a packed calendar of events, with each half-term highlighting a different committee’s theme. This half-term, the spotlight is on Charity, with the ambitious trust-wide goal of raising £15,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital by the end of the academic year.
The Charity Committee has been busy preparing for Charity Week, set to take place in the final week of term before the Christmas holidays. A host of festive activities will be on offer, so keep an eye out during tutor time and around school for details on how you can get involved!
Together, let’s make a difference while celebrating the values that make our school an extraordinary place.
Mr C Goodison | Humanities
Holyhead hosted Macmillan Coffee Morning on Friday 20th September.
Staff donated and baked some tasty treats for us to sell, in a bid to help raise money for Macmillan Cancer Charity.
We had a heap of delicious cakes, donuts, cupcakes, biscuits and much more donated by our generous staff body. Sweet treats were piled high, ready for our students and staff to come buy and donate to a very worthy cause.
We sold out of everything, raising a whopping £221.34 in just one morning. All of these proceeds go towards helping those affected by Cancer.
A huge thank you to all those who stopped by the library to buy something and a huge thank you to all those who donated.
We can’t wait to top it next year!
Donations given by:
Mrs Reddy
Miss Khatun
Ms Mandir
Ms Smith
Miss Dore
Mrs Davies
Mrs McKinney
Catering team
Mrs Mistry
Site Team
Suraiya (Year 13)
Miss S Kaur | Community Connector Officer
Bangla week at Holyhead was a celebration of the rich culture, history and language of Bangladesh. It was a meaningful opportunity to showcase Bangla traditions while bringing the school community together. It was also a significant event in Birmingham, as it was a time to celebrate the creativity and diversity of Bangla heritage artists in Birmingham and the West Midlands, consisting of art exhibitions, poetry readings and much more.
One highlight was helping to present our inspiring guest speaker, Aftab Rahman (the founding Director of Legacy West Midlands), whose words left a lasting impression on our students, as he explained the story of his life growing up in Birmingham and his journey in starting the Bangladeshi Youth Forum, an organisation that works with children who doesn't have as many opportunities as everyone else.
Being part of this event allowed me to share the beauty and resilience of Bangla culture and show students that everyone has the potential to be successful, the only thing you have to do is work hard to achieve your goals. Overall, the talk was very encouraging and eye-opening, and Aftab Rahman hoped the event would spark enough interest for a nationwide Bangla Week to take place next year, which I definitely agree with.
Saima 12A
This year Holyhead’s celebration of Black History Month focussed on the theme of “Reclaiming Narratives”. This theme marked a significant shift towards recognising and correcting the narratives of Black history and culture. By emphasising this theme, Holyhead hoped to shine a brighter light on stories, allegories, and histories that underscore our commitment to correcting historical inaccuracies and showcasing the untold success stories and the full complexity of Black heritage.
The Black History Club Year 8 students, Kaisha, Abu and Xavier presented at every year group assembly to introduce the theme and launched to their fellow students an activity to write or create a piece of artwork on this year’s Black History Month theme of “Reclaiming Narratives.”
Our annual showcase event was held on Thursday, 24th October. On arrival, guests were greeted by music from the Caribbean and served mocktails at the "Dore's and Shaw's Mocktail Bar". A Caribbean menu was served throughout the evening, whilst a game or two of dominoes took place.
The Caribbean-style hair salon was the perfect backdrop for showcasing the early art of hair braiding and wrapping. It was fascinating to learn that the practice dates back as far as 3,500 BCE—such a powerful connection to history! Throughout the African continent, hairstyles have long told stories about who someone is, and it’s incredible to see how those traditions continue to influence modern styles. We also delved into the spiritual significance of hair braiding. It’s amazing to think of braids as not only a form of personal expression, but also as symbols of protection—almost like a map for travellers, guiding them along escape routes and paths to safety. The social and community-building aspect of braiding was particularly inspiring, too. It was a reminder of how these practices bring people together for bonding, conversation, and the exchange of wisdom across generations.
It was such a successful night in highlighting the rich and diverse histories of Black hair, and we were so glad we could share this experience with visitors, students and staff.
There was even a ‘Barber Shop’ setting with a professional Barber ‘shaping up’ the hair of some of the young men. Another long-held Caribbean tradition.
Well done to the Year 7 students who took part in the showcase event. They did an amazing display on Black History leaders and ran the ‘tuck shop’.. They also took part in the “Catwalk” they all looked amazing. super proud of the year group.
All the students had been working hard with their subject teachers to produce work for Black History Month. This resulted in displays of fantastic and innovative work which lined the entry to the showcase event.
As part of our ongoing collaboration with Benjamin Zephaniah and his inspiring legacy, Holyhead School hosted a poetry competition drawing inspiration from his remarkable work. The Maths department embraced the challenge, encouraging students to craft creative poems with a mathematical twist. During the celebratory evening, visitors had the opportunity to read these outstanding pieces and cast their votes for their favorite. The winning poem, a standout creation, was written by Omer 7E, who was proudly awarded the top prize.
A lucky dip was held on the evening with all proceeds to be donated to 'Oscar Birmingham' a voluntary organisation that supports people with Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Disorders in Birmingham and surrounding areas. We were pleased to have two of their representatives present who spoke briefly about their work especially with young people affected by the conditions. Thank you to everyone who took part in this and would like to announce that £220.28 was raised for a very worthy cause and will be presented to the Oscar Birmingham representatives.
The highlight of the evening, however, was a fashion show which featured students and staff wearing cultural or traditional dress from across our diverse school community. They paraded around the event and up the red carpet with the Holyhead flair and style that is at the heart of our community.
Thank you to the team, Ms Brade, Ms Porter-Cuff, Mrs Williams, Mr Lionga, Ms Hamilton and everyone who got involved and contributed to an amazing month of celebrating Black history.
Ms J Hamilton | Personal Assistant to the Principal
Maths in Action - KS5 trip
On Tuesday 12th November, 28 of our KS5 maths students left their books and attended an action packed day at Warwick University with Mrs Anwar, Mr Tariq and Mrs Williams.
In five informative, engaging and interactive sessions designed to complement the KS5 curriculum a team of mathematicians took on the challenge to inspire A level students to think beyond the classroom. Maths in Action included talks on a diverse range of topics from statistics and engineering to data science and pure mathematics. Students also benefited from a session on how to prepare for exam success. It was the first time many of the students had seen the Warwick University campus which was an inspiring moment for them. The students who attended were:
Jaahir 12E
Muhammad Ali 12E
Siraaj 12E
Manvil 12E
Paramjit 12C
Aaron 12B
Saima 12A
Naomi 12A
Saadat 12F
Harman 12A
Muaad 12A
Tarandeep 12A
Mustafa 12C
Aariz 13E
Saneej 12C
Nazreen 12A
Mohammed Faez 12C
Mohammed Jauoda 12A
Angel 12A
Subhan 12A
Hershard 12E
Keonte 12D
Shah 12D
Ibrahim 12A
Kivuma 12A
Anayah 12B
Rohit 12A
Adiba 12A
“Going on the maths trip to the University of Warwick was an insightful and engaging experience. Listening to the different speakers present their research in a passionate and accessible way made me see the endless opportunities in mathematics. One of the speakers had been on 'Who wants to be a Millionaire' andusedherknowledgeofprobabilitytocreateawinningstrategyandanother speaker presented his research on combinatorial games and showed us how to predict which player will win the game. Overall it was a very intellectually stimulatingdayandIwouldlovetogoback!” Angel 12A
UKMT Senior Challenge
The Senior Mathematical Challenge (SMC) is run by the UK Mathematics Trust. The SMC encourages mathematical reasoning, precision of thought, and fluency in using basic mathematical techniques to solve interesting problems. Certificates are awarded to the highest scoring 60% of candidates (Gold:Silver:Bronze, 1:2:3). All of our year 12 and year 13 A Level Maths students took part and we gained award winners in both year groups.
Congratulations to our Award Winners: Silver Awards: Fahima 13F, Kadidja 13B
Bronze Awards: Ayisha 13C, Alishba 13E, Zainab 13D, Shah 12A and Saima 12A
Saima has reflected on her award win after completing the challenge.
“Participating in the Senior UKMT Challenge was a significant experience for me. Preparing for the challenge by tackling the UKMT Challenges from previousyearswasverydifficultforme,butitmadethe achievement even more rewarding. This recognition from a nationally renowned competition has fuelled my passion for mathematics and strengthened my desiretostudythesubjectatUniversity”. Saima 12A
Well done to all the A Level mathematics students who took part!
French Café
The French department hosted a French experience event on Wednesday December 4th for year 8 students. It was a fantastic event which ran at lunchtime. Students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the target language and to order food and drink. Students were very keen to take part and Precious was overheard saying ‘j’adore!’ I want to stay here forever!’
A big thank you to the following year 10 ‘waitresses’ who helped yr.8 students during the event: Grace, Zaina, Anika, Lilly and Preety. Merci beaucoup!
Black History Month
In MFL lessons students have been focusing on their role models and the poet Benjamin Zephaniah and his life and poetry. In Year 10 French and Spanish lesson students have written about their role models and why they are inspired by them.. Students in KS3 have enjoyed reading the poem Faceless by Benjamin Zephaniah in French (Sans Visage) or Spanish (Sin cara) and creating presentations about his life.
European Day of Languages
On the 26h of September, the MFL faculty celebrated the European Day of Languages. EDL is a very important day for all MFL teachers and students, as it is a day to celebrate the diversity of languages spoken across the world in societies today. At Holyhead School we celebrated, this year, with a whole school Kahoot game in form time!
Vous connaissez Mr Almane?
Mr Almane has been working at Holyhead for two years. He is a very popular member of staff who likes helping everybody. He is a keen football player. He has a contagious smile and a genuine passion for education. Year 10 French students Troy, Kamari, Zemirah and Mouhammadou caught up with him recently.
Zemirah: Bonjour Monsieur- Hello Sir Qui est Mr Almane? Who is Mr Almane?
M. Almane: Bonjour tout le monde, je m’appelle M. Alamane. J’habite à Birmingham mais je suis né en France à Paris. Pendant mon enfance j’ai vécu au Maroc et huit mois en Égypte. Maintenant je suis en Angleterre depuis neuf ans.
Good morning everybody, my name is Mr Almane. I live in Birmingham but I was born in Paris, France. During my childhood,IlivedinMoroccoand8monthsinEgypt. Now, IhavebeenlivinginEnglandfor9years.
Kamari: Et votre famille? And your family?
M. Almane: Dans ma famille, nous sommes six: ma mère, mon père. J’ai un frère aîné et un frère plus jeune et j’ai aussi une sœur. Je m’entends vraiment bien avec toute ma famille. Je les adore. La famille, c’est le plus important pour moi.
In my family, we are six: my mother,my father. I have an olderbrotherandayoungerbrotherandIalsohaveasister. Ireallygetonwellwithmyfamily. Ilovethem.Myfamilyis what matters the most to me.
Troy: Vous parlez français? Do you speak French?
M. Almane: Comme je suis né en France, je parle la langue. Je suis francophone.
J’aide le département de français ici à Holyhead. Mon rêve serait de devenir prof de français. AsIwasborninFrance,Ispeakthelanguage. IamaFrench native speaker. I help the French department at Holyhead. MydreamwouldbetobecomeaFrenchteacher.
Mouhammadou: Quel poste occupez-vous à Holyhead? What is your job title at Holyhead?
M. Almane: Je suis assistant dans le département SEND. J’adore mon travail. J’aime aider les autres. Je suis vraiment content quand les élèves font des progrès et réussissent. I am an achievement assistant in the SEND department. I love my job. I like helping others. I am really happy when thestudentsmakeprogressandsucceed.
Troy: Qu’est ce que vous préférez dans votre travail? What do you prefer in your job?
M. Almane: Certains élèves sont un peu agités et ont un caractère tenace mais j’adore travailler avec différentes personnes. Quelle chance! Somestudentsareabitexcitedandhaveastrongcharacter butIloveworkingwithdifferentpeople.Howlucky!
Zemirah: Vous pensez que c’est important d’apprendre une langue étrangère? Do you think that it is important to learn a foreign language?
M. Almane: Je pense que c’est vraiment important. Cela demande de la persévérance et des efforts. Mais ça vaut la peine pour une bonne carrière dans le monde d'aujourd'hui. I think it is really important. You need to persevere and to tryhard.Butitisworthitforagoodcareerintoday’sworld.
Mouhammadou: Quels sont vos passe-temps? What are your hobbies?
M. Almane: Moi je suis fan de foot. J’y joue tous les jours. Je suis défenseur. Et bien sûr je suis un supporter de la meilleure équipe du monde et mon meilleur joueur c’est Mbappe. Il est trop génial. Football is my passion. I play every day. I am a defender. I obviously support the best team in the world and my favouriteplayerisMbappe.Heisamazing.
Kamari: Monsieur, enseignez-nous un mot de vocabulaire français cool. Sir, can you teach us a cool word in French?
M. Almane: Attendez, je réfléchis!..... Ah oui! Au lieu de dire ‘j’adore’ , c’est plus cool de dire ‘je kiffe!’ Alors je peux dire ‘je kiffe Holyhead! Well,letmethink,wait. Ohyes.Insteadofsaying‘Ilove’,it iscoolertosay‘jekiffe’soIcansay,‘jekiffeHolyhead!
Kamari: Je kiffe le burger (laughs)
Troy (smiling): Je kiffe le week-end
Zemirah: Je kiffe ma famille
Mouhammadou: je kiffe LES VACANCES! LES VACANCES! Je kiffe trop! (laughs)
Zemirah: Bon monsieur merci. On vous souhaite de bonnes vacances de Noël So, sir, Thanks! Wishing you a good Christmas holiday
M. Almane: À vous aussi. Joyeux Noël! Et je kiffe discuter avec vous. A la prochaine! Youtoo,MerryChristmas.Ilovetalkingtoyou.Seeya!
F1 Club
This year has seen the launch of our F1 enrichment programme. Students have been developing their F1 race cars, and will eventually produce physical versions of their designs. This has been a huge hit so far, with students fully invested in winning the race! Thank you to Mr Stacey who has been running this club. We are only in the early stages of producing the F1 cars, so if you would like to join along please see Mr Stacey for more details.
Biology in Action
Our Year 13 Biology students went to Warwick University this term to experience Biology in Action. This was an exciting day which involved interactive workshops, inspirational speakers and informative discussions. This included looking into the Grey Friars project which revolved around finding the remains of Richard III, preservation of the polar regions of the earth, the study of Astrobiology (the scientific research of life beyond our planet) and the race to cure dementia. On top of this students were given a special session on examination success, to help provide students with the tools they need to reach their full potential in their upcoming exams. Our year 13 students really benefited from this visit, as they were able to see how biology is used outside of the classroom. A special thank you to Mr Wigfield and Ms Campbell for arranging this visit.
Oxford University
This term 30 students from year 11 have been taking part in our Aspire workshops. The workshops are designed for students to challenge themselves and help them surpass their potential. As part of this students have been able to explore potential career ideas and university courses which interest them. As part of this our Aspire students attended Oxford University to gain an insight into university life. During the day students had a tour of Oxford University, explored the local area, and gained hands-on experience with some of the courses available to them. This was an amazing visit, and the year 11 students thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and were very appreciative of the opportunity to go to Oxford University. Students were great ambassadors for the school, not only in their conduct but also in the way they embraced the whole experience. A special thank you to Mr Evanson, Ms Sharma and Mr Parmar for their support on this visit.
Science Magic Show
Science magician Dr Matt Pritchard is a Curator of Wonder delivered an amazing science magic show to some of our year 8, year 10 and year 13 students. The show was jam packed with science tricks, stunts and puzzles, in which some of our students were able to take part in. The show itself was very inspiring and informative for our students. Following the show our students were given an opportunity to have a Q&A with Matt, in which our students gave very insightful and thought provoking questions.
Medical Mavericks
For one day only Holyhead School was turned into Holyhead Hospital! Students across year 9 to 13 were able to explore different careers in the healthcare industry. The session was led by healthcare professionals and medical students, who had a discussion with our students about the world of medicine. Our students were eager to ask questions and find out more about potential opportunities within healthcare. Following students put on their stethoscopes and got to work! As for the rest of the sessions, students were able to take blood from a fake arm, record their own ECG, conduct an ultrasound of the inside of their body, try keyhole surgery, and much more. This was an amazing experience in which all students left the session with a huge smile on their face.
Mr J Mohr | Director of Learning - Science
On Thursday, November 21st, the library held an event with two nurses from Medical Maverick. Students had the chance to learn about different NHS jobs that aren't very well known. They also learned which GCSEs are needed for these jobs. Everyone got to measure blood pressure, temperature, and height, and listen to their hearts and lungs with a stethoscope. They used ultrasound to see if they would grow taller and a pulse Doppler to check their heartbeats. An infrared vein scanner showed their veins, and the fun part was taking blood from a fake arm!
Simran 10C
On November 11th, Holyhead School observed Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion to honour those who sacrificed their lives in wars. The event, led by the student leadership, saw the school adorned with crosses, a poignant symbol of remembrance.
The ceremony fostered a sense of respect and gratitude among the student body, encouraging them to reflect on the sacrifices of countless individuals.
As the school community gathered to remember the fallen, it was a poignant reminder of the importance of peace and the enduring legacy of those who gave their lives for their country.
Julia 8H
Thank you to Mr. Horace Barnes from the “Why Are West Indians in This Country” project for leading the event and sharing his insights with the students, who were deeply engaged. We are also grateful for his continued support of Holyhead’s remembrance service.
Birmingham Crown Court
Agroup of Year 13 students visited Birmingham Crown Court to find out more about the court works and what it would be like to be in a courtroom. After passing through the security scanners, the students received a talk from the court’s clerk. They then had their questions answered by a high court judge, who told the students about his career trajectory and his day-to-day role. He also answered some difficult and insightful questions from the students, including whether he had ever decided in court that he regretted and what the hardest part of his job was. From here, the students attended several different trials, having the chance to observe examinations by prosecution and defence lawyers, witnesses answering questions, and a defence lawyer’s closing statements. The cases they saw ranged from theft and fraud to possession of weapons, and even murder. The students were inspired by what they saw and several of them are now even more determined to pursue a career in law. Others are just determined never to get on the wrong side of a prosecution lawyer!
“It was a fantasticexperience seeingbarristerscross examininginamurder trial”. Syed 13A
Mr. Barnes also led the flag bearers during the service. The lineup included:
• Shiv Chand, Sergeant, RAF
• Daphnia Christie, Police
• Steve, SSAFA
• Phil, Cadet
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event memorable and meaningful.
Mrs Mistry | Central Community Strategy Lead
“Itwasgreatto seehowajudgegave asentenceinreallife, especiallyalifesentence” Moahmmed
13B
Guest Speaker:
Ayoub Khan
Barrister & MP
This experience allowed students the opportunity to meet and listen to what a leading barrister has to say and the key elements of good advocacy. This talk allowed students to participate in a facilitated ethics discussion and get on their feet and perform some advocacy, under the guidance of barrister Ayoub Khan. It also gave sixth form students to the legal profession, build their knowledge of the rule of law and develop their skills in advocacy and persuasion. Barrister Ayoub also identified our students having great attitude and potential. Students were able to ask questions about the day to day of a barrister and a solicitor, which enabled them to get a closer view of the life in the legal profession.
“Iwasabletoaskallmy questionsandfeelmuchmore confidenttopursuemycareerin thelegalprofession.”. Rhea 13D
we had the privilege of hosting a distinguished visitor Phil Simons from Bletchley Park, the historic site renowned for its codebreaking efforts during World War II. Phil delivered an array of engaging workshops for students in Years 8, 11, 12 and 13, covering the rich history of Bletchley Park and the importance of cybersecurity now and in the future Insights on entering the cybersecurity profession through apprenticeships and degrees was also shared providing Holyhead students with a clear career roadmap in this industry.
Understanding the Significance of Cybersecurity:
Transitioning from the past to the present, the workshops shed light on the importance of cybersecurity in our digital age. Students were introduced to cyber threats and the potential consequences of data breaches, learning about the critical role cybersecurity plays in safeguarding personal information, digital assets, and national security.
Discussions on topics such as data encryption, network security, and ethical considerations within the cybersecurity field were held. This encouraged students to think critically, analyse real-world scenarios, and explore the multifaceted aspects of cybersecurity practices.
The Future of Cybersecurity:
The workshops concluded with an emphasis on the future of cybersecurity and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and the Internet of Everything (IoE).. Students were encouraged to envision themselves at the forefront of cybersecurity advancements, securing our digital world against evolving threats.
“Itwasagreatexperienceseeing andspeakingtoabarristerand understandingthedynamicsofaday in the life as a barrister.” Suraiya 13E
Mr B Dhaled | Teacher of Computer Science
"Learning about the historyofBletchley Park and the incredible code-breakingeffortswas mind-blowing.Itmademe realisetheimportanceof cybersecurityintoday's world." Taha
Promoting reading to enrich knowledge and empower.
As part of Holyhead School's commitment to fostering a love for reading, we launched a special initiative during the Year 6 transition days in July. Each student in our current Year 7 cohort received a copy of Wonderscape to read and enjoy over the summer break, encouraging them to immerse themselves in the world of reading.
signed several copies, leaving many with a cherished memento of an unforgettable day.
To deepen their engagement and highlight the value of reading and writing, we were thrilled to welcome Wonderscape author Jennifer Bell to our school on the 30th September. Jennifer conducted two interactive workshops with 60 students, offering an inspiring exploration into the creative process, blending imitation with originality. She then captivated the entire year group in an assembly, sharing her journey and emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling.
The excitement among students and staff was palpable, with everyone buzzing about the event. To add to the excitement, students had the opportunity to purchase Jennifer's latest book, and she graciously
A huge thank you to all the staff who worked tirelessly to support and organise this event, ensuring its success and inspiring our students to develop their love for reading.
M Noble & A Mistry
PPeriod poverty
eriod poverty is the lack of access to sanitary products due to financial constraints. Periods are a normal part of life. It is increasingly recognised that good menstrual health is an essential component to wellbeing. Did you know that 1 in 9 children have missed school because they could not afford to buy sanitary products in the United Kingdom?
We have free period products in school and encourage girls to get their monthly supplies from the First Aid, Head of Years office. Just Ask for the RED BOX.
JenniferBell|Author
The Conscious Sociology Eaters!
This term within the Year 13 tutor programme, students have been learning about how the food we eat affects not only our physical health but mental health also.
We have been researching the impact our food and nutrition has on our memory, our concentration levels and our general mood.
Health benefits of the pescatarian diet Research shows that regularly consuming fish may help reduce the risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure and stroke. Apart from fish, the pescatarian diet consists mainly of plant foods.
A pescatarian diet may also protect people against colorectal cancers, or cancers that affect the colon and rectum.
Year 13 Sociologists have decided to take part in termly food challenges. The first challenge we completed was Pescatarian Week. In order to reduce our meat consumption for the whole week and monitor the impact it had on us we only allowed ourselves to have fish or seafood. Our whole class motivated each other and kept in contact throughout the week to see how we had been getting on.
The omega-3 fats found in fish have powerful antiinflammatory effects and may benefit health in many ways when consumed in large doses.
Next term the focus will be Ultra Processed Free Week. We aim to get more of the Year Group involved in this one. Tune in to see our progress in the next challenge.
Ms Gordon | Subject Lead - Sociology
Warwick University Biology in Action
On our recent trip to Warwick University, we delved into the fascinating world of biology at the Biology in Action event. Packed with cutting-edge insights and real-world applications, the day featured inspiring talks from leading experts. Highlights included Turi King’s riveting exploration of how DNA identified King Richard III, Mark Brandon’s vivid accounts of polar ecosystems, and Helen Pilcher’s thought-provoking discussion on conservation dilemmas.
Interactive polls, quizzes, and an exam success session added to the engaging atmosphere. From the hunt for alien life to breakthroughs in dementia research, the event broadened our perspectives and fueled our passion for biology!
Hamza 13F
On Thursday 21st November, we attended a series of lectures about biology at the University of Warwick. We attended these lectures to gain an understanding of what it’s like to study biology at a higher level. I found the session to be quite informative and interesting as the lecturers discussed topics such as astrobiology. I quite enjoyed this trip because it was unique in comparison to a regular trip and I believe this should be an annual event.
M Wigfield | ADOL - Science
PE Sports Report
What a great first term we have had in the PE Department. Alongside the plethora of extracurricular clubs on offer, our students have taken part in a range of trips and activities this term.
Boys Football
Years 7, 8, 9, and 10 have been training hard this term under Mr. Prentice, Mr. Gill, and Mr. Goodison, preparing for a competitive season.
Year 7 faced a tough opening cup match against Windsor Olympus. Despite the loss, their first late goal showed promise for the team’s progress.
Year 8 started their league campaign with a thrilling 5-4 win against Hamstead Hall. After conceding early, they rallied and held the lead with impressive attacking play.
The Year 9 and 10 team opened their league season with a dominant 8-4 victory over Aston University Engineering Academy, showcasing excellent offensive skills and strong momentum.
As Andrea Pirlo once said, “Football is played with your head. You use your feet as tools.” Our teams are embracing this philosophy as they continue to grow and compete.
CRST Intersport Football Tournament
teams, both competing in a round-robin format. Each team performed brilliantly, winning 4 matches and losing 1 to secure 2nd place overall. The event was expertly officiated by Sports Leaders from Churchill and Arrow Vale.
Well
done to everyone who participated! Best of luck to the teams competing in the Handball tournament, organised by Arrow Vale in the Spring term.
Basketball Update
Mr. Prentice has been working tirelessly with our three Holyhead basketball teams since September, and what a fantastic start it has been! Students have also benefited from professional coaching sessions with the Birmingham Rockets, receiving expert tips and refining their skills to elevate their game.
Years 7 & 8 have been training hard in preparation for the Jr. NBA Basketball season, set to start before Christmas. Representing the school as the Denver Nuggets and Dallas Mavericks, they’ve proudly received their team kits and are eager to hit the court. Despite falling short in their first two games, both teams are improving steadily through hard work and determination.
The KS4 basketball team has also made an incredible start to their season, with early morning 7:30 am training sessions yielding outstanding progress. Their dedication and resilience are setting them up for success, with plenty of game time still ahead.
Look out for more games across all teams after the Christmas break! Stay updated with all our sporting news on X (Twitter): @HolyheadPE. As John Wooden famously said, “Ability may get you to the top, but it takescharactertokeepyouthere.”
Ackers Reward Trip
The second CRST InterTrust Sports competition, a 6-a-side football tournament, was held this term at Holyhead. Schools from across the Trust, including Holyhead, Waseley Hills, Arrow Vale, Churchill, Ipsley, and Gospel Oak, participated. Holyhead was represented by Year 8/9
boys’ and girls’
Ten female students were rewarded with a trip to the local Ackers Adventure centre on the 8th October, for their previous and continued effort and contribution to extra curricular sport. The girls had a wonderful afternoon taking part in some climbing on the outdoor climbing wall. The girls had a fantastic afternoon learning how to climb, traverse and how to support each other when climbing. They had great fun and had an amazing time experiencing a new and exciting activity.
Aston Girls’ Football Competitions
Holyhead proudly hosted the Aston Schools’ 6-a-side Girls’ Football Tournaments, with outstanding results. The Year 11, 9, and 8 teams each finished 2nd overall, showcasing incredible skill and determination. Our Year 10 girls’ team triumphed, winning the entire competition by defeating every school they faced.
A huge well done to all the players for their amazing performances! The Aston Schools competitions will continue after Christmas with basketball.
Aston Villa Girls’ Football Tournament
Last term, our KS3 girls participated in a football tournament with Aston Villa coaches at the impressive new indoor training facility on Brookvale Road.
The girls excelled, first benefiting from coaching sessions before competing in the tournament. They played brilliantly, winning every match and securing the championship with straight victories! Special mentions go to Krystal 9D in defense and Zemirah 9A and Kaisha 8G up front for their outstanding performances.
Sports Leaders 2024/25
Our 2024/25 Sports Leader cohort, consisting of 24 students, who are enrolled in the Aston Schools Partnership's Future Prospects sports leadership programme. This programme is designed for Year 9/10 students with prior leadership experience and aims to connect students from diverse communities. It also provides valuable insight into career pathways and allows students to meet professionals from various fields.
On October 22nd, the Sports Leaders attended a Level 1 orientation day at King Edward Aston, where they participated in workshops on sports leadership. Students from different schools collaborated, completed tasks, and built social connections. As part of the programme, they will co-design and run an event at Holyhead to enhance school participation.
The next session in February will include a coaching masterclass at Aston Villa’s Brookvale training centre, followed by a tour of Villa Park. The final day will take place at Alexander Stadium, where they’ll work with staff from Birmingham City University.
All 9 Sports Leaders showed great enthusiasm on their first day, and I look forward to watching their leadership skills and confidence grow throughout the year.
Mrs Fry | Health & Wellbeing – Physical Education
Steps to Success
Ten Year 7 students participated in the Steps to Success day, an enriching trip designed to foster leadership, confidence, and communication skills. The event was a resounding success, with students excelling in teambased activities, collaborating not only with their peers but also with students from partner schools. Their creative ideas and enthusiastic engagement stood out throughout the day’s diverse activities.
The students tackled a variety of challenges, including team-building exercises, creative sports tasks, environmentally-focused problem-solving, and leadership roles. Each student represented the school admirably, fully committing to every task and demonstrating exceptional teamwork and initiative.
As a reminder of their efforts, they returned with two trees to symbolize the environmental pledges they made during the trip. Alongside their trees, they brought back numerous prizes earned for their enthusiasm and proudly displayed pin badges commemorating the experience. This trip was an inspiring opportunity for personal growth and collective achievement.
Mrs
Gill | Director of Learning
At the beginning of the year, 12 new AntiBullying Ambassadors were selected through an application process. To apply for the role, students had to explain why they wanted to be an Anti-Bullying Ambassador and what they would bring to the role. These 12 students then received training on how to become a successful Anti-Bullying Ambassador.
The training consisted of four focused sessions:
1. Understanding the Role: Students explored what it means to be an Anti-Bullying Ambassador
2. Recognising Bullying Behaviors: explored what bullying behaviour is, the three types of bullying behaviour, and the impact of how to support your peers.
3. students looked at how to identify bullying behaviour and practical steps to addressing it as an Anti-Bullying Ambassador.
4. students looked at social action planning, and the next steps on how to earn badges for the school - such as the Community badge, the Wellbeing badge, and Inclusion badge.
The Anti-bullying Ambassadors have different roles, from event planner, public speaker, secretary, and they all have volunteered for a lunchtime duty, so they are visible to all students if they need support.
During Anti-Bullying Week, students led an assembly for all year groups, and the theme of Respect was promoted throughout the school. This will continue throughout the year, and there will be more to follow, so watch this space.
Mrs D Denny | Anti-Bullying Ambassador Lead
"We are a passionate and dedicated group of individuals who have made it our mission to tackle the pervasive issue of bullying head-on. Our foremost aim is to extend our support to those who find themselves grappling with the painful and often debilitating effects that bullying can inflict. In addition to providing this crucial support, we remain ever-watchful and proactive in our approach, ready to step in at the very first indication of bullying behaviour. Our goal is to interveneswiftlyandeffectively,workingdiligently to halt any potential escalation before it can take root and cause further harm.At Holyhead, we have embraced the ambitious and somewhat rare objective of completely eliminating bullying from our environment. We firmly believe that this goal is not only necessary but vital, as it reflects our deep understanding of the severe consequences that can arise from bullying behaviour. The entire Holyhead community is acutely aware of the significant repercussions that bullies may face, and as such, our institution adopts a resolute and serious stance against any form of bullying.Our team is dedicated to being present at Holyhead, not merely to respond to incidents of bullying as they occur, but also to take a proactive stance in preventing such incidents from happening in the first place. We are committed to identifying and addressing early warning signs, ensuring that we act decisively to create a safe and supportive environmentforeveryone."
Krystal 9D
"As an Anti-Bulling Ambassador. I pledge to prevent and stop bullying occurring at Holyhead School. I want everyone to feel welcome here and want them to feel that there are people out thereforthemtospeakup. Thisyearthethemeis ChooseRespect,toencourageeveryonetorespect one another. We want to embed this within our school and I want to help with that, and this is the reason I wanted to become an Anti-bullying Ambassador.' Ilyah 9D
If you have not successfully logged into Arbor please email arbor-support@holyheadschool.org.uk stating the following:
- Your child’s full name and form - Child’s date of birth - Parent/carers own name - Your relationship to the child
If you have any problems with ParentPay or need to register please email parentpay@holyheadschool.org.uk or contact the school on 0121 523 1960
Whole School Advent Countdown
This year we decided to create a Whole School Advent Countdown to help give students a visual representation of the countdown to the Christmas Holidays.
Each assembly, the Head of Year was invited to select a student to win the prize behind the ‘door’. Heads of Year picked the students who were always doing the right thing, behaving as they should - our Unsung Heroes!
Prizes included chocolates, games, free pizza and even gift cards to spend during the Christmas break!
At Holyhead, we understand the importance of acknowledging when our students are doing good. So often, it is easy to point out when our students perhaps aren’t doing as they should. However, it is paramount we begin to acknowledge our students who are always doing the right thing, the first time around.
Our Advent Countdown, gave the opportunity for our quieter students to be acknowledged and thanked. It was fantastic to bring the board out for each assembly and see the anticipation on our students' faces.
A huge thank you to our Heads of Years and Vice Principals for supplying us with some fantastic prizes.
Merry Christmas,
Miss S Kaur | Community Connector Officer
BOOK
Book Club Reviews
Miss T Fox-Roberts | Humanities
Book Title: Chinglish
Author: Sue Cheung
Genre: Comedy
BOOK REVIEW
Book Title: Needle
Author: Patrice Lawrence
Genre: Drama
Story summary:
A girl stabs her foster brother with her knitting needle She gets into lots of trouble and tries to knit her way out of it
BEST MOMENTS: WORST MOMENTS:
Stabbing her foster brother with the needle. Knitting to get out of trouble.
Meeting her Foster Mom
FAVOURITE QUOTES:
“Sorry not sorry”
“She was my sister!”
“He deserved it!”
“Knitting is what I do”
Story summary:
A girl called Joe lives in Chinese takeaway and doesn’t really have any friends She is insecure and doesn’t like her family Joe makes a friend called Tina and they fall out over a boy!
BEST MOMENTS: WORST MOMENTS:
Going to Mcdonald’s Jo’s uncle chasing
FAVOURITE QUOTES:
“My family isn’t bad after all”
“My Mom is having a Baby!”
“We are getting Goats!”
“My face looks like Chicken
Getting a crush on the boy Going Horse riding. Going to Art club
Getting questioned by the Police Her Birthday scene
Year 12 have continued to settle into the year and the transition is nearly complete. For many of them it has been quite an adjustment, due to the what is expected of them outside of lessons. Many have now realised that the free time they have is for completing extended learning, flipped learning or pre reading. Revision is now at the forefront of many of their minds with internal assessments happening in most of the lessons. After the Christmas break, many of our BTEC and OCR courses have their first external examinations, which students are busy preparing for now.
Our tutor programme has moved away from the transition and started to look at maintaining our health and wellbeing, especially as the weather turns colder and we find ourselves coming to school and leaving in the dark. 12B, led by Mrs Wilton and Mrs Armitage, were the first recipients of the Year 12 Friday Quiz League trophy in the first Autumn half term. The are currently proudly displaying the trophy in their tutor
have had speakers about opportunities to volunteer in Kenya, taking on national programmes with residential elements and how to effectively plan their time and use the additional five hours of non contact time.
The Year 12 prefects are doing an excellent job at the moment assisting with duties in the library and in the lunch queue. They received some expert training on how to deal with difficult situations and how to resolve conflicts. We hope this can help them to fulfil their duties but also use the skill outside of school.
I would like to take this opportunity to mention that all Year 12 students are expected in school before 8:40 in the morning and remain here until the end of the school day unless they qualify for home study. Home study is a rewards programme that allows students, who have hit certain criteria to go home at 1:30 on the days that they are free period 4. This has been well received by the students and as a result our Year 12 attendance data is looking very positive.
room. The Monday notices have started to have a positive effect on the students who are willing to take up some of the external opportunities that have been provided for them. Already we have had students attend virtual medical conferences, gain valuable work experience and start enrichments which will boost their CV and personal statements ready for their life after they leave us. We have had a number of external and internal speakers in our assemblies this year. We
As always I finish with my feelings about how the year group are doing and I have to say that my feelings are unchanged since the last time I got to speak to you. I am really proud of their attitude and determination to succeed at the moment. If they continue to work as they are, then they should be confident in doing what they want to do after sixth form.
You’re doing great Year 12, keep going.
Mr M Mills | Head of Year 12
Light switch on for Diwali and Christmas Diwali Food
Diwali, also known as ‘Bandi Chorr Divas’ among Sikhs is a religious festival that is celebrated by millions of people around the world, usually between October and November. It is known as the ‘festival of lights’, which symbolises the victory of light over darkness.
On this day people light up traditional lamps called ‘Divas’ and set off fireworks to celebrate the return of Rama and Sita from exile, as well as to mark the return of the sixth Guru and the 52 princes, who were wrongfully prisoned.
To honour this celebration Holyhead School organised an event called, ‘Light switch on for Diwali and Christmas’, it was hosted by Miss Kaur on Wednesday 6th November 2024 and was supported by a small number of dedicated students. The event was held in the dining hall and was filled with beautifully decorated Divas. It started with an energised dance performance by the school Bhangra group, which got everyone into the spirit of Diwali. After this, students were encouraged to participate in many different activities such as karaoke, colouring, to even getting your portrait drawn.
And of course, no Diwali celebration is complete without some delicious food! We enjoyed the Indian food like jalebis and chai.
Diwali, a celebration celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and some Bhuddists worldwide. At Holyhead the catering team cooked and served a Diwali themed lunch. The occasion took place on a Wednesday where lines of pupils queued to taste the delicious cuisines. This event took place to commemorate the celebration of Diwali and the beauty that comes with it. We all tried and enjoyed the food that was being served.
• What are your thoughts on the food?
• Were you excited to try the dishes or did you pick the item or food you regularly purchase?
• Would there be anything else you could have added onto the menu?
These are just some of many questions about the the special Diwali lunch.
I hope you enjoyed the themed lunch.
Zara 7E
We all know Hindus and Sikhs celebrate this religious festival but did you know Jain’s and some Buddhists also celebrate Diwali?
Keetan 7G
Blue Earth
On Monday 21st October, two of our Eco Committee members (Dominika Y8, Suniya Y10) had the amazing opportunity to become roving reporters for The Day x Lego Group at the Blue Earth Summit in London. This annual event attracts businesses and industry experts from around the world to talk about the ever increasing need to look after our planet in the fight against climate change.
It was an early start for the students (6am), alongside Mr Goodison and Mrs Joyce, to travel down. En route, both students were hard at work creating their flashcard prompts for their interviews and panel discussion points. Upon arrival, there were hundreds of entrepreneurs, guest speakers and some famous faces, and it wasn’t long until both Dominika and Suniya were put to work! Firstly, Suniya was taking part in the “Future Cities” panel - alongside Will Norman (Walking and Cycling Commissioner for London); Hana Sutch (Go Jauntly founder); Elise Van Middelem (Founder of the Sugi project) and MaryAnn Ochota (moderator and broadcaster). This was an excellent opportunity for Suniya to be the voice of young people, talking about what she would like to see in cities as they develop - giving ideas on how they can be built more sustainably, but also have children in mind. Suniya spoke excellently, in front of a capacity audience of 250!
Whilst Suniya was busy on the panel, Dominika was interviewing business leaders and climate activists about what could be done to have a more sustainable future. Dominika firstly interviewed Amber Rudd (Former Home Secretary and climate activist), quickly followed by Erica Neve (Trustee at the Eden Project) and Dominique Palmer (activist and environmentalist).
Both students conducted themselves superbly, speaking with confidence and posing some very powerful questions. After a short break for lunch, lots of “off-the-cuff” interviews took place, starting with
Douglas Lamont (CEO of Tony’s Chocolonely), who spoke about how his company is helping to fight child slavery in the chocolate industry, as well as being a sustainable company - he even gave out lots of Tony’s Chocolate!! Maeve Campbell (Channel 4 News presenter) gave an insight to life as a presenter and how the news can help push sustainability into becoming mainstream news.
After the event - and lots of connections being made - we are looking forward to the Sugi Project coming to Holyhead to look at building a “pocket forest” on our site, to help us look after nature and create lots of homes for native species of animals!
Suniya reflected on her day and said “The Blue Earth event opened my eyes to the changes people around the world are trying to make. Being asked to participate in the panel and doing interviews enhanced my voice and passion, almost reflecting theoptimismandfaithofthenextgeneration”
Similarly, Dominika said “My day at the Blue Earth summit was amazing. I liked hearing about other people'sopinionsbecausetheywereinterestingand inspirational. I think the day was wonderful and it wasfuninterviewingotherpeopleandhearingabout theirideasandhowtheycanhelptheEarth.”
Mr C Goodison | Humanities
BHM
This year Creative Arts collaborated with joining together to create a Black History Month celebration assembly. The assembly was led by students who were eager to share their personal stories and reclaim their narratives. During the assembly, students presented original poems, shared insights about inspiring figures, and celebrated the richness of their experiences.
Sister Act Update
Excitement continues to build as the Creative Arts Department prepares to present Sister Act: The Musical! Our talented students from Years 8-11 are working tirelessly to bring this joyous production to life, and rehearsals are in full swing. The cast and crew are pouring their energy and passion into every scene, ensuring a performance that will entertain and inspire audiences of all ages.
A highlight of the event was a performance by our very own Year 10 band, who played ‘Me & U’ by Tems. The song’s message - about discovering one's true self and embracing an authentic identityresonated deeply with the assembly's theme of selfdiscovery and empowerment.
"My skin is a symbol of luck and I am proud to be blackitwasfuntobepartoftheassembliesandIgot to express my feelings of what it’s like to be a black boy" Giovanni 7F
"The assembly was fun and because I was able to be part of it, it has helped with my confidence and I woulddoitagain". TJ 7A
Examinations
Students studying Art, Drama, and Music will begin their external exams in January. We wish them the very best as they embark on this crucial journey. As staff, we are excited to see the creative and inspiring work they produce. Remember, this is just the beginning—make the work you’ve done truly magical, and you’ll reap the rewards in the summer. Over the Christmas break, we encourage parents and guardians to support students by checking their Google Classrooms to ensure they are completing coursework and revising key terms. This preparation will help them start next term strong and ready for success.
We’re thrilled to announce that tickets for the show will go on sale in January! Be sure to secure your seats early to avoid disappointment. Performances will take place on Wednesday 5th February and Thursday 6th February 2025 and the drama studio will be transformed with tiered seating, a full professional set and lighting.
With stunning musical numbers, high energy choreography, and unforgettable characters, Sister Act promises to be a highlight of the school year. Don’t miss this chance to see our hardworking students shine on stage - mark your calendars, and stay tuned for more details about ticket sales coming soon.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Oppotunities
WIf you:
e are excited to announce that we are recruiting for our Creative Arts Student Ambassador Team!
• Have a keen interest in performance, music, or art
• Enjoy working as part of a team
• Are eager to develop your skills and help others …then we want to hear from you!
As a Creative Arts Ambassador, you’ll have the chance to shape enrichment activities, participate in school productions, represent both the school and the Creative Arts faculty on trips and events, and much more. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow, collaborate, and make a meaningful impact.
Join us and let your creativity
"Onadayblanketedinsnow,theTalktheTalkworkshop unfoldedatHolyheadSchool,craftinganatmosphere that was both distinctive and inspiring. We were privileged to welcome a guest instructor whose extensive expertise was dedicated to enhancing our speaking skills and elevating our confidence levels. Theworkshopwasatapestryofdiverseandengaging activities that not only captivated our attention but also deepened our comprehension of effective communication techniques. Each participant was given the chance to present an impromptu speech before our entire form group, an experience that was as thrilling as it was daunting. Following each presentation, we received thoughtful feedback that highlighted areas for improvement in both our delivery and the substance of our speeches. During the lunch break, as we took in the enchanting sight of snowflakes delicately descending from the sky, it becameevidentjusthowimpactfulthedayhadbeen; we acknowledged the significant boost it provided to our self-esteem and communication abilities. Personally, I found this experience to be immensely rewarding, and I fully endorse the idea of hosting such workshops on a more regular basis, as they are crucial in equipping us for future interviews. I am sincerelythankfulforthisopportunity." Krystal 9D
"My experience in the Talk the Talk session was incredible.Ithasgreatlyinfluencedmycharacterand how I use my voice abilities to communicate with others. It has really helped me shape my character. For example, it taught me how to speak, including theappropriatetoneandcontent,aswellasposture, movement, and hand gestures. Honestly I enjoyed it and it was a life changing experience." Gaganpreet 9D
Christmas Season
What is Advent?
As many people and families prepare for the Christmas season, we thought it would be helpful to share about the lead up to Christmas which is known as Advent.
Advent is a season celebrated by many Christian denominations and traditions, including: Anglican, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Non-denominational, Moravian, Presbyterian, and Methodist.
Advent is a four-week season, which begins on the first Sunday of the month of December and is dedicated to reflective preparation for the arrival, "advent", of Jesus Christ’s Nativity at Christmas time as well and Christ's expected return in the second coming.
During this important event on the Christian church calendar, each week of Advent focuses on a different theme - hope, peace, joy, and love. Christians celebrate Advent in different ways but all focus on the anticipation of waiting for the arrival of Jesus.
(https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/what-is-advent.html) Ms J Hamilton | Personal Assistant to the Principal
Artwork by: Udey 9F