Cotham School
Weekly Mailing
26 June 2026
Embedded Files
Keep us posted - It would be great if parents/carers could let the school know of any student achievements outside of school. We would like to find out what students are doing in their own time and celebrate their achievements.
Email us: weeklymailing@cotham.bristol.sch.uk
Week commencing Monday 29 June 2026 is Week A
Headteacher's Welcome! 👩🏫
Headteacher's Welcome! 👩🏫
Dear Parents and Carers
We hope you enjoy this week's update and find the information helpful as we look ahead to the coming days.
Wishing everyone a wonderful and relaxing weekend ahead.
Kindest regards
Ms Jo Butler
Headteacher
Weekly mailing.mp4Achievement and Positive Feedback of the Week 👍
Achievement and Positive Feedback of the Week 👍
Thank you to the Parent Prom Committee
A huge thank you to the Parent Prom Committee who organised an incredible evening. Without parental involvement the Leavers Prom simply wouldn't go ahead and I am really grateful for their efforts to ensure an unforgettable evening for our students.
Parent and Carer Calendar 🗓️
Parent and Carer Calendar 🗓️
Announcements 📢
Announcements 📢
Open Evenings - 2026/2027
Open Evenings - 2026/2027
We are delighted to invite you to our upcoming Open Evenings, a wonderful opportunity to experience our school community and learn more about what we offer.
Cotham School : Thursday 24 September 2026
North Bristol Post 16 Centre - RGS : Thursday 1 October 2026
North Bristol Post 16 Centre - Cotham : Thursday 8 October 2026
The Big Future National Children's Survey
The Big Future National Children's Survey
The Children’s Commissioner for England, Dame Rachel de Souza, has launched The Big Future, a national survey giving children and young people a direct voice in shaping future government policy and decision-making.
We want to ensure our students' experiences, views, and aspirations are represented in this national picture.
Who can take part? All children and young people.
How long does it take? Just a few minutes.
Where can they complete it? Parents and children can access the survey directly here: The Big Future Survey.
We will be highlighting this opportunity in school, but we would be incredibly grateful if you could encourage your child to fill it out at home. Thank you for your support in helping ensure our students' voices are heard.
The Cotham Allotment
The Cotham Allotment
The Cotham Climate Committee have begun working on their exciting Cotham allotment project!
If you are able to donate any gardening tools, seeds, bulbs or plants towards the project we would be hugely appreciative.
Please could I ask that nothing toxic be donated, such as foxgloves.
If you are able to donate, please let John Worster know via his email worsterj@cotham.bristol.sch.uk.
Thank you!
Year 11 Uniform Donations Needed
Year 11 Uniform Donations Needed
Please consider donating your child's pre-loved school uniform to support local families and promote sustainability.
We are currently collecting clean, good-condition polo shirts, jumpers, trousers, skirts, and PE kits.
Drop-off point: Main Reception
Thank you for continuing to support our school community.
Year Group News 🏫
Year Group News 🏫
Year 7
Year 7
Despite the very warm weather over the last few days, Year 7 have been exceptionally sensible and responsible. Students have been making sure they stay hydrated and spend time in the shade at lunchtime. It has been wonderful to see so many colourful and unique fans brought in by students, with some having come from holidays and different countries, adding a lovely touch of culture and personality to our school days.
During tutor time, students signed up for events for Sports Day. As this is Year 7's first Sports Day, we are encouraging all students to get involved, either by taking part in events or by cheering on their teammates. Students are welcome to bring in posters and signs to support their teams and help create a fantastic atmosphere.
Unfortunately, due to the hot weather, we had to postpone our visit from Winnie the guide dog. I am already in touch with Pat, Winnie's owner, to arrange an alternative date. We are looking forward to welcoming them both to school in the near future.
The final Year 7 Bake Off will take place next week on Wednesday 1 July. This is always a highlight of the term in Year 7, and I am looking forward to seeing who will be crowned Top Baker this term. We wish all the bakers the very best of luck!
Mrs Arnold
Year 7 Learning Coordinator
Year 11
Year 11
We have reached the end of a very busy and warm week for Year 11 students!
Students whose intended destination is North Bristol Post-16 had their transition day online this week. The Post-16 Team will be in contact early next week to follow up with all the vital resources students need as well as enrolment updates in August.
On Wednesday evening, Year 11 students celebrated in style with their Leavers Prom. Myself and other members of the Year 11 Team made our way to the Bristol Hotel to see students entering, it was lovely to see so many excited students make their way into prom in fantastic outfits and finishing their time in Year 11 together.
Finally, we are looking to replenish our pre-loved uniform stock to help support younger students and families in our school community. If you have any school uniform items that are no longer needed and are still in good condition, we would be very grateful for your donations. Thank you for your support!
Best wishes
Mr Arnold
Year 11 Learning Coordinator
North Bristol Post 16 🚀
North Bristol Post 16 🚀
Youth Talks and Futures Upcoming!
The BEP Youth talks were back in action this week, led by Ms Grice, with some fantastic talks by our current Year 12 cohort. More to follow on this.
Next week is the Futures Conference on Tuesday 30 June (students to go to RGS) and Wednesday 1 July (students remain at Cotham). Students and parents will have had a letter with all details. Our Futures event for parents/carers will be held in Charnwood House on Tuesday 30 June at 5pm.
Subject Announcements 📖 ✏️ 🔢 🧪 🌍 🏛️ 🖥️🧮 🎨 🎭 🎵 🔨 🧑🍳 🏃♂️
Subject Announcements 📖 ✏️ 🔢 🧪 🌍 🏛️ 🖥️🧮 🎨 🎭 🎵 🔨 🧑🍳 🏃♂️
MFL
MFL
Cotham MFL welcomes Korean trainee teachers
Last Wednesday, Year 9 and Year 10 language classes had the opportunity to learn about Korean culture and language as part of an enrichment activity. This was delivered through our partnership with Korea National University of Education and its trainee teachers, who are visiting the UK.
Students learned how to play the traditional game ddakji, practised basic greetings in Korean, designed their own concert light sticks, and took part in a quiz about Korean dishes. It was a memorable event!
SOCIAL SCIENCES
SOCIAL SCIENCES
Business Workshop With BDO
Year 9 students who have opted to take GCSE Business took part in a workshop with BDO which is a large financial firm.
They learned about tax, the role of an auditor, careers in accountancy and why communication and teamwork are so important in the workplace.
PERFORMING ARTS
PERFORMING ARTS
Little Shop of Horrors
Little Shop of Horrors tickets are now available on WisePay! Choose your price:
£6 Concession – Pay what you can.
£8 Standard – Helps fund future productions.
£15 Pay It Forward – Each ticket subsidizes two concession tickets.
All are welcome. Come enjoy live theatre!
Little Shop Poster Art Exhibition
Art Exhibition
Come along and support our Year 13 FIne Art students in a celebration of their amazing work.
Open from 3pm to staff and from 4:30-7:00pm for students and parents.
STEAM
STEAM
Work of the Week
Our Year 9 Art students have been looking at the work of Yellena James and Klari Reis, artists inspired the natural world.
The students have used paper quilling as a medium to bring their own designs to life in 3D.
Careers 💼
Careers 💼
Career of the Week is ..... Ecologist!
Could this be a career for you?
Ecologists get to study the links between the environment and all living things.
They can be research scientists, teachers or work for places like environmental organisations or zoos.
A science degree will often place you in a great position to explore lots of options in an ecology career path.
BEP
BEP
Student Leadership Programme 2026-2027
Applications are now open for next year's BEP Student Leadership Program, and eight Cotham students have the opportunity to participate. In collaboration with a wide range of state and independent schools across Bristol they will develop leadership skills, and work together to plan a social impact project here at Cotham. Please click here to apply.
Deadline for applications: Monday 29 June 2026
Mock Medical Interviews - Year 12
Students applying to study medicine at university are warmly invited to this event hosted at Clifton College on Saturday 7 November.
Please click here for registration.
The morning will include a number of interview stations designed to replicate the MMI format used by many medical schools. It will also provide an opportunity for students to network with medical professionals and fellow aspiring medics. DEADLINE: 26 June 2026
Literacy 📖
Literacy 📖
KS3
KS3
Word of the Week
Word of the Week
General
General
'Jen-ruhl'
Meaning:
Something that affects or concerns most people or things (adjective).
Only including the main features, not exact or detailed (adjective).
Example:
In general, most students revise for their exams.
The general trend is positive.
Unemployment in the general population is increasing.
Synonyms:
Common, overall, broad…
KS4
KS4
Word of the Week
Word of the Week
Clarify
Clarify
'klarr-uh-fy'
Meaning:
To make something clearer and easier to understand (verb).
Example:
Can you clarify what you mean?
I’ll explain it again to clarify what I mean.
Synonyms:
Make clearer, explain, simplify…
Digital Literacy Corner 💻
Digital Literacy Corner 💻
Online Safety Newsletter
Online Safety Newsletter
Please find our latest online safety newsletter attached.
Important Notice:
This newsletter is intended for adults and includes discussions on online safety, including sensitive topics such as the online exploitation of children. Some of this content may be upsetting to both adults and children.
We strongly encourage parents and carers to prepare themselves before reading and to carefully consider which information to share with their child, based on their age and cognitive ability. The language and explanations used may not always be suitable for younger children, so please use your discretion when deciding what is appropriate for your child.
Your awareness and thoughtful approach is vital in ensuring a safe and informed discussion about online safety.
Kind regards
Farhan Ahmed
Digital Learning Lead
Email: AhmedF@cotham.bristol.sch.uk
Online_Saftey_Newsletter_19.pdfCommunity 🏘️
Community 🏘️
Important Summer Water Safety Notice
Important Summer Water Safety Notice
With warmer weather many young people will be heading to the water to cool off. Shockingly, accidental drowning fatalities triple on days when temperatures reach 25°C or more.
To help keep our students safe this summer, we are sharing the RNLI’s Water Safety Code. Please take a few minutes to discuss these four vital steps with your children:
Stop and think: Look for hazards and read safety signs before getting in.
Stay together: Never swim alone; always go with a friend or family member.
Float to Live: If you get into trouble in the water, tilt your head back with ears submerged, relax, and try to float like a starfish until you control your breathing.
Call 999 or 112: If you see someone else in trouble, call for help immediately—never enter the water to rescue them yourself.
Whenever possible, please encourage your children to choose supervised locations, such as lifeguarded beaches, swimming pools, or lidos.
Golden Hill Sonics U14s – Football Players Wanted!
Golden Hill Sonics U14s – Football Players Wanted!
Golden Hill Sonics U14s are looking for new players for the upcoming 2026/2027 season.
If your child is a current Year 9 student (moving into Year 10 in September) and wants to play regular football in a supportive, team-focused environment, this is the perfect opportunity.
Please click here for further information or to arrange a trial, please contact Coach James MacDonald at jamesmacdonald16@hotmail.com
South Asian Heritage Month - Friday 1 July to Friday 31 July 2026
South Asian Heritage Month - Friday 1 July to Friday 31 July 2026
We are thrilled to share that Bristol is hosting its very first month-long South Asian Heritage Month!
The programme is packed with vibrant, family-friendly events across the city —including arts, culture, food, and workshops perfect for all ages. Because the celebration is growing every day, new activities are being added all the time. Please click here for further information.
Free Employability Skills Webinars for Years 8–13
Free Employability Skills Webinars for Years 8–13
This summer term, students in Years 8–13 have the opportunity to join a free, 45-minute virtual Employability Skills Workshop hosted by IGD.
These interactive webinars give students a real-world look into the diverse career pathways within the food and consumer goods industry - from food science and sustainability to technology and business.
Key Benefits:
Skill Building: Learn the core skills modern employers look for.
Expert Advice: Hear directly from working industry professionals.
Interactive: Includes live quizzes, polls, and Q&A sessions.
Specialist Sessions:
Healthy Eating Week (Friday 12 June) – Focusing on nutrition and food sustainability.
Learning Disability Week (Tuesday 16 June) – Suitably paced sessions tailored for SEND students.
Youth Employment Week (Thursday 9 July) – Focusing on entering the world of work.
How to Book:
Sessions run via Zoom and require only a pen and paper. To view available dates and secure a free place, please click here.
Opportunity: Join Ditch the Label’s Youth Advisory Board
Ditch the Label, a leading UK youth charity, is looking for passionate young people aged 14–25 to join their Youth Advisory Board (YAB). This is a fantastic voluntary leadership opportunity for students to share their voices and help shape vital services regarding mental health, relationships, bullying, and identity.
The Role: A one-year minimum commitment involving monthly 1.5-hour online meetings.
The Benefits: Develop leadership, communication, and advocacy skills while driving positive change.
Please click here to apply. For any questions, please contact the team at yab@ditchthelabel.org
Get Ready for New Adventures this Summer with Your Holiday Hub
Children and young people in Bristol who receive benefits-related free school meals, can book lots of fun activity sessions taking place during the school holidays from 23 July to 2 September. Your Holiday Hub sessions are fully funded and include a healthy meal as part of the day. There's lots to choose from with activities ranging from sports to crafts and drama to baking and cooking, plus so much more. Join in and stay active with fun new things to see and do.
Go to www.yourholidayhubbristol.co.uk to find out more and book your place today.
BD18382 - Holiday Hub A4 Poster.pdfYHH Summer Booklet 2026.pdfShine Netball Training Camp – Summer Holidays
Is your child keen to keep up their netball skills over the summer break? Shine Netball is hosting a half-day training camp designed for players from any club who want to continue playing through the summer holidays.
Here are the key details:
Who it's for: Netballers aged 11 to 14
When: Friday 14 August | 10:00 – 13:00
Where: Bradley Stoke Community School
It is a fantastic opportunity for students to stay active, refine their skills and socialise with players from other clubs.
Please click here for further informaion.
The Royals - Musical Theatre - 5 day Summer School.
The Royals - Musical Theatre - 5 day Summer School.
Monday 10 - Friday 14 August | Cotham School | 10am - 4pm
£250 | | Sibling discount - £25 off second child booking. SAVE £10 discount code by quoting COTHAM on the booking form.
A musical theatre and drama experience.
Step into a world of crowns, castles, and show-stopping songs at The Royals – our 2026 summer school celebrating all things ROYAL on stage!
Across five fun-packed days, students will sing, dance, act, and create while exploring legendary royal-themed musicals and plays like Six, Hamilton, Frozen, Aladdin, Cinderella and many more regal sensations.
From powerful pop anthems to epic ensemble numbers, dramatic scenes to magical movement, performers will build skills in musical theatre, drama, and performance technique while learning exciting routines, songs, and scenes inspired by kings, queens, princes, princesses, and revolutionaries.
This summer, claim your crown and join us at THE ROYALS.
Please click here to book.
Sparks Film School Bristol Central presents…
Sparks Film School Bristol Central presents…
Summer Shoots - Filmmaking and Animation Camps🎬
This summer, children aged 7–14 in Bristol can create their own exciting short films and animations in a fun-filled week of creativity, action and imagination!
Across five exciting days, they’ll learn filmmaking, acting, directing, special effects or animation while building confidence, making new friends and bringing their ideas to life on screen.
Available dates:
🗓 20–24 July 2026 – Filmmaking Camp
🗓 27–31 July 2026 – Filmmaking & Animation Camps
🗓 3–7 August 2026 – Filmmaking & Animation Camps
📍 Cotham School, Bristol
👧 Ages 7–14 (animation age 7-11)
💳 Childcare Vouchers & Tax-Free Childcare Accepted
To book please visit here.
Reminders 🔔
Reminders 🔔
Reporting Student Absence - Studybugs
Reporting Student Absence - Studybugs
Please inform the school by 9.00am on the first and subsequent days of absence.
School procedure is as follows:
absence message sent if absences have not been reported.
if no response to the absence message, a follow up letter requesting reason for absence will be sent.
If you haven’t already, please download the free Studybugs app, or register on the Studybugs website, and use it to tell us whenever your child is ill and unable to attend school.
Get the app or register now by clicking here.
Thank you
Cotham School
Poster with Additional Info.pdfKey Dates - Term Dates 2025/2026
Key Dates - Term Dates 2025/2026
Term 1 Monday 1 September 2025 to Friday 24 October 2025
Term 2 Monday 3 November 2025 to Friday 19 December 2025
Term 3 Monday 5 January 2026 to Friday 13 February 2026
Term 4 Monday 23 February 2026 to Thursday 2 April 2026
Term 5 Monday 20 April 2026 to Friday 22 May 2026
Term 6 Monday 1 June 2026 to Friday 17 July 2026
INSET Days - 2025/2026
INSET Days - 2025/2026
Monday 1 September 2025
Friday 26 September 2025
Friday 14 November 2025
Monday 30 March 2026
Monday 20 April 2026
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