As we navigate through these challenging times, it is imperative that we maintain the safety and well-being of our children as our topmost priority.

Given the recent unsettling events in our region, it has become increasingly crucial for us to foster a sense of peace and unity within our school community. This past week, we organised a 'pray for peace' session for our secondary children, led by our Head of Islamic Studies, Mr Abu-Huraira Rehman and was supported by Mr Kadiri. It was a reflective moment, emphasising the importance of unity, empathy, and understanding during this time.  Similarly, within our primary school, we arranged a 'pause for peace' moment, where our children were encouraged to send their prayers, thoughts and best wishes to all those affected. These initiatives were designed to provide our children with a safe and supportive environment, fostering a sense of community and understanding during these tumultuous times.

Moreover, our dedicated staff has been actively engaged in identifying and supporting any Palestinian children and colleagues who have been personally affected by recent events. We have been holding one-on-one sessions to provide additional support and guidance to those in need, ensuring that they have access to the resources necessary for their well-being and emotional stability.

I would like to reiterate that our doors are always open, and we encourage you to reach out to us should you become aware of any students, families, or staff members who may require additional assistance. Our Strategic Leadership Team (SLT) is committed to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment for all members of our school community.

During these trying times, it is our collective responsibility to cultivate a sense of empathy and understanding, promoting unity and peace within our school and beyond. Together, we can continue to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters the holistic growth and development of our students.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation. Please do not hesitate to contact me or any member of the SLT if you have any concerns or require further assistance.

In reflection through music

As we come to the end of the first half term of the academic year - traditionally the longest half term - it seems hard for me to believe that we are already one-sixth of the way through the academic year. I would like to say a sincere thank you to all members of our community - the students, the teachers, the support staff, the parents and the governors - who have made me feel so welcome and supported since I joined this very special school.

The half term is scheduled to culminate with the annual Battle of the Bands competition, which I have been given the special responsibility of helping to judge.

Whilst I teach within the humanities, I believe that studying music - something I did myself when I was younger - is not only enjoyable, but it can also really support children’s learning across the curriculum. Some of the benefits include:

So, what is 'Talk for Writing'? This research-led methodology, developed by Pie Corbett, emphasises the pivotal role of spoken language in developing writing skills. It encourages students to immerse themselves in language through storytelling and discussions, enabling them to internalise linguistic patterns and structures. This approach has been found to boost students' writing skills significantly, making it a crucial addition to our educational toolkit. The consultant from the UK brought years of expertise to the table, sharing best practices, case studies, and success stories. The knowledge and insights gained during the session were invaluable, and our teachers are excited to implement these ideas in their classrooms. Our educators now have a deeper understanding of how 'Talk for Writing' can benefit our students - it's not just about improving writing skills but fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper appreciation of language. As we adapt and refine our teaching methods, we aim to empower our students with the skills they need to excel in a rapidly changing world.

The importance of professional learning in education cannot be overstated. It's a powerful tool that enables us to meet the ever-evolving demands of the education landscape. The dedication of our teachers, as demonstrated by their participation in this event, is a testament to their unwavering commitment to the highest standards of education. As we move forward, we are excited about the impact 'Talk for Writing' will have on our students. We will continue to invest in professional learning opportunities like these, ensuring that our educators are equipped with the latest research-led methodologies. Our goal is to foster a culture of continuous improvement and maintain the highest educational standards.

We thank our teachers for their dedication and passion, and we look forward to the positive impact this newfound knowledge will have on our students' educational journeys.

Mrs Ruth Whymark

Outstanding Examination Results

First and foremost, we celebrated exceptional examination results at GCSE, AS, and A-levels. Our students demonstrated their dedication and determination, and it's clear that our rigorous academic programs are producing outstanding outcomes.

Connecting with Parents

We opened our doors to parents, inviting them to meet with our form tutors, fostering a stronger partnership between home and school. These interactions are vital to ensure the best support for our students.

6th Form as Leaders of Learning

Our 6th Form students engaged in valuable training as Leaders of Learning, partnering with our Science department to develop their leadership skills and share their knowledge with younger students.

Understanding UK Fee Status

UK Study Options visited us to provide essential insights into understanding UK fee status for universities, helping parents make informed decisions about higher education.

In-School University Fairs

Our students had the opportunity to explore a wide range of university options right here on campus. These fairs opened up exciting possibilities for their future academic journeys.

Sports and Competitions

We've witnessed some thrilling sporting competitions that not only showcase our students' skills but also promote teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. We have had numerous QUESS fixtures, as well as our students engaging directly with Formula One when it came to town at the beginning of October.

Entrepreneurial Spirit with Dragon's Den

Our young Year 9 entrepreneurs, who were supported by our amazing 6th Form mentors,  participated in the Dragon's Den competition, where creativity and innovation took centre stage.

Inspiring Guest Speakers

Prominent guest speakers in the fields of Mathematics and Science graced our school, igniting curiosity and broadening our students' horizons.

Celebrating Diversity and marking National Days 

We celebrated several important events this half term, including World Animal Day, Black History Month, and World Languages Day, highlighting the richness of our diverse community. The school also came together to wear Pink for our Health Awareness Day.

Appreciating Our Educators

We took a moment to show our gratitude on World Teacher and Teaching Assistants Day, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of our teaching and educational support staff.

Symposium on Arabic Teaching

Our school hosted a symposium on the teaching of Arabic, bringing together the best educators from across the country to discuss ways to share best practices, fostering a deeper appreciation for language and culture.

House Competitions and Battle of the Bands

Our students showcased their talents in a variety of house competitions, and we concluded the half term with the electrifying Battle of the Bands music competition, highlighting the incredible artistic talent within our school.

All of this, of course, is in addition to the vibrant lessons and Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) that have continued to inspire our students to explore, learn, and grow.

As we head into the break, I hope our students and staff take this time to rest, rejuvenate, and prepare for the exciting challenges and opportunities that the second half-term will bring. The first part of the year has been a tremendous success, and I have no doubt that even greater accomplishments lie ahead.

Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to making our school community a thriving and dynamic place for learning and growth. 

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable break!

Mr Jerome Scafe