Harrow High School
Newsletter
Spring Term: March 2024
Dates For Your Diary
15 April 2024: School returns after Easter holidays at 8:45am
24 -26 April 2024: Year 11 GCSE Art Final Exam
1 May 2024: Year 9 Parents Evening (Virtual)
6 May 2024: Year 9 GCSE Options submission deadline
9 May 2024: Year 7 Parents Evening (Virtual)
World Book Day 2024
On Thursday 7 March 2024, the school celebrated World Book Day. All learners were invited to dress as their favourite book character and enter a costume competition. The library was buzzing with excitement as learners poured in to see everyone’s costumes.
From Pokémon to Little Miss Red Riding Hood, from Sherlock Holmes to the brave adventures of Amari, each step down the catwalk was a journey into the tales.
One learner unleashed her creativity by taking the time to create her own Little Miss Sunshine costume with cardboard, wool and paint.
Staff transformed into characters stepping into the roles of Medusa, Cleopatra, and the infamous Cruella de Vil from "One Hundred and One Dalmatians."
Amongst many amazing and handcrafted outfits, our librarian announced the winners and runners-up and awarded them with prizes.
Drumroll, please! In third place, the cool Dracula. Taking the spotlight in second place, none other than the brave Matilda. First place was claimed by none other than the wonderful Mad Hatter!
The excitement doesn't end there! On March 13th, we're rolling out the red carpet once again as we welcome author, William Hussey, to our school. Hussey will be presenting the Witchfinders' Trial to our Key Stage 3 learners and will then lead an exclusive workshop on Creative Writing for Key Stage 4 learners.
We’ve proved that when it comes to bringing books to life, our school knows how to turn the page on excitement!
Parents Coffee Morning
On the 21 March we welcomed our parents and carer to our coffee morning to discuss the importance of reading. They were greeted with a selection of coffee, tea and fresh flaky pastries.Mrs Grunwald (Head of English) and Miss Rajeev (English Teacher) spoke about how parents can support their children with their reading and writing skills.
Reading is important as:
Reading exposes us to new knowledge, ideas and perspectives.
Reading allows us to expand our vocabulary
Reading sparks our imagination and allows us to dream
Reading has a calming effect on the mind and body and reduces stress levels
Reading can increase our empathy and understanding of others' life experiences.
Our librarian, Miss Zvobgo, spoke about the events hosted in our library. From the enchantment of World Book Day to the festive cheer of Christmas Craft, and the excitement of quizzes and Book Fairs, the library truly buzzes with activity and opportunity for our eager learners.
Highlighting the invaluable contributions of our student librarians, Miss understood the importance of hands-on experience in shaping our future librarians. Our learners assist in the day-to-day operations of the library, gaining invaluable skills and insights along the way.
As conversations flowed and ideas sparked, parents delved into discussions on how to nurture their children's literacy skills and explore exciting new initiatives implemented by the school. From the innovative Sparx Teacher program to the experiences of Form Time reading and library lessons, the possibilities for literary growth are endless.
The ability for learners to achieve high reading and writing skills is the key to unlocking success across all subjects.
Reading is not just a pastime or a hobby—it is a gateway to knowledge, understanding, and personal transformation.
Year 8 Football March
On 21 March 2024, the girls' football team from Harrow High School went head-to-head with Park High School's girls' team in a challenging football match.
Despite facing a disappointing defeat, 8-1, the girls Harrow High football team emerged from the match with their heads held high and a newfound motivation. Initially, the score might have seemed discouraging, but as the match progressed, they refused to let the score define their performance. Harrow High began to find their rhythm, leading to an encouraging first goal.
Despite the final outcome, our learners left the field identifying how they would improve their performance in the next match.
Spanish Easter Interventions
The Spanish department will be offering Spanish interventions over the Easter break on Wednesday 3 April and Friday 5 April 2024 from 10:00 to 12:30. These will take place in classroom L1. The list of targeted students has been shared with Year 11 learners in Google Classroom, but everyone is welcome to attend.
This is the last push before our exams, so don't miss this chance!
Ms E. Ortega
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
Modern Foreign Languages and Community Languages GCSE Speaking Exams
Our first GCSE exams are around the corner! The speaking GCSE exams for Spanish and Italian will take place in the weeks beginning the 15 April and 22 April 2024 (that's the first and second weeks after half term).MFL teachers will share the schedules with their classes, so students know on which date and at which time they will have their exams.
For community languages, Miss Serena has already informed students when they will be having their exams. These will also take place from the first week after half term.
It is essential that learners are on time to their speaking exams, as these are running on a very tight schedule.
Ms E. Ortega
Head of Modern Foreign Languages
Year 11 News
It has been a busy Spring term as we prepare Year 11s for their upcoming GCSE exams.
As you know, Year 11s completed their last set of PPE exams in March, we have been really impressed with Year 11's work ethic and commitment to achieve.
We have had a number of trips this term including Prague, theatre trips, Kew Gardens, Stratford for Geography field work and more.
Year 11 also took part in their Careers Day where they created their CV and mock interviews with real employers. All students have also completed their Harrow applications to sixth forms and colleges.
It is an exciting time for Year 11 but also understandably is stressful for many of our students. I hope the holidays will be a good time to revise but also have a break for Year 11 to switch off in preparation for a busy half term ahead!
Ms R. Tucker
Head of Year 11
Exam Certificates
Exam certificates for Summer 2023
Any exam certificates for summer 2023 can be collected from 15 April until 26 April 2024 from 9:30am until 3:20pm. Please come to Reception and ask for the Exams Office.
After this period certificates will be moved to archive. Please email the Exam Office (exams@harrowhigh.com) to arrange a date for collection.
Mrs B. Conquest
Exams Officer
Booster Classes for GCSE, A-level and BTec
We are within weeks/days of starting the summer examination series. Please be aware that we do not have study leave at Harrow High School and we keep learners on site, providing boosters throughout the majority of the series. Please see the GCSE Exam/Booster timetable for 2024. Please do contact me if you have any questions: ncorner.310@harrowhigh.com
Booster classes are also been held for Year 12 and Year 13. All learners have been notified and we ask parents/carers to support us and ensure their children attend these session during the holidays: A Level & BTec Exam/Booster timetable.
Mr N. Corner
Assistant Headteacher
Parent Portal & App
We are excited to announce that we have launched our new Parent Portal & App.
This allows us to communicate with you more efficiently. You ought to have received a 'welcome' email on 2 February 2024. Please check your inbox or 'junk' folder if you don't think you have received this. Follow the instructions in the email to set-up your account.
The following article will help you get started: Log into the Parent Portal and the Parent App
Should you need any assistance, please contact the ICT team at Harrow High School.
Shakespeare Schools Festival
For the third year running an intrepid band of Harrow High School learners have tread the boards as part of the Shakespeare Schools Festival. The festival is the world’s largest youth drama festival which culminates in exhilarating performance evenings; young people playing Shakespeare in professional theatres, raising aspirations and unlocking the potential of students and teachers alike.
This year our Year 8 learners took part in Harrow High’s very own ‘King Lear’ . A fun and creative time was had by all. A particular mention to those who took part:
Jessica-Maria C (8 UCL)
Sakshi B(8 Kings)
Liviah B (8 Kings)
Aditi N (8 UCL)
Ansh N (8 Kings)
Summer Uniform
The holidays are an ideal time to replenish any uniform items your child has out grown or lost. Since we will be heading into summer, all children will be expected to wear the Harrow High School white polo shirt when they return to school on 15 April 2024.
The white polo shirt must have the school logo. They are available from Pullens, 48-50 Church Road, Stanmore, HA7 4AH. You can also order them online at www.uniform4kids.com but please order early to allow time for delivery.
Please also note that the school uniform will be undergoing some minor changes from September 2024. In order to help reduce costs for our families:
blazers will not longer be required but can be worn until outgrown.
the Harrow High School navy v-neck pullover will be compulsory all year round
shirts/blouses and ties will be replaced with the Harrow High School white polo shirt. This will be compulsory school wear and is to be worn all year round
the navy Harrow High PE t-shirt will be replaced by a cheaper white/navy sport shirt. This will be compulsory though the navy PE t-shirt can be worn until outgrown.
only inexpensive plain navy or black school coats without any brands are allowed
All other items of school uniform remain the same.
Sparx Maths Spring 1 Winners
Every half term, we reward the top three learners in each year group who have earned the highest XP on Sparx Maths with an Amazon voucher. These learners have often shown excellent aspirations by completing additional work on Sparx!
Well done to our Sparx Maths Spring 1 XP winners.
Spring 2 Winners will be announced to learners when they return to school after the Easter break.
Computer Science
Some Year 11 coders took the short trip to JFS to compete in the second round of the intra-school Kenton Cup, a programming competition between our two schools.
Three groups of three developed Pygame arcade games under time pressure, and came up with seriously impressive results. In the post-competition 'Show & Tell', our Sixth Form colleagues from JFS were incredibly impressed with what our Year 11 students had created in this time frame, and in particular, how the Harrow High games contained features well beyond A level.
No trophies at the Kenton Cup, but it's the taking part that counts!
Mr J. Fleppa
Head of Computer Science
Geography
This past term, some of the Year 11 learners conducted their Physical Geography fieldwork at the River Thames near Kew Gardens.
They were given an enquiry question and three specific research methods to undertake. The data gathered from these methods will be used in their summer exams.
The weather was awful, but the behaviour and engagement in the fieldwork was fantastic all-round. Really well done to those that braved the elements and experienced this ‘real Geography’ in all its glory!
Mr J. Bruce
Head of Humanities
The Importance of Attendance
Maintaining good attendance is a critical factor in your child's academic success and personal development. Consistent attendance ensures they receive the full benefit of what we offer at Harrow High and will help your child build essential skills for the future. Attending school every day is directly linked to academic performance. Missing school can lead to gaps in knowledge, making it difficult for your child to keep up with their school work.
We kindly request your support in ensuring your child's consistent attendance and punctuality. If your child is ill or has a valid reason for missing school, please notify the school as soon as possible. We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, however we will work with you to provide support when needed.
Mr M. Jukes
Deputy Headteacher
Safety First Initiative
This term Year 8 were lucky to partake in the Safety First Initiative.
The Safety First initiative, is a Blue Light Collaboration project involving the London Fire Brigade, London Ambulance Service, and the Metropolitan Police, it is a commendable effort aimed at educating and empowering young individuals about critical safety issues. Specifically, the three workshops conducted for learners in year 8 covered important topics such as knife crime, county lines, fire safety, and anti-social behaviour.
By offering these workshops, the Safety First initiative not only imparts valuable knowledge but also encourages active participation and critical thinking among young learners. Empowering them with the skills and awareness to navigate complex safety challenges contributes to building a safer and more resilient society for all.
Ms S. Barrett
Head of Year 8
Year 8: Rewards Assembly
Ms S. Barrett
Head of Year 8
Excellent Learning & Progress
Somaya A
Hamas K
Ionut S
Nico C
Nimrah S
Ayan C
Excellent Aspirations
Nathan S
Dev P
Veer S
Lucas L
Lewis M-M
Pavlo O
Head of Year Award:
Ayan C, Pavlo O, Haleema K, Victoria P
Excellent Behaviour, Safety & Care
Jakub K
Haleema K
Salim O G
David R
Fatmas H
Rhaiya P
Excellent Communication
Anika S
Ansh N
Victoria P
La'Ron M
Aditi N
Headteacher Award: Somaya A
County Lines: What You Need To Know
"County Lines" refers to a drug distribution model often used by criminal gangs to transport and sell illegal drugs. As advocates for the safety and well-being of our children, it is imperative that parents equip themselves with knowledge to recognise the signs of County Lines exploitation. We urge parents to familiarise themselves with the County Lines Parent Fact Sheet below.
By arming ourselves with knowledge and remaining vigilant, we can protect our learners from the dangers posed by County Lines exploitation. Together, we can prioritise the safety and well-being of learners.
Mr M. Jukes
Deputy Headteacher
Young Harrow Foundation have developed a new hub for cost of living support on their website: www.youngharrowfoundation.org/cost-of-living-support
This hub aims to signposts people to local services from the voluntary sector and local authority - and is particularly aimed at families or carers that have children and young people in their household. The online hub, developed by Young Harrow Foundation, lists services that can help with things like, mental health and wellbeing, warm hubs in the borough, help with accessing food, housing support and low cost furniture providers.