Spring Term | Tymor y Gwanwyn

Issue 11

Published: 23 Apr 2026

A message from the Headteacher | Neges gan y Pennaeth

Welcome to our latest school newsletter for all members of our school community. This last term has been a busy one, with plenty of opportunities for our pupils to continue to thrive, both academically and personally. During this period, our school underwent a full Estyn inspection. The process was a valuable opportunity to reflect on our strengths and identify areas for further development. We are grateful to our parents and carers who were able to provide an insight to the inspection team by completing the survey and attending the parents' meeting. Our pupils also made a significant contribution to the inspection process by participating in interviews, sharing their books and work and demonstrating their learning. The inspection report will be published and available to view from May 15th, and we look forward to sharing this with you.

Our pupils, particularly those in examination year groups, are now entering an important period of preparation. We are proud of the focus and determination they are showing, and we will continue to support them every step of the way to ensure they feel confident and ready for the challenges ahead.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. I look forward to a successful and rewarding term ahead.

Mrs N Davies

Pennaeth | Headteacher

Important Dates and Upcoming Events | Dyddiadau Pwysig a Digwyddiadau i Ddod

Spring Term 2026

Summer term starts Monday: 13 April 2026

Half term starts Monday: 25 May 2026

Half term ends Friday: 29 May 2026

Summer term ends: Monday 20 July 2026

Calendar Items

Early May Bank Holiday | Monday 4th May

SLT Drop-In | Wednesday 20th May

May Half-Term Break Begins | Monday 25th May

May Half-Term Break Ends | Friday 29th May

Family Awards Assembly | Thursday 9th June

Year 8 Parents' Evening | Wednesday 10th June

Sports Awards Evening | Wednesday 17th June

Year 7 Parents' Evening | Wednesday 1st July

Rewards Trip | Thursday 16th July

INSET Days

INSET (1) | Monday, 1st September 2025

INSET (2) | Friday, 19th December 2025

INSET (3) | Friday, 13th February 2026

INSET (4) | Monday, 13th April 2026

INSET (5) | Monday, 6th July 2026

INSET (6) | Monday, 20th July 2026

GCSE & A Level Revision Timetable 2026 | Trefn Adolygu TGAU a Lefel A 2026

The Heolddu GCSE and A Level Revision Timetable for Years 10–13 is now available.

This timetable has been created to support pupils in revising specific themes, topics, and skills with their subject teachers in preparation for the summer examination series.

It is essential that pupils attend all sessions relevant to them to make the most of this targeted revision support.

Extracurricular Programme | Rhaglen Y tu Allan i'r Cwricwlwm

Our extracurricular activities programme offers something for everyone, providing pupils with the opportunity to explore new interests, develop their skills, and stay active throughout the week. Whether you're a budding musician, a sports enthusiast, or a creative mind, there's always something exciting on offer.

Our extracurricular programme is designed to complement classroom learning, providing a balance of fun, fitness, and focus. It's a fantastic way for pupils to meet new friends, improve their skills, and make the most of their school experience. The programme is updated regularly, so be sure to keep checking our website for any updates.

Mr Henderson has also created his summer term timetable for lunchtime and afterschool sessions.

Click here | Extracurricular Activities Programme

Parents' Evenings | Nosweithiau Rhieni

SLT Drop-In Session | Sesiwn Galw Heibio Tîm Arweinyddiaeth Strategol

School Meal Price Update | Diweddariad Prisiau Prydau Ysgol

From Wednesday, the 1st of April 2026, there will be a 3% increase in Secondary School meal prices. This change reflects ongoing financial pressures faced by local authorities across Wales.

CCBC Catering remains committed to providing a high-quality Catering Service, with nutritious and balanced meals that support the health and wellbeing of our pupils.

April 2026 Prices:

Pupil: £3.03

Adult: £4.18

School Uniform Reminder | Atgoffa Cytundeb Gwisg Ysgol

A reminder of our school's uniform expectations to ensure all pupils maintain a smart and consistent appearance. Please refer to the document for full details.

School Uniform Policies | Heolddu Website

Uniform Bank | Banc Gwisg

If you would like to donate any uniforms that pupils have outgrown, please hand them in at the main reception. Your donation can help other pupils who may not have access to appropriate clothing. Additionally, if any parents or carers would like to access the uniform bank at Heolddu, please let us know. We want to ensure that every pupil has access to the clothing they need to succeed in their education.

Community Updates | Diweddariadau Cymunedol

Register as a Stem Cell Donor | Cofrestrwch fel Rhoddwr Celloedd Crysfa

Many people are regular blood donors, but registering as a stem cell donor is equally vital. Every 13 minutes, someone in the UK is diagnosed with blood cancer. Joining the register is simple, and it only involves swabbing the inside of your cheek and sending it by post.

A powerful example comes from Miss Leggett’s daughter, Caitlin, who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia in April 2025. Caitlin received a life-saving stem cell transplant from an anonymous 26-year-old donor in December 2025. Her twin sister, Grace, was initially considered as a donor but could not donate due to their identical DNA. Both sisters are now raising awareness nationally and encouraging all eligible people to register.

Free Parent & Carer Webinars | Gweithdai Rhyngrwyd Am Ddim i Rieni a Gofalwyr

The Missing People charity, with support from the Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner, is offering a series of free online webinars for parents and carers in Gwent.

These sessions will cover:

The links between going missing and exploitation
How to recognise risks
How to access free support for children and young people through the Exploitation Service

Upcoming Webinar Dates:

Tuesday 24th March 2026 | 10:00 – 11:30 Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
Tuesday 16th June 2026 | 12:00 – 13:30 Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams
Wednesday 4th November 2026 | 11:00 – 12:30 Microsoft Virtual Events Powered by Teams

For registration, further details, or queries, contact: consultancy@missingpeople.org.uk

Forces Fitness Health & Well-being Sessions | Sesiynau Ffitrwydd a Lles y Lluoedd

Free Forces Fitness sessions are taking place at Bargoed Community Centre on:

27th May
6th August
27th August

🕙 10:00–14:00

👥 Ages 8+

📍 Meet at the Community Centre (sessions may take place on the fields if weather allows)

Expect a fun, high-energy day including:

• Health & well-being tips

• Obstacle course

• Gladiator pugil challenges

• Team games

• Military command tasks

• Tug of war

These free sessions are a great way to stay active, build confidence, and take part in something different.

📲 Scan the QR code to book or email: info@forcesfitness.co.uk for more information.

Citizens Advice Schools Family Service Support | Cymorth Gwasanaeth Cyngor y Dinesydd i Deuluoedd Ysgolion

We are pleased to share that Citizens Advice South Wales offers a Schools Family Advice Service to support families with a wide range of issues, including:

Completing DLA forms and benefit appeals
Access to food and fuel vouchers (where appropriate)
Guidance on life events such as divorce, debts, landlord or workplace issues
Advice on how to maximise household income

They attend many schools across Caerphilly and Blaenau Gwent, and there are several ways for our families to access support:

At School – Speak to the school to see when they will be visiting next. Some schools offer drop-in sessions with no appointment required.
Dedicated Booking Page – Book a confidential appointment at your child’s school: Schools Booking Page
Telephone Appointment – Book a phone appointment here: Book Phone Appointment
Request a Call Back – Fill in the form and a team member will call you: Call Back Form
Send an Email – Questions? Email: schools@cacbg.org.uk
Virtual Drop-In – Check for video advice sessions: Virtual Drop-In
Telephone – During school holidays, call the dedicated helpline: 02921 1112732

We encourage all families to make use of this service to access confidential advice and support. A leaflet with further information is also available.

What can Citizens Do to help?

Events | Digwyddiadau

Year 9 Cyber Event with Airbus & Cardiff University | Digwyddiad Seiberddiogelwch Blwyddyn 9 gyda Airbus a Phrifysgol Caerdydd

In January, 19 Year 9 pupils, along with two members of the Sixth Form Leadership Team, attended a Cyber Security event hosted in association with Airbus Defence and Cardiff University.

The day included a range of cybersecurity and encryption workshops, as well as a Q&A session, giving pupils valuable insights into the fast-growing and exciting field of cybersecurity.

All pupils thoroughly enjoyed the experience, finding it both engaging and highly valuable.

We would like to thank Airbus, Cardiff University, and Careers Wales for supporting this inspiring learning opportunity and helping our students explore real‑world career paths.

Battle of the Bands Victory | Buddugoliaeth Brwydr y Bandiau

We are delighted to share that the Heolddu Rock Band won the Caerphilly Music Service Battle of the Bands on Saturday.

Kurtis Rose, Kacie Price, Erwyn Vaughn, and Evan Webber delivered an outstanding performance of Carry On My Wayward Son by Kansas, securing first place against strong competition from schools across the county. What a fantastic achievement for the group!

The Phoenix Trip | Taith y Phoenix

From 2nd to 6th February, a group of Year 9 pupils took part in the Phoenix Trip at Aberbargoed Fire Station.

During the trip, pupils learned how the fire engine operates, how to use a hose, and the parade routines performed at the start of activities and drills.

The experience also taught them resilience, dedication, and the importance of communication for success. All pupils worked hard and did not give up, fully engaging with every aspect of the course.

We would like to thank Aberbargoed Fire Station for their support in preparing us for the final drill, and a special thanks to Jez (Jeremiah) and Seren for their guidance and help throughout the course.

- Written by Poppy Vaughan

Young Carers Trip to Cardiff University | Taith Gofalwyr Ifanc i Brifysgol Caerdydd

The day our Young Carers got to stand beneath the moon! We were very fortunate in March to be given a FREE trip to Cardiff Museum to see the Museum of the Moon exhibit. Our Young Carers didn’t need to dream of standing beneath the moon; they actually did it.

On entering the museum, we were greeted with the very impressive view of the Moon structure. It was an incredible sight; little did we know it was only going to get better!

When we entered the main foyer and looked up, we were greeted with the spectacular sight that was “The Moon”, a 7-metre, internally lit sculpture created by artist Luke Jerram.

It features high-resolution NASA imagery of the lunar surface (120dpi), with each centimetre representing 5km of the moon. Suspended in the Grand Hall, it combines art, NASA data and, as advised by one of the museum staff, actual photo footage of the moon.

Our students felt positively “tiny” standing underneath it!

As always, all of our Young Carers represented Heolddu with excellent behaviour and good manners. They were allowed free time to look around the museum, and one student commented, “Miss, this is excellent. I have used all my storage taking photographs.”

After the museum, we were taken to another university building, where we were treated to amazing pizza, sweet treats, and drinks. Apologies to parents if we sent them home full of sugar! As it was Easter, we treated them all to some fabulous Easter goodies. They were all very appreciative and once again showed excellent manners.

I am always very proud to take them out of school for a well-deserved break. They are a real credit to themselves!

Mrs Lavelle

Young Carer Lead.

Heolddu Snooker Success Abroad | Llwyddiant Snwcer Heolddu Dramor

We are extremely proud to share that Jay Vokes has reached another milestone in his refereeing journey, being invited to officiate at the WSF Championships in Bulgaria. Jay is thoroughly enjoying the experience and representing Heolddu with distinction.

Joining him was his younger brother Kai, a Year 7 pupil, who competed in the Junior event. Despite the high standard of play, Kai remained confident, showed excellent temperament, and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to gain international experience at just 11 years old.

The Vokes family would like to thank Heolddu for the ongoing support of both Jay and Kai in their snooker pursuits. Their achievements reflect the dedication, talent, and sportsmanship nurtured here at school.

Year 11 Success in Darts | Llwyddiant Blwyddyn 11 mewn Dartiau

We would like to highlight the excellent achievement of Year 11 pupil Jenson Ellaway following a strong performance in darts.

Jenson delivered a brilliant display to win the first set 3–0, demonstrating skill, focus, and composure throughout.

A fantastic result and a great example of sporting success.

🔗 Video Highlight | @S4CChwareon

School Valued Partnership with Welsh National Opera | Partneriaeth Werthfawr Ysgol gyda’r Welsh National Opera

We are pleased to announce that Grant Barden and the team at Welsh National Opera (WNO) have become School Valued Partners with us at Heolddu Comprehensive School.

WNO recently supported us with a careers pathways event, providing valuable insight into future opportunities within the creative and performing arts sector.

We look forward to developing this partnership further and building on the opportunities it will provide for our learners.

We would also like to thank Careers Wales for their continued support.

Special Math & STEM Day | Dydd Arbennig Mathemateg a STEM

Heolddu pupils and their families are invited to a Special Math Day/ National Pi Day 2026 event, hosted by CTG – Caerphilly Table-Top & Gamers Society.

Date: Saturday 14th March 2026

Time: 10:00–15:30

Location: Caerphilly Library, The Twyn, 2nd (Top) Floor, CF83 1JL

This free STEM club encourages pupils to explore strategy, maths, and problem-solving through tabletop games, while socialising with other gamers. The event is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and is open to all pupils and families in the Caerphilly Borough and beyond.

For more information:

Email: ctgcaerphilly@yahoo.com

School Workshops & STEM Clubs: yescic.co.uk

Follow: Twitter @CCaerphilly | Facebook @CTGCaerphilly | BlueSky caerphillyctg.bsky.social

A great way for young learners to discover the fun side of maths and STEM outside the classroom!

Academic and Department Updates | Diweddariadau Academaidd a’r Adrannau

Design Department Updates | Diweddariadau Adran Dylunio

Thank You to Joyner Group for Supporting Construction Education

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Rob Vokes and the rest of the team at the Joyner Group for their generous donation of construction materials and consumables to support our WJEC Construction course. Practical learning is at the heart of our Construction curriculum. Students develop their skills by working with real materials and tools, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as carpentry, electrical installation and tiling. Donations such as this make a significant difference, ensuring that our learners can access high-quality materials and work in a way that reflects real industry practice. The continued support from Joyner Group helps us provide meaningful practical opportunities for our pupils and allows them to develop the knowledge, confidence and technical skills required for careers in the construction industry. Without the generosity of partners like Joyner Group, it would be much more challenging to run the course in the way we currently do. We are extremely grateful for their ongoing support and commitment to helping young people in our community develop valuable skills for the future.

On behalf of our staff and pupils, thank you for supporting construction education at Heolddu.