Principal’s update celebrating community, culture & accomplishment
Dear Parents, Carers and Students
As the calendar year draws to a close, we extend our warmest greetings to all our families. We’re proud to celebrate a term of significant achievements and community spirit, respecting and embracing the rich diversity of cultures and beliefs within our school.
The next few weeks are crucial for planning the next steps in our students’ educational journeys.
We started the term sharing information with families about Year 9 Options Evening and look forward to reviewing these choices in the Progress Review conversations. In addition, we were thrilled to have time with both Year 9 and 11 families at Parent/Carer Evenings. Year 11 experienced Mock Results Day, and a very well done to our Year 11s on completing their mock exams. Year 11s have begun to navigate Sixth Form Applications, with assemblies and visits from local Sixth form centres. Our Year 10 students benefited greatly from their Mock Interviews, gaining valuable experience and feedback for future career opportunities. Thanks to all parent, carer, governors and community members who supported this event. This term saw our Careers Fair return, something we haven’t had in person since before the pandemic!
Those involved in Future Brunel continued their explorations, giving students a fantastic insight into engineering and technology careers. We were also delighted to announce the launch of the Class Charts Reward Store! Students can now exchange their hard-earned achievement points for exciting rewards – these rewards have been selected based on student voice.
A variety of workshops have taken place. Students took part in an inspiring Tom Daley workshop in English, focusing on resilience and well-being. Additionally, a dynamic Art workshop on cardboard sculpture allowed students to explore 3D form and sustainability. A huge congratulations to the students who have been involved in the year-long series of workshops resulting in a film that will be shared internationally. This group recently attended the Integrate Conference for the premiere of their film, showcasing their hard work and talent, whilst Key Stage 3 and 4 students enjoyed a fascinating trip to the Watershed for a study day on ‘Life in Modern Britain: Migration, Identity, and Democracy’.
Every week this term saw something new for us to come together as a community, learn and discuss. We enjoyed celebrating Languages Week, showcasing the rich tapestry of global communication and culture. We dedicated a full week to celebrating Anti-Bullying, reinforcing our commitment to a safe and supportive environment for all. This term’s assemblies have covered important themes, including respect, anti-bullying, and neurodivergence, helping students develop empathy and understanding. We respectfully marked Remembrance Day through assemblies and a whole school silence and White Ribbon Day to honour those who have served and to raise awareness about preventing violence against women. A big well done also to those staff involved in Movember, raising awareness and funds for men’s health issues.
We were pleased to host Hannah Woodhouse from the Bristol City Council’s Education Team, who visited to see our school’s innovative practices in action.
We are all looking forward to celebrating the term’s end at the Winter Gala, a non-denominational event bringing our whole community together for an evening of music and cheer, which will be followed by Progress Review.
As we look forward to a well-deserved break, we wish all our students and families a restful and peaceful winter holiday, and thank you for your continued support this term.
Edel
