Headteacher's Letter - 15
Dear Parents & Carers
I am hoping that you are well, are enjoying the warmer weather and that you have enjoyed the Easter break. We are delighted to welcome our students back to school.
Catholic Life
Our assemblies on the first day back focused on the Resurrection of Jesus and the message of Easter that brings hope to all. We also marked the death of Pope Francis and have taken time to explain to students Pope Francis’ legacy of serving the poor, being the voice for migrants and refugees and caring for the environment. Students have also discussed what will happen in the forthcoming Conclave. Please pray for our church leaders over the next few weeks as they gather to elect our new Pope.
Ofsted Inspection
As you know, from the communication last week, on the first day back, Ofsted notified the school of a Monitoring Visit. This visit took place on Wednesday 23rd April 2025 and Thursday 24th April 2025. It is estimated that the final report will be published just after May half-term.
I would like to thank the large number of our students who were interviewed by inspectors, whose lessons were observed or work was sampled. Ofsted were very complimentary about the students that they met. The students were a credit to our families. Thank you also to our parents/carers who took time to fill out the questionnaires and support the school. It was very much appreciated.
Behaviour Curriculum
On the first day of term, we have introduced some new systems to help reduce the congestion on our corridors. There is a one-way system upstairs in English which makes it easier to move around in this area. We have also introduced a rule that asks students to walk on the left on corridors and keep left in the outdoor area leading to Science and Technology. This has made a difference and has improved the flow of students around school.
Exams this term
Our Y11 students are currently involved in GCSE French and Spanish speaking tests this week. Next week students will have GCSE exams in Drama and Citizenship. In the final two weeks of term, we have a large number of GCSE exams taking place. Good luck to all our students who have worked really hard. I was, in particular, very impressed by the large number of students who attended revision sessions during the Easter holidays. Well done! Students who have showed great commitment to their learning will achieve well in the summer.
On Tuesday 6th May, Years 7 & 8 will be doing internal examinations. Please ensure that students are using time this weekend to get themselves ready for their exams.
Attendance
Last week was a fantastic week for attendance. 80% of our students had 100% attendance last week. Students are starting to understand the importance of being in school every day and its link to being successful in their lessons on a day-to-day basis. It is essential that attendance on Mondays and Fridays is equally high so that no learning time is missed. It is great to see the improvements that students are making.
A number of requests for holidays during term-time have come into school. I am unable to authorise students taking time off school as this creates gaps in learning which then has detrimental impact on a child’s education. Fixed penalty notices have increased to £160 per parent per child. This money is paid to the local authority not the school if a child has an unauthorised absence.
Parents’ Forum
This term’s Parents’ Forum will take place at 6pm on Thursday 15th May 2025. The focus of the evening will be ‘communication with parents/carers’. You are warmly invited to join us in person and to make constructive recommendations for future improvements.
Bank Holiday
Following the bank holiday this weekend, school will re-open on Tuesday 6th May 2025 at 8am. I hope that you have a lovely weekend.
Yours sincerely
Mrs M. Henshaw
Headteacher