Headteacher's Letter 13.10.2026
Dear families,
It has been a busy and positive first half of the term. Students have settled into their timetables and are approaching their learning with focus and purpose. We are pleased to see their confidence and commitment continuing to grow, and we thank staff for helping them make such a positive start.
After the half-term break, Year 11 students will begin their mock examinations, and Year 12 students will also take part in assessments. These are important opportunities for students to review their learning, recognise what they are doing well and identify areas to work on. They will also help students build confidence and prepare for future examinations. Please encourage your child to use the break to revise, organise their notes and prepare, while also taking time to rest and recharge.
Thank you for your continued support in encouraging and guiding our students. Your support at home makes a real difference as they prepare for these important assessments.
Highlights of the year so far
As we come to the end of a busy and rewarding first half of the autumn term, I would like to share some of the highlights and achievements from across our school community.
Enrichment and Student Opportunities
This half term has been filled with creativity, collaboration and enrichment across all year groups:
- Black History Month has been celebrated through assemblies, tutor-time discussions, and creative displays exploring “Black History Beyond October.”
- The Steel Pan Orchestra and choir performed beautifully at the National Society for Education’s national event on 7 October 2026 to secondary headteachers and senior leaders from across the country.
- Year 7 and Year 12 students participated in inspiring careers and higher education workshops, helping them plan and prepare for their future pathways.
- Year 9 students have taken part in residential visits to the Mountain Centre in Wales, where they have developed teamwork, leadership and resilience through outdoor learning and adventure activities. Visits will continue throughout the year.
- 100 students who demonstrated outstanding commitment to school life and enrichment activities were rewarded with a special trip to Harry Potter World, where they took part in team challenges and celebrated their achievements.
International and Partnership Work
- Our international partnerships continue to provide exciting global learning opportunities for students and staff. This year we are beginning preparations to develop new international partnerships and explore opportunities through Erasmus+, which the UK is due to rejoin in 2027. This work will help us create further opportunities for students and staff to collaborate and learn with partners overseas.
- Preparations are also underway for our Turing Scheme projects to The Gambia, which will offer students life-changing opportunities for cultural exchange later this academic year.
Community and Faith Life
Faith, unity and aspiration have remained at the heart of our school life this term:
- Whole-school assemblies have reflected on our school values, encouraging students to think deeply about their personal goals, relationships and responsibilities.
- A Eucharist service was held at St Dunstan’s Church, led by the Reverend Trevor Critchlow. A further worship service took place in the Great Hall on Thursday 8 October. Our services include contemporary praise and worship and may feature guest speakers from different Christian denominations. Students take an active part by leading Bible readings and prayers. They are open to students from a wide range of Christian traditions, and students of all faiths are warmly welcome to attend.
Celebrating success
This week our Annual Prize Giving Ceremony takes place, where we recognise and celebrate students from across the school for their outstanding achievements, dedication and contribution to school life. It promises to be a wonderful evening that reflects the hard work and commitment of our young people, supported by staff and families alike.
The half term has been a testament to the dedication, creativity and commitment of both our students and staff. We are immensely proud of all that has been achieved and of the enthusiasm with which our students continue to embrace every opportunity. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our staff for their tireless efforts, and to our parents and carers for their ongoing support.
We look forward to another successful and enriching half term ahead, as we continue to build on these achievements and provide every student with the opportunity to flourish — academically, personally and spiritually.
Key dates this term
School closes for the two-week half-term break on Friday 16 October 2026, with lessons resuming on Monday 2 November 2026.
Please also note the following dates:
- Year 11 mock examinations: Start Wednesday 4th November
- Year 13 Parents’ Evening: Wednesday 18th + Thursday 19th November
- Year 11 Parents’ Evening: Wednesday 9th + Thursday 10th December
- Year 7 Carol Service: Tuesday 15th December
- End of the autumn term: Friday 18th December
The full term dates for the academic year are available on our key dates webpage.
I hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break and returns rested and ready for the next stage of the autumn term.
Yours sincerely,
Ben Siaw
Headteacher
