Prize–giving

It is difficult to imagine that Prize-giving only occurred a week ago, as so much has been going on since. As always it was a splendid occasion in which we recognised not only the academic achievements of our students over the past year but also those in music, sport and many more. I was delighted to welcome back Lowri Amies a former student who presented the prizes. Lowri attended the High School from 1997 to 2004 and is now a successful actress in London. She has recently written and performed in her own play “Words, words, words”. Lowri emphasised that for a High School student anything is possible as the school gives you confidence and a vast amount of opportunities that you need to explore and grasp with both hands. My congratulations go to all the prize winners for their splendid achievements.

I would just like to remind parents that because we have such able students we try to share prizes across the year group. Therefore, any student can only receive one academic prize in Years 7-9 and one in Years 10-11. This means that we can recognise the achievements of a larger number of students.

Welcome Evening for Year 10

This was a most enjoyable evening and I hope that parents found the evening informative. Currently, students will be completing GCSE which will have the new grading system 9 to 1 , but also some GCSEs will still be classed as A* - G  for the students in Years 10 and 11. I hope that the explanation given has given you a better understanding of what will be happening and how we will be reporting this year. I was delighted that so many parents stayed to see their daughter’s Form Tutor, as this was a great opportunity to discuss any concerns that you may have.

School Parliament

The Senior team of Head Girl, Head Boy and Deputies is currently interviewing for the Head and Deputy Head of each ministry in the School Parliament. We are waiting for the announcement of which students have got these positions. We will be holding our first School Parliament meeting on Tuesday and I am looking forward to working with the ministries on whatever projects they decide are most important to work on this year. School Parliament enables students to get involved in the development of various aspects of school life.

House System

I am grateful to Mrs Simpson for working on the development of the House system. We have tried to put in a greater number of events in which the Houses will compete against each other. Up till the end of last year we only had sporting events and House Drama and House Music. At the end of last year we also had a House quiz competition.

This year the House Captains will be holding an assembly every three weeks in order to really develop the House spirit. Yesterday, I was delighted to see that everyone turned up to have their House photos taken in the hall. Furthermore, this year all merits will be going towards House points.

I will try and update you on developments as they occur in my emails.

PTA AGM

A reminder that the PTA AGM will occur on Monday, 10^th October at 7.00pm. All parents are welcome.

Our PTA is excellent at supporting the school and I am delighted to say that they have given £5000 for furniture for our new dining facility.

Dining Room Build

This is speeding ahead and at the moment we are hoping that it will be completed over half term. It will be a most welcome addition to the facilities of the school. Thank you once again to parents, staff, governors and former Headteachers that made this possible because of your generosity during our fundraising campaign.

Open Morning and Open Evening

This will take place on Monday, 17^th October. A reminder that school finishes early at 2.30pm in the afternoon, so that the staff can set up for Open Evening.

I hope everyone has a good weekend! The sun promises to shine.

Best wishes,

Mrs E Sawicka, Headteacher