Years 7 & 8
As we approach half term, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the progress our year 7 and 8 students have made so far this year. It’s been wonderful to see them grow and develop in their academic, social and extracurricular pursuits.
Whilst academic performance is a strong focus, research shows that students with good wellbeing and mental health tend to perform better academically, build stronger relationships and develop resilience. We are extremely fortunate to be able to offer our students a comprehensive internal support system.
I would like to take this opportunity to showcase a few support interventions Key Stage 3 students are accessing.
Dog Therapy
Cas and Harvey joined us this year, and we're thrilled to have them as part of our school community. Additionally, around twenty Year 7 and 8 students have participated in either group or individual sessions with the dogs.
Feedback from students has been incredibly positive —many have reported that spending time with the dogs has improved their mood, reduced feelings of stress and anxiety, and boosted their confidence in social interactions with both staff and peers.
It’s wonderful to see the positive impact Cas and Harvey are having, and we look forward to continuing this valuable support for our students.
Boxing Intervention
We were excited to offer year 7 and 8 boys an opportunity to attend a six-week boxing intervention with coaches from Time Out Boxing. The focus is positive behaviour, improved physical fitness and instilling values such as perseverance and teamwork among students.
Robbie, the coach, has reported that all the boys have actively participated in the sessions, thoroughly enjoying the experience of teamwork while developing new skills. We're sure you will join us in congratulating the students for their enthusiasm and commitment during this intervention.
Bolder Mentoring
During this year we have welcomed Miss Benson and Miss Cambridge as Mentors. They come with a wealth of experience and expertise. Mentoring sessions are now well embedded into the school timetable.
A total of twenty five year 7 and 8 students have attended mentoring sessions. Together they explore strategies for building self-esteem, managing stress, setting personal goals, and developing positive habits. Students have gained confidence and learnt valuable skills that support both their academic journey and personal well being
Students have reported the sessions have become the highlight of their week, offering a safe space to talk, reflect and grow.
Key Stage 3 Celebrations
This last week of half term, we had the pleasure of attending a reward breakfast with 7C and 8K, who received the highest number of achievement points as a team.
I would like to take this opportunity to extend our gratitude to you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education. Your involvement and encouragement play a vital role in their success.
Miss Izquierdo
Year 8
As Year 11 students are finishing their GCSEs we look ahead to our pastoral team for next half term and the year ahead.
After the half-term break, Mr Hillier will take on the role of Pastoral Manager for Year 8 as they begin their journey into Key Stage 4. This important phase includes the Year 9 Options process and preparation for GCSEs in Years 10 and 11.
We are confident that Mr Hillier’s support and guidance will be invaluable as students take these next steps in their academic journey.
Both Mr Hillier and Mr Alimovic, Head of Key Stage 4, will work closely with Mrs Izquierdo to ensure a thorough handover is in place to support both students and parents. As familiar and trusted members of staff, Mr Hillier and Mr Alimovic bring valuable experience to their roles, and we are confident that this transition will be smooth and well-supported for all students and families.
Mrs Izquierdo will continue in her role as Head of Key Stage 3 which involves supporting the transition of Year 6 students as they join Bolder Academy.
Year 9
Next term is a particularly important one for our Year 9 students. With Year 10 just around the corner, it’s essential that they recognise the significance of this next stage in their academic journey.
Although they have now made their option choices, it is vital that they begin to develop the habits, routines, and mindset that will support success in the subjects they have chosen. Building these foundations now will help ensure a strong and confident start to Key Stage 4.
Year 9 students will be sitting their end-of-year AFE exams next term. To ensure they are fully prepared and able to perform at their best, we encourage you to support them in revising and preparing effectively. This is a valuable opportunity for them to end Year 9 on a strong and positive note, setting the tone for a successful start to Key Stage 4
It has been an exciting race to see which form would come out on top of the House Points chart this term. The competition has been incredibly close, with the top three forms separated by just 27 points. A huge well done to 9P, who take first place with an impressive 857 House Points this term—an outstanding achievement!
A reminder that next term we have the exciting Thorpe Park trip coming up! To be eligible, students must have earned a minimum of 100 House Points. With a few weeks still to go, it’s important that everyone continues to give their best effort and aim to secure as many House Points as possible. Every point counts—keep pushing!
Have a lovely restful half-term.
Ms O’Loughlin
Year 10
Looking Ahead to Mock Exams
Our Year 10 students continue to thrive—it has been a pleasure to walk around the school and see them fully engaged and trying their best in lessons. This is a very talented year group, and I’m genuinely excited to see what they will achieve by this time next year when they sit their GCSEs.
With that in mind, a reminder that next half-term, students will be sitting their mock exams. These are an important part of their preparation for the real thing, and it’s essential that they take them seriously and begin revising now.
Parents and carers can support by encouraging students to use revision strategies such as creating flashcards, building mind maps, and working through past papers. Developing these habits early will not only help with the upcoming mocks but also lay the groundwork for success in next year’s GCSEs.
A special shout-out to 10P who have accumulated over 830 House Points this term! A really significant achievement, well done all!
Mr D’Wayne
Year 11
A massive well done to all students who have made a brilliant start to their GCSE exams. Their hard work and commitment has been clear to see, keep it up!
Over the half-term, please ensure that your child is revising and are preparing for exams when we come back. Please make sure that they have the correct equipment and uniform.
I can’t wait to celebrate with students, firstly on Thursday 26th June for our leavers assembly and then Monday 30th June for Prom. Please do check Parent-mail as there has been a letter sent out which contains important information for both events, as well as the option to purchase a leavers hoodie.
A massive well done again Year 11! We are almost there.
Mr Hillier