Another fabulous week slips into the past tense and another is waiting in the wings, and what a busy one it promises to be.  The picture above is of the launch of the student Teaching and Learning Committee by the fabulous Mrs Fullard and the amazing Miss Spikesley.  Students met last Monday for a working lunch and came up with some astounding insights into what makes a great lesson and what makes a great learner.  The students will meet regularly and will have the chance to inform training and create the perfect independent learner.

Monday is the final deadline for the Year 8 Options forms.  The students have been brilliant, speaking to staff about their choices in interviews and lessons and making some important decisions.  The second set of Year 11 Trail exams also kick off this week.  Students will get an opportunity to sit their Maths, English and English Literature exams to show how much progress they have made since December.  It’s another chance to practice those all-important skills and to clock up more experience going through the exam protocol.  Not long to go now until the first big exam on 15^th May!

Talking of exams it’s not just Year 11.  The Art exams for Year 10 start this Friday and there is the chance that practical exams are taking place this week and in the coming weeks.  To balance out all the examinations the Art Department are out and about, with Year 12 attending the Art in Action exhibition.  We are also welcoming the German Exchange students to Hinchingbrooke from Tuesday, so there is lots to look forward to.  Also the netballers are off to London Live on Saturday – no doubt to be inspired!

On Wednesday the Year 12 are off timetable to take part in a Careers Day.  This involves lots of outside agencies such as universities, apprenticeships and the world of work.  This is part of the Information, Advice and Guidance the school offers, getting students thinking about their next steps.  Parents are also invited to attend the Post 18 Information Evening between 17:30 and 19:00 in the PAC.

Three months after launching ‘Doddle Parent’ for Years 7 and 8 we have encouraging usage.  50% of Year 7 parents and 48% of Year 8 parents have signed up and are using this system to get regular updates (reports) on how their sons/daughters are doing in each of their subjects.  On average parents are accessing this fantastic resource once a month.  There will be more information available at the up and coming Academic Review day on 22^nd March.  Students are also making great use of the Doddle Homework function.  On average each students has completed 71 assignments this academic year – wow!  92% of main school students regularly log-in and use Doddle either for homework which has been assigned or for independent work.  It’s a fabulous resource for clarifying work students have completed in lessons and all 301 students are regular users!

 

This week our theme is based around raising the awareness of mental wellbeing; how to keep mentally fit and healthy and ensure that you are able to face any issues and can tell people when things are not going so well.  John Lennon said it best…

And on that note, have a fabulous week!

Anna Nightingale

Vice Principal