End of Half Term Letter

24^th May 2024

Dear parent/carer,

We are now fully immersed in the examination season with our Year 11 and 13 students.

They have been busy revising for the papers and have conducted themselves well during the process. I do hope they continue preparing themselves but endeavour to take a well-earned rest during the half term. Examinations will continue in earnest for Year 11 and 13 after the break. It is important for students to attend school for the bespoke interventions and revision materials crafted by subject specialist teachers.

Year 10 will be completing internal assessments after half term and I have no doubt will use the holiday to revise.

As part of the Salter Scholar programme, our students have participated in a number of trips and visits.  They have also welcomed external visitors such as the Commonwealth Gold Medallist, Leon Baptiste to the academy. Visits this half term have included geography trips to Carding Mill Valley and Talacre Beach. Year 10 students visited Cadbury’s whilst Year 7 enjoyed a stay at PGL in Caythorpe. Our Year 12 students participated in the Gresham Oracy Competition in London. As part of work experience week, students also went to Sandwell Market.

As part of our continued focus on reading, students in years 7 to 9 completed reading tests. Students who have been receiving additional intervention have increased their reading age by approximately nine months, with some making more than expected progress. We are delighted with these successes!

Whilst we expect warm weather as we head into the summer, we will continue to set high standards of uniform for all our students. Trousers and skirts must be black. Leggings or any style of tracksuit bottom are not accepted. Skirts must be knee length and not made of a material that clings to the body. Trainers are not acceptable footwear, shoes must be black. Any student not adhering to our expectations will be challenged.

Finally a reminder that snacks, chocolate or food containing peanuts will not be welcome in the academy. We would really appreciate the support of everyone in our school community to ensure that all of our students are kept safe.  

Wishing you all a happy and safe holiday, students are expected back to school on Monday 3^rd June, 2024.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs R. Bellingham

Head of School