Dear Parents and Carers
The February half term break signifies that the run into exams has started. We have completed 21 weeks of the academic year and when we return after half term we will have a five-week half term before the Easter break. When we return there are two uninterrupted weeks, followed by two weeks with bank holiday Mondays (May Day and the extra one for the King’s Coronation). Those students studying Art, Drama etc. will likely have already started their exams by this time with all others following shortly afterwards. From experience we know that this period of time will fly by and Year 11 and 13 students need to be prepared. I say this not to pressure them to work flat out over this half term break but to encourage them all to ensure they are well rested and recharged. It is vital they are mindful of their studies and they should certainly take the time next week to develop a revision list for each subject which focuses on the areas where they know they are weakest. This way, when they return they will be rested and know what they need to do.
The ability of students to face stressful situations like exams is something that has been pushed back by Covid and the lockdowns. This isn’t the case for all students but it is noticeable in more students and also seen in their social skills, behaviour and in their learning habits. This is why ‘Investing in Staff’ is the fourth value we work towards as a school. All the progress lost due to recent years can be regained but we have to acknowledge that, as staff, we need to look again at some of our methods and skills. By ensuring there is constant investment in developing increasingly skilled staff we can make sure that we address the needs of the students as they now present. For a few it certainly isn’t easy but it is a commitment of both the school and our staff to keep learning until we have regained all the lost ground for those students who need it.
Best wishes
Andy Perry
Head Teacher