Year 9 Update - Autumn 1
Year 9 is an important and exciting year for students and we have very high expectations of them. Our focus this year is on options and opportunities. In February they will start to decide which subjects they would like to study at GCSE / BTEC level. We encourage our students to work hard towards their future goals and think about how they are going to be successful in achieving them.
Our Year 9 students will have many opportunities this year to develop their skills and confidence. We offer a range of exciting opportunities hosted by our CEIAG (Careers Education Information, Advice and Guidance) Team. We also encourage our Year 9 students to join in extra-curricular activities as well as becoming part of a Student Voice team. I am really proud of how many students have got involved with the opportunities that are presented to them so far. They have big dreams and ambitions and we are here to guide and support the person that they want to become.
This term has been extremely eventful for our Year 9 students. It is incredibly pleasing to witness how much charisma, confidence and commitment they are already displaying during lesson time. They have settled well and adhered to the school ethos, in demonstrating CORE attributes. As Year Leader of such a highly motivated group of individuals, it is my job to ensure that they are focused and determined to succeed. It is about making sure those learning habits and routines are well established in preparation for the next stage of their academic journey.
The Charity and Community and Marketing Leaders have taken their new roles in their stride and have already contributed to the successful launch of whole school events.
Tutors
I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Mrs Gotheridge-Davies and Mrs Wilson to the Year 9 tutor team. Both have commented how their tutees have made them feel welcome and appreciated. The tutors do a sterling job each day and play a big part supporting the welfare and wellbeing of your child.
Rewards
I am pleased to announce that Year 9 have maintained their position at the top of the rewards table having achieved the highest number of reward points in Year 7 and 8. We are currently ahead of the next leading year group by over 1300 points. This is a fantatsic accomplishment and demonstrates the dedication and commitment displayed in and out of lessons. It is clear that a significant amount of reward points have been awarded for demonstrating COMMITMENT to their learning and RESPECT to others. 95% of students in Year 9 have received at least 50 reward points this half term.
I am extremely proud of all Year 9 students however, students listed below have managed to work well in the majority of lessons, displayed leadership and exceptional progress. I applaud you all.
Tutor Curriculum
This term we have continued to include our Core Communications, Literacy and Current Affairs Quiz within our tutor time curriculum and PSHE topics have centred around radicalisation and Black History Month. Students have found the content interesting and thought provoking with the opportunity to share, celebrate and understand the impact of black heritage and culture. People from African and Caribbean backgrounds have been a fundamental part of British history for centuries. It is important for students to understand and the contributions to society that have been made throughout the years.
Information regarding the Tutor Curriculum, along with the Tutor Time Learning Journey can be found on our website via the following link Tutor Time Curriculum
Race 4 Life
On Friday 29 September Year 9s joined the rest of NLS to walk, jog or run around an area of the school field. And it wasn’t just the students getting involved – 10 teachers pulled on their trainers and joined in too. The Year 9s donned pink attire, face paint and sequins in aid of Cancer Research UK. Finishers received medals at the end, handed out by our Charity Leaders. A significant number of Year 9s managed to complete 7 laps of the field equating to approximately 6.5km. Well done to all those students that contributed and fund raised for such a fantastic cause. Alice E in Year 9 and her sister raised an admirable amount of money - £200.
MacMillan Cake Sale
Autumn 1 had some fantastic charity events, and we concluded with our Macmillan Coffee Morning. The bakers did not disappoint! Brownies, cupcakes, cracknels, and rocky roads lined the tables, each sold for 50p. Each College hosted their own table manned by our fantastic Year 9 Charity leaders. We had an incredibly successful turnout, with goods selling out in a matter of minutes! A total of £429.18 was raised. Binswood were the winning College in raising funds, beating Park by a mere 50p.
Student Leadership
I am proud to announce that the following Year 9 students have been selected by the Sixth Form leadership team to represent the school in two key areas – Charity & Community and Marketing. Students have worked arduously to ensure that whole school events have run smoothly. This term, they have all helped to organise Race for Life, MacMillan Cake Sales and the College Bulletin.
Year 9 Football Team
Written by Ben L, Ted J, and Jack S
Stratford
Unfortunately we lost 3-2 but we fought hard and kept our heads up, even when we were down. Alex M and Jack N both scored.
Myton
We won 3-0 against Myton. We fought and played a class game of football. Jacob scored a ‘banger’ and so did Thomas and Zac. We had Ted at the back who played like Maldini.
Campion
A class performance from all the boys. Mr Foxon led us to a 3-0 victory against a tough side. Lachie scored two goals, one from a corner and one from within the box. Thomas then scored a blinder.
Southam
We obliterated this team with a cheeky 5-0 win. Jack N scored a screamer and managed to lob the keeper. Thomas scored two great goals, redeeming himself from missing a penalty. Joel from just outside the box and Alex M pinged the ball into the top corner. Ben L saved a fantastic attempt from Southam’s striker. All player were committed, focussed and determined to keep a clean sheet.
We have made it to the semi-finals of the District Cup!
‘I am so proud to be the captain of such a great team’ – Ben L
Hall of Fame
Paulina Sielazcek has been selected to play for England Women’s Under 15 UEFA Development Tournament which will take place in November. We are proud of the progress Paulina has made since joining Aston Villa Academy last year.
Message to Parents and Carers
I just want to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support this academic term. I hope that you feel your child has been given the guidance and support to achieve, but more importantly, to enjoy school life. I look forward to catching up with you all at the various school events next term. Have a lovely and restful half term.
Kind regards,
Mr Royle
Head of Year 9, Binswood College Leader