As we reach the end of our first half-term of Year 9, we would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the excellent progress many of our students have made and share important information about the term ahead.

We are extremely proud of the hard work and dedication shown by Year 9 students during the first half of the autumn term. Students have embraced the challenges of this important stage in their education, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to their studies. We’ve seen exceptional work across many subjects, and extracurricular activities have been equally well-attended, from sports to creative clubs. Well done to all students who have taken part!

Key Stage 4 Option Choices 2025

One of the key milestones in Year 9 is the selection of GCSE/ BTEC  options. This can be an exciting and, at times, overwhelming decision for students, as they begin to shape their future studies. To support students in making informed choices, we will hold information sessions in the lead-up to the options selection process. 

We will host an Options Information Evening where both students and parents will have the opportunity to hear from subject leaders, ask questions, and gain a clear understanding of the pathways available.

Throughout the term, form tutors and subject teachers will also be on hand to discuss each student's strengths and interests, helping them make choices that suit their abilities and aspirations.

CEIAG (Careers Education, Information, Advice, and Guidance) Opportunities
To complement the options process, Year 9 students will also benefit from several CEIAG opportunities designed to give them a broader understanding of potential career pathways.

We encourage all students to participate fully in these events, as they will provide invaluable insight into both education and career options.  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.

Tutors

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Ms Norman to the Year 9 tutor team. Ms Norman has commented how her tutees have made her feel welcome and appreciated. Our Year 9 tutors do a sterling job each day and play a big part supporting the welfare and wellbeing of your child.  After half term, we will also be judging our Tutor Notice Board competition.  May the best tutor group win!

Rewards

I am pleased to announce that Year 9 have maintained their position of achieving a fantastic number of rewards for their hard work and efforts in classes.

Top ten students across the year group:

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. 

Whole school events

Unfortunately our Race for life event in September had to be cancelled due to the weather; we aim to reschedule this for the Spring/Summer term when, hopefully, conditions will be better.

On Thursday October 10, World Mental Health day we participated in supporting the YoungMinds Hello Yellow day.  It was fantastic to see Year 9 take part by wearing a yellow accessory alongside their uniform and thank you to those who baked or donated cakes for sale at break time.   From the cake sale and donations we raised over £800 for Young Minds. In Tutor time students received guidance on how to support their own mental wellbeing and were reminded of the resources and support available to them within school including support from our Mental Health Team, Lulu our school dog, and the wider Individual Educational Needs (IEN) team. 

Student Leadership

I am proud to announce that the following Year 9 students have been selected to represent the school in two key areas – Charity & Community and Marketing.

International Schools opportunity to visit our partner school in Mumbai

Six of our Year 9 students have the opportunity to pay a visit to our partner school (Anjuman I’Islam Girls High School) in Mumbai India.  This visit will take place between Sunday 23 March and Saturday 29 March 2025 and the subsidised cost will be £250.  A reminder that students, who are interested in this amazing opportunity, need to apply by Monday 4 November (see the letters section on the website the full details) and send your application to Mrs Harding.  Whilst in India, students will be involved in lessons with students as well as visiting the sites of Mumbai.

Calendar events for November and December

Next term we have many events for students to take part in including:

• Year 9 post 16 Careers event
• Remembrance Day event
• Our first College fortnight of the year
• Anti-Bullying Week 
• Winter Music Concert
• Community and Charity Christmas activities including Christmas hampers

Message to Parents and Carers

I just want to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support this 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 half term. Have a lovely and restful half term.

Best regards,

Alan Boyes
Year 9 Lead