Sixth Form Update - Autumn 1
Please enter an introduction for your news story here.
Updates from NLS
Please enter an introduction for your news story here.
Please enter an introduction for your news story here.
Please enter an introduction for your news story here.
Please enter an introduction for your news story here.
Please enter an introduction for your news story here.
Please enter an introduction for your news story here.
I hope this communication finds you well and you are looking forward to any summer holiday you may have.
It has been another superb term in the NLS Sixth Form – with many events illustrating why it is such a privilege to work with your terrific children. Read on…
Wednesday June 18, saw a terrific Future Pathways Launch Event for our current Year 12. This tied in neatly with the Work Experience opportunities as, as suggested below, quality work experience is so central to applications for university, employment, apprenticeships.
The purpose of this event was to equip students with better understanding as to what is available to them post-18. This can be crucial in terms of information, advice and guidance (I.A.G.) but also in terms of raising aspirations and incentivising. While the launch is steered towards UCAS and university applications (because that is what the vast majority of our students choose to go on to do), we recognise that this route is not the only Future Pathway. So, we offer I.A.G. on:
There is also attention paid to specific applications. For example, to high demand organisations (Oxbridge) or subjects (e.g. medicine, dentistry, veterinary science) as well as those which are more niche (conservatoires) or popular (law) – nearly all of these have an early entry deadline of October and most of them will require additional entrance examinations or processes which students and parents need to be aware of and to take a lead on researching and organising.
This current year with Year 13, we have students planning to go to both Oxford and Cambridge (which is terrific) but we are delighted that a range of universities are represented as well as a range of alternatives - including prestigious apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships.
We know Year 12 will be likewise successful with their planning (like their Year 13 peers) and are sure they will make the most of all this IAG as they enter what is a very exciting time considering future pathways!
As we reach the end of the academic year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey our Year 11 students have been on and to share some final thoughts and key updates with you.
This year has been extraordinary—filled with challenge, growth, and truly remarkable achievements. It has been a privilege to witness our students navigate the demands of their final year, and your continued support and partnership have played a vital role in their success. Thank you for the unwavering dedication you’ve shown to your child’s education.
It was a real pleasure to see so many of our Year 11 students and their families at the recent Celebration Evening. The event was a wonderful opportunity to recognise and honour students for their outstanding contributions and who have gone above and beyond in a range of areas, including academic and personal progress, as well as sporting success. The pride and support in the room were palpable, and it was a fitting way to reflect on the dedication, talent, and perseverance that have defined this year group.
To mark the end of their time at NLS, our Year 11 students enjoyed a memorable Celebration Day, which included the traditional shirt signing, leavers’ assembly, and the much-anticipated Prom.
Throughout the day, students shared messages and well-wishes on each other’s shirts—a fun and meaningful tradition that captured the spirit and friendships of their school journey. They also received their leavers’ hoodies and Yearbooks, both of which serve as treasured keepsakes filled with memories, laughter, and a strong sense of community.
The leavers’ assembly was a touching occasion, celebrating everything our students have accomplished over the past five years.
A particular highlight were two special musical performances by some of our talented students —made even more memorable by a surprise guest appearance from Mr Royle, much to the delight of students and staff alike.
It was a heartfelt and entertaining tribute to the strong sense of community we have built together.
Later that evening, the Year 11 Prom truly stole the show. It was a magical celebration of friendship, achievement, and resilience. Seeing our students dressed to impress, enjoying themselves, and dancing together was a joy. The Prom was not only a well-deserved reward for their hard work but also a powerful reminder of the connections they’ve made—connections that we hope will last long into the future.
Our careers team are excited to share with you the career-focused activities that have been a part of our school's career education program for Year 11. Our vision is to support students in making informed choices about their futures and to provide them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the world of work.
Through their Tutor Time and PHSE curriculum. some of the careers based learning they have discovered included:
Year 11 have also spent time on their Post 16, and Post 18 options and how they can lead to a range of different types of careers through:
We very much value parent/carer feedback on our careers provision and would be grateful if you would complete a short survey Careers Provision Form as soon as possible. Following our successful achievement of the Quality in Careers award, and the positive feedback from Ofsted, your feedback will help us in evaluating and continuing to improve our provision.
As we look ahead to Results Day, we know that this can be an emotional and anxious time for students and families alike. Please rest assured that we are here to support your child every step of the way.
I want to express my heartfelt thanks to you—the parents and carers—for your support throughout the last five years. Your encouragement and trust have been essential in guiding your child through both everyday challenges and major milestones.
It has been a genuine privilege to work with this cohort. Their resilience, kindness, and determination have been inspiring, and I’m incredibly proud of all they have achieved.
Although this marks the end of their time at NLS, it is not goodbye. We encourage all of our Year 11 students to stay in touch, keep us updated on their progress, and know that they will always be part of the NLS community.
Please do remind your child that we are still here for them—whether for advice, encouragement, or a friendly chat. We’re looking forward to celebrating with them on Results Day and continuing to support them as they move on to exciting new opportunities.
Wishing you and your family a safe, restful, and enjoyable summer break. Let’s approach Results Day with pride and confidence, knowing that our students have worked incredibly hard and achieved so much.
Warm regards,
Mr Ben Butler
Head of Year 11
WHAT A TERM IT HAS BEEN!
As we reach the end of what has been an incredibly busy and memorable term, I want to take a moment to celebrate the outstanding efforts and achievements of our wonderful Year 10 students. It’s hard to believe how far they’ve come, and with so much thrown at them this term. They have risen to the challenge with maturity, resilience and an admirable work ethic. We couldn’t be prouder of them.
What a fantastic academic year it has been for our Year 9 students! From academic progress and enrichment opportunities to incredible performances on stage and sports fields, this year has been packed with success, growth, and memorable moments. Our students have continued to impress us with their maturity, enthusiasm, and resilience – they are a credit to you and to North Leamington School.
Throughout the year, students have taken part in a rich and thought-provoking PSHE curriculum during tutor time. This term, we explored important topics including bullying, mental health, and body confidence. Themes such as the impact of social media, unrealistic body images, self-acceptance, dealing with grief and loss, healthy lifestyles, drug and alcohol awareness, and cancer prevention were all addressed sensitively. We are incredibly proud of how maturely and thoughtfully students approached these discussions.
It’s been a successful term in sport. Our Year 9 and 10 boys’ and girls’ athletics teams represented NLS with pride at the District Athletics Competition in Leamington, competing against 10 other schools – an outstanding effort by all involved.
In cricket, NLS welcomed teams from Campion and Myton for friendly fixtures. A dominant win over Myton, by more than 30 runs, set the tone for a competitive summer.
Our annual Celebration Evening was a highlight of the term, where we honoured the efforts, achievements, and contributions of students across the year. It was a truly special occasion, and we were especially proud of our Year 9 award winners, who represented their year group with humility and pride. You can read more about the evening and see some pictures here Celebration Evening Website.
Drama students from Years 7 to 10 dazzled us with their outstanding production of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Full of comedy, creativity, and superb acting, the performance was a true testament to the talent and hard work of our young performers – a standing ovation well deserved!
Well done to those involved in the Summer Music Concert on July 8; it was lovely to see year 9 students full of confidence in their fantastic performances.
Year 9 students are excited to have received confirmation of their GCSE and BTEC option choices.
In Key Stage 4, 60% of timetabled lessons still consist of the core subjects of Maths, English, Science and RE, along with non-examined PSHE and practical PE.
Students have been taught in year halves for these subjects since year 7, but as we move into year 10 a number of students will find when they receive their timetable in September that they have changed year halves. This is linked to the logistics of the options choices. All their new option and core classes are a fantastic opportunity for students to learn to work with different groups of peers which is an important skill for beyond school.
We look forward to seeing all the students begin KS4 with enthusiasm in September. If you have any options queries please contact data@northleamington.co.uk
We ended the year on a high with a brilliant Rewards Event. The 30 students who have earned high reward points through their effort, attitude, and contributions enjoyed a fantastic afternoon of fun – including bouncy castles and team games. A huge well done to all who took part!
Sports Day 2025 was a tremendous success, filled with energy, competition, and community spirit. The morning featured team events like football and dodgeball, while the afternoon saw individual athletics and the eagerly anticipated inter-college tug-of-war! Congratulations to all our participants – it truly was a day to remember.
On Wednesday 16 July, all Year 9 students took part in our Mini Model United Nations day. Off-timetable for the full day, they became delegates, negotiators, and world leaders – engaging in discussions, debates, and diplomacy. It was a wonderful learning experience that developed key skills in communication and global awareness. The maturity and passion shown by our students was exceptional.
A huge congratulations to our intrepid Year 9 students who completed their first Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition this term. Taking on the challenge with energy and enthusiasm, they navigated their way through the stunning Cotswolds countryside. While a few adventurous explorers may have taken the scenic route and clocked up a few extra miles, spirits remained high throughout. The resilience, teamwork, and determination shown by all students was truly impressive. By Monday morning, the stories were being shared with such joy and laughter – a clear sign of just how memorable the experience was. A heartfelt thank you to all the staff who supported and accompanied the group – your guidance and encouragement made it all possible.
As we approach the end of another academic year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey Year 8 have had this year. It has been a year of significant growth academically, socially, and personally, and we are incredibly proud of the progress they have made.
Throughout the year, we have placed a strong emphasis on building resilience, responsibility, and respect, qualities we believe are fundamental for lifelong success. It has been a pleasure to see our Year 8 students grow in confidence, take greater ownership of their learning, and support one another with increasing maturity. Many have stepped into leadership roles, and actively contributed to our school community.
This year has seen continued academic growth across all subject areas. Teachers have been impressed by students’ engagement in class, their curiosity, and their willingness to take on new challenges. Whether exploring complex science experiments, developing persuasive writing in English, or solving advanced maths problems, Year 8 students have consistently shown a commitment to doing their best. A number of students have been recognised through awards for outstanding effort and attainment, and we congratulate them all for their dedication.
As students move into Year 9, they will begin the important process of considering their option choices for GCSE study. While this may feel daunting, we are committed to guiding them through each step, ensuring they are well-informed and confident in their decisions. Over the coming year, we will provide to help students begin to explore where their interests and strengths may take them.
It has been a fabulous first year for Year 7 at North Leamington School. We have all seen in school the changes and growth that the year group has made and I hope that you have seen it at home too. During this last half term we have begun to talk about what it means to be in Year 8, and I am very much looking forward to seeing how the cohort grow into this new space as role models to the incoming Year 7s. Well done to Year 7 for all of their achievements so far, and they have only just begun their journey here at NLS.