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Year 9 Update - Autumn 2

As we come to the end of an amazing term, we want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible successes achieved by our Year 9 students. It has been a term filled with hard work, growth, and memorable experiences. From academic achievements to personal milestones, our students have truly shone, embracing challenges and making us all proud.

In this bulletin, we will highlight some of the key moments and accomplishments from this term, showcasing the dedication and enthusiasm that Year 9 has brought to every aspect of school life. Thank you for your continued support in making this such a successful and rewarding term.

Tutor Curriculum

This half term, our tutor-time curriculum has been both engaging and enriching, with students delving into a variety of important topics. They have explored numeracy and finance, honing practical skills for managing money, as well as enhancing their digital literacy and online safety awareness. Anti-Bullying Week, highlighted by Odd Socks Day, provided an opportunity to celebrate individuality and reinforce the importance of respect. Students also engaged in our careers curriculum, gaining valuable insights from a visiting speaker from Warwickshire College. They looked at how to navigate their website as well as the range of courses they could consider for their next destination. Reflecting on their Autumn Term progress, they set goals for future growth while contributing to the school community through feedback in the student voice survey. Furthermore, their participation in the International Schools Project has broadened their global perspectives. The commitment and enthusiasm shown by students during tutor time this half term have been truly commendable.

On visiting tutor groups this half-term, I am always struck by the commitment and professionalism of our student leaders in helping to deliver our tutor-time curriculum.  They really are an absolute asset to their tutor groups as well as to their tutors!

Christmas Hampers:
Three students with their Tutor Group Christmas hamper

Our tutor groups have shown incredible generosity over the last few weeks, coming together to bring in a wide array of products for their Christmas hampers. The thoughtfulness and care they have put into their contributions is truly heart-warming. As part of this initiative, the students will also have the opportunity to decide where their hampers will be donated, ensuring that their kindness reaches those in need within our community. This spirit of giving exemplifies the values we hold dear, and we are so proud of their efforts to make a difference this holiday season.

 

Whole School Events:

Our whole-school events this term have been incredibly positive, bringing our community together in meaningful and enjoyable ways. College Fortnight was a highlight, featuring engaging assemblies. Students who received the most awards for their hard work and dedication were celebrated with a special rewards event, complete with a festive Christmas film and popcorn. We also embraced the holiday spirit during our Christmas Jumper Day, which not only brought joy but also raised funds for Save the Children. These events have fostered a sense of unity and celebration across the school, rounding off the term on a high note. 

Sports:

Year 9 Basketball Team

This term has been packed with exciting sporting events, showing the talent and dedication of our students. A standout moment was the Year 9 basketball team's incredible performance in the National Schools Competition. Earlier this month, the team welcomed Bromsgrove School for their opening group-stage game and made a strong statement with a dominant 100–32 victory. Impressively, all nine players contributed to the scoreboard, highlighting a true team effort.
Congratulations to all the players for their hard work and achievements so far this season!

 

Rewards and Celebration:

As ever celebrating achievements is one of the most pleasurable aspect of our roles so a huge congratulations goes to the following students for their outstanding commitment to their school journey by having the highest number of rewards.  A fantastic total of 36573 rewards have been accrued across the year group.

Name Points
Joseph R 277
Harriet V  271
Stanley J 249
Sarina P 235
Niamh T 234
Ayla K 231
Norah N 231
Laura B 225
Jude D 220
Rishika N 220

Top two Year 9 students in each college:

Student College
Meghan  & Romal  Blackdown
Joseph  & Harriet  Binswood
Ayla  & Norah Croft
Bethany  & Joe Manor
Iona & Max Park

 

Outstanding students in each tutor group:

College Student Student
Binswood Joseph R Macy G
Blackdown Meghan Romal
Croft Ayla K / Norah Natalia
Manor Natalia Joe B
Park Iona W  Max B

Highest Achievement – this award recognises those students who are working above their target grades in the highest number of subjects.

College Student Student
Binswood Joseph R Jonah P
Blackdown Otto C Antonia B
Croft Norah N Stan B
Manor Shiuli P Harry J
Park  Bella  Aminu B-D
Calendar 

It looks like the Spring term is shaping up to be a productive and exciting time! Here's a summary of the key events and focus areas for the term:

Option Choices:  Students will begin exploring and working on their subject options for the upcoming year, an important step in shaping their educational journey.

World-Class Basics:  Excellent Uniform: Emphasis on maintaining high standards of appearance.  Attendance and Punctuality: Regular and timely attendance will be prioritised to support success.

Hard Work in Classes:  Efforts in lessons will directly contribute to progress and achievement. Commitment to studies and active participation are key themes for success.

Having the Correct Equipment:  Ensuring every student is prepared and equipped for learning each day to maximize productivity.

 

As we come to the end of another busy and productive term, the tutors and I would like to thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s education. We hope you and your family have a joyful, peaceful, and relaxing Christmas holiday. May the New Year bring happiness, health, and success to all.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back in the spring term, ready for the exciting opportunities ahead. Best wishes for a wonderful festive season and a bright start to 2025!

With my warmest regards,

Alan Boyes
Year 9 Lead