Firstly, I would like to say a huge well done to all the Year 11 students for making it through to the end of a long, challenging but ultimately successful term.  Over the last 14 weeks, we have observed a growing maturity in the year group that should enable all students to make the most of their final year together. Whilst exams in the summer are at the forefront of a lot of activities in school this term, it is important that students make the most of their last year and all aspects of school life at NLS. Hopefully, the next two weeks offer the students the opportunity to have a well-earned break and rest and recharge.

Mock Exams

The two individual Mock periods this term have proved very successful and the students have coped admirably with the pressures and expectations required for this. It is important to remember that these exams are designed to support progress and prepare students for the real exams in the summer. It is important, therefore that students reflect on feedback given around areas of improvement, but also maintain confidence and motivation to continue their development in each individual subject area. All Year 11s will have a final English and Maths Mock week at the beginning of February prior to the start of the GCSE exam window in the summer term.

Student Success

During the last week of term, there has been a big focus on celebrating student successes over the Autumn term. At the time of writing, the plan is for end of term celebration assemblies to go ahead as usual to identify and regard outstanding behaviours demonstrated across the term. With this in mind, I would like to mention a number of students who have really stood out within the Year group over recent weeks, with the top 10 identified in each category:

In addition, all students with 100% attendance have received individual recognition (absences linked to Covid isolations do not impact on figures for year to date). Appreciating the challenges and unavoidable absences that unfortunately continue to impact on student learning, high attendance remains a key factor in student success within school and an area that will continue to be promoted. Alongside attendance, the importance of maintaining high standards of punctuality and presentation remain a key focus for the Spring term. Not only does this support our drive for high standards in school but provides students with key life skills for whichever post 16 environment they advance to.

Tutor Time Curriculum

The Year 11 tutor time curriculum continues to combine focused pastoral support with opportunities to fill in gaps in learning in prioritised subject areas. Students have been working on a fortnightly timetable, allowing them opportunities to discuss current affairs, develop their understanding of basic finances, and gain some opportunities to explore future career pathways. In addition, we have trialed the idea of a ‘Wellbeing Friday’ every second Friday to allow a release from the academic pressures of the year but also upskill students in their ability to recognise, manage and cope with anxieties in and out of school. In addition, it has been fantastic to see a high number of Year 11 students engage positively with the mentoring program which runs every Wednesday in school. The support and advice given to younger students has been wonderful to see and it has been fantastic to see our school community thriving again after all the restrictions of the last two years.

Passport to Prom

Looking ahead to next term, there are some exciting opportunities on the horizon. Notably, the passport to the prom is going to be shared with students during the first half term after Christmas. This is designed to reward students for positive learning behaviours, specifically engagement in after school revision sessions, in the lead up to Prom once all exams have been completed.

Whilst the summer may seem a long time away, it does come round quickly and we know students like to start planning for the prom early. Linked to this please find attached a prom outfit catalogue which contains donated and brand new items for all students to have for free.  For further details please contact nholt@northleamington.co.uk

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all staff and parents/carers involved in the support of Year 11 students this term. I hope everyone has an enjoyable festive period and gets the opportunities to find time to spend time with their loved ones over Christmas. Best wishes for a safe and happy two weeks and we look forward to welcoming Year 11 back in 2022.

Mr Foxon

Head of Year 11