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School Updates

Updates from NLS

December 2021

Archive

  • Year 7 Update- Autumn 2

    Published 13/12/21

    YEAR 7s HAVE MADE THEIR MARK!

    What can I say? Year 7 students have had an exceptional term and are continuing to shine. They are going from strength to strength, each developing and employing the CORE ethos of the school. 

    As a cohort of students, they are definitely establishing themselves as a superb year group, displaying fantastic attributes on a regular basis. It is so pleasing to witness the majority of students being supportive, honest, having integrity, never giving up and most importantly, displaying enthusiasm. As a year group we have accumulated the lowest number of behavioural consequences. Proving that we are fully aware of staff expectations during lesson time and social time. This corroborates the fact that we have the highest reward points collectively as a year group. Year 7 are not only demonstrating a positive work ethic on a daily basis, they are also being proactive in ensuring they seize many of the opportunities to contribute positively during lesson time. It has been a privilege to walk around the school and witness so many year 7s participating in the plethora of extra-curricular activities NLS has on offer.

    I am so very proud of the students in year 7. It is important that as their Year Leader, I am helping them to feel happy at school as well as ensuring that they have high aspirations. I have such a fantastic calibre of students within my year group who are motivated, charismatic and superb leaders. They epitomise the character and culture of the school.  I can confidently say that year 7s are most certainly firmly placed on the ‘NLS map’.

    Antibullying Competitions

    This half-term we have held a series of tutor group competitions centred around ‘anti bullying. Our students were requested to create and write a poem and design a logo deterring students to bully. We had some superb entries, making it considerably difficult to choose a winner. Students were provided with some guidance following an assembly on Monday 15 November. I have to say that we have an incredibly supportive and kind year group. I feel the majority of students in year 7 have an understanding of how kindness is more important today than it has ever been. The isolation of the last year has underlined how little acts of consideration can break down barriers and brighten the lives of the people around us. I would like to share some of the entries with you:

    You can clearly see how distinctive, appropriate, practical, graphic and simple in form they are.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    The entries that have made it into the final were created by:

    • Noah Thompson and Will Keeshan.
    • Isabel Hurst and Katy James.
    • Olivia Lloyd.

                            

    The winning design logo will be recreated by our Marketing Team and displayed on a t-shirt.  

    We also launched a creative writing competition, in which students could produce a song, a poem, a rap or simply a some form of text. Sebastian P had the confidence to perform his rap in a year 7 assembly in from of the entire year group as well as Ms Jones, our Deputy Head Teacher. I was bowled over by his spirit and courage. He is a credit to our year group.

    The winning poem was written by 7BW02:

    Bullying is not ok, it makes people want to hide away.

    You may think bullying is cool, but you’re acting like a real fool.

    We are going to fight it together, always and forever.

    So don’t do it, put an end to it.

    Even if you’re feeling small, stand up to bullies and be kind to all.

    Always think before you speak, so your words don’t make others feel weak.

    Don’t think bullying will bring you success, being kind is real progress.

    It’s anti-bullying week so do a good deed, by standing together and helping those in need.

    Never be afraid to report a bully, at NLS you will be supported fully.

    Year 7 Eco-Leaders

    I am so pleased to announce that we have now assigned a leadership role to the following year 7s. The students listed below are our Eco-Leaders. As part of their role, they will be requested to lead assemblies to promote the club and share their accomplishments and projects. They will be creating an advert to be shared across other tutor groups. This will be promoted in tutor time. They will organise specific events and activities within tutor groups to ‘score points’. Each Friday the team will come together to assess their progress.  

    Olly B Mason G Paulina S
    Naomi Y Matilda L Laurence H
    Emily O Isaac W Alex H
    Ila M Nadia K Peggy R
    Louis F Bogdan B Erika G
    Reuben P Kaddy K Huxley M

     

    No surprise….year 7 continue to reign at the top of the year group reward points leader board

    Year group

    Positive points

    Negative points

    7

    28609

    -244

    I don’t think we can celebrate the positive rewards, students in year 7 have achieved, without acknowledging the consequences that have also been accumulated. When reviewing the data, a significant number of these consequences are related to punctuality and home learning. Can I ask for some of you to support me in ensuring that your child leaves home with enough time to arrive to school at 8.30am.

    I also wanted to take this opportunity to remind you that as parents / carers you all have access to Go4Schools. This app will allow you to view the home learning your child has received and the date it is due. If your child is struggling to complete a particular piece of work, they should have been provided with enough time to speak to their teacher in order to gain a better understanding. If they do need some additional support, our school library is open until 5pm each day (apart from Friday). Here they will have access to books, a computer but importantly a Teaching Assistant is there to help. This is a fantastic resource that will allow your child to complete their home learning in a calm and supportive learning environment.   

    Top 12 Students with the highest reward points

    The battle for first place between Will K and Lucy M has been ongoing since the start of term. However, Will has managed to hold the title for the past 3 weeks, which is a real accomplishment. This terms top 12 students are listed below. These students been relentless in demonstrating their dedication and commitment to all aspects of school life. Well done!

    Will K

    176

    Lucy M

    171

    Amber B

    160

    Lilly B

    158

    Zac L

    158

    Kaddy K

    156

     

    Alexis F

    155

    Isaac H

    155

    Daniel P

    154

    Sophia B

    151

    Ben G

    151

    Jason N

    151

    Attendance

    I want to take this opportunity to applaud and acknowledge those 54 year 7 students that have managed to attend school each day since the beginning of term. Obviously the odds were most certainly against them considering we’re in the midst of a pandemic. However, I think they deserve some recognition for either having an incredible immune system or simply being resilient and persevering. I completely understand that many of our students have had to self-isolate, however it was fantastic to witness the majority of these year 7s still accessing their lessons remotely. It has been a difficult term for some students who have been plagued by repeated illnesses. Let’s hope 2022 brings us all good health and happiness.

    Remembrance Day 

    I gave all year 7 students the task of designing a poppy out of card and including a message of gratitude to all those people that have sacrificed their lives in WW1, WW2, the Falklands War, the Gulf War and conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. The year group produced some lovely poppies with very heartfelt messages. With all of the poppies I received, we decided to make a wreath that will be displayed by our school memorial.

     

    Celebrating Christmas at NLS

    This year our year 7 students donned their favourite and snazziest Christmas jumper in aid of Save the Children. It was fantastic to see so many year 7 students taking part for such an amazing cause. Each student contributed £1. This money will go towards supporting children in poverty ensuring they are equipped with medicine, an education and a balanced diet. The students should feel proud of themselves that they have made a difference to another child’s life.

                              

    Parents' Evening

    I am really excited to announce we are aiming (if at all possible) for the Year 7 parents' evening to happen face to face on school site. We are continuing to follow national guidelines on events in school, and this will be moved to a virtual event in the same time slot if we are advised to do so. In order to facilitate an on-site event the following measures will be in place:

    • Everyone attending the subject evening MUST wear a face covering unless medically exempt.
    • All visitors need to complete a lateral flow test before coming into school.
    • Teachers will be spread out into a variety of rooms, clustered by subject to ensure rooms are not overcrowded. In order to facilitate appointments in a variety of rooms, the system will build in travelling time for you to move from one room to another.
    • Social distancing measures will be in place, and hand sanitiser available throughout school.

    All bookings for subject evening will be done via SchoolCloud, where you can select which subject staff you would like to have a discussion with. Appointments can be made from Thursday 6 January at 4pm and will close on Monday 17 January at 9am. I look forward to seeing you then.

     

    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 fantastic Christmas and I look forward to seeing the return of your child on 5 January 2022.

    Kind regards,

    Mr Royle

    Head of Year 7

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  • Year 8 Update- Autumn 2

    Published 13/12/21

    Our Year 8 students continue to have high expectations of themselves in school and we are really proud of them. Some of our Year 8 students have had to isolate over this term and they have shown real determination in their efforts to learn both at home and on their return to school. We were also really pleased with the way in which students responded to our World Class Basics drive, thank you for your support with this. I would like to say a massive thank you to the Year 8 tutors. They have been fully supportive of the students and have worked hard to ensure their transition to new tutor groups has been successful. 

    Noticeboard Competition

    In Autumn 1, NLS launched a noticeboard competition where each of the Year 8 tutor groups created a noticeboard to represent their tutor group and college. These were fantastic, as seen pictured below.

    Our Year 9 Marketing Leaders have judged these brilliant noticeboards. The students judged the following category:

    • Tutor Group Identity
    • Creativity
    • General aesthetic appeal

    A massive well done to 8BW01 who were the well-deserved winners!

    Student Leadership

    Year 8 students had the opportunity to apply to become International School Leaders, Rewards Leaders or Ambassadors. We were really pleased to see so many students applying for these roles and have been extremely impressed with their work so far.

    The International School Leaders recently led an assembly to the whole of Year 8, where they spoke about their experiences of communicating with our linked school in India around democracy. This was really valuable for all students; the Year 8 students were particularly shocked to hear that the students in India had not returned to school since the first lockdown.

    Our Rewards Leaders have been meeting every fortnight in order to drive student rewards. We have been impressed with their ideas as to how we can continue to promote a culture of rewarding and recognising.

    Curriculum

    This half-term, students have focused on anti-bullying within their tutor time curriculum. Miss Murphy delivered an assembly where students reflected on their treatment of others both in real-life and online. It was wonderful to see so many Year 8s taking part in Odd Socks Day to promote tolerance and kindness. We will develop the detail of this later in the year when the Year 8 students will have an extended assembly around their use of social media.

    The Year 8 students engaged really well with the Restart a Heart Campaign; a campaign that raises awareness of cardiac arrest. The students were taught how to give CPR and how to use Automated External Defibrillators.

    Charity and Community

    The Remembrance Service was a real highlight of this half-term. The students reflected on both historic and recent conflicts in the world, some of which have involved NLS students. Harry D and Martin S took on key roles in the service and we were really proud of them. Harry is a member of the Air Cadets and this was a real highlight of the service. Martin played The Last Post during the service, which marked the two minutes of silence.

    It was fantastic to see so many students in their Christmas jumpers on Friday 10 December for Christmas Jumper Day 2021 and therefore raise money for Save the Children. Please see some students from 8O and 8A below:

     

    All ten tutor groups have taken part in the Community Christmas Hamper initiative. It was wonderful to see students considering who they felt were most in need of these hampers and how they could bring joy to members of their community. The students decided on a range of recipients, including local care homes and Leamington Night Shelter.

    Rewards and Recognition

    On Friday 17 December, we had our termly Celebration Assembly. We celebrated the successes of our Year 8 students this term and we are really proud of those students who received certificates and prizes.

    The Top 3 Reward Points were:

    1st Place Naomi M (8R)
    2nd Place Bethan B (8L)
    3rd Place Tilly T (8L)

    All three students received an Amazon voucher for their efforts!

    On Tuesday 18 January, the top 30 students in Year 8 will be invited to attend a cinema event to recognise their excellent attitude in lessons and tutor time. More information will follow in the New Year.

    Colleges

    This term we have relaunched the college system through a logo and slogan competition. Next half-term, students will meet with their College Leaders, Year 12 College Leaders and Year 11 Deputy College Leaders to have their first college assembly of the year.

    Spring 1 will see the Year 8 tutor groups rising to the challenging of raising as much money for our chosen charity as possible. We look forward to seeing each tutor group running their own charity event for a charity that the students will decide on as a year group.

    We will also see the return of inter-tutor group sports during tutor time, where the five different colleges will compete to get their college to the top!

    Thank you and Merry Christmas!

    Thank you for your ongoing support in what continues to be a challenging time for students. For those of you that the Year 8 team have had the opportunity to communicate with, we have been really pleased with the support you have offered. It is a pleasure to continue to work with you to best support your child. Do continue to communicate with us as we are here to support all Year 8 students. On behalf of the Year 8 team, I would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy Christmas break. We wish you all the best for 2022!

    Miss Murphy

    Head of Year 8

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  • Year 9 Update- Autumn 2

    Published 13/12/21

    As we reach the end of another eventful half-term, it is the perfect opportunity to reflect on and celebrate all the achievements of Year 9 students. It has been fantastic to hear and see how well students have adapted to the demands of their GCSE subjects; the recent data reports will have provided students with an insight to the progress they are already making. In tutor time sessions following the data reports, students were tasked with analysing their own progress (together with their attendance, reward points, attitude to learning and consequences) and setting themselves an academic or personal target to meet next half-term.

    In our end of term Celebration Assembly, a number of Year 9 students received certificates to acknowledge their achievements and successes from throughout the Autumn Term. Certificates were awarded across three categories to the top 2 students in each college:

    • Achievement (progress against targets)
    • Attainment (highest average points scored)
    • Most Reward Points

    The tables below show which students received which certificates. All recipients should be really proud of their efforts and high levels of engagement across this past term – a really successful start to Year 9!

     Achievement

    College

    Name

    Tutor Group

    Blackdown

    Ozi C

    09BD01

    Charlie C

    09BD02

    Binswood

    Ian de la PW

    09BW02

    Evelyn E

    09BW01

    Croft

    Louisa H

    09CT02

    Lizzie J

    09CT02

    Manor

    Martha NS

    09MR02

    Jess K

    09MR02

    Park

    Lauren D

    09PK01

    Libby R

    09PK02

    Attainment  

    College

    Name

    Tutor Group

    Blackdown

    Adam S

    09BD01

    Theo R

    09BD02

    Binswood

    Amelia S

    09BW01

    Poppy V

    09BW02

    Croft

    Rosie B

    09CT02

    Elissa W

    09CT01

    Manor

    Charlotte E

    09MR02

    Eunice K

    09MR02

    Park

    Eliza B

    09PK02

    Jessica M

    09PK02

    Reward Points

    College

    Name

    Tutor Group

    Blackdown

    Freya D

    09BD01

    Ewan D

    09BD01

    Binswood

    Ethan H

    09BW01

    Avneet R

    09BW01

    Croft

    Lola R

    09CT01

    Isaac P

    09CT01

    Manor

    Fred S

    09MR02

    Dhruv M

    09MR02

    Park

    Abbie L

    09PK01

    Zach W

    09PK01

    Student Leadership

    Following their appointment in September, the Year 9 Marketing Leaders and Year 9 Charity and Community Leaders have been utilising their creative and fundraising skills in recent weeks. The Marketing Leaders have been busy judging tutor noticeboards around the school, promoting events such as “NLS Does X Factor” and organising and distributing college pins for students to attach to their blazers to represent their college with pride. With Christmas just around the corner, Marketing Leaders have been preparing for the festivities by creating the first-ever NLS Christmas ecard. Well done to Freya D, Jakub S and Lola R for their brilliant designs!

                 

    The Charity and Community Leaders have also been working hard by supporting the “NLS Does X Factor” event by selling nearly 300 tickets, which raised £786.21 for Children in Need. £174.67 was also raised by our students as Leaders sold Remembrance Day poppies.

    Lastly, the Charity and Community Leaders collected £359.11 as students donated money for the Save the Children charity by replacing their school blazer  with a festive Christmas Jumper. A big thank you to our Year 9 Marketing and Charity and Community Leaders for their fantastic work and commitment over this last term. 

     

     

     

     

     

    Finally, this half-term has seen the start of a school Litter Picking initiative. 

    Charity and Community Leaders have recruited volunteers from Year 7 tutor groups to litter pick during tutor time in an attempt to keep our school site free from litter.

     

     

     

    Tutor Time

    During our tutor time sessions this half-term, Year 9 students have covered a range of important topics and events. In October, students completed research and expanded their knowledge of UK Black Icons as part of Black History Month. As a part of our International School status, students spent a week learning about what is happening in Syria, how it is affecting young people and wrote letters. Students also celebrated Anti-Bullying Week in November with activities based around ‘One Kind Word’ and by wearing odd socks to school to promote individuality, tolerance and acceptance. Students also received an informative assembly around the dangers of e-cigarettes and vaping.

                                     

    In the build up to Christmas, a Christmas Hamper Appeal was launched, where each Year 9 tutor group created a Christmas hamper to be donated within the local community. The hamper could be donated to an elderly neighbour, a local care home or to a family who may benefit from extra provisions to allow them to enjoy the festive period.

    Message to Parents and Carers

    As the first term comes to an end, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support so far this academic year. Like you, I want the very best for your children and working together is the key to achieving this. As we enter the winter season, I ask for your continued support with high standards of uniform; please ensure that your child is not wearing items such as hoodies or non-branded NLS jumpers to school because they will be asked to remove them. Student attendance and punctuality will continue to be a key focus as, along with uniform, these World Class Basics really do have an impact on student achievement. Finally, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I look forward to seeing you all at the Year 9 Parents’ Evening on Monday 10 January 2022.

    Mr Butler

    Head of Year 9

     

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  • Year 10 Update - Autumn 2

    Published 12/12/21

    The more effort you give, the more commitment you show, the more opportunities you’ll make, the further you’ll go.

    Tutor Curriculum

    LMI and CV writing

    This half term students have been undertaking some preparation towards their work experience. The first stage was to look at local Labour Market information to help students understand the job market and find out which careers different qualifications can lead to. This was then followed up by students reflecting on some of the skills that employers look for, and thinking about situations where they have developed these skills. Finally, students had the opportunity to write a personal statement for their CV. Student voice felt this was really useful and would like to have further opportunities to engage with both LMI and CV writing, and we will be adding this into the Careers Curriculum Map for Y10.

                                                             

    Learning Conversations 

    A key part of the report process is to celebrate successes and to identify areas to improve. Students have been reviewing their reports with their tutor and identifying a key area to focus on with some actions that they will take to improve that area. Student voice has shown that students really value the input of Learning Mentors in supporting this process.  

    International Schools

    As part of our International School status, the whole school has been looking at the conflict in Syria and how we can support children impacted by war. This is such an important topic allowing our students to appreciate that children of their age in other countries, can experience such extensive additional barriers that can significantly affect their opportunities to access an education.

    Student Leadership

    CEIAG

    The careers leaders are starting to meet to discuss the current careers provision in school and how this can be improved. They are already considering the world of work, and how we can inform each year group of the opportunities for employment that are available to them. It really is a pleasure working with students who have so many great ideas.

    Sports

     

    Intercollege sports is always a hot topic, and the newly appointed sports student leaders will certainly have their work cut out for them as they prepare for the first competition. Watch this space.

    RE Mock

    Mr Atkins and I were incredibly impressed with how the Y10 students conducted themselves during the RE mock. Students were calm, equipped and very receptive to the rules that were put in place to ensure that every student has the opportunity to achieve their very best in a fair environment.

    Rewards and celebration

    As always there is much to celebrate and so we’re looking forward to the celebration assembly at the end of term.

    Christmas Hampers

    Christmas is such a good opportunity for students to remember those less fortunate than themselves. This year we will be running our annual Tutor Group Christmas hamper where each tutor group will create a hamper of goodies to be delivered to a relative, neighbour, or shelter. These are always well received and I look forward to seeing the photos of them being delivered.

    I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

    Mrs Sarah Barley-Morey                                                        

    Head of Year 10                         

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  • Year 11 Update- Autumn 2

    Published 11/12/21

    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:

    Highest number of reward points in Year 11 (Autumn Term)

    Ellen

    11BW02

    Luis

    11CT01

    Emma

    11BW02

    Andrew

    11MR02

    Daniel

    11CT01

    Sophie

    11MR01

    Annabel

    11CT01

    Holly

    11BW01

    Ben

    11BD01

    Chloe

    11MR02

    Attainment- Students with the highest current average grade across all subjects

    Annabel

    11CT01

    Ruby

    11PK01

    Bridey

    11BD01

    Jamie

    11CT02

    Maya

    11PK01

    Peter

    11BW01

    Emma

    11BW02

    Lola

    11BD01

    Caitlin

    11MR01

    Shingai

    11MR01

     

    Progress- Students who are currently on track to make the greatest progress relative to their target grades.

    Arusha

    11PK02

    Grace

    11MR02

    Avishaa

    11PK01

    Emily

    11MR02

    Scarlett

    11CT02

    Zara

    11PK01

    Annie

    11CT02

    Lucy-May

    11BD02

    Lily

    11PK01

    Ben

    11BD01

    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

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  • Sixth Form Update- Autumn 2

    Published 10/12/21

    Sixth Form students have had another jam-packed half term, with the focus for Year 13 on UCAS applications and receiving offers and for Year 12 getting used to the pace of their A Level and BTEC studies and starting to look into work experience placements for the end of the year. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support this term and I wish you and your families a very happy Christmas.

    UCAS

    Students have continued working on their UCAS applications, with five of our Year 13 students gaining interviews for Oxford and Cambridge. Well done to Leo, Sophie, Alfie, Alysia and Jacob; we will keep our fingers crossed for you! Many students are receiving offers from a variety of universities, a reminder to move your name up on the Post 16 Kart board in the common room.

    Tutor boards

    This term we challenged students to decorate their tutor boards with something about them, birthdays, and anything else that gave them a certain je ne sais quoi! We were so impressed with the effort students and tutors went to, with amazing artists drawing self-portraits, an area for 12VB’s pets, 13SF’s coat of arms and medieval themed board and some beautiful birthday balloons! The winning form was 12AM with their amazing space themed board which celebrated students each week, well done!

                               

                     

    Christmas Fun

    Sixth Form students have taken part in a variety of Christmas activities this year. Students brought in donations to put towards a shoe box, which have been donated to the local Helping Hands charity in Leamington. Students took part in Christmas jumper day on Friday, bringing in £1 for Save the Children charity. Tutor groups have been working on ‘Christmas Creations’ which ranged from a video to handmade Christmas cards for a local care home. The winners were announced in our Christmas celebration assembly – well done!

    Rewards

    This term saw the launch of our rewards programme where students who receive reward points get their names put into a prize draw where three are selected from each year, winning gift vouchers of their choice. These were awarded in the final assembly - well done to all of those who won and a nudge to everyone else to remind your teachers next term…points mean prizes!

    We were also delighted to award some ‘Student of the Term’ awards which were nominated by students’ teachers.

    Application to NLS

    Welcome to any prospective students looking to apply for North Leamington Sixth Form. We will be in touch in the New Year regarding the next steps in the process. View the application form online. The deadline has been extended until Wednesday 12 January 2022.

    Miss Hase

    Head of Sixth Form

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  • Drama Update- Autumn 2

    Published 09/12/21

    Year 7 & Y8 Drama

    Students in KS3 are following a programme of learning that explores an introduction to Drama.  As part of the course, they have established relationships within the group to create an effective group ensemble and complete activities that help them to build their confidence as a group and learn: How do we work well collaboratively? How do we use stage space? How do we use physicality? How do we use voice?

    Year 7 students have explored a range of drama strategies from Still images, Thought-tracking and Transitions through to exploring Narration and Chorus work. Students explored the Greek Myth Oedipus and the Sphinx and they have also explored Genre and created a variety of interpretations of the Three Little Pigs.

    Y8 Drama students have explored different approaches to creating devised performance work through spontaneous improvisation to script work. They have created their Pantomime performances inspired by Mischief Theatre.

    Year 9 GCSE Drama

    Students have been performing their devised performances that are based on The Island by Armin Greder. They have explored approaches to devising used by different practitioners including Frantic Assembly, Bertolt Brecht and Steve Berkoff.

    Year 10 GCSE Drama

    Students have been working towards a devised performance that is worth 40% of their final GCSE grade. Students work collaboratively in a group as a designer or performer to create a performance based on a stimulus of their own choosing. Topics chosen this year range from the story of Sarah Everard, The Pressure of Social Media, The Alice Ruggle Story, Sir Nicolas Winton, The Audrey Hepburn Story. Students will be performing in the Spring Term.

    Year 10 Theatre Visit Blood Brothers Birmingham Hippodrome Thursday 4 November

    On Thursday 4 November 2021 Year 10 Drama students had the opportunity to go on a theatre visit to watch the performance of ‘Blood Brothers’ at The Birmingham Hippodrome. This trip prepared students for their GCSE Component 3 Theatre Makers in Practice examination which is worth 40% of their GCSE. Written by Willy Russell, the legendary 'Blood Brothers' tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

    Year 11 GCSE Drama 

    Students have been busy preparing for their Component 3 exam this term. There are two areas of focus::                                    

    1. Study of one complete performance text.

    2. A live theatre evaluation.

    Section A: The Crucible by Arthur Miller Students will practically explore a set text in order to be able to answer short and extended response questions. These questions will focus on decisions made as a performer, a director and a designer. An extract from the chosen set text will be provided in the exam paper. Students will have access to the text in school but you may wish to purchase a copy of the text to support your child with their learning beyond the classroom. The edition that the exam board will use in the examination is:

    Arthur Miller The Crucible Methuen Student Edition ISBN 978-1-4081-0839-0

    Revise Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Drama Revision Guide ISBN 9781292131986

    Drama Revision Workbook ISBN 9781292131979

    Section B Live Theatre Evaluation Y11 Drama students had the opportunity to watch a live theatre performance in school of ‘Teechers’ by John Godber on Friday 19 November. Watching this performance prepared students for their GCSE Component 3 Theatre Makers in Practice examination which is worth 40% of their GCSE.  ‘Teechers’ is brought to the stage by highly acclaimed Blackeyed Theatre with high energy, break-neck comedy and breathtaking ensemble performances. This modern classic has challenging themes and commentary on current education. The piece is fast-moving, inventive and highly entertaining. Alternatively students have watched Jane Eyre by National Theatre which is part of the National Theatre Collection online.  

    In the Spring Term they will be rehearsing and performing their Component 2 Monologues/Duologues.

    Enrichment in Drama

    Year 7 Vibe Drama have been led by Year 9 Drama Leaders and Year 8 Vibe Drama Club have been led by Year 10 Drama Leaders. Both groups have participated in mask workshops and created short performances for the winter concert which has been postponed until the new year.

    Drama Leaders and Arts Award

    The Drama Leaders in Y9 and Y10 have done an amazing job of relaunching our extra-curricular programme. They will also have the opportunity to complete either the Bronze or Silver Arts Award. The Arts Award assesses how young people develop in their chosen arts activities rather than achievement of a specific skill level and it can earn a Level 1/Level 2 national qualification. Students will work independently to create their own portfolio about their interests and their progress with guidance from Mrs Hill and Ms Murphy. At Bronze and Silver level, young people take an active part in the arts as well as experiencing the arts as audience members. They create personal arts portfolios in the format of their choice to record their experiences, including research into an artist they admire and sharing their skills with others. They collect and record evidence of everything they do along the way.

    Sixth Form Enrichment – Gold Arts Award

    There are two Gold Arts Award units which contain distinct activities. Unit 1 is about personal arts development and unit 2 is about developing leadership skills in the arts. The Gold Arts Award is a Level 3 qualification on the QCF and worth 16 UCAS points. To pass unit 1 and unit 2 of the Gold Arts Award, young people are required to create an individual arts portfolio that demonstrates how they meet all of the following requirements:

    The Gold Award Portfolio

    The portfolio is a chance to show everyone what you did for your award and how you did it. You can choose the format for your portfolio and it doesn’t need to be written – here are a few ideas but feel free to think of your own:

    • Video
    • Audio Diary
    • Cartoon Graphic Book
    • Website
    • Scrapbook
    • Photo Diary

    Collect anything that shows the activities you have been involved in:

    • Tickets
    • Photos
    • Leaflets
    • Posters
    • Any notes or sketches
    • Emails, feedback or online discussions

    Students work independently on their portfolios with the support of an Arts Award Advisor. Both Mrs Hill and Miss Murphy are qualified Arts Award Advisors.

    Mrs Hill

    Head of Performing Arts Faculty

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  • PE Update- Autumn 2

    Published 08/12/21

    What an incredible start to the academic year and a change from this time last year! Clubs have been as busy as we have ever- we have seen over 350 students per week attending and fixtures vs local schools continuing alongside this. 

    We have had a very successful period of rugby tournaments against local schools in all year groups and the netball teams have all had incredible success over this half-term, showing that all their hard work in lessons and at clubs is paying off. We have also competed against other schools in hockey, boys/girls football and cross-country. As Head of PE, I would personally like to recognise and thank the immense efforts of the PE team this term for the level of extra-curricular opportunities provided for our students and also to those staff members who have supported the PE Extra-curricular offer. These include Mr Piper, Mr Bamber, Mr Ingram, Miss Butler, Miss Reed, Gareth from Leamington RFC and our Sixth Form students who have supported coaching students alongside PE staff.

    119 Year 9 and 10 students have started out on their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s award journey and our Year 11 GCSE students are soon to undertake their Christmas mock assessment- good luck from the PE department! 2022 promises to be an exciting year, with lots to look forward to. The extra-curricular timetable has undergone a new year's makeover and will reflect the changing season and upcoming extra-curricular fixtures. We also have our priority moderation nights, where our GCSE students will be put through their paces and graded on their sporting performance. Details regarding the moderation process are provided below.

    KS3 & KS4 Spring 1 Games Rotations

    As our students return following the Christmas break, they will start a new selection of physical activities. Details are provided below of the activities each year group will follow. Students will be informed which lesson of the week they will do each activity in years 7-9. Football will take place on the astro (unless informed otherwise). Students must ensure they are wearing either trainers or astros for this rotation and must not wear studded boots. Shin pads are recommended but optional. Please could all students who are ill or injured bring a note and continue to bring kit and change. All students will be expected to undertake a role within the lesson, even if their physical participation is limited. Where issues with kit exist such as articles have gone missing or are in the wash, could students please bring in appropriate kit from home to wear, instead of relying on spare kit from school.

    Year Group

    Sport 1

    Sport 2

    7 & 8 boys

    Football (astro / field if P4 where boots will be needed)

    Fitness

    7 & 8 girls

    Basketball

    Dance / Football

    9 boys

    Football (astro / field if P4 where boots will be needed)

    Table Tennis

    9 girls

    Badminton / Invasion Games if G3

    Handball

    10 & 11 performance 1

    Fitness 10 / Table Tennis 11

     

    10 & 11 performance 2

    Badminton 10 & 11

     

    10 & 11 participation 1

    Table Tennis 10 / Football 11

     

    10 & 11 participation 2

    Netball 10 & 11

     

    GCSE PE Y11 Moderation & Extra-Curricular

    The examination boards require increased levels of filmed evidence, therefore, our Year 11 students will have priority access to extra-curricular time during Spring 1. One evening per week, students will be invited to participate in compulsory moderation sessions. This will involve the collating of video footage of our examination students performing a range of skills and undertaking competitive games in football, basketball, rugby, table tennis, athletics and badminton; whilst grading of their individual performance will be conducted by PE staff. Our GCSE PE course comprises 30% practical, and therefore it is vital that as a department we are accurate and honest with our grading. This is a real team effort and will require all the department’s expertise to be present. Due to the staffing requirements of these evenings, clubs such as football and netball will no longer be available for KS3 & KS4 students this half-term. Basketball fixtures will be upcoming for all year groups vs local schools and joins our extra-curricular offering; whilst Mr Piper will continue to run his well-established hockey club and Gareth from Leamington RFC will continue with Rugby. Miss Davis’ KS3 and KS4 dance will resume on Wednesdays and Thursdays respectively, following the Christmas festivities. A breakdown of the new timetable is provided further below.

    Spring 1 Extra-curricular Timetable

    All clubs are open to BOYS and GIRLS unless stated otherwise. Fixtures will also be made with other schools during this time, with PE staff directly liaising with sports captains.

    Date w/c

     

    Monday

    Tuesday

    Wednesday

    Thursday

    Friday

    10 Jan 22

    Y9 Subject Eve 1

    -Year 11 GCSE Table Tennis Moderation

    -Y9-11 Basketball B&G

    -Y7/8 Basketball Boys

    -All years Hockey

    -KS4 Dance

    -Y10 BTEC Sport exam revision

    -Y7&8 Basketball Girls

    -All years Rugby

    KS4 Boxing Fit

    -KS3 Dance

    No clubs – enjoy your weekend 

    17 Jan 22

    Y7 Subject Eve 1

    -Year 11 GCSE Basketball Moderation

     

    -Y7/8 Basketball Boys

    -All years Hockey

    -KS4 Dance

    -Y10 BTEC Sport exam revision

    -Y7&8 Basketball Girls

    -All years Rugby

    -KS4 Boxing Fit

    -KS3 Dance

    24 Jan 22

    Y7 & Y9 Subject Eve 2

    -Year 11 GCSE Football Moderation

    -Y9-11 Basketball B&G

    -Y7/8 Basketball Boys

    -All years Hockey

    -KS4 Dance

    - Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Drop In Session

    -Y10 BTEC Sport exam revision

    -Y7/8 Basketball GIRLS

    -All years Rugby

    -KS4 Boxing Fit

    -KS3 Dance

    31 Jan 22

    Dept Meeting

    -Year 11 GCSE Badminton Moderation

     

    -Y7/8 Basketball Boys

    -All years Hockey

    -KS4 Dance

    -Y10 BTEC Sport Exam Revision

    -Y7/8 Basketball GIRLS

    -All years Rugby

    -KS4 Boxing Fit

    -KS3 Dance

    7 Feb 22

    Staff Meeting

    -Year 11 GCSE Athletics Moderation

    @Edmonscote

    -Y9-11 Basketball B&G

    -Y7/8 Basketball Boys

    -All years Hockey

    -KS4 Dance

    -Y10 BTEC Sport Exam Revision

    -Y7/8 Basketball GIRLS

    -All years Rugby

    -KS4 Boxing Fit

    -KS3 Dance

    14 Feb 22

    Tutor Meeting

    -Year 10/11 GCSE Rugby Moderation

    @LRFC

    -Y9-11 Basketball B&G

    -Y7/8 Basketball Boys

    -All years Hockey 

    -KS4 Dance

    -Y10 BTEC Sport Exam Revision

    -Y7/8 Basketball GIRLS

    -All years Rugby

    -KS4 Boxing Fit

    -KS3 Dance

     

    Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

    Our Year 9 and 10 students have begun their exciting Duke of Edinburgh’s award journey. The bronze award is a six month commitment comprising of four different units of work called Skill, Physical, Volunteering and Expedition. Students must commit to each block of activity for one hour per week for a set time period of 3 or 6 months. They must display dedication in their skill & physical as they hone their football, tennis, hockey, squash, cooking, art, coding and first aid skills, alongside showing true selflessness in their volunteering. Our students will collectively contribute over 1,500 hours serving our community, by giving up their time to work in a variety of local charity shops, youth groups, and sports clubs alongside children at sports clubs, and protecting the environment by litter picking in the local area. Each of our students undertake their award outside of school hours, culminating in a qualifying expedition out in the Cotswolds. On the expedition, students will be required to safety and effectively navigate their way from a pre-planned drop off point, to camp – where they will stay overnight in a tent, before making their way to their final destination.

    Fixtures Highlights

    Our U13 Girls played their competitive fixtures for NLS in the autumn term. Our teams finished 1st and 6th respectively, well done to all involved!

                        

    A team of intrepid cross-country runners travelled to Stratford upon Avon School on a crisp November morning.  Archie L in year 8 put in a superb performance to take the win in the U14 intermediate boys’ race.

    Mr Burt

    Head of PE

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  • English Department Update -Autumn 2

    Published 07/12/21

    It has been a fantastic first term for the English Department, with lots of projects devised by staff to help enhance the wider curriculum we offer, and engage students beyond the classroom.

    Read More

December 2021

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