RE Mock Exam Success

One of our first major milestones this term was the completion of the Religious Education mock exam. Our students approached this challenge with impressive preparation, resilience, and focus. Their hard work clearly shone through, and it was wonderful to see how well they managed the pressure.

A big thank you also goes to all the parents and carers who attended the RE support session with Mrs McGwinn via Teams on Tuesday 14 October. Copies of the presentation, model answers, and a wide range of revision materials are now available on the Digital Learning Hub in the Subject Resources area — a valuable tool as students continue their GCSE journey.

A Smooth Start to GCSE and BTEC Options

This term also marked the start of students’ GCSE option subjects, and I’m thrilled to report that the transition has been seamless. Moving up to Key Stage 4 can be a big step, but our Year 10s have embraced their new courses with enthusiasm and determination.

Across all subjects — from sciences to the arts — teachers have praised their positive attitude, engagement, and commitment. This strong start sets an excellent foundation for what promises to be a highly successful Year 10.

Assemblies on Revision and Preparation for examinations

Our assemblies this term have focused on effective revision strategies and career planning, underpinned by our school’s CORE values. Students have explored techniques such as time management, active revision, and how to make the most of practice papers.

We’ve also begun discussions about work experience and future pathways, encouraging students to think about their interests, aspirations, and next steps. These sessions have been well received, sparking thoughtful conversations about motivation and goals.

Attendance Matters

I’m pleased to share that attendance across Year 10 has improved significantly this term. Consistent attendance is key to academic success, ensuring that students stay on track, build confidence, and make the most of every learning opportunity. Thank you for your continued partnership in reinforcing the importance of being present and punctual — it truly makes a difference.

Sporting Highlights

This term has been packed with sporting achievements! Our football and netball teams have represented Year 10 with pride, teamwork, and determination. Even in tough matches, their resilience and sportsmanship have stood out.

A special mention goes to our Year 10 Netball Team, who made a brilliant start to their season with a 29–11 victory against Arnold Lodge. From the first whistle, NLS took control — with Bella and Molly shining in attack and Anais, Evie, and Sadie putting in outstanding defensive performances. The team maintained momentum throughout, finishing with confidence and composure. Player of the Match: Lola — well done! 
We look forward to seeing what the teams will achieve in the coming months.

Whole-School Events
Race for Life

On Friday 26 September, Year 10, along with the whole school,  took part in our annual Race for Life, showing tremendous energy, generosity, and community spirit.

Whether running or walking, every student contributed to raising vital funds for charity. The atmosphere was electric — a true display of teamwork and encouragement.

 

World Mental Health Day – Hello Yellow

On Friday 10 October, we proudly supported Young Minds’ Hello Yellow Day, with students wearing yellow accessories and contributing to a wonderful cake sale that raised £860 in total.

During tutor time, students also reflected on ways to support their own mental wellbeing and learned about the support available within school — from our Mental Health Team, to Lulu the school dog, and our Individual Educational Needs (IEN) team.

Tutor Curriculum

This half term, students have been exploring British Values through their tutor curriculum — deepening their understanding of democracy, respect, individual liberty and tolerance.

We’ve also been celebrating Black History Month; the theme has been Standing Firm in Power and Pride. This themes aimed to celebrate the resilience, strength and commitment of the Black community in helping to shape society in the UK and worldwide. Students looked at  significant Black and Mixed Heritage individuals who have stood firm in power and pride and engaged in meaningful discussions. The engagement and maturity shown have been truly impressive.

Rewards

I’m delighted to announce that Year 10 have achieved enormous amounts of rewards so far this term!  Collectively, the year group has earned over 28,000 reward points — a record-breaking achievement that reflects their exceptional effort, positive behaviour, and commitment to our school values. Special congratulations to our top achievers this half term:

These students have consistently demonstrated an outstanding attitude and work ethic — a huge well done to all of you!

Student Leadership

Congratulations to our newly appointed Year 10 Sports Leaders — a group of students who will help champion physical activity and teamwork across the school:

Binswood: Jonah P, Adam U, Hope D, Otto C

Blackdown: Ben W, Danel Z, Paulina K, Anais S

Croft: Stanley B, Iris W, Alan K

Manor: Jody H, Dylan K, Ellie B, Molly L

Park: Blake M, Luca S, Bella B, Esme

We are also proud to announce that Esha D and Shiuli P have been appointed as our Year 10 Careers Leaders — congratulations to you both!

Online Safety

A reminder that our website contains a variety of online safety information within the Safeguarding tab and we have added the September and October Online Safety Newsletters and a link to Parentsafe which is a very useful tool produced by LGfL (London Grid for Learning).

It offers a wide range of support materials and advice for parents to keep children and young people safe in the online world.

Topics on offer include:

• Top tips for right now
• Safe settings and control on various devices
• What’s that APP?
• Talking to children about the topic
• Screen time
• Top topics including fake news
• Sex and relationships
• Help and reporting

You can view resources and advice via the links here:  Parentsafe LGfL Website and Online Safety Information on the NLS Website

Looking Ahead

Next half term promises to be just as exciting, with a range of events and opportunities for our Year 10 students to get involved in. We’ll be marking Remembrance Day, November 11 with a whole-school commemoration, promoting kindness and inclusion through Anti-Bullying Week culminating in Odd Socks Day on November 14 and have our second College Assemblies.  As we move towards the festive season, students will also take part in a variety of community and charity activities to support others and spread some Christmas cheer including the Winter Music Concert on Wednesday December 3 and Christmas Jumper Day on December 12.

 

This half term has been a brilliant start to Year 10. From academic achievements to acts of kindness and leadership, our students continue to make us proud every day. Thank you for your ongoing encouragement and support — it makes all the difference.

Let’s keep this fantastic momentum going into the next half term!

Warm regards,

Alan Boyes
Year 10 Lead