Whole School Events

This term has been filled with memorable whole-school events that have brought our community together. We marked Red Nose Day with a fantastic bake sale, raising money for important charities—there were so many delicious cakes to enjoy, and we thank everyone who contributed.

We also hosted an engaging ‘Chat and Learn’ session for World Epilepsy Day on 26th March, which was well attended and helped to raise awareness in a meaningful way. In addition, from 16 to 27 March, we recognised Autism Awareness, exploring the importance of neurodiversity and celebrating the fact that everyone thinks and learns differently.

These events have not only supported students’ understanding of important issues but have also helped to foster a kind, inclusive, and supportive school environment. Our World Book Day celebrations were another highlight, with staff going above and beyond to bring stories to life—featuring favourites such as Treasure Island and The Hunger Games—creating a truly exciting and memorable experience for our students.

Tutor Time Curriculum

This half term, students have engaged in a wide range of valuable tutor time activities. They attended a College Assembly where the next College Attendance Challenge was launched.  As a College Leader, I always greatly enjoy these assemblies—it is fantastic to see Blackdown students coming together across year groups and continuing to build a strong sense of College identity. On this occasion, Binswood were crowned Attendance Champions, with Park a close second—well done to all students involved. We recognise the continued effort students are making to attend school every day.

Our Digital Literacy sessions focused on Artificial Intelligence helping students to better understand how to navigate the online world safely and responsibly. As part of our International Schools work, students also explored the theme of “How To Live In The World Without Harm”, encouraging thoughtful discussion and global awareness.

Students took part in a careers-focused session, where they learned about the skills employers are looking for, current job trends, and factors that can influence employment opportunities. In addition, they began their new PSHE tutor time topic, Essential Study Skills, with a focus on decision-making and understanding important life events.

Year 7 students also attended an important assembly on vaping. This provided clear, factual information about what vaping is, what vapes contain, and why it is important to understand the risks. The potential health effects were discussed, alongside strategies to help students resist potential peer pressure. This learning was reinforced during tutor time through a case study exploring the serious health consequences experienced by a young person as a result of vaping.

Looking ahead to next half term, tutor time will begin with students reflecting on their Data 2 outcomes and setting targets to support further progress during the summer term. They will also take part in a World of Work workshop, developing their understanding of future career pathways and employability.

The PSHE topic of Essential Life Skills will continue, with sessions focusing on growth mindset, resilience, positive role models, and exploring the debate around money versus happiness. In addition, students will have the opportunity to contribute to student voice activities, enabling them to share their views and provide feedback on key aspects of school life.

Rewards

Reward points continue to play an important role in recognising students’ positive learning behaviours and contributions to school life. Each week, we celebrate the achievements of the year group and those who go above and beyond. It has been wonderful to see tutor groups developing routines to acknowledge and celebrate successes, and it is clear how much students value their points. Congratulations to all Year 7 students—they should be very proud.

Students with the Highest Number of Reward Points

Top Two Students in Each College for Reward Points

Attainment

Tutor Awards

Online Safety

A reminder our school website contains a variety of online safety information within the Safeguarding tab. We added the March Online Safety Newsletter which contains information on mobile phones, VPNs and social media algorithms – it is linked here also

March Online Safety Newsletter

Student Leadership

This term, Year 7 students had the opportunity to apply to become Transition Leaders, supporting the incoming Year 6 students joining us next academic year. I was delighted to see over 80 students were successfully appointed. As part of their role, they will attend fortnightly meetings with Mrs McBride, our senior staff member overseeing transition, and take part in key events such as Getting to Know NLS Day, Transition Day, primary school visits, and providing tours for new students.

Next term, Year 7 students will also have the opportunity to apply for formal student leadership roles to undertake in Year 8. Positions will include Student Ambassador, supporting whole-school events such as Open Evening and showing visitors around and Eco Leader; and International Schools Leader. Further details about the application process and deadlines will be shared with students during tutor time.

Calendar

Year 7 Residential Trip – Whitemoor Lakes Information Evening

A reminder of a key date for your diary:

Year 7 Whitemoor Lakes Parent/Carer Information Evening will take place on Tuesday 14 April 2026, from 5:30pm to 6:30pm. During this evening, we will share finer details about the trip ahead of our departure on Friday 24 April, including our itinerary and kit list. Information regarding sleeping arrangements will also be shared with students after the Easter break.

Year 7 Subject Evening

I very much look forward to welcoming you to the upcoming Year 7 Subject Evening on Monday 20 April 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. This is a valuable opportunity to meet your child’s teachers and receive feedback on their progress. We also encourage your child to attend. Please refer to the letter dated 20 March for details on making appointments. Appointments can be booked until 9:00 am on Monday 20 April.

 

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all parents and carers on behalf of myself and the Year 7 tutor team for your continued support this term. Your encouragement and partnership make a real difference to students’ success and wellbeing. I hope you all have a restful and enjoyable Easter break, and I look forward to welcoming students back for a successful summer term.

Mr. Butler
Assistant Headteacher – Head of Year 7