GCSE Option Choices

We have now had our first assembly introducing students to the GCSE option choices process. The option process becomes a real focus next half term with parents and carers receiving additional parent communication in the first few weeks back which will include an invite to attend the Options Information Evening on 16 March.  At this event students and parents will have the opportunity to hear from subject leaders, ask questions, and gain a clear understanding of the pathways available.

RE Mock Exam - 6 May 2026

This year sees the introduction of an RE mock exam. This is to prepare students for the examinations process. We have already had an assembly led by Mrs McGuinn, Head of RE. During the assembly three students from Year 11 talked insightfully about their experiences of the RE mock exam, their revision journey and the actual exam at the end of Year 10. Students will also have an introduction to effective revision through the tutor time curriculum.

Attendance - The Winning Streak

We are extremely proud of how well the whole school has participated in our Winning Streak competition this half term. As shown in the graph, a fantastic number of students have achieved 100% attendance, with a significant improvement compared to the same time last year. Students have responded incredibly well, and the results reflect the collective effort across the school. An enormous well done to all our students, tutors and families for their continued commitment and support — thank you for helping make this such a success.

  

Tutor Curriculum

The primary focus for tutor time this half term has been Gaming. Students have looked at the reasons people game and the potential for harm.

During the week of 2 February, NLS supported National Apprenticeship Week by signposting apprenticeships to our students throughout the week. As a school we are recognised for highlighting the full range of Post-16 and Post-18 opportunities so that students can make the most informed decisions about their future. Students undertook tutor-based activities that helped to develop their knowledge and understanding of apprenticeships in general whilst in lessons, staff showed short video clips and shared stories to their classes, showcasing apprenticeships linked to individual subject areas. Parents and carers can find information about apprenticeships in the Future Pathways section in the Careers area on the school website.

Students also took part in sessions linked to Children’s Mental Health Week this week, which this year focused on the theme “This is My Place”. These sessions encouraged students to reflect on friendships and belonging, and to consider how positive relationships can support their overall health and well-being.

Students start next half term with a College Assembly. These assemblies provide a unique opportunity for Colleges to come together.

Students will also continue their Digital Literacy journey and revisit the International School Project. Students will also look more in depth at the Labour Market Information as part of career-related learning as well as prejudice and discrimination in a range of settings.

Cyber Event with The Smallpiece Trust

Year 9 students were given the opportunity to take part in a pilot Cyber STEM Day delivered by the Smallpiece Trust. Students were immersed into the world of cybersecurity, digital technology, and engineering through a series of engaging, hands-on activities giving students a real insight into future careers in technology and cyber security. You can read more about thsi in the Latest News section of this Bulletin. 

Career Event Post 16 Options

The Post-16 Career event this year focused on Warwickshire College Group. We welcomed Sally Ward who talked about the different colleges that make up the Group, the qualifications you can take and the range of subjects/sectors covered. Students had an opportunity to ask questions and recorded information that they can upload to their area on our careers platform Grofar.

Rewards

Students in Year 9 continue to accrue an impressive swathe of reward points. Once again many of these are for respect and commitment to learning.

The students below are the pick of the year group having accumulated the largest number of rewards this half term.

Online Safety Newsletter

Our February Online Safety newsletter has been published on the website on the Safeguarding tab – Online Safety  - and you can also read it here Online Safety Newsletter - February. It includes information on the AI image generator and moderator tools that are widely available, Tik Tok and an article on screen time and resilience.

In addition, we have added a newsletter to the website with information based around Safer Internet Day which was celebrated on 10 February. You can also read it here Safer Internet Day Newsletter.

Calendar

9 March - Options Launch

16 March -Subject and Options Evening

As ever we thank you for your continued support in helping to navigate your child’s learning journey. We’re now well over halfway through the academic year and our main priority is starting to prepare students for the world of GCSEs. Please do not hesitate in contacting your child’s tutor in the first instance should you have any questions. Have a lovely half term break.

Mrs Sarah Barley-Morey
Year 9 Lead