One of my first assemblies delivered in school was about a group of trapeze artists called the “The Flying Wallendas”, who “ flew through the air, … like they were flying”. The key learning point was that nothing is effortless and such exercise requires dedication, self discipline and hours of practice to perfect the routine.
Such dedication and expertise were evident on Thursday 11 June with the performance of Matilda. The first musical performance within school was delivered expertly, with confident accomplished performances throughout. Of course this sort of performance does not happen without hours of rehearsals and the dedication of staff and learners alike. Congratulations to all involved.
The points below summarise the information shared with learners this week.
Key Information & Academic Expectations
- Attendance and Achievement: There is a proven direct link between strong school attendance and higher exam results, leading to greater future earning potential. Please contact your child’s form tutor, Achievement Leader, or teacher if there are any issues affecting attendance.
- Homework Reminders: All homework tasks and upcoming deadlines are actively set on Class Charts. Please note that a failure to hand in homework on time or to an acceptable standard results in a ‘Study and Support’ (SAS) detention. If your child experiences any ICT access issues at home, please contact Mrs Hendry at mhendry@batleygirls.co.uk.
Rewards, Enrichment & School Clubs
- The Batley Girls' Brilliance Bucket: Learners earn 20 premium points for 100% weekly attendance and 10 points for completing a weekly Brilliance Activity. Accumulating points unlocks bonus rewards. Learners placing in the top 25% across the school qualify for VIP status tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum). Extra points can be validated by Mr Scurr in the LRC during Monday breaktimes.
- PE Clubs (2025-2026): All year groups are welcome to attend after-school sports sessions in the Sports Hall from 3:00pm–4:00pm. Mondays feature Volleyball and Taekwondo, while Tuesdays offer Mixed Sports and Darts. Learners must bring their PE kit and water.
- Key Stage 3 Art Club (Years 7–9): Runs on Mondays from 3:00pm–4:00pm in Room 45, led by Miss Halson and Miss Parfitt. Consents are give via ParentPay. A late bus option is available at 4:00pm for £1.50.
Careers, Digital Skills & Competitions
- Job of the Week – Train Driver: Key requirements highlighted to learners include strong GCSEs (particularly in English and Maths), good eyesight and hearing, and the ability to maintain concentration for extended periods.
- Cyber Switch Up 2026: Registration is officially open for learners in Key Stages 3, 4, and 5 for this free digital and cyber skills competition across the Yorkshire & Humber region. Following an online qualifier on Tuesday 1 September, the top 100 participants will compete in the Live Finals at Leeds Trinity University on Tuesday 24 November. More details are available at https://cyberswitchup.net/.
Personal Development & Culture
- Word of the Week & Idioms: The school is focusing on the word "Quandary" (a state of uncertainty or difficult choices) and the idiom "Rob Peter to pay Paul" (solving one problem by creating another). Learners are also encouraged to use the phrase "all good things come to those who wait" to earn connection points.
- SMSC Awareness: This week, learners explored the history of the Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev (the 5th Sikh Guru), reflecting on core values of faith, spiritual resilience, humility, and service to humanity.
