As we approach the end of a very busy half term we can all look forward to a range of rewards and experiences to finish the half term on a high. As noted below we are rewarding specific forms for each year group with a film event to recognise their collective efforts to maintain their attendance. Good attendance to school remains the single most effective method to achieve the highest grades. Learners with more than two days' absence this term will already be below the magical figure of 98%  that statistically supports achievement in line with their targets. 

The end of term will also finish with our traditional staff pantomime that all learners enjoy. Staff have been rehearsing for a number of weeks to maintain standards and we are delighted to see the  return of a previous member of staff to support the production.  Please make a note of the slightly earlier finish of 13:30 on Friday to allow us to support this event. 

 

Gary Kibble 

 

The points below summarise the information shared with learners this week. 

 

School Events & Learner Rewards

 

• Attendance Reward: Festive Cinema Experience The form in each year group with the best attendance will be rewarded with a festive cinema experience on Thursday during Period 5 and 6 in the lecture theatre. Snacks will be provided for all to enjoy. Well done to all the forms who qualify.
• Festive Extravaganza A 'Festive Extravaganza' event will take place on Wednesday 17 December in the LRC during P4a/P4b. Winners of a prize draw will be announced during form time on Wednesday.
• Brilliant Activities Points Learners who have completed extra Brilliant Activities can visit Mr. Scurr to add their Premium Points at the LRC on Monday at breaktime. Bonus chocolates and stickers are being offered this week.
• Reading Culture Committee Meeting A meeting for the ‘Reading Culture Committee’ is scheduled for Today (Monday 15 December) at 8.30 am in the LRC.

 

Academic & Curriculum Notices

• Year 11 Post-16 Next Steps Year 11 learners who attended the bg6 Taster Day are asked to complete the online feedback form. Learners should also see Mrs. Sawyer for information on subject entry requirements for post-16 study.
• Careers Focus: Wind Turbine Engineer The Job of the Week is Wind Turbine Engineer. Essential requirements include English, Maths, and Science at grade 6 and above to access Level 3 courses, followed by a related degree (such as mechanical engineering) or an apprenticeship.

 

Safeguarding and Holiday Reminders

As the holidays approach, learners and parents are reminded of important safety information:

• Online Safety Learners should be aware of strangers, should not share personal information or location with people they do not know well, and should use privacy settings on new devices.
• Personal & Social Safety Learners are advised to stick with friends when out at events, keep their phone charged to stay connected, and use trusted methods of travel, wearing bright or reflective clothing when out in the dark.
• Mental Health & Support There are always places to go for support. Learners are encouraged to speak to parents or use helplines such as Kooth, Childline, or ChatHealth.