Dear HP families,

On Tuesday, the HP Act of Remembrance was an incredibly moving and powerful event which stood out as a highlight of the week. Sixth Form students Archie, Lola and Shalom were superb in leading the community in a thoughtful and respectful reflection. Archie began by outlining the origins and purpose of Remembrance Day with clarity and maturity. Lola continued by speaking about remembrance in a Gloucestershire context focusing on the story of the Glorious Glosters and the important place they hold in local memory. Shalom then delivered a calm and assured reading of the poem Soldier by Rupert Brooke. All three students are active members of our KS5 Public Speaking Club and their confidence is testament to the benefits of enrichment at HP.

Our Cadets also added their usual gravitas to the event. Nickita led the exhortation with composure and her contribution helped ensure the whole community could reflect properly. It was a fitting tribute to those who have served and we will remember them.

It has also been a week of success for several of our Y7 students who have recently achieved the bronze award for the GLT Character Award. This is an excellent accomplishment and reflects the hard work and perseverance shown by each student. Congratulations to Scarlett [J1], McKayla[ J1], Karen [J2], Edith [M2], Annie [T2] and Adhya and Carol both from [H/J/M/T]. All Y7s have a character passport and we would encourage parents to support their children in attempting the tasks. These activities help students develop resilience, confidence and independence, and it would be great to see even more of our young people working towards the award.

There has been plenty happening in sport this week. Our Football 1st XI played their first fixture of the season against Sir Thomas Rich's. Although the team lost 2-1 they produced a strong performance particularly as they have not yet trained together. Barnaby was named player of the match for his tireless work rate and for scoring the goal of the match with a remarkable strike from 30 yards. Our Year 10 Girls Football team also had an excellent fixture against St Peter's. Both teams looked strong but, in the end, the teamwork, determination and skill on display helped HP secure a well-deserved win. Congratulations to the goal scorers; Hermione, Amelia and Lily who was also named player of the match.

In addition to this, our Year 11 students have taken part in breakfast sessions held all week in the Sixth Form Centre. These sessions have focused on post 16 destinations and the pathways needed to reach them. Students have engaged positively and have shown a mature approach to planning their next steps.

Finally, this has been the first week of Year 13 mocks. Well done to all students for the focus and determination they have shown during these assessments.

I wish you all a lovely weekend,

Mr Hudson
Headteacher