Dear HP families,

Update From The Headteacher, Mr Hudson:
It is crucial that all HP students can write fluently to communicate their thinking and ideas. This week, during our INSET day, our teaching team has been working together to strengthen how we support all Holmleigh Park students to write fluently and confidently. A key focus has been developing extended answers in assessments and examinations. We have explored how to provide clear structure at the start of the writing process through models, frameworks and guided prompts, and how to gradually remove this support over time so that students build independence, precision and fluency in their writing.

We have had a very positive term with attendance and have been above where we were across Term 4 last year. With one week to go, please reinforce to your children the importance of attending every day. There is important feedback on recent assessments, lessons next week where knowledge will be needed straight after Easter, and we have Celebration Assemblies and student rewards planned.

Families Survey:
The Families Survey is now open and the link was shared in a previous email. The deadline is Thursday 26th March. Your views matter and are always considered as part of our annual planning for the next academic year. As of 8:45am today, we have received 165 responses, so please do complete it if you have not yet done so.

HP in Action Tours with the Headteacher:
While we host daily tours in the Autumn for prospective Year 7 families, we also want current families to have regular opportunities to see HP in action and ask questions as your child progresses through their time with us. There is now a weekly HP in Action Tour with the Headteacher every Tuesday at 10am. Prior booking is required. Bookings can be made here on the HP website under HP in Action Tours with the Headteacher.

Activities Week:
We have had strong interest in Activities Week and, in response, we have extended the deadline for the deposit. Each trip costs £30 in total, with a £10 deposit required to secure your child’s place. Please contact a.sharples@hphigh.co.uk with any questions.

House Matches:
The eagerly awaited Term 2 House Matches begin on Monday. Boys will compete in football and girls in netball, with all students representing their house. The schedule is as follows: Year 7 on Monday 23rd during periods 3 and 4, Year 8 on Tuesday 24th during periods 1 and 2, Year 9 on Thursday 26th during periods 1 and 2, and Year 10 on Wednesday 25th during periods 2 and 4. Please contact a.sharples@hphigh.co.uk with any questions.

I wish you all a lovely weekend,

Mr Hudson
Headteacher