Dear HP families,

This week has seen the launch of applications for our Student Council representatives. The Council is a vital part of life at HP because it gives students the chance to speak on behalf of their peers and share ideas directly with the Senior Leadership Team. This ensures that decisions are shaped by the views of those who experience HP every day. It is also a fantastic leadership opportunity. Those who step forward will develop confidence and responsibility while helping to make a real difference to the way HP continues to grow.

Our attendance data shows that students with less than 100% attendance are more likely to be absent on a Monday or a Friday. It is clear that starting and finishing the week well has a big impact. Attending on a Monday sets students up for success. For example, a Monday English lesson may introduce the key text that is then explored in detail over the next few days. Without that first step, the rest of the week becomes harder. Finishing the week well is just as important. A lesson often involves consolidating the learning from earlier in the week and preparing for work the following Monday. Missing that review means returning the next week already at a disadvantage. Even occasional Mondays or Fridays absent quickly create gaps in knowledge that make it harder for children to keep pace. Thank you for your continued support in ensuring strong attendance across the full week.

Congratulations go to Abigail in Year 11 who is the first student to collect 15 stamps on her HP Champions Hour loyalty card. She will now be entered into the first prize draw later this month. Champions Hour is a key part of preparation for Year 11 students. It is an ideal time for them to complete independent work with the support of staff and committing to it regularly is one of the most effective ways to secure strong outcomes.

It was also a pleasure this week to be interviewed by Martha in Year 11 for the first edition of the HP newspaper. She asked thoughtful and challenging questions and showed real skill in following up on answers. I am looking forward to seeing the final product and to the paper becoming a regular feature of Enrichment.

Our Year 7 students have also begun to represent HP in sporting fixtures and it has been brilliant to see their energy and pride in wearing the HP colours. In addition, Wednesday once again saw a great range of Enrichment activities in action. Our Instagram photos capture the variety on offer, including Art, Cooking, Chess Club, Senior Netball, Yogalates, Drone Flying, Jewellery Making, Theatre Stagecraft, Culture Club, Warhammer and KS5 Public Speaking. The final image revealed the casting for our upcoming production which will be a real highlight later this year.

Finally, Year 6 tours are well underway. It has been wonderful to see our students working hard in every lesson of every day and showing HP at its very best. A reminder that any current families with a child in Year 6 must complete applications to Gloucestershire County Council by 31st October.

I wish you all a lovely weekend,

Mr Hudson
Headteacher