Dear HP families,

This week has seen the launch of one of our most exciting developments; HP Enrichment. Students have been signing up to the first ever enrichment programme which will see every student take part in a weekly extracurricular activity during their normal timetable. This is a significant step forward and one we are incredibly proud of. It is rare for a comprehensive school to offer this kind of entitlement to all students and it speaks volumes about our ambition and determination to provide the broadest possible set of opportunities for every young person.

Charity Week has also been in full swing. Students have worked hard to raise money for our four House Charities: The Spring Centre, Gloucester Nightstop, James Hopkins Trust and The Family Haven. Events have been taking place across the week and it has been a pleasure to see our Student Council leading the way. I was also lucky enough to judge the charity cake competition which was a very difficult decision. All the money raised will make a difference to some outstanding local causes.

This week also saw the finals of HP Oracy Week. Public speaking is a key life skill and the quality of speeches and presentations this year has been particularly strong. Students spoke with confidence and clarity on a wide range of topics and it was great to see how much thought had gone into their work.

Our Year 13 leavers enjoyed a well-deserved celebration with inflatables, pizza and an ice cream van followed by a meal together. Meanwhile the Year 11 Prom was a lovely occasion. Students represented themselves with maturity and pride and it was a real pleasure to attend. We also received positive feedback from this week’s Year 12 Induction Day and are looking forward to supporting the new sixth formers from September.

At the other end of the school journey we welcomed our new Year 7 students. The Induction Evening was very well attended and the transition days went smoothly. Students have already made an excellent first impression. Evening visits to Ultimate Warriors provided a great chance to build friendships ahead of the new term.

A final reminder about attendance. This remains our top priority and we expect every student to attend at least 95 percent of the time. Please check attendance regularly on MCAS and speak to your child’s Head of Year if you have any concerns. Next week is a full week of important curriculum lessons followed by HP Activities Week in the final week of term. Let’s finish the year as strongly as possible.

I wish you all a lovely weekend,

Mr Hudson
Headteacher