Dear all,

Last weekend we had our inaugural Battlefields Trip, led by Mr Dewfall, Head of History. It was incredible to see so many students sign up to the trip and take an avid interest in the First World War. Our trip party spent three days in the wet and windy north of France and Belgium to see Lijssenthoek Cemetery. This was actually a casualty clearing station and our students had an introduction to the work of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Afterwards students had the opportunity to walk through the Bayernwald trench system and see the landscape from the trench point of view. After a quick morale-raising stop at a chocolate shop the students took part in the Menin Gate ceremony to lay a wreath and pay our respects. The second day saw our trip party visit the Somme and Thiepval Memorial despite the weather closing in. The final day saw a visit to the German cemetery at Langemark before a visit to Tyne Cot cemetery. Mr Dewfall, and the rest of the staff on the trip, have expressed their pride for those who were on the trip. We had frequent comments about the compassion and behaviour of our students from museum staff, restaurants and members of the public. Our guides Chris and Martin were impressed by their stoicism, given the weather, and their conduct. Well done to everyone and huge thank you to Mr Dewfall for his organisation and the staff who helped make the trip such a success.

Last Friday we took our top forty house point achievers for a free afternoon at Ninja Warrior in Gloucester. They had a fantastic time racing through the courses, challenging themselves and competing with their friends. It was great to see them having so much fun. It's important for us to acknowledge and reward the continuous hard work our students are demonstrating. This group received their house points for various reasons; working exceptionally hard in lessons, taking responsibility around the school and for demonstrating kindness to others. Others had gained their house points from their participation in house competitions, such as our Science Fair last term. The next individual rewards will be in June where we are taking the top 40 to outdoor laser tag. Thank you to Miss Browning and our Heads of House for their efforts in giving our students this opportunity.

I wish you all a lovely weekend,

Mr Hudson
Headteacher