Dear all,

We have had another excellent week here. Today marked the final day of "normal" school for Year 11 and 13, who go into their third and final assessment window next week. They've continued to work exceptionally hard, and we all wish them the very best of luck for their final assessments. They are incredibly close to finishing, and I'm looking forward to celebrating with both year groups at the Year 11 Prom and the Year 13 Leaver's BBQ in July!

The main highlight of my week was presenting to Year 10 parents on Thursday evening. While it would have been even better to do it person, it was great to have over 130 families join us online (for those who couldn't make it, a recording will be shared on Monday). 

In the meeting, we shared some of the strategies which we put in place for Year 11 each year. As you will know disruption free learning is at the heart of this, to make sure every minute of the roughly 917 hours of teaching between now and Year 10 taking their GCSEs are disruption free. But we also use Tutor Time and Dear Time to teach additional English, Maths and Science Lessons - and add on a 6th period every day. These all add up to an additional 367 hours of teaching in a year; paying a private tutor £25 an hour for 367 hours would cost almost £10,000, and I'm very grateful to all the staff who volunteer to run these extra lessons, all of which are above a normal teacher's contact hours. 

The other highlight for me has been reading through the Head of House applications we have received from Year 12 this week. I've been blown away by the quality of their applications, and their passion for having an impact on the school community. Interviews will take place soon, and I'm looking forward to sharing our new Heads of House with you soon. 

Speaking of the house competition, time is running out! We are in the process of arranging the celebration for the winning house, which will take place at the very end of term. Meteor are currently holding a narrow lead, but there's a huge amount to play for as we go into the last term!

Best wishes,

Mr Farmbrough