Headteacher's Fortnightly Update - 21st February
As we reach the end of another busy half term I would like to start by commending our pupils on their commitment to learning and achieving. We had a visit recently from our School Improvement Partner who works with us to support us making improvements in our key priorities. During the visit she met with pupils and commented on how positive and confident they were, the quality of their work and how proud they were of the school and their teachers.
We have had some great successes this term, including a continued improvement in school attendance and improved engagement with families who are working closely with us around attendance. We have also seen improvement in punctuality to lessons and engagement in work allowing classes and pupils to make better progress.
I will send a separate letter today as a follow up to the lockdown we had this week. Although we would never wish to go into lockdown, it is an important measure to keep everyone safe. We will always put the safety of pupils and staff first when making any decisions while recognising the upset and worry that a lockdown causes. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the pupils and staff for how they responded during this difficult situation.
It was fantastic to end the term with a hugely successful Year 9 Options Evening last night. Seeing the numbers of pupils and parents/carers in attendance was very encouraging and demonstrates the levels of aspiration in our community. This year group will follow the new GCSE specifications in some subjects and the INSET Day on the 7th March will involve teachers working with the WJEC, preparing for their delivery.
To top the term off, this morning I received letters for the pupils who read at the Holocaust memorial from Jane Bryant, Member of the Senedd. The letters congratulated Tegan, Seren, Evie, Olivia and Alexia on the quality of their reading, their dignity and respect.
Have an enjoyable half term
Mr Lawlor
Headteacher