Despite having had only eight days of school since our last edition of Headlines, it is remarkable how much has taken place.

I would like to extend a thank you to the Music Faculty for delivering yet another fantastic Spring Concert on the Thursday before the Easter holidays. The evening showcased a wide range of musical talent from across the school, with performances that truly highlighted the creativity and exceptional skill of our student musicians. From solo pieces to ensemble performances, it was a memorable celebration of music and a wonderful way to end the term on a high note.

Over the Easter break, seven Year 12 students took part in a challenging and rewarding three-day Canoeing Practice Expedition as part of their Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The students spent time navigating waterways, honing their paddling skills, and developing their teamwork and outdoor navigation abilities, all essential components of the Duke of Edinburgh programme.

Congratulations to the PE faculty on another successful trip to Lanzarote. Students and teachers set off in the early hours of 3rd April for a week of warm weather training. Students thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and we extend our sincere thanks to the staff for organising such an enriching trip, designed to further develop students’ sporting skills.

In our first assembly after the Easter break, I spoke to students in Years 7-9 about the importance of perspective. We reflected on the reality that not every child around the world has the opportunity to attend school, and we explored the history and vital work of organisations like UNICEF, who support children facing the harsh realities of disease, hunger, malnutrition, and conflict. The aim was threefold; to prompt students to consider the idea of perspective when facing their own inevitable challenges over the term and years ahead, to appreciate their own opportunities and think globally about the challenges others face. I shared a couple of quotes for students to reflect on as they left the assembly, one from Joni Eareckson Tada:                  

“Perspective is everything when you are experiencing the challenges of life.”

And, “When you wake up every day, you have two choices. You can either be positive or negative; an optimist or a pessimist. I choose to be an optimist. It's all a matter of perspective.” - Harvey Mackay.

Year 10 students commenced their mock examinations the last week of term. It has been encouraging to see students approach these assessments with maturity and diligence, using them as an opportunity to refine their revision strategies and effective study techniques.

One of the greatest privileges of working in Education is witnessing and  celebrating the many achievements,  personal and those more public, high profile moments within our school community. It fills me with immense pride to see our core values: Success for All, Character for All and Dignity for All, being demonstrated by both students and staff. You can read more about our students achievements below in our latest news articles as well as following us on Facebook, X and Instagram. 

As this will be my final Headlines message before study leave begins, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my best wishes to all those preparing for public examinations. I have been incredibly impressed by the dedication and collaboration between students and teachers, ensuring the best possible preparation for these important assessments. I recognise that this period can be intense for both students and their families, and I sincerely wish everyone the very best in the weeks ahead.