Dear HP families,

As we reach the end of our first half-term, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a brilliant start to the year at HP. Each day, I am proud of the culture we see throughout our community. Our students have shown great determination in their studies, positive interactions with peers and staff, and respect for one another. Coupled with the care and commitment our staff bring daily, it is clear we are setting a strong foundation for a successful year ahead. With assessments and mock exams on the horizon for Term 2, I’m confident that we are well-prepared to tackle the challenges ahead.

We were thrilled to welcome such an excellent turnout for our Year 7 Parents Evening yesterday evening. The opportunity to share each student’s progress and discuss their goals with families was invaluable. The engagement of both parents and students is key to the success of our young people, and your support has been outstanding.

I also want to confirm our homework expectations over the half-term break. For KS3 students, we have made a few adjustments:

• Sparx: Please note a change in process this year. The current homework is due by 9 pm today, Friday 25th October, with the next task assigned immediately but not due until Friday 8th November. Students can either get ahead over the break or work on it during the first week back.
• KayScience: The current homework was due on 23rd October, with the next set released on 24th October and due on 6th November, allowing the usual week plus half-term to complete.
• Bedrock: The current assignment is due on 27th October, with the next tasks assigned on 3rd November and due by 10th November. Bedrock will begin for Year 7 after half term.

For KS4, the expectations are aligned with those for KS3 in both KayScience and Sparx.

Last week’s Charity Week was a resounding success, raising over £600 for local charities! Thank you to everyone who contributed to such a meaningful cause. This spirit of generosity and care makes HP the community it is, and we couldn’t be prouder.

In sports, our students have shown exceptional teamwork and perseverance. The Senior Rugby team clinched a last-minute victory against Bournside, while the Year 7 Girls’ Football team triumphed 3-2 against St Peter’s. A special congratulations to Ella, who has earned a place on the Wales U18 Hockey squad – a fantastic achievement!

A reminder for parents of Year 6 students: the deadline to apply for a place in our next Year 7 cohort is 31st October. Applications can be submitted through the Gloucestershire County Council online portal.

Finally, I’d like to highlight our commitment to attendance. This week, we introduced the HP Hero Club, inducting all students with attendance at 95% or above. Each student received a certificate, commemorative badge and is eligible for rewards in Term 2. We will also be launching a buy-back scheme in Term 2 to give students a second chance to join this club. Regular attendance plays a vital role in students’ happiness and success, and we aim to support each family in reaching our 95% benchmark. Please keep track of your child’s attendance via MCAS and contact their Head of Year if you need any assistance.

I wish you all a lovely weekend,

Mr Hudson
Headteacher