Dear all,

The summer term felt as though it had really arrived this week with some much needed sunshine. Hopefully this is the sign of things to come, though next week’s weather forecast does temper expectations a little. Mr O’Gallagher is very keen to open the field at lunch time to provide students with additional outdoor space and we will do so at the first opportunity of more prolonged good weather. We are also in hay fever season, so if your child suffers with this, please can you ensure they have any necessary medication or drops on them as we are unable to provide these.

The summer term did certainly feel in full flow with our Year 11 students completing their first week of GCSE examinations with a commendable attitude and effort. Their dedication to their studies has been evident and we commend them for their hard work. Having a positive start is obviously very important, and we are very pleased to have had this, but the real challenge for everyone is sustaining focus and mindset across the full exam season period. We will be ready and raring to go again with Year 11 next week to give them the best chance of success.

This weekend, three of our boys will be participating in the Ten Tors challenge. We wish them the best of luck as they take on this demanding event and I look forward to providing you with information about their journey next week. A huge thank you to the HP staff involved with supporting them, including Ms Mcrae, Ms Saltmarsh and Mr Silverstone-Rogers. The Ten Tors challenge is incredibly demanding but Jac, William and Nathan have prepared fastidiously and their practice expectations have all gone well. We know that they will do themselves proud and represent HP superbly.

Our Key Stage 3 students continue to demonstrate a strong work ethic and commitment to their studies. Their efforts are continuously noted and celebrated by their teachers. Whilst we know that Year 11 and Year 13 outcomes are the absolute key to our students having as many doors open to them as possible, we are also clear that our Key Stage 3 curriculum is the bedrock of this. Secure knowledge, confidence of working independently and an enjoyment of the different subject disciplines sets up our KS3 students for those future challenges. We have recently held curriculum review meetings with all our subject leaders focussing on how key concepts build progressively throughout KS3 to give all students the most coherent journey of learning possible. This will remain a priority and something we are continually developing in the next year.

I wish you all a lovely weekend,

Mr Hudson
Headteacher