Dear HP families,

Firstly, I want to continue reiterating that attendance is our number one priority this year. We aim for a 95% or higher attendance rate, as this is a key indicator of happiness and success in school. Studies show that students who maintain good attendance perform better academically and develop stronger social bonds. Today, we held our first Year 11 attendance raffle, and it was a great success. All Year 11 students who achieved 100% attendance this week were eligible to win, and I’d like to extend my congratulations to our winners: Daniel, Sienna, Molly, Maizie-Jayne, and Mikita. Well done to all! We’re excited to announce that we will be rolling out similar raffles for other year groups soon.

Assessment windows are another key area I want to highlight. It’s important for parents and students to be aware of upcoming assessment dates to ensure everyone is well-prepared. Please take note of the following:

• Year 7 core subject (English, Maths, and Science) assessments: w/c Monday 18th November
• Year 8 Reports of Achievement (ROAs): w/c Monday 18th November
• Year 9 ROAs: w/c Monday 20th January
• Year 10 mid-year assessments: w/c Monday 10th March
• End-of-year assessments for Years 7-10: w/c Monday 16th June

We’ve also had a fantastic response to our extracurricular fayres this week, with Year 7 and 8 students attending on Tuesday and Years 9 and 10 on Thursday. The fayres provided an opportunity for students to explore the wide range of clubs available this year. Whether it’s sports, creative arts, or academic enrichment, we’re confident there’s something for everyone. Clubs will officially begin on Monday, and we’re looking forward to seeing a great turnout.

One club I’d like to highlight in particular is our Lego Club. It’s a popular choice, but we are in need of some additional resources. If you have any unused Lego sets at home that your older children may no longer need, we would greatly appreciate any donations. Please feel free to drop them off at Reception – your contributions would make a big difference!

In addition, I’m pleased to report that our first Sixth Form Games Afternoon of the year took place on Wednesday. This was an excellent way for our older students to play a range of sporting activities and foster a positive sense of community.

Lastly, I would like to remind all parents and carers about our Attendance Policy, particularly in relation to term-time holidays. In line with guidance from the Department of Education, we are unable to authorise term-time holidays unless under exceptional circumstances. These typically include:

• Parental leave dictated for service children
• Holidays arranged and paid for by children’s social care
• Holidays arranged by charitable organisations such as the Make a Wish Foundation
• Blue light staff (NHS clinical, police, paramedics, fire brigade) where holidays are dictated, and proof is provided

We understand that holiday prices are often higher during school breaks, but unfortunately, this does not meet the criteria for exceptional circumstances. We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring that your children maintain high levels of attendance throughout the school year.

Thank you for your continued support in helping to make Holmleigh Park a thriving and successful community. I wish you all a lovely weekend.

Mr Hudson
Headteacher