House news

This week we celebrate the winner of our Christmas card competition (pictured). A huge congratulations to Katerina in Year 10 rand our runner up Alexandra in Year 7, but also to all of the students who entered. We had a record number of entries this year, including a full set from the fabulous 9 Attenborough.

As we edge closer to the end of term, It is very exciting to announce that Rashford, Attenborough and Parks houses have all passed the 10,000 points mark for the term. We look forward to celebrating our winning house with their rewards breakfast on the 12th December and will announce the winning house in next week’s letter.

Gratitude

This week we have had a focus on gratitude. Students have written notes of thanks to teachers, support staff, friends and family. Ms Ongley also led an assembly reflecting on the importance of gratitude for our own happiness and there has been a lovely energy of thanks and appreciation around the school. 

Careers

This week, our Year 11 students heard from guest speakers from the Civil Service during their assembly. The speakers, a senior policy adviser from the MInistry of Justice, and a lawyer from the Health and Safety Executive, explained what a career in a government department involved and gave the students some advice on their post-16 choices. Well done to Isreal and Chelsea for asking some challenging questions.

Exams

Our Year 11s have completed their Pre Public exams. We are very proud of their attendance and conduct, particularly the art and photography classes who were in school on Saturday with their teachers, working hard and ensuring they get the best grades. Students will be receiving their results in the coming week; these will also be on their termly report.

Admissions

This week I have been working with our Admissions Team at Greenshaw Learning Trust, analysing the Year 6 applications. We are proud to say that the number of families putting Orchard Park as their first choice has doubled. This is fantastic news and is a reflection of the commitment and brilliance of our staff and students. Thank you all!

Messages from the Safeguarding Team.

OP is now using a system called Smoothwall to monitor all searches and language used online. Please ensure that your child is not accessing inappropriate sites or using inappropriate language. If we are alerted to this, your child's account will be blocked and the Head of Year will contact you to inform you of the content. The account will be unblocked following this discussion. 

Please also be aware that, as mentioned in an email sent to you this week, there are some inappropriate videos being circulated on social media, which the police are trying to curtail – please check your child's phone today and on a regular basis.

Thank you for your help in keeping our children safe

Christmas jumper day

On Thursday 8th December, we will be taking part in ‘Jumpers for Jimmy’. Your child will be allowed to wear festive jumpers on top of their school uniform for a £1 donation to The Mizen Foundation.

We are aware of the pressures that this time of year brings as well as the current cost of living crisis. We highly encourage the use of current festive attire, swapping between family and friends and of course homemade efforts as well. A brand new jumper is not an expectation.

You will shortly receive your child’s termly report. This will be sent to you in the post and via email. The last day of term is Friday 16th December. Students return to school on 4th January 2023. 

Ms C Moran, Headteacher