On Wednesday, Josie from JB Theatre Company delivered a performing arts workshop to students in Year 8, 9, and 10. Josie is a local actress with her own theatre company, and was eager to meet our students and offer scholarships and discounted fees. Josie said that she was ‘blown away by your student’s incredible creativity, fab commitment, and really dynamic young talent. I would love to come back!’ Josie praised the exemplary conduct and said our school felt very inclusive. Josie is offering a free trial for any students interested in pursuing her classes outside school. Further details have been emailed.

Independent careers advisor for Year 11 students

Every Year 11 student at Orchard Park is afforded a one-to-one session with an independent careers advisor who supports them making aspirational post-16 choices. These sessions started this week with our advisor, Andrew Williams. Andrew has supported students to compile action plans for the months leading up to post-16 applications. Students have rated these sessions highly and have reported greater clarity in making career decisions.

Year 11 students have been fantastic! Lots of students are choosing to attend working lunch and champion's hour and their conduct in lessons and around school has been great. A particular shout out to Zaire, Grace, Rosie and Isitha: lots of teachers have praised their efforts this week. Isitha is also our new Head Student after a brilliant start.

Fun Friday

Today’s Fun Friday, run by the English department, celebrated Roald Dahl story day. Each member of staff was given a Golden Ticket to issue to a student who has demonstrated excellence, which could be swapped for a bar of chocolate. Well done to the 60 recipients!

Notices

On Thursday 26th September we have our Open Evening from 5.00pm to 7.00pm. We will be closing the school early to allow our site and cleaning team to make preparations. Children in receipt of free school meals can collect a pre-packed lunch from the canteen as they leave. Years 7 and 11 will be dismissed at 12.30, and Years 8, 9 and 10 at 12:45.

A reminder that coats, which must be over the blazer not instead of, must be plain navy or black in colour (no patterns or coloured trims). They must cover the length of the blazer (i.e. no cropped jackets) and no fur or leather (even faux) is permitted. Scarves should be plain black or grey: no patterns please.

Ms C Moran, Headteacher