News

As we reach the end of a busy and rewarding term, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the many achievements, events, and experiences that have taken place across the school. Our students have shown enthusiasm, resilience, and a real commitment to their learning, and I am incredibly proud of all they have accomplished.

Our production of Oliver! was a standout moment of the term. The cast and crew delivered outstanding performances, demonstrating exceptional talent, teamwork, and dedication. Thank you to all staff and students involved for creating such a memorable event.

Duke of Edinburgh Award training for our Year 10 students has been progressing extremely well. Pupils have been developing key skills in teamwork, navigation, and outdoor preparation, and we look forward to seeing them continue to grow in confidence as they move towards their expeditions.

Year 11 completed their Geography fieldwork trip, gathering valuable data and gaining hands-on experience to support their GCSE studies.

GCSE practical assessments in Food, PE, and Music have now been completed. Students approached these with maturity and focus, and staff were extremely proud of their efforts.

Year 9 took part in an insightful PD morning, exploring careers, future pathways, and their own ambitions. It was a valuable opportunity for reflection and planning.

Year 11 Exam Preparation Evening was very well attended, and we hope the revision strategies shared will support students as they prepare over the holidays.

World Book Day brought plenty of fun and creativity, with both staff and students showcasing imaginative and entertaining costumes. The inter tutor group quiz was as always hotly contested!

Year 10 enjoyed an inspiring visit to the Festival of Knowledge, gaining insight into future study and career opportunities. Thanks to Mrs Seeman for organising and leading this and to the other staff who attended. The feedback from the event organisers about the students conduct and engagement was phenomenal. Well done, year 10!

Science Week was a great success, including a fascinating visit from Dr Panter, a lecturer from UEA. My thanks goes to the Science Department for organising such engaging activities across the week and for welcoming our local year 5 children into school for some hands on science in the labs.

The Waveney Positive Contributions week once again highlighted the generosity and community spirit of our students, with even more money raised for charity. As always, the Easter Egg Raffle provided a fun and cheerful way to end the term.

A huge thank-you to the staff who organised and accompanied the various theatre trips this term. These visits gave students valuable opportunities to experience live theatre and deepen their understanding of both current and future texts.

Year 8 enjoyed an engaging STEM day in Bury St Edmunds, gaining hands-on experience in design, technology, and engineering. Thanks to Ms Curtis for organising this event.

Dates for the diary after the holidays:

· Saturday 18th April – Duke of Edinburgh Award Training Day (10:00–15:00)

· Tuesday 28th April – Year 9 PD Morning

· Monday 27th – Thursday 30th April – GCSE MFL Speaking Exams

· Thursday 30th April & Friday 1st May – GCSE Art Exam

· 1st & 2nd April – Duke of Edinburgh Award Practice Expedition

· Friday 8th May – GCSE Written Exams Begin

· 5th & 6th June – Duke of Edinburgh Award Qualifier Expedition

· Monday 15th June (for two weeks) – Year 10 Mock Exams Begin

· Wednesday 8th July – End-of-Year Merits Winner Tea Party

· Friday 10th July – Sports Day (weather dependent)

· Thursday 16th July – KS3 Careers Day

· Friday 17th July – Activities & Enrichment Day (last day of term)

Finally, I wanted to share that we say goodbye tomorrow to Mrs Vincent in the main office who is retiring after over 36 years at the school. She has been a loyal colleague of the school for so long and we are grateful for all the hard work, help and support she has offered to students, staff and families over the years. We wish her a restful and enjoyable retirement, she has certainly earned it!

Students return to school on Tuesday 14th April. I want to wish all families a restful and enjoyable break and look forward to welcoming everyone back for another productive and inspiring term.