Dear Parents and Carers,
A happy new year to you all.
It has been wonderful to welcome back our students this week, they have arrived back in positive spirits and we have had a great first week back.
We have quickly returned to our routines, ensuring our students continue to develop good habits. In class, our drive remains to ensure students are all participating in lessons. More widely, we are continuing to develop our sense of 'belonging' and identity with the school. I have said to both students and assemblies this week that we are privileged to be in school where, as OFSTED wrote, we are 'a school where there is something for everyone', which has 'high standards in class' which has created an environment where 'pupils achieve well'. We are proud that we have a 'culture of courtesy and respect' with some 'exceptional' practice.
My assembly this week therefore focussed on how we now 'raise the bar' after a very successful start to the academic year. I discussed three traits that can lead them to success: commitment to what they are doing, a strong work ethic, and surrounding themselves with positive influences where they can. We discussed how raising their level is about being consistent over time and making small changes. To demonstrate this, I was delighted to see students have a go in front of their year groups in taking on the world record for a standing long jump (3.71 metres!).
I am pleased to report that in the recent consultation, the 2 week October half term review received a significantly positive response from parents and carers. A total of 95% of parents and carers agreed that it had been a positive addition to the school. I can therefore confirm that we will proceed with the same format next academic year, with the following dates:
Thursday 4th September - start of term
Friday 17th October - last day of term 1
Monday 3rd November - start of term 2
I will be in touch with full details of timings for the start and end of term in due course.
Our Super Curriculum at Key Stage 3 starts a new round this term. I was delighted to see 45 students select the Duke of Edinburgh option, giving students a fantastic opportunity to develop their well rounded characters.
I hope you have a great weekend
Best wishes
Mr Harvey
Ground Force morning Saturday 8 March 2025 from 10am to 12 noon
I am planning on hosting a ‘Ground Force’ morning to tidy up the outdoor space around the Eco Hub which has become overrun with weeds and brambles. Although we encourage biodiversity, this area has got a bit out of control!
We are asking for volunteers of students with an allocated parent/carer to come and help for 1-2 hours on the morning of Saturday 8 March to help clear and tidy from 10 - 12.
The area requires weeding paths and cutting down and digging up brambles. If you have tough gloves and garden tools that you could use please bring them along. I have some gloves and tools which can also be used. Appropriate clothing and footwear must be worn to protect yourselves.
To get an idea of uptake please could you fill in the following form: https://forms.gle/37LjjVn6BRzt1Frp9
Mrs Ruth Simon-House, ECO Co-ordinator
28 Regency Bus route
As you may be aware, there is currently an emergency closure taking place on High Street, Hailsham. It is currently expected that the road will be closed through to Tuesday 14/01/2025.
This closure is impacting public bus services and will impact homebound journeys on school routes. Buses are currently diverting via North Street.
Steve Willis Training -Apprenticeship Webinar
If your son/daughter is interested in pursuing a career in the gas, plumbing or electrical industry, then the Apprenticeship Webinar is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the apprenticeship program and the industry.
Please note – the plumbing apprenticeship is only available at the Burgess Hill Centre
The apprenticeship webinar will help give learners an overview of the course content and what they can expect if they choose to start an apprenticeship with Steve Willis Training in 2025.
If any learners, parents, or carers are interested in attending, please complete the form by clicking the link below.
https://forms.office.com/e/JbXsUQ63wk
