Friday 10th September

Dear Parent(s) / Carer(s)

Our first week in the new building has certainly been a memorable one. The first day of term was hugely successful and began with assembly led by our Chair of Governors, The Venerable Stephan Welch. Students then spent the day with their Learning Coach, had a tour of the building and learnt about the rules and routines that will be so essential in ensuring their success this year, in advance of starting lessons on Thursday morning.

We have tried to give students a fairly gentle introduction this week, to help them adjust to the longer Academy day and new routines. Next week, however, will see the start of our enrichment and extended curriculum timetable, with daily activities available at the end of the Academy day. Remember that breakfast is available from 8.00 am and students are welcome to remain on site until 6.00 pm (5.00 pm on Fridays) to complete their independent learning activities using Academy ICT facilities. The amount of independent learning tasks will certainly increase over the coming week or so. You will receive further information on this in due course. I am especially delighted by the large number of students keen to sign up for instrumental lessons. These will also commence next week.

Almost without exception, student behaviour and uniform has been excellent this week. There are just a few students who still need help at home with tying their ties properly. Please make this a focus this weekend, if necessary.

Please remember that your first point of contact with any queries or concerns is your child’s Learning Coach followed by their Head of House. You will find their names overleaf. You are welcome to contact them by telephone or email at any time and you may well hear from them at any time.

As you will doubtless realise, there will be a settling in period as we get used to our new building and surroundings and our neighbours get used to us. Please be considerate of local residents when you are in and around the Academy. This week a number of parents have parked illegally on yellow lines when dropping off or picking up students or have carried out manoeuvres that have put children at risk. Community police officers will be in the area and can issue you with a fine on the spot for illegal parking. Please avoid parking in the streets directly around the Academy site and use designated parking bays.

Finally, please note the important dates and information overleaf, including Open Evening at which a number of students will be helping, the Parents’ Tour, when we are opening our doors for you to come and have a look around our new building and the Year 7 Parents’ Social Evening. At this evening there will be the opportunity for you to meet your child’s Learning Coach and teachers and to learn about the Academy’s Parents’ Council.

Andy Yarrow
Principal