15.05.2026 Senior Bulletin

Dear Parents, Guardians & Carers,

It has been another positive week here at school, following on from an incredible weekend of Ten Tors adventures. We are hugely proud of our teams who successfully completed their challenge, braving the moorland, wind, sunshine and very large crowds. It was a fantastic achievement and a real testament to their resilience and teamwork. Thank you to all the pupils, staff, volunteers and parents who supported this experience.

This week in tutor time and in lessons, pupils have been exploring why engagement matters. Research consistently shows that when children feel actively involved in their learning, their behaviour, confidence and sense of belonging all improve. Engaged pupils are more attentive, more motivated and more willing to take part positively in lessons, which in turn creates a calmer, more supportive learning environment for everyone. By placing engagement at the centre of our focus this week, we’ve been helping pupils understand how their curiosity, effort and participation shape not only their own success but also the well-being of the whole school community. We’re proud of the enthusiasm pupils have shown, and we look forward to building on this momentum in the weeks ahead.

As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Chapel has reminded us of the importance of looking after both ourselves and those around us. Rev Helen explored the themes of curiosity and kindness, sharing the wonderful example of Sir David Attenborough as he celebrates his 100th birthday. His lifetime of work is a powerful reminder of the impact of being curious about the world and kind in how we engage with it.

These themes were echoed in the Head’s whole‑school assembly on Thursday, during which pupils were encouraged to ask questions, seek understanding and make the most of every learning opportunity. In our classrooms, we continue to embrace the Socratic approach, encouraging pupils to think deeply, question ideas and remain open to perspectives beyond their own.

Next week, our Whole School Council will meet to explore pupils’ views on their learning experiences, and I will be sending out a pupil‑voice survey to gather feedback from across the school community. We are always keen to listen and adapt, ensuring we support every pupil to achieve their very best.

Finally, I would like to say how impressed I have been with our pupils this week. In every interaction, they have been polite, engaged and a pleasure to be around. For our Year 11 and Year 13 pupils, examinations are now underway, and we wish them every success as they continue this important stage of their academic journey.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

Miss Emma Mitchell

Deputy Head (Pastoral)