One of the more remarkable on-going programmes we have is the deliberate practice of learning and study skills (throughout this century!) that is embedded across the curriculum and which hugely assists pupils in making more rapid progress. One of the key expert practitioners in this field is Linda Greetham, who works with us from Year 7 upwards, another is David Hyner, for Year 10 and 11, and they have been back to school here to sprinkle their fairy dust amongst pupils and teachers alike. Parents that follow the work we and the Learning Scientists do might like to read more here.

Our Drama Studio has been completed having its digital lighting 'refresh', giving even greater flexibility to the use of the space as well as supporting the boys’ technical development should they wish to use these elements in their coursework at either GCSE or A Level. We now have four matching sets of technical equipment across the two Senior and Sixth Form sites, and it is a great privilege to recognise just how hard the department has worked to ensure we have these facilities available and actively in use. 

Thanks so much for all of your excellent feedback and support on the work we are doing with the Duke of Edinburgh award. Mrs Elizabeth Pate is with us on Wednesday 9 October from 1pm to assist any boys with technical support for uploading their evidence files to support the completion of their Bronze award. Parents keen to know how they can offer support just need their son to sit down at a PC, tablet or even phone and navigate to www.edofe.org, through which portal they can log in to their account and see what needs to be done next. Parents will be very welcome to visit school on the 9 October at 1pm to take lessons from Mrs Pate at the same time as their sons.

And finally, we waved farewell to our long-term housekeeper today, Marek Kazimierczak, whose loyal 13 years of service here came to an end this week. Marek is returning to Poland, to family and friends, and we wish him well for the future.