First week of public exams are well underway, and congratulations to Year 11 for taking the 'revise at school' or ‘study leave at home’ steps in their stride. Well done too for Year 10, who completed their IGCSE English Language examination this week, and once they’ve drawn breath, commence their English Literature Studies next. Staying on the GCSE theme, Mr Richards (Head of Senior Girls) and I, introduced Year 9 to the Higher Project Qualification, reopening at Claires Court after a couple of years interruption. HPQ provides opportunities for our students to lead their learning using independent research into a topic of their choice, in almost any category of interest. We are running a parents virtual briefing on Monday night. 

And finally, we were able to complete our DofE qualifying Bronze expedition this last weekend, and the instructors all remarked on how polite and respectful all the young people had been. They selected the following young people from their teams for demonstrating what we call the "Spirit of the Award". 

William G - For continuous positivity and genuine friendliness with his peers.

Christian B - For navigation skills, teamwork and ability to stay focussed on task.

Seb S - For his positive attitude and ability to gel with all members of his team.

Hugo W - For his excellent, all-round ability to lead, navigate, support and encourage his team.

Sam B - For being a real team player, quietly supporting others and consistently making good decisions.

Joseph F - For demonstrating true determination and resilience.

Special mention also goes to Christian T, who was the only pupil to be specifically and repeatedly complimented by instructors on both the practice AND assessed expeditions. One instructor described him as a "perfect DofE candidate" who was "spot on every time with his navigation, always well organised and constantly positive". Christian also demonstrated exemplary friendship and loyalty by selflessly supporting his friend through an emotionally difficult time during assessment.

And finally - last call for any and all interested in the Summer Ball - please contact James Wilding for more information and to get yourself on a table; we are all friends in the Claires Court community, so everyone is welcome.

Have a great weekend!

Mr Wilding