Mrs Rogers' words Lent week 6

It is easier to plug gaps in competence than it is to plug gaps in character. Sixth Form subject teachers are experts in their fields and are highly skilled at imparting the knowledge, understanding and application strategies students need, not just to succeed in exams but also to succeed in life. Integrity, humility, kindness, resilience and generosity are difficult qualities to teach but the Sixth Form Team are adept at engineering situations and opportunities in which students can build these and other essential characteristics.

Take the Year 12 Charity Challenge for example. Form groups were asked to produce, plan, market and deliver a fundraising idea that would raise money for a charity close to their hearts. There were wide ranging discussions and many ultimately unused ideas were considered and then filtered down to one winning suggestion which was then advertised and run by the students themselves. And whilst the ‘product’ or charity event was in itself important, the process followed was actually far more significant. The persuasive presentation of ideas to the group, articulating views and opinions, listening to each other, negotiating and compromising at times, creating eye catching marketing resources, advertising and attracting attention to sales, problem solving cash flow challenges and so many other aspects of the task empowered students and enabled them to develop the aforementioned characteristics we know are invaluable. Sport in Mind, Parkinson’s UK, Alzheimer's Society and the schoolchildren we continue to sponsor in The Gambia are some of the charities who benefit from the £500 plus monies raised, but in reality every participant is a winner. They are kinder, more generous, resilient and aware now and can be proud of their role in making a difference to the lives of others.

Both Year 12s and Year 13s are working towards a strong showing in their mock exams immediately after the break. Results will help Year 13 choose their Firm and Insurance university courses. They were given their personal terminal exam timetables as well today so they can put detailed preparation plans in place.

As we stand on the threshold of a nine day break I have challenged the students to manage each 24-hour day smartly; 8 hours for sleep, 8 hours for fun and 8 hours to study, which seems a lot, but podcasts, YouTube resources, wider reading, transforming notes and past papers offer a variety of relevant and effective strategies to ensure they are best prepared!

And I trust you are well prepared for an enjoyable weekend and perhaps a break yourselves next week. Enjoy!