Week 09
Week 9
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Welcome back! I hope that you all had a relaxing and refreshing half-term break. We now have a busy 6 weeks ahead of us as we approach the end of term. There are a large number of events, trips and opportunities planned for our students over the coming weeks.
Today has been a particularly important day at Watling as our new Sixth Form came to life through our students as we held our trial day for the Sixth Form Dress code. It was fantastic to see our students dressed as Sixth Formers for the day and this gave a real indication of how the school will feel from September 2025 with Year 12s in the school. There is no doubt that Sixth Form lessons have a different feel and as teachers we are all looking forward to sharing our academic expertise with students in A Level and Post 16 subjects. We have created the draft dress code in collaboration with our students and will continue to use their feedback and opinions to shape the Watling Sixth Form. We will share some more information about this exciting development for the school community over the coming weeks and months.
This week our Year 11 students also have undertaken their mock speaking examinations in their Modern Foreign Languages. These exams are an important part of their preparation for their final assessments and provide valuable experience in building confidence and fluency in a foreign language. Thank you for your continued support in helping our students succeed in their studies.
Our curriculum themes of MK, STEM and sustainability are an important part of life at Watling. As part of our drive to be part of the wider Milton Keynes community we are always looking for ways to collaborate with local businesses. Over half term we were fortunate to have received delivery of a meeting pod, donated by Allianz, which has been placed in the library. The meeting pod is an additional area that can be used for small group work and meetings with students. From next year, the pod will be available for Sixth Form students to use for study sessions. It is a fantastic addition to our facilities and I know that it will provide the space for our students to continue to become independent learners. We have also been made aware of a careers event taking place over this weekend at Network Rail. Network Rail supported a large number of our Year 10 students with Work Experience placements in the summer term and they are hosting an event to showcase the careers on offer with them. This is open to adults and children and is free to attend. Please see the booking link for more information: Network Rail Careers Festival 2024 Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite
This week, our competitive sports fixtures list was back in full swing. The Year 8 Girls’ football team travelled to Brooklands, eager to build on their success in the league. They secured an impressive 6-3 victory, with strong performances throughout the team. Summer earned Player of the Match for her unwavering hard work and stepping up when the team needed her most. On Wednesday, our Year 9 Girls’ football team hosted Brooklands and demonstrated their dominance with an outstanding 10-0 win. Multiple players contributed to the scoreline, showcasing excellent teamwork. Nourhan was named Player of the Match for scoring two goals and her relentless effort in defence.
During this term, we will be reflecting on the first progress reports of the academic year for our students. Assessment of student progress happens in every lesson and it is a priority this year to ensure that students are also aware of the progress they are making, and where they can make improvements. There are clear links between student progress and attendance at school. As we enter the colder months, it is crucial that student attendance remains high and I must ask for your support to ensure that students continue to attend every day.
As we enter the darker nights of winter, can I also remind all members of our community that it is important to be travelling safely in our community. Students should now ensure that they have lights on their bikes and are taking extra care around the roads in the local area, particularly as the roads are likely to be more busy.
As always, thank you for your continued support.
Mrs H Fry
What’s happening next week?
Key events upcoming:
- Week Commencing 11th November: Anti-Bullying Week
- Monday 11th & Tuesday 12th November: Year 8 Enrichment Days / ZSL Whipsnade Zoo Trip
- Wednesday 13th November: School Photo Mop Up – Years 7, 9 & 11 only
- Thursday 14th & Friday 15th November: Year 11 Art Mock Exams
- Sports fixtures:
- Monday 11th November: Year 11 Football Mock Moderation
- Tuesday 12th November: Year 7 & Year 9 Girls Football vs Lord Grey
- Wednesday 13th November: U13 Girls County Cup Football vs Buckingham School
- Wednesday 13th November: Year 10 Netball vs Walton High
- Wednesday 13th November: Year 11 Basketball vs Kents Hill Park
- Thursday 14th November: Year 8 and Year 10 Basketball vs Kents Hill Park
- Thursday 14th November: Year 10 County Cup Football vs Walton High
- Thursday 14th November: Year 11 Handball Mock Moderation
Updated dates for the diary…
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the bulletin. Have you enjoyed reading this? Is there anything else you’d like to see included in future? Should you have any questions, comments or feedback, please do not hesitate to email: media@watling.academy
