Headteacher's Bulletin
01/12/2023 - Edition 10
Highlights of the Week
As I write this, the Year 7 students are enjoying their Christmas Disco. It’s wonderful to see them coming together to socialise and cement friendships, some of which will last a lifetime. I might not be familiar with all the music and dance moves, but I certainly recognise joy when I see it. What a great way to finish the week!
This week has been eventful with several visitors to the school, including the Chair and CEO of the Bourne Education Trust, and a governor panel reviewing our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion program. The panel also noted that Twickenham School had the highest attendance across the local school league table. The trust and the governors are extremely proud of the dedication of our staff and the continuing development of Twickenham School, along with the opportunities we are creating for all our students.
The Year 11 fundraising event, led by Prachi Kansagra, for those suffering from the conflict in the Middle East last week, raised an incredible £151.71. All funds will be donated to the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, a global humanitarian network helping those facing disaster, conflict, and health and social problems.
Well done to everyone involved!
Notices
Christmas lunch:
I am delighted to announce that the school will be paying for every student to have a Christmas lunch, including Christmas crackers, festive music, and family dining with all the teachers. Participation is not compulsory, and students are welcome to bring a packed lunch if they prefer. To book a Christmas lunch for your child, please fill in this survey: Christmas Lunch Survey. The deadline for this is Monday, 4th December. Please note that no other food options will be available that day besides breakfast.
This year, we are asking for a minimum donation of £1 for students to wear non-uniform and a Christmas jumper. All proceeds will go to ‘Save the Children’. More information about this charity can be found at Christmas Jumper Day 2023 | Save the Children UK (Note: Twickenham School's Christmas Jumper Day is on 13th December, not 7th December.)
Year 11 Revision Guides:
I am also pleased to announce that all Year 11 students will be issued a full set of GCSE revision guides, purchased by the school to support every student and ensure equal access and preparation for their mock exams in January and their upcoming GCSEs. Students are being taught how to use these guides in their lessons.
Uniform
There has been a significant improvement in uniform standards across the school. For the few students without the correct uniform, we now have spare items including shoes, ties, and blazers. Students without the correct uniform will be allowed to borrow items from student services and return them at the end of the day. Students who refuse to comply will be sent home to change. All students must be in the correct uniform.
Twickenham School Ski Trip, February 2024
One place has become available for a student currently in Years 7, 8, 9, or 10 to attend the ski trip to Austria during the February half-term of 2024.
The total cost of the trip is £1,250, covering:
- Return on Saturday, 17th February (afternoon).
- 9 days/8 nights – 6 nights in a hotel.
- 4 hours of ski instruction per day, with ability groups formed on the third day.
- 6 days of lift passes and full ski hire, including a helmet.
- Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), with dietary requirements catered for. Please note, Halal and Kosher options may not be guaranteed; a vegetarian option is available.
- PGL Insurance included.
If you are interested in your child attending this trip, please contact us by Friday, 1st December at info@twickenhamschool.org.uk.
Year 7 PGL Residential
Final payments should have been received today. Payment on sQuid will remain open until Sunday evening.
Flu Vaccinations – 8th December
Flu vaccinations will be held at school on 8th December. Please ensure you have submitted a consent form. Parents who do not wish for their child to be vaccinated can submit a 'no consent' form. CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT THE CONSENT FORM
The consent form link closes on 6th December 2023. The School immunisation team is available for further inquiries at 0203 691 1019 / 1042 or Hrch.ImmunisationTeamMailbox@nhs.net
Christmas Holidays Free School Meals Vouchers
Christmas Free School Meal Vouchers will be issued by Achieving for Children and all eligible families will receive £48.00 per child for the 11-day period. If you do encounter any issues with your vouchers, please use the following link Evouchers for help and advice.
Parent Governor Election
Just a reminder that the deadline for voting in the parent governor election is 10am on Wednesday 6 December 2023. Please use the following link to find information on the candidates and to cast your vote here.
PE Kit
Due to the changing weather conditions, we advise students to have extra layers of clothing including, coats, hats and gloves for their PE lessons. KS3 students will be taking part in Rugby after Christmas so we strongly advise the purchases of a gum shield an example can be found here.
Dates for the Diary
5th Dec: Year 11 GCSE Solo Performance Recording.
7th Dec: Year 7 Parents' Evening.
6th Dec: Flu vaccination consent deadline
8th Dec: Flu Vaccinations; PE Master Learner Workshop
13th December: Christmas Jumper Day & Non-Uniform and Christmas Lunch
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend.
Jonathon Lisseman
Headteacher
