Headteacher's Bulletin
26/01/24 - Edition 15
Highlights of the Week
This past week at Twickenham School has been a testament to our commitment to fostering confident, successful lifelong learners, embodying our values of Perseverance, Responsibility, Integrity, Dedication, and Empathy.
Science in Action: Master Learners at St Mary's University
Our Science Master Learners embarked on an enlightening trip to St Mary's University, delving into practical aspects of their curriculum. This hands-on experience not only reinforced their theoretical knowledge but also honed their scientific inquiry skills, crucial for aspiring young scientists.
Historical Insights: Year 9 Engages with Holocaust Survivor
In a poignant and educational webinar, Year 9 History and Religious Studies Master Learners had the unique opportunity to listen to Hedi Argent MBE, a 95-year-old Holocaust survivor. This session, held in commemoration of Holocaust Memorial Day 2024, was not just a lesson in history but a life-changing experience, instilling values of empathy and resilience in our students.
Mathematical Minds: Preparing for the UKMT Challenge
The enthusiasm in our Mathematics department is palpable as our Master Learners rigorously prepare for the upcoming UKMT – a nationwide competition that pits our young mathematicians against their peers. This challenge, scheduled for Wednesday, 31 January, is a brilliant platform for showcasing their problem-solving prowess. We extend our best wishes to all participants.
Community Connection: Twickenham School Reading Ambassadors
In a wonderful display of community engagement, our Reading Ambassadors visited Twickenham Park Academy, assisting Year 4 and 5 students with their reading. This initiative not only aids younger students in their literacy journey but also reinforces our commitment to serving and positively contributing to the wider community.
Literary Laurels: Celebrating Damian Podlewski
A round of applause for Damian Podlewski of Year 7, who has achieved the remarkable feat of being a finalist in The Arts Richmond Young Writers competition. His literary talents will be rightfully celebrated at an upcoming awards ceremony. This accomplishment not only highlights Damian's dedication but also inspires his peers to pursue their creative passions.
Our cross country runners enjoyed a competitive day out in Richmond Park for the Borough Cross Country Competition. Notable mentions to Jack who finished in the top 20 and Irena who finished in the top 30!
Congratulations on Mock Exam Completion to all out Year 11s who have now finished their mock exams –phew! - They handled the pressure with such professionalism and resilience and their results are already beginning to roll in. Good luck to everyone. Whatever the outcome – this is an opportunity to focus your learning and be the best you can be for the real exams in the summer!
"When will I ever use this in real life?" Maths in the Real World. Our first edition of TS Spotlight written by Mr Grantham. Click here to read it.
Notices
Any lost property that has been handed in will be taken to student services. Students can visit student services before school, at break time and at lunch time to collect any items that have gone missing. On Wednesday 7 Feb and Thursday 8 Feb, there will be lost property collection mornings where all items will be out on display for collection. Any items still in student services after this will be disposed of.
Please read this message from police about Dangerous Vapes.
The Friends of Twickenham School (PTA) are looking for volunteers to help run the rugby days parking at the school. The smooth running of the rugby parking is hugely important as it is the main way that the Friends of Twickenham School raise the vital funds that it needs to support the school and pupils. Sign up here
Twickenham School are pleased to offer our students an exciting opportunity to try out Yoga Club. The free taster session of Yoga Club will be running 3:00-4:00pm in the Dance studio on Wednesday 31 January. All students need to do is to change into their PE kit after-school and attend the session. If there is enough interest after the session, we will be explore making it a regular school club. Please encourage your child to attend.
Year 10 & 11 GCSE Physics Spring Masterclass; Sat, 3 Feb 2024, 10:00 — 13:00, Online:
Free 3-hour masterclass is an intense workout to practise the physics concepts that students will need to get good grades in their GCSE exams. Please see GCSE Spring Masterclass — Isaac Physics for more details and how to apply. Must apply online by Thu, 1 Feb 2024, 23:59.
Pre-16 Nuclear Physics Masterclass, Mon, 4 Mar 2024, 10:00 — Fri, 19 Apr 2024, 17:00, Online:
Students can join leading experts from around the world to explore cutting-edge research in nuclear physics. Please see Pre-16 Nuclear Physics Masterclass — Isaac Physics for more details and how to apply. Must apply online by Mon, 4 Mar 2024, 8:00.
Uniform, Uniform, Uniform!
Uniform Standards – Please support the school in maintaining the highest professional standards of dress and presentation.
Hair (must be natural hair colour),
Nails (no fake or painted nails),
Jewellery (1 pair of studs, no rings or bracelets, essential religious jewellery may be worn),
Skirts (at an appropriate professional length)
Blazers
Shoes – black professional school shoes.
Thank you to most students who are always picture-perfect.
Please see the uniform policy: Uniform - Twickenham School.
Also, a reminder: Chewing gum is not allowed in the school
Dates for the Diary
w/b 29th January: Year 9 Options Assemblies
1st February 2024, 18:00 - 19:00: Year 9 Options Evening
An informative evening for Year 9 students and parents to learn about GCSE subject choices and engage with teachers.
1st February LGBT History Month
7th and 8th February : Lost property collection morning
8th February 2024, 16:00 - 19:00: Year 11 Parents' Evening
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend.
Very Best Wishes
Jonathon Lisseman
Headteacher
