Headteacher's Bulletin

Introduction

It was such an enormously busy week last week, I hope you will forgive the delay in my posting of this week’s HT Bulletin. I am delighted to share with you the latest updates and news in our community. This week has been a testament to our shared values of Perseverance, Responsibility, Integrity, Dedication, and Empathy, and I am so proud to see these values reflected in the various activities and achievements of our students and staff.

Highlights of the Week

Festive Celebrations and Charitable Spirit

Our final week was such a high point with the "Sparkle and Shine" class decoration project, bringing festive cheer across the school. The Christmas Jumper and Mufti Day were a huge success, culminating in a wonderful Christmas lunch. We also impressively raised £440.55 for Save the Children UK, contributing to our total of over £850 this term for various charities. This generosity truly demonstrates the outstanding character and ethos of our entire school community.

Year 7's Theatrical Excursion

The Year 7 students enjoyed a fantastic trip to the Wimbledon Theatre to watch Cinderella. This experience not only provided entertainment but also enriched our students' cultural and social learning.

Homework Club

You may have noticed that the homework club now appears on your child’s timetable on Arbor. Please note, that this is not compulsory, it simply allows us to take a register and track students who do attend.

Junior Astro Challenge 2023

Congratulations to all our year 9, 10 and 11 students who took part! Between all our participants we achieved gold, silver and bronze awards.

Celebration Assembly

We took the opportunity to congratulate and celebrate students excelling in their subjects and those going above and beyond in our Celebration Assembly. This was a moment to acknowledge their hard work and dedication.

Notices

Christmas Revision Sessions

Our Christmas revision sessions are well underway and will continue through Thursday, 21st December. The schedule for the remaining sessions is as follows:

• Drama (LGR) (Walking Talking Mock) from 09:00 to 12:00,
• Drama (LGR) (Noughts and Crosses Revision) from 12:00 to 14:00
• Music for 11B from 10:00 to 12:00.

• Music (PVO) for 11B from 10:00 to 12:00
• Art (MCH) for 11C from 10:00 to 14:00
• Business Studies (PFE) for all students from 10:00 to 12:00

Students are encouraged to check the timetable on Arbor and attend the sessions relevant to them.

Year 11 Mock Exams

Year 11 Mock Exams are scheduled from 8th to 19th January. Students have received individual timetables and revision books. We encourage them to prepare diligently, embodying our school values in their efforts.

Five Key Revision Tips

Here are 5 key revision tips:

• Create a revision timetable

• Engage in active learning

• Maintain a balanced routine

• Practise with past papers

• Seek support when needed

These strategies are crucial for effective preparation.

Behaviour and Expectations

The very clear expectations of behaviour at Twickenham School are evident in the way that our students embody our school values every day. Thank you to all of the parents that responded to our Parent Survey who support and recognise the high expectations we have.

The large majority of students behave impeccably every day. However, young people do not always get it right and therefore as parents and teachers, we have to put in the correct boundaries to ensure they know and learn how to behave appropriately.

Our school Behaviour Policy clearly states the stepped sanction process that will be applied if students do not follow the code of conduct. Occasionally, students may be suspended from school to allow them time to reflect on their behaviour before being allowed to return to the classroom environment.

To further support students and families, we are opening a very small 'Alternative Provision' in January for students who would otherwise be suspended from school. It will be open daily from 11.15am - 2.55pm. The provision will be staffed by members of our teaching team, and they will provide a fully comprehensive curriculum whilst also giving opportunities for students to reflect upon their current behaviour and learn strategies to improve.

Dates for the Diary

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.

8th February 2024, 18:00 - 19:00: Year 11 Parents' Evening

A final opportunity for Year 11 parents to discuss their child's progress following the mock exams and strategies for success in their final GCSE year.

Wishing you all a wonderful festive break and a happy new year. Looking forward to seeing – you all in 2024.

Well done to Luisa Natsui from year 10 for her amazing Christmas card design.

Jonathon Lisseman

Headteacher

Twickenham School

Percy Road

Twickenham

TW2 6JW

0208 894 4503