Headteacher Update

January 2023

Auditions have been taking place this week for the school’s production of The Lion King, which will be taking place in the summer. The turnout has been overwhelming and Mrs Patrick and the team have had their work cut out selecting students for the different roles because there has been a lot of talented performances on display. What has really impressed the staff who have attended the auditions is the seriousness with which students have prepared and learnt their lines. What is even more exciting about the production is that it is going to be linked to the Bronze Arts Award meaning that students won’t only get to perform and be involved in the show they wil receive a recognised qualification at the end of it. A great effort by all involved and I am sure we can look forward to a great production later in the year.

Futures Month continues to run with further events this week, the highlight of which was the Year 9 careers speed dating. This was run in partnership with the North Tyneside Learning Trust and involved the students hearing from a variety of industry sectors about future opportunities. A big thank you to Mrs Winder, the NTLT and all the industry partners who spent the day with us and a huge well done to the year group who were attentive and fully engaged with what they had to hear.

Strike Action

As I mentioned in my briefing last week, members of the NEU will be taking strike action on Wednesday next week, 1st February. We will be open to all students, but there will be disruption to lessons throughout the day. Full details can be found in the letter here, which will also be sent out with students this afternoon. Future action by the NEU is planned for 28th February, 15th & 16th March and if this goes ahead we expect to be able to operate in the same way as we have planned for next week.

Finally, thank you to parents of Year 9 & 11 students who have completed our Parent View Survey. The final question on the survey provides the option of a call back if you would like to discuss any issues further, please do not think we have ignored this we are simply waiting for the survey to close and will then make contact with you at some point next week. The Year 9 & 11 surveys will close today and we will release surveys to parents of Year 8 this afternoon and Year 7 next week.

I hope you all have a good weekend.
Jonathan