Headteacher Update
May 2023
Our Academy Consultation closed on 21st April following which I prepared a report for governors. The vast majority of respondents were in favour of the proposals, including 83% of parents who responded meaning that the recommendation in the report was to proceed with an application to the Department of Education to become an academy so that we can join the PELE Multi Academy Trust. Following a review of the report and a discussion the Governing Body passed a resolution to accept the recommendation and proceed. There is still a very long way to go and we are by no means past the point of no return, indeed we can stop the process right up until the final documents are signed the day before conversion. I remain convinced that the decision is in the best interests of John Spence and its community in the long term and am looking forward to the opportunities it will bring for students, for staff and for our wider community.
It was great to see so many parents of Year 10 student in school on Wednesday for the SLT Review Day. Really important information was shared about the upcoming Y10 exams and I would also strongly urge you to take advantage of these events as it will give you a real insight into what we are doing to support your child, what our expectations are and also how you can support your child. We do have some more parents events on the horizon:
Year 7 Parents’ Evening – Tuesday 23rd May
Year 8 and 9 Tutor Review Evening (a review of the year and preparation for exams with your child’s form tutor) – Tuesday 6th June
Year 10 Parents’ Evening – Tuesday 11th July
Details and booking information will be sent out over the next couple of weeks.
Year 10 will be out on their work experience next week. Students were asked to organise their own placements as part of the process so that they develop their communication skills and their independence. I am pleased to say that despite some last minute cancellations the vast majority of students are all set and are very much looking forward to seeing what the week will bring.
It’s been another busy week of outdoor activities with another Year 8 form class off up to Simonside for their hiking experience, in addition to which our DofE Bronze students successfully completed their expedition. We are also looking forward to the Year 7 residential at Ford Castle that is coming up after half term.
Finally, a quick reminder that we have uniform drop off bins in reception for any unwanted school uniform. This is such an easy way to support one another in our community and is really valued by parents who access the pre-loved stock. We are looking to develop this and our newly formed PTA, led by our Family Liaison Officer Lori McDine, are exploring ways that we can do this.
I hope that you all have a relaxing and long weekend.
Best wishes
Jonathan