As we get to the half-term break it has been all systems go with exams and assessments and I must again commend the approach of everyone involved. In terms of public exams, they have now really kicked in for our Year 13 students and Year 11 continue to cope admirably with what is a very drawn-out exam season this year. Equally, Key Stage 3 assessments have continued this week and behaviour, conduct and commitment have been exemplary – very well done to all.

I would also like to highlight the work of our exam invigilators who are a great bunch of people and valued members of the school community. They are highly professional, committed to supporting our young people and staff and even though they have lengthy spells when they are not in school very much embody the school’s values in every way. Thankyou to them for everything they bring to our school community – it is appreciated.

The construction of the new teaching block continues and with the hoarding now down at the back of the building within the school everyone can see how close it is to completion. The handover is scheduled for the end of June and we are really excited about getting in the building. As I write this I can hear the whirr of the cherry picker and the buzz of a drill; what is remarkable is that the school community has coped with the building project in such a measured way and that is to everyone’s credit.

Finally, as ever there are ongoing House competitions and I would draw students’ attention to the Queen’s Jubilee Pudding Competition which has been posted on Satchel by our Food Technology team – a great challenge to complete over half-term with House points at stake. We very much look forward to seeing the entries!