It has been another busy and positive week across the school community. First, we would like to offer our warmest congratulations to our Year 11 students for completing their mock exams. They have shown real resilience and commitment throughout the process and we are incredibly proud of their efforts. A huge thank you to our wonderful team of invigilators, led by Ms Richards and the Year 11 team of staff whose hard work, organisation and support ensured the exams ran smoothly.
It was also wonderful to see so many families at the Year 10 Achieving Excellence Evening. We really appreciate you taking the time to attend and engage with us—your support makes a tremendous difference to our students. This week Mr Leonard-Rendell (Raising Standards Leader) will be hosting a Key Stage 3 Core Evening on Tuesday 25 November. Please do come along with your children.
Looking ahead, Mrs Valleley has sent out the Christmas dates and events and there is certainly a lot to look forward to. The coming weeks are always a vibrant and exciting time in school, with a wide range of activities taking place as we move towards the end of term.
We hope you enjoy the rest of this weekend and opportunities that lie ahead. A reminder that we have an INSED Day on Monday 24 November, so the school is closed to students.
Next week is WEEK 2
Question of the Week
Please select your answer in the form below, all fields marked * are required and to help prevent SPAM this form is protected by Google reCaptcha v3.
Each week we will ask parents/carers a question in the Weekly Message – this will either be about a topic we are focussing on or an aspect of our school improvement plan. We would appreciate it if everyone answers it when reading the Weekly Message.
Events w/b Monday 24 November 2025
Monday 24 November
INSED Day – The school is closed to students
Tuesday 25 November
Year 10 Review Assessment Week
Year 11 Catch Up Exams
KS3 (Yr 7, 8 & 9) Achieving Excellence Evening 5:30pm – Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/e/KC3HN0ZT8L
Wednesday 26 November
Year 10 Review Assessments
Year 11 Catch Up Exams
Parent Forum – 6pm in the Conference Room. Sign up here: Parent Forum 2025-2026 – Fill in form
Thursday 27 November
Year 10 Review Assessments
Year 10 Iceland Trip – Departs
Year 10 & 11 Dance Sharing Evening
Friday 28 November
Year 10 Review Assessments
Year 10 Iceland Trip – Continues
Future Dates
Monday 1 December
Year 7 Review Assessment Week
School Nurse Visit
Tuesday 2 December
Collaborative Music Concert
Whole School Music Concert
Wednesday 3 December
Parent Coffee Morning
Thursday 4 December
Year 12 Presentation Evening
Friday 5 December
Grandparent Christmas Event
Theme of the Week: Aiming High and Raising Aspirations
This week, our assemblies will focus on aiming high and raising aspirations. We want to help students understand the importance of setting ambitious goals, believing in their abilities and taking positive steps toward achieving their personal best.
During the assembly, students will explore what it means to challenge themselves, stay motivated and persevere when things become difficult. We will also be encouraging them to think about their future aspirations—what they hope to achieve, the skills they want to develop and the opportunities they may wish to pursue as they move through school.
Through stories, examples and practical ideas, we aim to show students that raising their aspirations opens doors, encourages confidence and helps them recognise the potential they each hold. We hope this will inspire them to reflect on their strengths and consider new possibilities.
We look forward to supporting our students as they continue to grow, dream big and aim high.
Tutor time – Personal Development Programme – Reading Week: Raising Aspirations
We are excited to announce that this week marks our dedicated Reading Week for students in Years 7, 8, 9, and 10. This is a vital part of our school calendar, designed to enhance literacy and comprehension skills while exploring inspiring themes.
The core focus of this week’s three dedicated tutor sessions is ‘Raising Aspirations’. We aim to inspire students to think ambitiously about their future and set aspirational goals for themselves, both academically and personally.
To facilitate this, students will be engaging with powerful non-fiction extracts from ‘True Spirit’ by Jessica Watson. This remarkable book chronicles the journey of Jessica, an Australian sailor who, at just 16 years old, became the youngest person to successfully sail solo and non-stop around the world.
The purpose of these sessions is primarily to increase reading opportunities. Your child will be:
- Reading Aloud: Students will be encouraged to read sections of the text to build confidence and fluency.
- Listening to Model Reading: Tutors will also read parts of the book to model effective reading techniques and expression.
- Discussion and Reflection: Following the reading, students will participate in guided group discussions based on Personal Response questions. This is where the core theme comes alive, encouraging them to reflect on Jessica’s ambition and relate it to their own dreams.
- Written Response: Students will then complete a written response in their booklets, solidifying their learning and personal takeaways.
We believe that exposing students to real-life stories of extraordinary ambition, like Jessica Watson’s, can be a powerful motivator. We hope they find her story truly inspiring and use this week to consider what seemingly impossible goal they might set for themselves.
Safeguarding Knowledge booster – Knife crime
Last week was Op Sceptre, a national knife crime week of action lead by the National Police Chief Council (NPCC). It aims to remove dangerous weapons off the streets, and to reduce and prevent serious violence within our communities.
In Hampshire, serious offences involving a knife have reduced from 1,035 offences (year ending June 2024) to 936 offences (year ending June 2025). The week of action was a dedicated week to further intensify efforts through education, prevention and enforcement to further reduce offending.
What is Operation Sceptre?
Operation Sceptre is a national week of action supported by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. It focuses on:
- Removing knives from the streets through surrender bins and weapon sweeps.
- Education and prevention in schools and youth clubs.
- Retail checks to stop illegal knife sales.
- Community engagement to challenge myths and reassure families.
Why do young people carry knives?
- Fear of being attacked or feeling unsafe.
- Peer pressure or wanting respect.
- Misconceptions that carrying a knife offers protection. Reality: Carrying a knife increases the risk of harm and is a criminal offence.
Warning Signs to Look Out For
- Sudden change in behaviour or friendship groups.
- Becoming secretive about bags or possessions.
- Missing kitchen knives or sharp objects at home.
- Staying out late or skipping school.
How Parents Can Help
- Start the Conversation
- Ask open questions: “How safe do you feel when you’re out?”
- Share facts: 99% of young people do not carry knives.
- Explain the Consequences
- Carrying a knife can lead to arrest, a criminal record, and even prison.
- A criminal record can affect jobs, education, and travel.
- Promote Alternatives
- Encourage positive activities and safe spaces.
- Signpost to support services like Fearless.org or Ben Kinsella Trust.
Local Support & Reporting
- Hampshire Police: Call 101 (non-emergency) or 999 (emergency).
- Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (anonymous).
- Knife Surrender Bins: Available across Hampshire – “Save a life, bin the knife.”
- Online Help: knifefree.co.uk
- Parent guide on our student wellbeing page – https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/student-wellbeing-resources/
Roblox
We have been made aware of a pop-up that is appearing on Roblox, encouraging children to download an app called pollybuzz (or pollyfuzz in some spelling cases).
The app seems quite simple where children are asked questions, and it generates an Artificial Intelligence ‘friend’ – this starts off quite innocently but then begins to show extreme content (including suicide, self-harm and pornography).
Roblox has parental controls and instructions of how to put these on can be accessed via this link:
Parental Controls Overview – Roblox Support .
Please remember that parental controls will stop some pop-ups, but not all, so appropriate supervision is still required.
Pantomime Trip for Year 7 – 16 December 2025
Thank you to all Parents/ Carers who have signed up and paid for the exciting Panto trip! We still have a few tickets left and would like to offer a final opportunity for Year 7 student before we open up the offer to Year 8 students. Please find a reminder of the details below:
Trip Details:
- Date: Tuesday, 16 December 2025
- Venue: The King’s Theatre, Portsmouth
- Performance: Aladdin
- Departure from school: 9am
- Return to school: 2pm (TBC)
- Cost: £22 (includes ticket and transport)
- Dress code: School uniform
- Lunch: Packed lunch provided by school for students that receive free school meals, all others students will need to bring their own.
If you would like your child to join us on this trip then please pay the deposit on Scopay of £12 by Wednesday 26 November. The balance (£10) will be due by Monday 1st December.
We hope your child will be able to join us for this festive treat. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact general@thehambleschool.co.uk
Work Experience
We would like to congratulate all Year 11 students who recently took part in Work Experience. Over three days, they had the opportunity to explore a wide range of industries, from film sets and preschools to universities and even the Houses of Parliament.
During their placements, students developed valuable skills and gained insights that will help guide their future career choices. Employers were full of praise, highlighting their curiosity, punctuality and eagerness to learn.
Students also shared their own reflections on the experience:
- “Seeing what the workplace was actually like and understanding how science can apply to businesses.”
- “The team there were so impressed with me that they have offered for me to come back any time and help out in the future!”
- “Learning how to communicate with young children and make sure their needs are met. I really enjoyed my placement, and this has helped me decide what I may like to do in the future.”
These placements not only gave students a taste of real-world work but also inspired them to think about the possibilities ahead. We are so proud of their achievements and the positive attitudes they demonstrated throughout.
Careers
Workplace and employer encounters are an important part of our careers curriculum. From talks, workshops, trips, and work experience, these opportunities give our students vital insights into a wide range of industries.
We are reaching out to invite local businesses and professionals to play a key role in expanding this aspect of our Careers provision. By partnering with us, you will not only support the development of future talent but also strengthen ties with the local community and showcase your industry to eager, curious minds.
If you or someone you know would like to get involved, please complete this form: Work place encounter support – Fill in form
Review Assessments
Year 10 students will be completing Review Assessments in lessons w/c 24 November.
Class teachers will be adding revision resources to Class Charts for you to complete independent revision at home.
It is strongly encouraged that students complete revision at home and be independent learners, to enable them to achieve the best outcomes in their assessments. Study Skill techniques may be used to help with revision. If you are unsure on how to use a Study Skill technique or how to revise, please speak to your class teacher.
The outcomes of these assessments will be shared with Parents/ Carers w/c 15 December.
Football Match Report: Cantell 0–8 Hamble
In our penultimate league fixture, The Hamble School travelled to Cantell for what many anticipated could be the decisive clash of the season. With a squad of 11, we lined up in our favoured 2-5-1 formation: Vak, Reggie, Tommy, Tyler, Jake, Jaxon, Henry K, Charlie, and Leo, with Arthur and Henry H adding strength from the bench.
We flew out of the blocks, taking the lead inside 45 seconds thanks to a phenomenal left-footed strike from Captain Kreft. Moments later, Leo doubled the advantage with a cushioned volley into the top corner.
Our slick, attacking play continued to flow, built on a solid defensive foundation. Charlie made it 3–0 before Kreft struck again to make it four. Cantell simply couldn’t cope with our free-flowing football, and by half-time we were cruising at 7–0, with Jaxon and Henry H adding their names to the scoresheet.
In the spirit of sportsmanship, we reduced to eight players after the break. Despite the rain arriving, our energy and determination never dipped. Vak was called into action with two superb saves, ensuring the clean sheet remained intact. Charlie rounded off the scoring with our eighth goal to seal a dominant victory.
Player of the Match Captain Kreft deservedly took the honours, running the midfield with authority and netting two wonderful goals.
This was an excellent team performance, showcasing both attacking flair and defensive resilience. A well-earned clean sheet capped off a memorable afternoon.
Our final league game takes place next Tuesday away at Oasis Sholing — one last chance to finish the season in style!
Thanks to Mr Regular for running the fixture and leading the team to another victory.
Swimming Sessions
We are delighted to continue offering swimming sessions for students in Years 7 and 8 this term. To help us cover the costs of providing a qualified lifeguard at each session, we kindly request a voluntary contribution of £5 from participating families. This can be paid on Scopay.
Your support ensures that we can maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all students while they benefit from this valuable activity.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and commitment to our school community.
PE Lessons and Warm Clothing
As the weather gets colder, please help your child come prepared for outdoor PE. Lessons will only move indoors if the weather is considered unsafe, so it’s important that students are dressed warmly and comfortably.
Students should wear:
- Their PE T-shirt
- Black or navy tracksuit bottoms or leggings (shorts can still be worn)
- A plain black or navy round-neck sweatshirt
- A plain long-sleeve black or navy top under their PE T-shirt
Friendly reminders:
- Sweatshirts should not have zips or large logos
- Coats are not allowed during PE, but layers are encouraged
- Leggings must not be see-through
- Shorts should be mid-thigh length and loose fitting
Thank you for supporting us in making sure students can enjoy their PE lessons outdoors while staying warm and comfortable.
Dance Showcase
Join us on 27 November in the Main Hall for our first Dance Showcase. This will be celebration of creativity, dedication and the incredible talent of our GCSE dancers.
This special event is free to attend and open to everyone. Come along to support our performers as they share the work they have developed throughout the year.
We look forward to welcoming students, families and staff for an evening of inspiration and celebration. Don’t miss it!
New Club
Calling all Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 students who love to dance or want to try something new!Join us every Thursday lunchtime in Room A4 for an energetic and inspiring dance session — led by our amazing Year 11 Dance Ambassadors.
Get ready to move, learn new routines, and have fun with friends!
Started Thursday 13 November. Don’t miss out!
Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunities at The Hamble School
At The Hamble School, we are proud to work closely with local businesses and community groups, and we are excited to share a range of new sponsorship and advertising opportunities. By partnering with us, organisations can support young people in our community while also increasing their visibility to families, residents and visitors.
One of our key opportunities this year is sponsoring our school football kits. Our football teams represent the school at fixtures and tournaments across the region, giving sponsors excellent exposure. A branded kit not only promotes your organisation but also helps our students feel proud, confident and part of professional team.
We are also offering the chance for businesses and community groups to advertise in our Music Concert programmes. These well-attended events bring together families, staff and members of the wider community to celebrate the talents of our students. Adverts in the programme provide a valuable platform to reach hundreds of local people who are keen to support businesses that invest in young people.
All sponsorship and advertising contributions go directly towards enriching student experiences—from sports equipment to creative arts opportunities—and help us to continue providing high-quality activities both in and beyond the classroom.
We warmly invite any interested organisations to get in touch to discuss packages, pricing and bespoke opportunities. Together, we can build strong community connections and create memorable experiences for our students.
If you would like to find out more, please complete the form here: Sponsorship Opportunities – Fill in form
Have Your Say: Help Us Plan Next Year’s Reward Trips!
At The Hamble School, we love celebrating our students’ hard work and achievements, and our end of year Reward Trips are a big part of that. They give students the chance to have fun and create lasting memories with their classmates.
We want to make next year’s reward trips even more exciting—and that’s where you come in! We are inviting Parents/ Carers to share their ideas and suggestions for trips and activities that they think students would enjoy and benefit from. Your input will help us choose experiences that are both fun and meaningful.
To share your suggestions, please complete this short form: Year 7 – 10 Rewards trip 2026 Preference Survey
Christmas Events and Support at The Hamble School
We are excited to share details of our Christmas events and support available for families over the festive season. This was sent in a letter from Mrs Valleley earlier in the week but a summary is provided below.
Collaborative Music Concerts – Tuesday 2 December
Two concerts will take place in the Main Hall:
- 5:00pm – Choirs and musicians from local primary schools and The Hamble School
- 7:00pm – The Hamble School musicians only
Tickets are £3.50 via TicketSource: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-hamble-school-events
Drinks and snacks will be available, supported by the PTA.
Parent Christmas Coffee Morning – Wednesday 3 December
Join us from 10:00am–11:00am for a festive coffee morning with free refreshments and resources. Sign up here: Christmas Coffee Morning – Wednesday 3 December 10am – Fill in form
Year 7 Grandparents Christmas Event – Friday 5 December
Grandparents (or a suitable family member) are invited to a Year 7 Christmas celebration from 1:00pm–2:30pm, with music, crafts, and refreshments. Please RSVP via this form by Monday 1 December: Grandparents Event – Friday 5 December 2025 – 1pm – Fill in form
Christmas Lunches – 9, 10 & 11 December
Students can enjoy a festive lunch on these dates. Full menu details and payment information will be sent via email.
Christmas Jumper Day – Friday 12 December
Students can wear a Christmas jumper or smart-casual clothes to raise money for Save the Children (£1 donation suggested). Donations to the food bank are also welcome.
Community Carols – Wednesday 17 December
Parents, carers, and community members are invited to join festive carols with their child at 3:30pm. Free refreshments will be provided. Sign up here: Community Carols – Wednesday 17 December – 3:30pm – Fill in form
Food Bank – Thursday 18 December
The school Food Bank will be open 3:15pm–4:15pm in the Skills Centre. If you cannot attend, please reserve items via this form: Community Initiatives – Fill in form
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme
Eligible families can register for free winter holiday activities via Hampshire County Council: HAF Winter Registration
For more information and local providers: HAF Winter Activities
Last Day of Term – Friday 19 December
School will close at 1:00pm. Additional in-school Christmas activities will run via House Teams and Extra-Curricular Clubs.
A Reminder to Park Considerately at the Sports Centre
We kindly ask all Parents/ Carers to park considerately when using the Sports Centre car park. The space is shared by school visitors, staff, gym users and community members, so thoughtful parking helps ensure everyone can access the facilities safely and easily.
Please take care to:
- Park within marked bays
- Avoid blocking other cars or access routes
- Keep pedestrian areas clear
- Not park in the disabled bays unless you have a Blue Badge.
By following these simple guidelines, we can help create a safer environment for all. Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us maintain a positive community space.
Celebrating Achievements
The students listed below achieved the most reward points this week – Well done to you!
- Year 7 – Beatrix B 7-9
- Year 8 – William T 8-2
- Year 9 – Amelie H 9-3
- Year 10 – Gino D 10-8
- Year 11 – Scarlett W 11-4
