We would like to thank the many Parents/ Carers who joined us for our Year 8 Achieving Excellence Module 1 event. It was wonderful to see so many families engaging with their child’s learning journey and supporting our shared commitment to high expectations and excellence.

This week also saw the first Full Governing Body meeting of the academic year, alongside the Governors’ annual planning afternoon. Our Governors play a crucial role in supporting and challenging the school, helping to shape our strategic direction and ensuring we continue to provide the very best education and opportunities for our students. We are grateful for the time, expertise and commitment they give to The Hamble School.

On Thursday, Year 10 Media Studies students enjoyed a fantastic visit to Harry Potter Studios, providing a memorable opportunity to see the creativity and innovation behind one of the world’s most successful film franchises.

We are also incredibly proud of our students who represented the school at the Hampshire Secondary Schools Team Swimming Championships. The team achieved an outstanding collection of medals, demonstrating tremendous dedication, teamwork and sporting excellence. Congratulations to all of our swimmers and a special thank you to Mr Regular for organising the event and supporting the team. We look forward to celebrating these achievements and presenting the medals in school next week.

As we look ahead to next week, we encourage students and families to take note of the key dates and important information included in this edition to ensure a smooth and successful week. Thank you, as always, for your continued support of The Hamble School.

Next week is WEEK 1

 

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.

90-Weekly Message Question
Does your son/ daughter volunteer in the community?

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 28 September 2026

  • All week – Year 10 Review Assessment Week.
  • All week – Year 11 Food Preparation & Nutrition NEA

Thursday 1 October

  • Year 6 Open Morning
  • Year 7 Meet the Tutor Evening

Friday 2 October

  • Year 11 – Sparsholt College Assembly

Future Dates

w/b Monday 5 October – Year 8 Review Assessment Week.

Wednesday 7 October – Year 7 CATs Testing begins.

 

Letters

You can find all letters sent home over the week here:

https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/letters-to-parents/

The canteen menus can be found here:

https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/food-and-drink/

Please check your child’s Class Charts everyday.

 

Theme of the Week – Community

This week, our Personal Development and Tutor Programme will focus on community and the importance of getting involved. We want our students to recognise that being part of a community is about more than simply living in the same area; it is about building positive relationships, supporting one another and taking an active role in making a difference.

As a school, we are keen to engage with issues and opportunities within our local community, helping our students understand that their voices and contributions matter. Whether it is supporting local campaigns, such as the quarry protest, singing at care homes at Christmas or taking part in local charity events, we want our young people to see how they can make a positive contribution to the area in which they live. These experiences also provide valuable opportunities to develop confidence, teamwork and a sense of responsibility.

Being actively involved in a community can also help young people develop a stronger sense of belonging. When students feel connected to the people and places around them, they are more likely to feel valued, supported and included. This sense of belonging can have a positive impact on wellbeing and encourage students to engage more fully with school life, including improving their motivation to attend regularly. Through our tutor programme, extracurricular activities and wider community opportunities, we want every student to feel that they have a place where they belong and a contribution to make.

Assemblies

Our Key Stage 3 students will take part in the annual launch of the Student Leadership Award with Mr Wallace, introducing the opportunities available to develop leadership skills and make a positive contribution to school life. Year 11 will continue their Achieving Excellence programme with Module 2, building on the strategies and habits introduced in the previous module. We will also continue our programme of assemblies with local colleges, helping students learn more about the opportunities available to them as they consider their next steps.

Tutor Programme

During tutor time, students will explore what it means to be part of a community and why getting involved is important. They will consider the different communities they belong to, how they can support others and the opportunities available to them to make a difference. We will encourage students to think about how they can become more active members of both our school and wider local community.

Parent/ Carer Link: Getting Involved

We would encourage parents and carers to talk with their children about the opportunities they have to get involved in their local community and take part in extracurricular activities. Whether through school clubs, volunteering, local sports teams, charity events or community groups, these experiences can help young people develop valuable skills, build friendships and feel a stronger sense of belonging. Encouraging students to try something new and take an active role in their community can have a lasting positive impact.

Table Talk: Community and Getting Involved

This week, we encourage families to discuss the following questions at home:

  • What communities do you feel part of, and what makes you feel that you belong?
  • Why do you think it is important for people to get involved in their local community?
  • What could you do to make a positive difference to our school or local area?
  • Are there any clubs, activities or volunteering opportunities you would like to try?
  • How can young people make sure their voices are heard on issues that matter to them?

 

Whole School Notices

Contacting the School – Reminders

A reminder that strong communication between home and school is key to supporting every student.

  • The Weekly Message is our main form of communication. Please take a few minutes to read it each week for important updates, celebrations, opportunities and reminders.
  • Class Charts should be checked regularly to keep up to date with attendance, achievement points, behaviour and homework.
  • If you have a question, concern or worry, please contact us early. Small issues can often be resolved quickly when raised promptly.
  • Your child’s tutor should be the first point of contact for most concerns.
  • Please email general@thehambleschool.co.uk and mark your email FAO the relevant member of staff so that enquiries can be directed appropriately.
  • We ask that Parents/ Carers do not attend school without an appointment, as staff may be teaching or supporting students.
  • For non-urgent matters, email is the preferred method of communication. We aim to respond within 48 working hours.
  • Students should not be contacted on mobile phones during the school day. If you need to pass on a message, please contact the School Office.

Thank you for your support in helping us maintain clear, professional and effective communication between home and school. By working together, we can ensure that every student feels supported and is able to achieve their very best.

 

Safeguarding Update: Supporting Mental Health Through School and Community

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and strong support networks play a vital role in helping young people thrive. As a school, we are committed to promoting positive wellbeing, but we know that the greatest impact comes when schools, families and the wider community work together.

We encourage Parents/ Carers to explore our Student Wellbeing Resources page: https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/student-wellbeing-resources/

This area of our website provides access to trusted advice, guidance and support services for young people and families, covering topics such as anxiety, emotional wellbeing, mental health and online safety. We encourage families to bookmark the page and use it whenever support or reassurance may be needed.

The wider community also has an important role to play in supporting young people’s wellbeing. Encouraging children to participate in clubs, sports teams, youth groups, volunteering opportunities and community events can help them build positive relationships, develop confidence and create a sense of belonging. These connections can be a powerful protective factor for mental health.

Parents/ Carers can support positive mental health at home by:

  • Making time for regular conversations and listening without judgement.
  • Encouraging healthy routines, including good sleep, exercise and balanced nutrition.
  • Promoting a healthy balance between online and offline activities.
  • Helping young people stay connected with friends, family and community groups.
  • Encouraging hobbies and interests that build confidence and self-esteem.
  • Seeking support early if there are concerns about emotional wellbeing.

Together, as a school, families and the wider community, we can create an environment where every young person feels valued, connected and supported. If you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing, please remember that support is available and that early conversations can make a significant difference.

 

K9 Visit

At The Hamble School, we are committed to providing a safe, secure and supportive environment where all students can learn and thrive. As part of our proactive approach to safeguarding, we regularly work with external agencies and specialists to help keep our community safe. The K9 Dog Team firmly believes that prevention is better than cure, and bringing drug detection dogs into schools is a positive safeguarding measure. It does not mean that a school has a drug problem; rather, it demonstrates that the school is exercising due diligence and taking a proactive approach to student safety.

Working alongside Safer Schools Police Officers, their sniffer dogs help schools raise awareness and minimise the presence of drugs in and around the school environment, while also helping to prevent the exploitation of young people.

The team has been working in schools across the UK for many years and understands that discretion is often required. Their dogs are highly trained for a variety of situations and always remain under the control of their handler.

During this term, we will be receiving a visit from the K9 Dog Team. Students do not need to do anything to prepare for this visit.

IMPORTANT: ALLERGY AWARENESS

If your child has an allergy to dogs or dog hair, please email general@thehambleschool.co.uk by Friday 2 October. Students will not be permitted to touch the dog; however, we are required to maintain a record of any relevant allergies.

 

Mobile Phones

As you will be aware, the law and guidance surrounding the use of mobile phones in schools has changed. As a result, The Hamble School operates a “bell-to-bell” mobile phone-free policy.

This means that when the first bell sounds at 8:25am, mobile phones must be switched off and placed inside students’ bags, not in pockets. Phones must remain switched off throughout the school day and must not be switched back on until after the final bell at 3:00pm.

Please note that mobile phones may not be used during DTs, extra-curricular clubs, Year 11 intervention sessions, or any other school activity taking place after 3:00pm.

We will continue to review our mobile phone policy regularly and may amend it in line with students’ adherence to these expectations.

With immediate effect, the following sanctions will apply for mobile phone confiscations:

First Confiscation

  • -5 Serious Incident
  • Leadership detention

Second Confiscation

  • -5 Serious Incident
  • Internal Suspension
  • Compulsory mobile phone plan for a designated period

Third and Subsequent Confiscations

  • -5 Serious Incident
  • Sanction determined by the Headteacher
  • Compulsory mobile phone plan for a designated period
  • Referral to the Police Liaison Officer

Parents/ Carers can support the school by reinforcing these expectations at home and by avoiding calling or texting students on their mobile phones during the school day. If you need to contact your child urgently, please telephone the school directly.

Student planners will be updated to reflect these changes.

 

Medication

If a student requires medication during the school day, it must be handed in at Reception by a parent/carer. Medication must:

  • Be in its original packaging.
  • Be clearly labelled with the student’s name.
  • Be in date.
  • Be accompanied by a completed medication form detailing the dosage and administration instructions.

These requirements apply to both long-term and short-term medication.

Students must not carry medication with them unless specific arrangements have been agreed with the school (for example, certain emergency medications).

The required form can be found on our website: https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/medical-information/

 

Detentions

Detentions are typically set for the following school day and Parents/ Carers are notified via Class Charts.

Please note that detentions will only be rescheduled where evidence of a medical or professional appointment is emailed to classcharts@thehambleschool.co.uk in advance of the detention. Unless appropriate evidence is provided, detentions will not be moved or amended.

The school has a clear behaviour policy, including the use of detentions as a consequence where appropriate. Detentions form part of the school’s behaviour framework and do not require parental consent. Parents/ Carers are notified when a detention has been issued; however, once issued, students are expected to attend.

Detentions will not be rescheduled for sporting fixtures, extra-curricular activities, social events, part-time employment, family arrangements or other personal commitments. Where students are signed up to an extra-curricular activity, they must attend and complete their detention first in order to avoid further escalation.

Failure to attend a detention without an approved reason may result in further sanctions being applied in line with the school’s behaviour policy.

Thank you for your continued support in helping us maintain high standards of behaviour and ensuring that all students can learn in a calm, safe and purposeful environment.

 

Aerosol Deodorants Reminder

We would like to remind students and Parents/ Carers that aerosol deodorants and body sprays are not permitted in school. Any aerosol products brought onto the school site will be confiscated.

This is due to concerns about the impact aerosol sprays can have on the health and wellbeing of others, particularly those with asthma and other respiratory conditions. In addition, aerosols can activate sensitive fire detection systems, resulting in unnecessary fire alarms and disruption to learning.

Students who wish to freshen up before or after PE are welcome to bring roll-on deodorants, which are permitted and provide a suitable alternative.

We have seen an increase in aerosol-related issues recently, so we ask for your support in ensuring that students do not bring these items into school. By working together, we can help maintain a safe, healthy and productive environment for everyone in our school community.

 

European Day of Languages Bake Off – Reminder

A reminder to all students that our European Day of Languages Bake Off will take place on Monday 28 September.

This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your baking and decorating skills while celebrating the rich languages and cultures of Europe. Whether you create French macarons, Spanish churros, German apple cake, Italian biscotti, or a family recipe inspired by a European country, we would love to see your creativity on display.

Please bring your creations to the MFL Office in Athens before tutor time on Monday 28 September. Entries can then be collected at lunchtime.

There will be prizes on offer, and we encourage as many students as possible to take part. Whether you are an experienced baker or trying something new, we look forward to seeing your fantastic creations.

If you have any questions, please speak to a member of the MFL Department.

Good luck, and happy baking!

 

PTA Plans Exciting Year Ahead

The Hamble School PTA met this week to discuss plans for the year ahead and we are delighted to share that there are a number of exciting events already being planned for our school community.

The PTA plays a vital role in supporting the school by raising funds that directly benefit our students and enhance their school experience. Thanks to the fantastic support of our families and local community, the PTA raised just over £2,000 through the Summer Festival and Raffle. These funds provide valuable additional resources and opportunities for students across the school.

We would like to thank everyone who supported these events, whether by attending, volunteering, donating prizes or purchasing raffle tickets. Your support makes a real difference.

The PTA is always keen to welcome new members and volunteers. Whether you can offer regular support or simply help at occasional events, every contribution is valued. If you would like to get involved and support future fundraising activities, please email PTA@thehambleschool.co.uk

We look forward to sharing more information about upcoming events in the coming weeks and thank the PTA for their continued dedication and hard work in supporting The Hamble School.

 

Student Leadership – Final Reminder

Applications for our Student Leadership Teams 2026-2027 close on Monday 28 September.

Opportunities are available for students in Years 7-10 to become:

  • Anti-Bullying Ambassadors
  • Cyber Ambassadors
  • Student Support Ambassadors (Years 9-10)
  • Transition Prefects (Year 9)
  • Community Ambassadors
  • Eco-Ambassadors

These roles provide an excellent opportunity to develop leadership, teamwork and communication skills whilst making a positive contribution to school life.

Current members who wish to continue in their role must also complete an application form.

Apply here: https://forms.office.com/e/3w7c1cYBF1

We encourage all students to get involved and help make a positive difference within our school community.

 

Rewards

We would like to take the opportunity to celebrate the achievements, effort and positive contributions of our students.

Across the school, students have continued to demonstrate resilience, commitment and ambition in their lessons, while also contributing positively to the wider life of the school. We have been delighted to see so many examples of excellent learning behaviours, kindness towards others and determination to succeed.

Top Students of the Week

A huge congratulations to our highest-achieving students this week:

Year 7: Toby W 7-6

Year 8: Aidan P 8-8

Year 9: Lucas F 9-8

Year 10: Eddie A 10-5

Year 11: Harry C 11-9

These students have stood out through their effort, attitude and dedication to their learning. We are incredibly proud of what they have achieved and thank them for being such positive role models within our school community.

 

Year 7

Helping Your Child Stay Organised in Year 7

Starting secondary school is an exciting milestone, but it also brings greater independence and responsibility. With different teachers, multiple classrooms, a wider range of subjects and increased expectations, organisation is one of the most important skills Year 7 students can develop.

Parents/ Carers can play a key role in helping their child establish good habits early, making the transition smoother and reducing unnecessary stress.

  • Check the Timetable Every Evening: One of the most common reasons students arrive unprepared for lessons is that they have not checked their timetable. We encourage all Year 7 students to spend a few minutes each evening looking at the following day’s lessons so they know exactly what they need to bring to school.
  • Pack the Right Books and Equipment: Once students have checked their timetable, they should pack their bag ready for the next day. Bringing the correct exercise books, reading book, pencil case and any subject-specific equipment helps students to start lessons positively and make the most of their learning time. Developing the habit of packing bags the night before can help avoid a stressful rush in the morning and reduce the likelihood of forgotten items.
  • Use Class Charts Regularly: Class Charts is one of the most useful tools available to students and Parents/ Carers. We strongly encourage Parents/ Carers to regularly check Class Charts with their child. Making it part of an evening routine can help students stay on top of homework, prepare for the next day and avoid missing important information.
  • Make Homework a Routine: Setting aside a regular time and place for homework each evening can make a significant difference. Even when no written homework has been set, students can use this time for reading, revisiting classwork or organising themselves for the following day.
  • Encourage Independence: It can be tempting to step in when something is forgotten, but Year 7 is an important time for students to develop independence. Encouraging them to check their own timetable, pack their own bag and monitor their homework through Class Charts will help build the habits they need to be successful throughout secondary school and beyond.
  • Establish Good Routines: Simple routines can have a big impact. A good evening routine might include:
    • Checking Class Charts.
    • Looking at the timetable for the next day.
    • Completing homework.
    • Packing the school bag.
    • Preparing uniform and equipment.
    • Getting a good night’s sleep.

Year 7 is a learning journey, and becoming organised takes time. Mistakes will happen, but with support from home, students quickly develop the confidence and organisational skills needed to thrive.

 

CATs Tests

As part of our commitment to ensuring every student is appropriately supported and challenged, Year 7 students will be completing Cognitive Abilities Tests (CATs) this term. These assessments provide valuable information about how students learn and help us identify where additional support, intervention or challenge may be beneficial.

Parents/ Carers should look out for a letter next week containing further information about the CAT tests, including the testing timetable and practical arrangements.

The CAT tests will begin on Wednesday 7 October and will take place over a two-week period during Computer Science lessons to minimise disruption to students’ normal curriculum. No revision or prior knowledge is required, as the assessments are designed to measure underlying cognitive abilities rather than learned knowledge.

The forthcoming letter will include details about the testing process, equipment requirements and who to contact should you have any questions.

We thank Parents/ Carers in advance for their support and look forward to using the information gathered to help ensure every student fulfils their potential.

 

Year 7 Meet the Tutor Evening – Thursday 1 October

A reminder to all Year 7 Parents/ Carers that our Meet the Tutor Evening will take place on Thursday 1 October from 4:00pm to 6:30pm.

This event provides an important opportunity to meet your child’s tutor and discuss how they have settled into life at The Hamble School during their first half term. Starting secondary school is a significant milestone, and these early conversations help us to ensure every student is happy, supported and making a positive start to their secondary education.

At The Hamble School, we believe that a strong partnership between home and school is essential to student success. Research consistently shows that when Parents/ Carers engage with school events and maintain regular communication with school staff, students are more likely to achieve their full potential. For this reason, we strongly encourage all Year 7 Parents/ Carers to attend.

Appointments are five minutes long and must be booked in advance via the Parents’ Evening Booking System:

https://hamblecollege.parentseveningsystem.co.uk/

If you have not yet booked your appointment, we encourage you to do so as soon as possible. The booking system will close at midnight on Wednesday 30 September.

If you require any assistance with booking, or do not have access to the internet, please contact the school on 02380 452105 or email general@thehambleschool.co.uk.

Please arrive approximately 10 minutes before your appointment time. We look forward to welcoming you on Thursday and to working in partnership throughout your child’s journey at The Hamble School.

 

Year 8

Achieving Excellence Programme: Supporting Success Together

Thank you to all of our Year 8 students and Parents/ Carers who attended Module 1 of our Achieving Excellence Programme this week. It was wonderful to see so many families engaging with the programme and learning more about the strategies that help students become successful, independent learners.

During the session, we explored a range of evidence-informed approaches to learning, revision and organisation, helping students understand not only what to learn, but how to learn effectively. These valuable skills will support students throughout their time at The Hamble School and provide a strong foundation for future GCSE success.

A key focus of the programme is the partnership between school and home. Research consistently shows that the support students receive from Parents/ Carers has a significant impact on their ability to develop positive learning habits, resilience and confidence. We are therefore grateful for the commitment shown by those families who attended.

For those who were unable to join us, or for families who would like to revisit the materials from the evening, the Achieving Excellence booklet is available on our website:

https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/curriculum-overview/

If you attended, please follow the link below to complete our feedback survey about the session.  Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps us make future events even better:

Year 8 AEP Module 1 2026-27 Feedback Form   – Fill in form

We look forward to welcoming families back for the next session:

  • Module 2: Tuesday 24 November 2026, 5:30pm
  • Module 3: Tuesday 23 March 2027, 5:30pm

Together, we can ensure that every student develops the habits, strategies and confidence needed to achieve excellence both now and in the future.

 

French Residential Trip to Paris – June 2027

We are delighted to announce that students currently studying French in Year 8 have the opportunity to register their interest for our exciting residential trip to Paris, France, taking place from 24 to 27 June 2027.

This fantastic visit has been designed to bring language learning to life, giving students the chance to experience French culture first-hand while developing their confidence and enthusiasm for the language beyond the classroom. During the trip, students will stay in Bussy-Saint-Georges, just outside Paris, and enjoy a range of memorable visits, including Parc Astérix, Musée d’Orsay, Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, a Bateaux Parisiens river cruise, a traditional French market and Stade de France.

The anticipated cost of the trip is approximately £710, which includes travel, accommodation, meals and all entrance fees for planned excursions.

If you would like your child to be considered for a place, please complete the registration of interest form by Friday 2 October 2026:

Interest Form: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/Pdgv4ERwaQ

Please note that places are limited. In the event that the trip is oversubscribed, Year 9 students will be given priority, with Year 8 places allocated through a random selection process. Any students who are unsuccessful will be placed on a waiting list and will have the opportunity to apply again in Year 9.

We are excited to be able to offer this enriching opportunity and look forward to taking another group of Hamble students on what promises to be an unforgettable cultural and educational experience. For further information, please contact Miss Hautot via general@thehambleschool.co.uk

 

Year 9

French Residential Trip to Paris – June 2027

We are delighted to announce that students currently studying French in Year 9 have the opportunity to register their interest for our residential trip to Paris, France, taking place from 24 to 27 June 2027.

This exciting visit offers students the chance to bring their language learning to life through first-hand cultural experiences. The trip has been designed to enhance students’ understanding of French language, culture and history while creating lasting memories with their peers.

Students will stay in Bussy-Saint-Georges, just outside Paris, and enjoy a packed itinerary that includes visits to Parc Astérix, Musée d’Orsay, Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, a Bateaux Parisiens river cruise, a traditional French market and Stade de France.

The anticipated cost of the trip is approximately £710 per student. This includes transport, accommodation, meals and all entrance fees for the planned visits and activities.

If you would like your child to be considered for a place, please complete the registration of interest form by Friday 2 October 2026:

Interest Form: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/Pdgv4ERwaQ

As places are limited, please note that current Year 9 students will be given priority should the trip be oversubscribed. Once the registration period closes, families will be informed whether their child has been allocated a place. A deposit of £150 will then be required to secure the booking.

We are thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity and look forward to providing our students with an unforgettable experience that will enrich their language learning and deepen their appreciation of French culture. For further information, please contact Miss Hautot via general@thehambleschool.co.uk

 

Year 10

Design & Technology Materials Contribution

The Design & Technology Department has always been proud of the wide range of products that students design and manufacture using the different materials, processes and technologies they study. We strive to provide opportunities for students to create high-quality products that they can take pride in, use themselves and share with family and friends.

As you will appreciate, the cost of materials continues to rise. Whilst the department covers the majority of these costs, we are unable to sustain this without support from Parents/ Carers. We are therefore requesting a contribution of £7.50 to help cover the cost of materials used throughout Key Stage 4.

During Year 10, students will complete a range of practical projects designed to develop and refine their manufacturing skills. They will also undertake two mock Non-Examined Assessments (NEAs) based on the themes of High Profile Events and Lighting. These projects provide valuable preparation for Year 11, when students will complete their formal NEA, which accounts for 50% of their final GCSE grade. Students will be given a contextual challenge by the examination board and will design and manufacture a product that responds to that brief.

Payment can be made using one of the following methods:

  • Online via ScoPay
  • Cash, paid to the Finance Office

We would like to thank Parents/ Carers for their continued support of Design & Technology. Your contribution helps us provide students with access to quality materials and enables them to gain valuable practical experience throughout their GCSE course.

If you have any questions regarding this contribution, please do not hesitate to contact the Design & Technology Department via general@thehambleschool.co.uk

 

Year 11

Year 11 Mock Examinations

We would like to give Year 11 students and Parents/ Carers advance notice that the first round of mock examinations will begin on Monday 2 November.

In addition, students will sit their English Literature examination before half term, providing an early opportunity to assess their knowledge and exam technique ahead of the main mock examination period.

A full mock examination timetable will be shared with students and Parents/ Carers during the coming week. Once published, students should ensure they are familiar with the dates and times of all examinations and begin planning their revision accordingly.

If students have not already started revising, now is the time to do so. Effective revision is not about spending hours at a desk in one sitting; it is about developing consistent habits. Little and often is far more effective than leaving revision until the last minute. Regular, focused revision sessions help to improve retention, build confidence and reduce stress as examination season approaches.

By now, all students should have received their revision guides. These are an essential resource and should be used regularly to support independent study. Students are encouraged to use their revision guides to create flashcards, knowledge organisers, mind maps and revision notes, as well as to test themselves on key content. Active revision techniques, such as retrieval practice and self-quizzing, are proven to be far more effective than simply reading through notes.

Students should consider:

  • Creating a revision timetable and sticking to it.
  • Using revision guides to produce flashcards and revision resources.
  • Revisiting class notes regularly.
  • Using retrieval practice and self-quizzing techniques.
  • Completing practice questions and past papers where available.
  • Attending intervention sessions offered by their teachers.
  • Maintaining a healthy balance between study, rest and exercise.

The mock examinations provide an important opportunity for students to experience exam conditions, identify strengths and areas for development, and prepare for their GCSE examinations in the summer. We encourage all Year 11 students to make the most of the weeks ahead and begin their preparation now.

Further information, including the full examination timetable, will be shared next week. We wish all Year 11 students the very best as they begin preparing for this important stage of their GCSE journey.