Last week was another busy and successful one at The Hamble School, with students and staff demonstrating our values of ambition, respect and community throughout.
On Monday, we were pleased to welcome the Hampshire County Council Disadvantage Lead for a Best Practice Visit. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with particular recognition given to the extensive work taking place across the school to support vulnerable students and families. It was encouraging to receive such positive external validation of the commitment and care shown by staff every day to ensure all students are supported to succeed.
A particular highlight of the week was the opportunity to support professional development across the school. We were delighted to host trainee teachers as part of their training programme. The feedback they provided about The Hamble School was exceptionally positive, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere, the professionalism of our staff and the strong relationships that exist between students and adults across the school. It was fantastic to showcase the excellent work that happens here every day while helping to develop the next generation of teachers.
Our Year 10 students have worked incredibly hard during their review assessments. This has been their first real experience of GCSE-style examinations and they approached the challenge with maturity and determination. The assessments have provided valuable experience and an important opportunity for students to reflect on their strengths and next steps as they continue their GCSE journey.
The standout event of the week was undoubtedly the Year 7 Team Building Days, which saw our newest students take part in a range of activities designed to develop teamwork, resilience and communication skills. The feedback from Personal Best Education was outstanding. Having worked with several schools this year, they described The Hamble School as the strongest they had visited in terms of behaviour, engagement and support from staff.
They were particularly impressed by the respect shown by our students, the contribution of our Transition Prefects and the way staff actively supported the programme throughout both days. Most importantly, they highlighted the culture of respect that is visible throughout the school, noting the positive relationships between students, staff and prefects.
It was also wonderful to welcome so many Year 7 Parents/ Carers into school for the Meet the Tutor evening. These events provided valuable opportunities for families to engage with school life and support their children as they continue to settle successfully into secondary education.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making last week such a success. It was a wonderful example of our school community working together to provide outstanding experiences, opportunities and support for our students and families.
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 05 October 2026
- All week – Year 8 Review Assessment Week
- All week – Year 11 Food Preparation and Nutrition NEAs continue (selected students)
Wednesday 7 October
- Year 11 Geography Fieldtrip (selected students)
- Year 7 CAT Testing begins (see letter from Mrs Vincent)
Thursday 8 October
- Year 11 Geography Fieldtrip (selected students)
- Year 8 & 9 Catch up CAT Testing (selected students who did not complete this in Yr 7 – See email from Mrs Vincent)
- Year 6 Open Morning
Future Dates
w/b Monday 12 October – Year 11 Drama Controlled Assessment.
Year 7 CAT Testing continues
Year 10 Work Experience (for students who have signed up)
Tuesday 13 October – Year 11 Achieving Excellence Module 2 – 5:30pm for Parents/ Carers and students
Friday 16 October – Year 11 Revision Day.
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 – Black History Month
This week, our Personal Development programme focuses on Black History Month, providing students with opportunities to learn about and celebrate the contributions, experiences and achievements of Black people throughout history. Our assemblies, led by the History Department, will explore important stories and individuals and encourage students to consider the impact that Black history has had on our society today.
Alongside this, tutors will be taking part in Reading Week, with students exploring themes of tolerance, respect and British Values. Through reading, discussion and reflection, students will consider the importance of understanding different perspectives, treating others with respect and contributing positively to the communities they are part of.
Our Year 11 students will also have their final college assembly as part of their preparations for the next stage of their education. This provides an important opportunity for students to consider their future pathways and the choices and opportunities available to them as they begin to look beyond their time at The Hamble School.
These themes are an important part of our wider Personal Development programme. We want our students to develop not only their knowledge and understanding, but also the character, attitudes and values that will help them to thrive both within school and beyond it. Developing positive habits such as listening to others, showing respect and reflecting on different experiences all contribute to becoming successful and responsible young people.
Table Talk: Empathy for Others
This week, we encourage families to talk about empathy and the importance of understanding how other people may be feeling, thinking or experiencing a situation differently from ourselves.
You could discuss:
- What does empathy mean to you?
- Why is it important to consider how other people might be feeling?
- Can you understand someone’s point of view even if you disagree with them?
- How can we show empathy when someone is having a difficult time?
- What difference can a small act of kindness or understanding make to someone else?
Developing empathy helps young people build stronger relationships, resolve disagreements respectfully and contribute positively to the communities they are part of.
Whole School Notices
Safeguarding Update: Empathy and Belonging
This week, we are focusing on the importance of empathy and looking after one another. At The Hamble School, one of our greatest strengths is our sense of community. We are proud to be a school where students, staff and families work together to create an environment where everyone feels safe, valued and supported.
Empathy is about understanding how others may be feeling and responding with kindness, patience and respect. It is recognising that everyone faces challenges at times and that a small act of kindness can make a big difference. Whether it is checking in on a friend, including someone in a conversation, offering encouragement or simply being respectful in the way we speak to others, every action helps to strengthen our community.
A strong sense of belonging is an important part of safeguarding. When young people feel connected, supported and valued, they are more likely to thrive both academically and personally. We want every student at The Hamble School to know that they are an important part of our school community and that there is always someone they can turn to for support.
We encourage students to continue looking out for one another and to take action if they are worried about a friend. Sometimes the most caring thing we can do is tell a trusted adult when someone needs help. Speaking up is not getting someone into trouble; it is helping to keep them safe.
Parents/ Carers also play a vital role in helping young people to develop empathy, resilience and respect. By continuing these conversations at home and encouraging children to consider the feelings and experiences of others, we can work together to create a community where everyone feels they belong.
The feedback we regularly receive from visitors highlights the warmth, respect and support that exist across our school. These qualities do not happen by accident; they are the result of a community that genuinely cares for one another.
If students, Parents/ Carers or members of our community have a concern about a young person’s wellbeing, safety or welfare, please remember that concerns can be reported directly to the school using our Report a Concern page:
🔗 https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/report-concerns/
We would always encourage anyone who is worried about a student to speak up. No concern is too small, and raising concerns early allows us to provide support before issues become more serious.
Thank you for helping to make The Hamble School such a special place, where everyone belongs, everyone matters and everyone has a role to play in looking after each other.
Parent Voice: Working Together to Achieve Excellence
At The Hamble School, we believe that the strongest school communities are built through positive partnerships between school and home. Parents/ Carers play a vital role in supporting their child’s education and we are committed to creating meaningful opportunities for families to share their views, ask questions and help shape the future of our school.
Our Parent Voice initiatives are designed to strengthen communication and collaboration, ensuring that Parents/ Carers have regular opportunities to engage with school leaders and contribute to the ongoing development of The Hamble School.
- Parent Forum
Our monthly Parent Forum provides a platform for Parents/ Carers to:
- Share ideas and feedback
- Ask questions about school life
- Discuss developments and priorities
- Work directly with school leaders to make a positive difference for students
These meetings provide valuable insight into the experiences of families and help ensure that parent perspectives are considered as we continue to improve and grow as a school community.
- SEND Coffee Mornings
We also offer regular SEND Coffee Mornings, providing a relaxed and supportive environment where Parents/ Carers can meet members of our Inclusion Team, connect with other families and discuss ways we can work together to support our children.
These sessions are an opportunity to share experiences, seek advice and strengthen the partnership between home and school.
- Open Mornings
Our Open Mornings give existing Parents/ Carers the chance to see The Hamble School in action. Visitors can spend time in school, observe lessons and experience first-hand the calm, purposeful and positive learning environment that our students and staff create every day.
- Get Involved
We value the views of all Parents/ Carers and encourage as many families as possible to get involved. Whether you would like to attend a Parent Forum, join a SEND Coffee Morning or visit during an Open Morning, your contribution is important.
To register your interest and view all upcoming dates and times, please complete our Parent Voice sign-up form:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/g2A3AsWZZi
By listening to one another and working together, we can continue to ensure that The Hamble School remains a place where every student feels supported, challenged and valued.
Together, we can continue achieving excellence and providing the very best experience for all students at The Hamble School.
Attendance Matters: Every Lesson Counts
Good attendance remains one of the biggest factors in student success. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to make strong academic progress, develop positive friendships and fully engage in the wider opportunities available at The Hamble School.
We would like to congratulate our top-performing tutor groups for the week ending 2 October:
- 7-2 – 98% Attendance
- 11-5 – 97% Attendance
- 10-8 – 97% Attendance
- 8-5 – 97% Attendance
- 9-4 – 95% Attendance
A special congratulations goes to 7-2, whose outstanding 98% attendance secured the top position this week.
The strong attendance figures achieved by these tutor groups demonstrate a commitment to learning and a recognition that every lesson matters. Missing even a small amount of school can create gaps in learning that become increasingly difficult to close over time.
We would like to thank Parents/ Carers for their continued support in ensuring students attend school every day, arrive on time and are ready to learn. Establishing strong attendance habits early helps students develop the resilience, organisation and self-discipline that will support them throughout their education and beyond.
For students, attendance is about much more than being present in lessons. It means taking part in discussions, working with classmates, building relationships with staff, accessing support when needed and benefiting from the full range of experiences that school offers.
Let’s continue working together to make attendance a priority and ensure that every student at The Hamble School has the opportunity to achieve their very best.
Remember: Every day counts, every lesson counts and every minute of learning matters.
Reminder: Checking Class Charts and Attending Detentions
We would like to remind all students and Parents/ Carers of the importance of checking Class Charts every day. Class Charts is the school’s primary platform for communicating important information, including behaviour points, homework, achievements and detentions.
If you have lost or forgotten your Class Charts username or password, please contact classcharts@thehambleschool.co.uk and the team will be happy to help restore access.
Detentions are typically set for the following school day and Parents/ Carers are notified via Class Charts. It is therefore essential that both students and Parents/ Carers regularly check the platform to ensure they are aware of any detentions that have been issued.
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.
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.
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.
We would also like to highlight that the small number of students who ultimately receive a Senior Leadership Detention or an Internal Suspension often arrive at that point because an initial 30-minute detention was missed or ignored. In many cases, this escalation could have been avoided entirely by checking Class Charts, being organised and attending the original detention as directed.
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.
Sporting Update
- Hamble Swim Squad Excel in Winchester Swim Gala
On Thursday 24 September, a talented group of students from The Hamble School travelled to Winchester Sports and Leisure Centre to compete in a highly competitive swimming gala against 32 other secondary schools and colleges from across Hampshire.
The event consisted of 4 x 50m relay races in both freestyle and medley disciplines, with The Hamble School entering teams in the Intermediate and Senior categories. The gala provided a fantastic opportunity for our students to test themselves against some of the strongest swimmers in the county while proudly representing the school.
Our squad of Joe, Rory, Patrick, Matthew, Bella, Matilda and Amelia were outstanding throughout the day, demonstrating excellent swimming ability, teamwork, determination and sportsmanship.
The students produced an exceptional set of results, returning home with an impressive collection of medals. The Intermediate team delivered a dominant performance, winning gold in both the Freestyle and Medley Relays. The Senior team also rose to the challenge, earning silver medals in both relay events against strong opposition.
These achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication shown by our swimmers both in and out of the pool. Competing against such a large field of schools and colleges, they demonstrated the talent and commitment that continue to make The Hamble School proud.
Congratulations to all our swimmers on a fantastic day of competition and success. We look forward to seeing what they can achieve in future events.
- Year 8 Boys Continue 100% Record with 3-0 Win
The Year 8 boys continued their impressive start to the season with a superb 3-0 league victory over local rivals Bitterne Park in our first home fixture of the campaign.
Despite missing two regular members of the squad, The Hamble School started brightly and quickly took control of the match. The breakthrough came when Leo provided a perfectly weighted assist for Henry K, who finished calmly to give The Hamble School a deserved lead.
The second goal followed shortly afterwards. Excellent pressure and link-up play between Leo and James saw the ball fall kindly to James 20 yards from goal. Showing great composure, he swivelled and lofted a stunning effort over the goalkeeper and into the top corner.
In midfield, Henry H and Henry K controlled possession brilliantly, while Reggie, Tommy and Jaxon marshalled the defence superbly, limiting Bitterne Park to very few opportunities.
The Hamble School began the second half as they ended the first, dominating possession and creating numerous chances. At the other end, Vakaris produced a series of excellent saves to keep a clean sheet, while defensive debutant Finley impressed with his physical presence and aerial dominance.
The victory was secured late in the game when Charlie delivered an excellent cross into the box and Arthur rose highest to power a header into the far corner.
A clean sheet, three goals and a dominant team performance made it an outstanding afternoon for the Year 8 boys.
Man of the Match: Vakaris for an excellent display in goal and outstanding distribution throughout the game.
Congratulations to all involved. The boys will look to continue their 100% record when they travel to Wildern for their next league fixture.
Squad: Vakaris, Reggie, Tommy, Jaxon, Finley, Henry H, Henry K, Charlie, Leo, James, Tate and Arthur.
Combined Cadet Force Update
Our Combined Cadet Force (CCF) continues to make excellent progress, with the school receiving ongoing training and support from the Army as we work through the necessary compliance requirements ahead of our official launch.
Students will begin to see our adult CCF volunteers in uniform on parade days. We would encourage students to ask questions and find out more about the opportunities that the CCF will offer.
We are looking forward to formally launching the CCF with students on Friday 8 January 2027. Before then, we will be holding a number of one-off events this term for students who have already expressed an interest, as well as providing further opportunities for students to sign up and get involved before the official launch.
Please keep an eye on the Weekly Message over the coming weeks for more information, including updates about the CCF team, upcoming events and what students can expect from this exciting new opportunity.
- Mrs Morgan Investigates…
When Mrs Morgan heard a loud noise after school on Friday, she went to investigate. Thankfully, there was no cause for concern. Instead, she discovered members of our CCF team taking part in Army-led training. Our staff volunteers were practising commands, developing new skills and fully embracing the training, with plenty of enthusiasm on display. Their commitment to professional development will help ensure students have an excellent experience when the CCF launches.
The only question that remains is: can you recognise any of the staff involved from the photograph?
A great example of staff continuing to learn, develop and seize new opportunities at The Hamble School.
Celebrating Student Achievement Beyond The Classroom
At The Hamble School, we are always proud to celebrate the achievements of our students, both in and out of school. Whether excelling in sport, performing in the arts, volunteering in the community or achieving personal goals, our students continue to demonstrate the determination, commitment and ambition that make our school community so special.
National Success for Orla Carr
Congratulations to Orla C, who recently represented the South Coast Spitfires U14 Flag American Football Team at the British American Football National Finals.
After an outstanding season in which the team won all 13 of their league fixtures, the Spitfires entered the competition as the number one ranked team in the country. Following a 20-0 victory in the semi-final, they progressed to the National Final, where they finished as National Silver Medalists, becoming the second-best U14 team in Great Britain.
Orla captained the team throughout the season and played a key role in their success as the team’s centre and leading receiver. Her leadership, dedication and sporting achievement are an inspiration, and we are incredibly proud of her success on the national stage.
Hamble Sea Scouts Take on Rowing Challenge
Congratulations also to David B, Oliver B, Matthew B, Sophia B, Patrick H and Will, who represented Hamble Sea Scouts in a challenging rowing event.
Competing in teams against predominantly adult crews, the students rowed an incredible 21.6 miles. Oliver’s team achieved outstanding success, finishing 43rd out of 265 teams and winning both the Under-16 and Scout Group categories. Matthew’s team finished an impressive 222nd, despite being one of the youngest teams in the competition, with Matthew being the youngest participant taking part.
The determination, resilience and teamwork demonstrated by all involved are fantastic examples of young people challenging themselves and achieving success outside of school.
Share Your Success Stories
We know that many of our students achieve amazing things beyond the classroom, and we would love to hear about them.
If your child has achieved something they are proud of, whether in sport, music, dance, cadets, scouts, community work or any other activity, please share their story with us by emailing:
communication@thehambleschool.co.uk
We look forward to celebrating more of the incredible achievements of our students in future editions of the Weekly Message.
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: Matthew B 7-3
Year 8: Hayden C 8-9
Year 9: Myla O’S 9-8
Year 10: Julia T 10-8
Year 11: Lillie E 11-7
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
Reminder: Year 7 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.
The CATs assessments 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.
A letter containing further information, including the testing timetable and practical arrangements, has now been published and is available on our website:
🔗 https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/letters-to-parents/
The letter includes details about the testing process, equipment requirements and who to contact should you have any questions.
We thank Parents/ Carers for their support and look forward to using the information gathered to help ensure every student fulfils their potential.
Year 7 Team Building Payment Reminder
Last week’s Year 7 Team Building Days were a fantastic success, providing students with valuable opportunities to develop teamwork, resilience and communication skills while building friendships and confidence.
We would like to remind Parents/ Carers that there are currently just over 30 families who have not yet paid the £10 contribution via SCOPAY. If you have not yet made payment, please do so by the end of this week, unless you have already agreed a payment plan with the Finance Team.
The school now needs to settle the costs of the programme with Personal Best Education, so we would be grateful if outstanding payments could be made as soon as possible.
Thank you to all families who have already paid and for your continued support. If you need to discuss payment arrangements, please contact the Finance Team via general@thehambleschool.co.uk
Year 8
No year group specific notices this week.
Year 9
No year group specific notices this week.
Year 10
No year group specific notices this week.
Year 11
Year 11 Attendance: Every Lesson Counts
Attendance is important in every year group, but it is especially important in Year 11. With GCSE examinations approaching, every lesson provides students with essential knowledge, exam practice, feedback and support that can have a direct impact on their final results.
Research consistently shows a strong link between attendance and GCSE outcomes. Students who attend school regularly are significantly more likely to achieve strong grades than those who miss learning time. Every lesson missed creates gaps in knowledge and understanding that can become increasingly difficult to close as examinations approach.
The figures are clear:
- 95% attendance = fewer than 10 days absent in a school year
- 90% attendance = approximately 19 days absent, or 95 lessons missed
- 85% attendance = approximately 29 days absent, or 145 lessons missed
- 80% attendance = approximately 38 days absent, or 190 lessons missed
Missing lessons means missing teacher explanations, practical activities, class discussions, exam preparation and opportunities to ask questions. While notes can be copied, the learning experience cannot be replicated.
We are delighted to see many Year 11 tutor groups maintaining excellent attendance, with 11-5 leading the way on 97% attendance. These students are giving themselves the very best opportunity to succeed next summer.
Attendance is not optional preparation for GCSEs; it is a key part of achieving success. We expect all Year 11 students to attend school every day, arrive on time and be ready to learn. This is one of the most important commitments students can make to their future.
If there are barriers affecting attendance, please contact the school so that support can be put in place as early as possible, you can email staysafe@thehambleschool.co.uk
Every day matters. Every lesson matters. Every grade matters. Year 11 students only get one opportunity to prepare for their GCSEs, and excellent attendance is one of the most powerful ways to maximise their chances of success.
