As we reach the end of another successful week, it is a pleasure to reflect on the many achievements and opportunities experienced by our students across the school.
Year 7 have continued to make an excellent start to secondary school and this week successfully completed their CAT testing. We were also delighted to welcome teachers from Hamble Primary School and Bursledon Junior School, who visited lessons to see how well our Year 7 students have settled into life at the school. Their positive attitudes to learning, engagement in lessons and confidence around the school were a real credit to them.
Year 9 students took part in CPR training today, gaining valuable life-saving knowledge and practical skills that could make a significant difference in an emergency situation.
Year 10 students have been undertaking their work experience placements and it has been wonderful to receive such positive feedback from employers. Their professionalism, enthusiasm and willingness to learn have been praised and they have represented both themselves and the school exceptionally well.
Year 11 have had an important week as they continue their preparation for the Mock Exams and, ultimately, their GCSEs. On Tuesday, we were delighted to welcome students and Parents/ Carers to our Achieving Excellence Evening and Revision Information Evening. It was fantastic to see so many families in attendance as we shared practical guidance, revision strategies and information about how Parents/ Carers can best support their children over the coming months. The partnership between home and school is crucial during Year 11, and we are grateful for the commitment shown by families in supporting our students’ success. Students undertaking their Drama Controlled Assessments this week demonstrated commitment, creativity and resilience throughout the process, approaching this important component of their course with maturity and determination. Today, Year 11 students attended our Revision Day, where attendance, engagement and effort were excellent throughout. Students participated in dedicated revision sessions and developed effective revision techniques to support their preparation for the Mock Exams. Their positive attitude and willingness to make the most of every opportunity provided was particularly pleasing to see and we are confident that this hard work will stand them in good stead in the weeks ahead.
Alongside these year group events, our Year 6 Open Morning was a tremendous success. We received excellent feedback from visitors, who commented on the welcoming atmosphere of the school, the conduct of our students and the high-quality learning taking place across classrooms. We also welcomed governors into school for a Monitoring Day focused on teaching and learning. Governors visited lessons across a range of subjects and year groups and were extremely complimentary about the quality of education, positive relationships and purposeful learning environment they observed.
Thank you to all students and staff who have contributed to such a positive week. The enthusiasm, effort and commitment shown across our school community continue to make us proud, and I wish all students, staff and families a restful and enjoyable weekend.
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 19 October 2026
Monday 19 October
- Year 11 Dance Controlled Assessment
Tuesday 20 October
- Year 11 English Literature Mock Exam – AM
- Parent Forum – 5:30pm in the Conference Room by reception. Sign up here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/g2A3AsWZZi
Wednesday 21 October
- Year 7 & 8 Autumn Disco – 5:30pm-7pm in the Main Hall
- Year 11 Work Experience starts until Friday 23 October
Thursday 22 October
- Deadline to hand in items for the Shoe Box Appeal
- Netley Abbey Junior School visit Year 7 students in school
Friday 23 October
- Last day of Autumn Term 1 at 3pm
Future Dates
Monday 2 November – Year 11 MFL Speaking and Practical Exams begin
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 – Celebrating Success and Reflection
As we reach the end of this half term, our focus is on Celebrating Success and Reflection. This week, students will take part in our Celebration Assemblies, recognising the achievements, progress and positive contributions of students across the school. Year 11;s celebration assembly will take place on Monday to ensure that students have the opportunity to be recognised before heading out on work experience.
During tutor time, students will explore what success means to them and reflect on their experiences over the past half term. Success is not just about academic results; it can also be demonstrated through effort, resilience, personal growth, positive relationships and the small steps we take towards our goals. Taking time to reflect helps students recognise how far they have come and identify areas where they would like to develop further.
Setting SMART Targets
As part of this process, students will be encouraged to set SMART targets for the next half term. These are goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. Rather than setting a broad goal such as “I want to do better at school”, students can identify a clear action, such as “I will complete 20 minutes of revision three evenings a week until the next assessment.” SMART targets help students turn their ambitions into manageable steps, track their progress and take greater responsibility for their own development. Parents and carers can support this by discussing targets at home and helping students identify realistic ways to achieve them.
Table Talk: This week, we encourage families to discuss the past half term together.
- What has gone well?
- What are you most proud of?
- What have you learned, and what would you like to improve next half term?
- Can you agree on one or two SMART targets to work towards over the coming weeks?
These conversations can help students recognise their achievements, build confidence and return after the break feeling motivated and focused.
We hope all our students take pride in their achievements this half term, however big or small, and enjoy a well-deserved break before returning ready for new challenges and opportunities.
Whole School Notices
Parent Safeguarding Update: Supporting Your Child Over the Half-Term Break
As we approach the half-term holiday, we would like to take the opportunity to thank parents and carers for your continued support in helping to keep our young people safe, happy and well.
School holidays provide valuable time for rest and family activities, but they can also mean that young people spend more time online, socialising independently and accessing social media. We encourage families to take a few moments to talk openly with their children about staying safe, both online and in the community.
Online Safety
Many young people will be spending increased time gaming, using social media and communicating with friends online during the break. Please consider:
- Checking privacy settings on social media accounts.
- Talking about respectful online behaviour.
- Reminding children never to share personal information, images or passwords.
- Encouraging them to speak to a trusted adult if anything online makes them feel uncomfortable, worried or unsafe.
Halloween Safety
Halloween can be an exciting time for young people, but it is important that celebrations remain safe and respectful. Please talk with your child about:
- Staying with trusted friends and agreeing plans in advance.
- Being aware of their surroundings when out after dark.
- Respecting other people’s property and local communities.
- Avoiding risky dares, challenges or social media trends.
- Contacting a trusted adult if they feel unsafe or concerned.
Looking After Emotional Wellbeing
Holidays can bring a change in routine, which some young people find challenging. Encouraging regular sleep patterns, physical activity, time away from screens and opportunities to talk about any worries can make a significant difference to emotional wellbeing.
Need Support
If you have concerns about your child’s safety or wellbeing during the holiday, please do not wait until school reopens. Support is available through:
- NHS 111
- Your GP
- Hampshire or Southampton Children’s Services
- Childline (0800 1111)
- Emergency Services (999) if there is an immediate risk of harm
We hope that all of our students and families enjoy a safe, restful and enjoyable half-term break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back after the holiday refreshed and ready for the next half term.
Attendance Through the Winter Months
As we move further into autumn and winter, we know that seasonal coughs, colds and minor illnesses become more common. However, attending school every day remains one of the most important factors in ensuring students achieve their full potential, both academically and socially.
Every lesson counts. Missing just one day of school can mean missing key learning, important discussions, practical experiences and opportunities to develop confidence and friendships. Over time, even small amounts of absence can have a significant impact on achievement.
The NHS advises that children and young people can usually attend school with minor illnesses such as a cough, cold, sore throat, runny nose or headache, provided they are otherwise well and do not have a high temperature. Students should normally remain at home if they have a fever, sickness and diarrhoea, or another condition where a period of exclusion is recommended.
The importance of regular attendance is recognised nationally. Health and education professionals have highlighted that being in school supports not only academic progress but also wellbeing, social development and future life chances.
There are a number of simple measures that can help reduce the spread of winter illnesses:
- Regular handwashing.
- Catching coughs and sneezes in tissues and disposing of them promptly.
- Maintaining good hygiene habits.
- Ensuring eligible vaccinations are up to date.
- Returning to school as soon as students are well enough to attend.
We are grateful for the support of our Parents/ Carers in promoting excellent attendance. Before deciding to keep your child at home, we encourage you to consult the NHS guidance, which provides clear advice on when attendance is appropriate and when children should remain at home.
Over the coming weeks we will continue to celebrate excellent attendance, including recognising tutor groups with the highest attendance rates. Our collective goal is simple: ensuring students are in school, learning, achieving and benefiting from every opportunity available to them.
Useful Link
- NHS: Is my child too ill for school?
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/is-my-child-too-ill-for-school/
This week’s Tutor Group Attendance Champions:
Congratulations to all tutor groups striving for excellent attendance. Every day in school matters.
Flu Vaccinations
Annual Nasal Flu Vaccinations are now due. The vaccine helps protect against flu, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness. The vaccine will help your child to build up immunity which means your child will be better able to fight off flu.
You will shortly receive an email from the school with a link to book a vaccination for your child. However, you can also use the link below to do this.
Click the link below for the electronic form and information about the vaccine. Access to the form will close two working days prior to the session.
School Code: SH116413
Session date: Monday 23 & Tuesday 24 November 2026
Year Group: Year 7 – 11
Link to website: https://www.hiowhealthcareimmunisations.co.uk/Forms/Flu
The nasal flu vaccine contains products derived from pigs (porcine gelatine). To opt for the porcine gelatine free inactive flu injection, select NO to the nasal flu immunisation and you will be given further options. Alternatively, if you decide you do not wish your child to receive the vaccine against flu, please complete the form to record your decision. This will enable us to update your child’s immunisation record.
From the NHS School Age Immunisation Service
Free Breakfast Available Every Morning
Did you know that all students can access a free breakfast in the canteen each morning?
From 8:15am, students can enjoy free toast and porridge before the start of the school day. A healthy breakfast helps students arrive in lessons feeling energised, focused and ready to learn, making a positive start to the day.
Whether students arrive early for enrichment activities, revision sessions or simply want something to eat before lessons begin, they are welcome to visit the canteen and take advantage of this provision.
We encourage all students to make use of this fantastic opportunity. There is no booking required, just come along to the canteen from 8:15am and enjoy a free breakfast before school.
We look forward to welcoming students each morning and helping them start the day ready to achieve their best.
Rotary Shoebox Appeal Reminder – Double Points Available!
This is a reminder that all donations for the Rotary Shoebox Appeal must be in school by Thursday 22 October.
Thank you to everyone who has already contributed. The appeal provides gifts and essential items for disadvantaged and displaced children, helping to bring some joy and comfort to children who may otherwise receive very little this Christmas.
There is still plenty of time to get involved this weekend!
Every tutor group has a shoebox and is collecting items. Students can either:
- Bring in items to contribute to their tutor group’s shoebox.
- Complete their own shoebox.
- Complete more than one shoebox if they wish.
Suitable items include small toys, colouring books, pens, pencils, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, flannels, hats, gloves, scarves, socks, balls, skipping ropes and other small gifts. All items should be new or in ‘as new’ condition.
Please remember not to include food, sweets, liquids, medicines, battery-operated items, sharp objects or war-related toys.
House Competition
This year’s appeal is also a House Competition.
Every student who contributes to the appeal will receive House Points. Even better, students who complete and donate their own full shoebox will receive double points in recognition of their outstanding effort and generosity.
Our Target: 100 Boxes
We have set ourselves an ambitious target of 100 shoeboxes. Reaching this goal will require a whole-school effort, and every item donated takes us one step closer.
Please take some time this weekend to gather items, support your tutor group’s collection or complete your own shoebox. Remember, all donations must be brought into school by Thursday 22 October and your tutor can provide you with a box.
Thank you for your kindness, generosity and community spirit. Together, let’s see if we can achieve our target of 100 boxes and make a real difference to children who need our support.
PSHCRE Lessons
Thank you for your support with the PSHCRE programme which has seen student focussing on the topic of Health this half term. This has included exciting CPR training for our Y9 students and a focus on revision and mental wellbeing for our Y11 students. As we moved into next half term we will be focussing on our next theme of ‘Ambition’. Across out spiral curriculum this will include careers education, financial education and a look at laws around the workplace for all students. As ever if you have any PSHCRE related questions please contact us directly at The Hamble School in the usual way.
Remembrance Day 2026
On Wednesday 11 November, our school community will once again come together to mark Remembrance Day, taking time to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who have served, and continue to serve, in the Armed Forces.
Students who are members of organisations such as the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), Sea Cadets, Army Cadets, Air Cadets, St John Ambulance, Scouts, Guides or other uniformed youth organisations are warmly invited to wear their uniform to school on the day as a mark of respect and remembrance.
Poppy Appeal
From Monday, poppies will be available across the school in support of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. The Royal British Legion asks for donations rather than setting a fixed price, with every contribution helping to support serving personnel, veterans and their families.
Poppies can be collected from Reception, and our Community Ambassadors will also be visiting tutor groups throughout the week with poppies available for students and staff who wish to make a donation.
Remembrance Assembly and School Commemorations
On Wednesday 11 November, we will hold our annual Remembrance Assembly and take part in a period of reflection as a school community.
This year, we will also be creating a series of commemorations around the school to honour those who have served in the Armed Forces. We would like to invite families to contribute to this important tribute.
If you have a family member, friend or loved one who is currently serving or who has served in the past, and you would like them to be remembered as part of our Remembrance commemorations, please complete the form here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/TaxtRMSfew
By sharing their name, you will help us create a meaningful display that recognises the contributions and sacrifices made by members of our wider school community, both past and present.
As we approach Remembrance Day, we thank our school community for helping us ensure that the service, courage and sacrifice of others are never forgotten.
New Maths Club Launching After Half-Term!
Do you enjoy tackling tricky problems, solving puzzles or thinking creatively? If so, our new Maths Club could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Starting after half-term, students will have the chance to explore a range of mathematical challenges, including problems, puzzles and paradoxes designed to develop problem-solving skills and mathematical thinking. Whether you are looking to stretch yourself beyond the classroom or simply enjoy a good challenge, Maths Club offers a fun and engaging environment to do just that.
The club will run every Friday lunchtime in SC14, and we are delighted to welcome all Key Stage 3 students.
We look forward to seeing lots of enthusiastic mathematicians joining us for this exciting new extra-curricular opportunity!
Weekly Drama & Acting Classes with LightUP Drama
As part of our commitment to providing a rich and varied Creative Arts programme, we are expanding our drama provision through a new partnership with Light UP Drama, a successful local drama company based in Hamble.
These sessions are designed to complement our existing Arts offer by providing more structured, skills-based training. Students will have opportunities to develop their abilities in a supportive and engaging environment, whether they are experienced performers or completely new to drama. Staff are fully DBS certificated and are highly experienced in running classes both at their studios and through school satellite groups..
Weekly classes will focus on developing:
- Acting and performance skills
- Voice and movement techniques
- Characterisation
- Improvisation skills
- Confidence and communication
- Teamwork and creativity
Key Information
- Launching from Friday 6th November 2026 – 3 – 4pm in the Drama Studio
- Subsidised cost of £7 per session
If you would like your child to attend the taster session, please complete the consent and payment form, using the QR code in the Flyer, included with this email
CCF Preparations
Preparations for the launch of our Combined Cadet Force continue. Mr Bateman visited Year 8 to Year 10 assemblies this week to provide students with further information and the opportunity to sign up.
We would also like to introduce Mr Leather, The Hamble School’s Staff Support Instructor (SSI), who supports the CCF on behalf of the Army. Students may already have seen him around school on Mondays and Fridays. If they have any questions about the CCF or are interested in joining, they are encouraged to speak to Mr Leather, Mr Bateman or any of our uniformed staff.
Mr Leather and Mr Bateman will be available in the Student Hub at lunchtime on Monday 19th October for any students who would like to find out more about this exciting opportunity. We look forward to welcoming the first intake of cadets as preparations continue for the launch of the CCF.
Sporting Update
It has been another busy and successful week for Hamble sport, with our football and netball teams representing the school with pride.
The Year 7 boys began their season in the National Cup against Glenmoor. Despite an 8-2 defeat, the team showed great resilience and determination in their first fixture together, with goals from Guy and Ethan providing highlights and plenty of positives to build on for the future.
Our Year 8 boys continued their outstanding start to the season with a 4-1 league victory away at Wildern. Goals from Leo, Henry K and Jake secured a third consecutive league win, maintaining their 100% record and keeping the team in excellent form.
The Year 8 boys also made a flying start to their National Cup campaign with an impressive 6-1 victory away at Bishop Luffa. After falling behind, the team responded superbly to secure their place in the next round with an outstanding all-round performance. Congratulations to Henry H, who was named Player of the Match.
Meanwhile, our Year 7/8 netball team played their first fixture together against Crestwood. Despite an 8-4 defeat, the girls performed brilliantly, showing excellent teamwork, determination and enthusiasm throughout. Congratulations to Phoebe Hitchcock, who was awarded Player of the Match for an excellent individual performance.
Well done to all students who represented The Hamble School this week. Your commitment, teamwork and sportsmanship continue to make us proud.
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: Vidos S 7-4
Year 8: Judah A 8-5
Year 9: Ruby D 9-7
Year 10: Sofia E 10-9
Year 11: David B 11-8
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
Celebrating a Fantastic First Half Term in Year 7
Next week, in addition to our usual Celebration Assembly, Year 7 students will take part in a special assembly to recognise and celebrate what has been a fantastic first half term at The Hamble School.
Starting secondary school is a significant milestone, and we have been incredibly impressed by the way our Year 7 students have embraced new routines, formed friendships, taken on challenges and become active members of our school community.
During the assembly, we will be recognising all students who completed the Transition Challenges and submitted their Transition Books. These activities were designed to help students settle into school life and make the most of the opportunities available to them during their transition to secondary school.
If your Transition Book has not yet been submitted, please ensure it is given to your tutor by Tuesday. Alternatively, evidence can be emailed to general@thehambleschool.co.uk by the same deadline.
As part of the assembly, Mrs Emmett-Callaghan will also be sharing some practical hints and tips to help students stay organised, manage their equipment effectively and develop positive homework routines.
Following half term, Year 7 students will see a gradual increase in their homework as additional subjects begin setting work. Alongside their current homework, students will start receiving homework in Humanities (Geography, History and RS) and Modern Foreign Languages (MFL). This is an important step in helping students develop the independent study skills they will need throughout their time at secondary school.
We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our Year 7 students and recognising the excellent start they have made at The Hamble School. Well done, Year 7!
Year 7 Art Sketchbook Contribution
The Art and Photography Department is proud to provide students with high-quality resources that support creativity, skill development and success throughout their learning.
This year, we are asking Parents/ Carers of Year 7 students for a one-off contribution of £1 towards the cost of the sketchbook that students will use throughout the academic year.
Students have already received their sketchbooks and have made an excellent start, producing some fantastic work. The sketchbook will be used across the year to record ideas, develop skills and showcase progress. At the end of the year, students will be able to take their sketchbook home, along with any larger pieces of artwork they have produced.
As in previous years, families may also choose to make an additional voluntary contribution to support the purchase of specialist materials and resources. These contributions help us to continue offering a rich, exciting and diverse Art and Photography curriculum across the school.
Payment can be made via SCOPAY.
If you have any questions regarding this contribution, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
Thank you in advance for your continued support of Art and Photography at The Hamble School.
Year 8
Year 8 Art Sketchbook Contribution
The Art and Photography Department is proud to provide students with high-quality resources that enable them to develop their creativity, confidence and artistic skills throughout the year.
This year, we are asking Parents/ Carers of Year 8 students for a one-off contribution of £1 towards the cost of the sketchbook that students will use throughout the academic year.
Students have already been issued with their sketchbooks and have begun producing some excellent work. The sketchbook plays an important role in the curriculum, allowing students to develop ideas, practise techniques and record their artistic journey across the year. At the end of the year, students will be able to take their sketchbooks home, along with any larger pieces of artwork they have created.
As in previous years, families may also choose to make an additional voluntary contribution to support the purchase of specialist materials and resources. These contributions help us continue to provide a rich, engaging and diverse Art and Photography curriculum for all students.
Payment can be made via SCOPAY.
If you have any questions regarding this contribution, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
Thank you in advance for your continued support of Art and Photography at The Hamble School.
Year 9
Year 9 Art Students – Sketchbook and Materials Contribution
The Art and Photography Department has always been proud of the excellent work our students produce. We are committed to providing high-quality resources to ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed and develop their artistic skills.
As students begin preparing for GCSE study, we encourage them to adopt a professional approach to their work. This includes presenting projects to a high standard using quality sketchbooks and presentation materials.
For Year 9, we are continuing with a hybrid approach to presentation, giving students experience of working both on presentation sheets and within sketchbooks. This mirrors the approach used in the Year 10 Skills Builder Project during the autumn term and helps students develop the presentation skills required for GCSE Art.
To support this work, we are asking Parents/ Carers of Year 9 Art students for a contribution towards the cost of the following materials:
Year 9 Art
- A4 soft-cover sketchbook
- Pack of mounting card
Contribution: £3.45
Payment can be made via SCOPAY.
Parents/ Carers who have purchased materials through the department previously may notice some changes in pricing. This reflects increases in supplier costs. However, we are still able to provide these materials at a lower cost than students would typically pay in shops.
Optional Voluntary Contribution
There is also the option on SCOPAY to make a voluntary contribution of £5.00 to the Art and Photography Department. This funding helps us purchase a wide range of specialist materials, enabling us to continue offering a rich, diverse and engaging curriculum across all key stages.
Art Packs Available
Following the success of our art packs last year, these will continue to be available for purchase through SCOPAY.
Basic Art Pack – £11.78
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
Intermediate Art Pack – £19.48
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
- Pack of small acrylic paints
- 12-pack of oil pastels
Mega Art Pack – £40.48
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
- Pack of small acrylic paints
- 12-pack of oil pastels
- Double-sided tape
- Watercolour paper
- Watercolour pencils
- Soft pastels
- Charcoal
- Acrylic markers
Art packs will be issued to students once proof of purchase has been shown to a member of the Art team.
If you have any questions regarding any of the payments outlined above, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
As always, thank you for your continued support of Art and Photography at The Hamble School.
Year 10
Year 10 Art Students – Sketchbook and Materials Contribution
The Art and Photography Department has always been proud of the excellent work our students produce. We are committed to providing high-quality resources to ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed and develop their artistic skills.
As students embark on the GCSE Art course, we encourage them to adopt a professional approach to their work. This includes presenting projects to a high standard using high-quality sketchbooks and presentation materials. These resources form an essential part of the GCSE journey, allowing students to record research, develop ideas, experiment with techniques and showcase their progress over time.
During the autumn term, Year 10 students will complete a Skills Builder Project, helping them develop the techniques, presentation skills and creative confidence required for GCSE success.
To support this work, we are asking Parents/ Carers of Year 10 Art students for a contribution towards the cost of the following materials:
Year 10 Art
- A4 hard-cover sketchbook
- Pack of mounting card
Contribution: £5.45
Payment can be made via SCOPAY.
Parents/ Carers who have purchased materials through the department previously may notice some changes in pricing. This reflects increases in supplier costs. However, we are still able to provide these materials at a lower cost than students would typically pay in shops.
Optional Voluntary Contribution
There is also the option on SCOPAY to make a voluntary contribution of £5.00 to the Art and Photography Department. This funding helps us purchase a wide range of specialist materials, enabling us to continue offering a rich, diverse and engaging curriculum across all key stages.
Art Packs Available
Following the success of our art packs last year, these will continue to be available for purchase through SCOPAY.
Basic Art Pack – £11.78
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
Intermediate Art Pack – £19.48
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
- Pack of small acrylic paints
- 12-pack of oil pastels
Mega Art Pack – £40.48
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
- Pack of small acrylic paints
- 12-pack of oil pastels
- Double-sided tape
- Watercolour paper
- Watercolour pencils
- Soft pastels
- Charcoal
- Acrylic markers
Art packs can be purchased through SCOPAY and will be issued to students once proof of purchase has been shown to a member of the Art team.
If you have any questions regarding any of the payments outlined above, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
As always, thank you for your continued support of Art and Photography at The Hamble School.
Year 11
Year 11 Mock Examinations
Year 11 students have now received their mock examination timetable, and a separate letter containing further information will be sent to Parents/ Carers shortly.
The mock examinations are an important opportunity for students to experience exam conditions, practise their examination technique and identify areas for further improvement ahead of the summer examinations. We are confident that students will approach this period with the determination and resilience they have shown throughout the year.
Revision Timetables
Students have recently been supported in school to create a personalised revision timetable. We would encourage Parents/ Carers to ask their child to share this timetable and discuss how they plan to organise their revision in the coming weeks.
Regular, planned revision is far more effective than last-minute cramming and will help students feel confident and prepared when they enter the examination hall. Students should now be using their revision timetable consistently to ensure they are fully prepared for each examination.
Free Revision Resources
This week, students were provided with a range of free revision resources, including stationery and equipment to support their preparation at home.
If your child requires additional support, resources or revision guidance, please contact the school via general@thehambleschool.co.uk and mark your email FAO your child’s tutor. We are keen to ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed.
Equipment Required for Every Exam
Students must arrive fully equipped for all examinations. They should bring:
- At least two black pens
- Pencils
- A ruler
- An eraser
- A pencil sharpener
- A scientific calculator (where required)
- Mathematical equipment such as a protractor and compass for Maths examinations
- A clear water bottle with the label removed
Students should check their equipment the evening before each examination to ensure everything is working and ready to use.
Looking Ahead
Students will need this equipment from Tuesday, when they sit their Mock English Literature examination.
This important information has already been shared with students during a Year 11 assembly delivered by Mrs Valleley (Deputy Headteacher) and Mrs Vincent (Exams Officer). We would appreciate your support in reinforcing these messages at home and ensuring that students are fully prepared.
We wish all of our Year 11 students the very best as they begin their mock examinations and look forward to seeing the hard work, commitment and determination they have shown reflected in their results.
Revision Reps: Helping Students Revise Effectively at Home
As part of our ongoing support for students preparing for assessments and examinations, we have recently introduced students to the concept of Revision Reps. This simple but effective approach helps students break revision into manageable chunks and focuses on building long-term memory through regular practice.
Many students tell us that revision is difficult because they do not know where to start, are unsure what to revise, become distracted, or feel that information does not stay in their memory. Revision Reps provide a clear structure to overcome these common barriers.
What are Revision Reps?
Revision Reps are short, focused revision sessions lasting 25 minutes. Students are encouraged to complete different types of reps depending on what they need to achieve.
Learning Reps – Build Knowledge
A Learning Rep is used when students are studying content that they are not yet confident with. Students:
- Spend 5 minutes recalling what they already know.
- Spend 10-20 minutes learning from revision guides, exercise books, knowledge organisers or videos.
- Finish by summarising their learning through notes.
Practice Reps – Embed Knowledge
A Practice Rep helps students strengthen their understanding by actively working with the information they have learned. Activities might include:
- Creating flashcards.
- Producing mind maps.
- Writing practice paragraphs.
- Completing topic-specific questions.
- Practising speaking assessments.
- Using retrieval activities such as Smart Revise.
Testing Reps – Improve Recall
A Testing Rep focuses on examination practice. Students:
- Find suitable exam-style questions or past paper questions.
- Complete the questions independently.
- Mark their answers and identify areas for improvement.
How Can Parents/ Carers Support at Home?
Parents/ Carers play a vital role in helping students establish effective study habits.
Encourage Short, Focused Sessions
Rather than revising for several hours at a time, encourage students to complete one or two 25-minute Revision Reps each evening. Research shows that regular, consistent practice is far more effective than occasional intensive revision sessions.
Help Students Create a Routine
Students are more likely to revise successfully when they decide exactly when and where they will complete their revision. For example:
“At 6.00pm, at my desk, I will complete one Science Learning Rep.”
Start Small
Successful revision habits are built gradually. One Revision Rep completed well is better than attempting several hours of revision and becoming overwhelmed.
Use Existing Daily Habits
Students can “habit stack” by linking revision to something they already do every day. For example:
- After arriving home from school.
- After dinner.
- Before an evening activity.
Encourage Reflection
Students should regularly ask themselves:
- What do I already know?
- What am I finding difficult?
- Is this revision strategy working?
- What should I focus on next?
Track Success
Keeping a record of completed Revision Reps can be highly motivating. Students should celebrate small successes and focus on consistency. Missing one session is not a problem; the key is getting back on track and not missing two in a row.
Building Good Habits for Success
The key message for students is that revision is not about cramming before a test. Just as athletes improve through regular training, students improve through regular revision. Every completed Revision Rep strengthens knowledge, improves recall and builds confidence.
By working together, we can help students develop effective revision habits that will support them not only in their upcoming assessments but throughout their educational journey.
Year 11 Art Students – Sketchbook and Materials Contribution
The Art and Photography Department has always been proud of the excellent work our students produce. We are committed to providing high-quality resources to ensure that every student has the tools they need to succeed and develop their artistic skills.
As students enter the final year of their GCSE Art course, it is essential that they continue to present their work professionally and maintain high standards across both their coursework and examination units. High-quality sketchbooks are a vital part of this process, enabling students to document research, refine ideas, experiment with techniques and present their work effectively.
Year 11 students should be aware that, once their first sketchbook is completed, they may need to obtain an additional sketchbook to continue developing their coursework. A new sketchbook will also be required at the start of the examination unit in January should their current book be full.
To support this work, we are asking Parents/ Carers of Year 11 Art students for a contribution towards the cost of the following materials:
Year 11 Art
- A4 hard-cover sketchbook
Contribution: £3.00
Payment can be made via SCOPAY.
Parents/ Carers who have purchased materials through the department previously may notice some changes in pricing. This reflects increases in supplier costs. However, we are still able to provide these materials at a lower cost than students would typically pay in shops.
Optional Voluntary Contribution
There is also the option on SCOPAY to make a voluntary contribution of £5.00 to the Art and Photography Department. This funding helps us purchase a wide range of specialist materials, enabling us to continue offering a rich, diverse and engaging curriculum across all key stages.
Art Packs Available
Following the success of our art packs last year, these will continue to be available for purchase through SCOPAY.
Basic Art Pack – £11.78
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
Intermediate Art Pack – £19.48
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
- Pack of small acrylic paints
- 12-pack of oil pastels
Mega Art Pack – £40.48
- Watercolour tin
- White gel pens
- Paint brushes
- Black fineliner
- Glue stick
- Pack of drawing pencils
- Pack of small acrylic paints
- 12-pack of oil pastels
- Double-sided tape
- Watercolour paper
- Watercolour pencils
- Soft pastels
- Charcoal
- Acrylic markers
Art packs can be purchased through SCOPAY and will be issued to students once proof of purchase has been shown to a member of the Art team.
If you have any questions regarding any of the payments outlined above, please do not hesitate to contact the school.
As always, thank you for your continued support of Art and Photography at The Hamble School as students complete the final stages of their GCSE Art course.
