We were delighted to welcome so many families to our Open Evening this week. The event was a real success, with a record number of visitors coming through our doors to experience life at The Hamble School. The atmosphere was incredibly positive, with prospective students and their Parents/ Carers commenting on the warm welcome they received and the wide range of activities on display across the school.
A huge thank you goes to all of our Prefects and student helpers, who acted as fantastic ambassadors – leading tours with confidence and enthusiasm, and supporting departments brilliantly throughout the evening. Their pride in the school was clear to see, and we are extremely grateful for their contribution in making the evening so memorable.
This week, Miss Cambridge and Mrs Valleley had the pleasure of visiting King Edward VI School in Southampton to learn more about the wide range of opportunities available to students in their Sixth Form. They were able to tour the facilities, meet Mr Parker (Headteacher) and other staff, and gain an insight into the academic and Extra-Curricular provision on offer. It was an informative visit that will help us support our Year 11 students as they begin to consider their post-16 pathways. Further information about the Sixth Form can be found here: https://senior.kes.school/126/sixth-form-at-king-edwards
Families should also be aware that a number of bursaries are available to help with the costs of Sixth Form study. These bursaries are designed to ensure that every student has equal access to opportunities, regardless of financial circumstances. More details can be found directly through the King Edward VI School website or by contacting their admissions team. We have also attached an information brochure to the Weekly Message email.
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 22 September
Monday 22 September
Year 11 Review Assessments begin in lessons
Year 8 Curriculum Evening – 5:30pm in the Main Hall
Future Dates
w/b 29 September – Year 10 Review Assessments
Thursday 2 October
Year 7 ‘Meet the Tutor’ Parents’ Evening
Year 7 Team Building Day
Friday 3 October
Year 7 Team Building 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 Attendance regularly on Class Charts
Theme of the Week – How to Keep Safe
Next week, students will have an assembly delivered by Mrs Rogers (Assistant Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead), about how to keep themselves safe.
This will cover how to keep safe online and, in the community, as well as rail and road safety. The assemblies will support students in helping them think about where risks may be apparent and how to mitigate these.
In tutor time, as part of the Personal Development Programme, students will be continuing the themes of rail and road safety so they can look at scenarios that may put themselves at risk. There are some useful resources for Parents/ Carers and students to support this theme, here: https://www.think.gov.uk/
Year 7s will be continuing their transition programme. This week they will be looking at Friendships and fallouts as well as how to stay well, both emotionally and physically.
Dinner Table Questions
- When you are walking to school, where do you think the most dangerous places are? How do you keep yourself safe in these areas?
- When you ride to school, do you wear your helmet? What might happen if you don’t wear a helmet?
- What are the hazards at a train station? What safety features are in place at a train station to help you keep safe? How should you behave at a train station?
House News
It’s time to express an interest in becoming a House Captain.
Each House in Year 7 to Year 10 will vote on a new House captain for the academic year in the coming weeks.
What does being a House Captain involve?
- Attending House meetings to share the voice of your House
- Sharing updates with your House and checking everyone knows what they can get involved in
- Being part of the Student Leadership Team and contributing to your school community
- Enhancing your team building and communication skills through actively engaging with the House Captain role
- Sharing ideas with House Captains from across the school and working together to make them happen!
So how do I apply?
Please let your tutor know that you are interested in becoming a House Captain no later than Friday 26 September.
Tutors will complete a Microsoft form with the names of students wishing to be nominated.
What happens next?
The Year 11 Prefect House Captains will distribute voting slips the following week for voting to take place in tutor groups – you will only be able to vote once.
House Captains will be announced before half-term.
If you have any questions, please speak to Mrs Emmett-Callaghan.
Good luck!
Year 11: Preparing for First Assessments
This week, our Year 11 students will be sitting their first set of Review Assessments across all subjects. These exams are an important chance to practise under timed conditions, identify strengths and areas for development, and begin building confidence ahead of next summer.
To help students make the most of their revision time, here are some top tips for getting organised and staying on track:
- Make a Revision Timetable
Breaking tasks into manageable chunks helps reduce stress. Aim to revise two to three subjects each evening, focusing on topics that need the most attention. Use colour-coding or apps like My Study Life to stay organised.
- Use Active Revision Techniques
Simply re-reading notes is not enough. Instead, try:
- Flashcards for key terms and formulas.
- Mind maps to link ideas together.
- Practice questions and past papers to get exam-ready.
- Find the Right Environment
A quiet space, free from distractions, makes a huge difference. Phones and social media are best left in another room while revising.
- Work in Short Bursts
Research suggests that studying in 25–30 minute chunks with short breaks improves focus and memory.
- Look After Yourself
Good sleep, healthy snacks, and regular movement are just as important as study time. A well-rested brain learns more effectively.
Useful Websites and Resources
- BBC Bitesize – subject guides, quizzes, and videos.
- Seneca Learning – free interactive revision courses.
- Quizlet – digital flashcards to test yourself.
- The Student Room – advice and revision resources shared by other students.
We wish all of our Year 11 students the very best as they begin this important stage of their journey. With planning, effort, and support, they will be well prepared to succeed.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Foundation Trust Youth Board
Applications for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Youth Board are open for 2025-26!
The Youth Board is made up of a group of committed young people from across Hampshire, the New Forest and Isle of Wight who want to contribute to decision-making in their local NHS Trust while building their skills and experience to support them in their futures.
They are recruiting for new members of the Youth Board and young people are able to apply to:
- Share their voice and support decision-making within their local NHS Foundation Trust.
- Develop their confidence, teamworking, communication & leadership skills.
- Gain insight into how the Trust operates and potential career paths within HIOWH NHS
Applications for the Youth Board are open now until 10am on 14 October 2025. More information on the attached poster.
https://forms.monday.com/forms/11d4971e67545794c60df74d8c1412c4?r=use1
Hamble Picnic Notice
Due to the heavy rain that has set in over the last few days, combined with the unavailability of some of the people who were instrumental in the Airfield defence, the Community Picnic due to take place on 26 September has been postponed. The group organising the picnic want to ensure everyone can enjoy the event comfortably, and that as many of the community as possible are involved. They appreciate the enthusiasm and interest from everyone who planned to attend, and look forward to gathering together once a new date is set. We’ll share an update as soon as we receive one.
Safeguarding Weekly Parent Knowledge Booster: Understanding Low Mood in Teenagers
As children grow into teenagers, emotional ups and downs are a normal part of development. However, sometimes low mood can persist and begin to affect their wellbeing, relationships, and school life. Here’s what parents and carers should know:
What is Low Mood?
Low mood can look like:
- Withdrawal from friends or family
- Lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy
- Changes in sleep or eating habits
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling hopeless, tearful, or irritable.
It’s important to remember that occasional sadness is normal. But if these feelings last for more than a couple of weeks, it might be time to seek support.
How Can Parents Help?
- Listen without judgment: Create a safe space for your teen to talk
- Validate their feelings: Avoid dismissing their emotions, even if they seem minor
- Encourage healthy habits: Sleep, nutrition, exercise, and screen time all play a role
- Stay connected: Even if they push you away, your presence matters
- Know when to seek help: If you’re concerned, speak to your GP.
Kooth App
Kooth is a free, safe, and anonymous online mental health platform designed specifically for children and young people aged 10–25.
It offers:
- Access to qualified counsellors via live chat
- Discussion forums moderated by professionals
- Self-help tools like journals and goal-setting
- Articles and resources written by young people and mental health experts
Kooth is available 24/7 and doesn’t require a referral or appointment. It’s a great way for teenagers to explore their feelings, get support, and connect with others in a safe space.
Why Parents Should Know About Kooth?
- It’s NHS-commissioned in many areas, including Hampshire
- It helps young people who may not feel ready to talk face-to-face
- It promotes early intervention and emotional resilience
You can learn more or encourage your child to explore Kooth at www.kooth.com
Support at School
We’re committed to supporting student wellbeing. If your child is struggling, please explore our resources here: https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/student-wellbeing-resources You can also contact your child’s Tutor or Progress Leader if you have any concerns and would like support.
European Languages Week: Let’s Celebrate!
Get ready to immerse yourselves in a world of languages and cultures as we celebrate European Languages Week this week! This is a fantastic opportunity for all students to engage with the rich linguistic diversity that Europe has to offer.
Throughout the week, we have a packed schedule of exciting events and competitions for you to get involved in. Show off your creative flair in our “Decorate the Cake” competition, or test your knowledge in our tutor quizzes. You can also unleash your inner fashion designer in the “Design Your T-shirt” competition.
Learning a new language is about so much more than just grammar and vocabulary. It’s a key that unlocks new cultures, opens up a world of travel possibilities, and enhances your career prospects. It improves your memory, problem-solving skills, and even helps you better understand your own language. Most importantly, it connects you with people from different backgrounds and broadens your perspective on the world.
So, whether you’re a language whiz or just curious to try something new, we encourage you all to participate and embrace the spirit of European Languages Week.
Quick question: What is the most commonly spoken language in Europe (by number of native speakers)?
Sports Update
Great to see so many students attending our Extra-Curricular Clubs this week! Well done to everyone who attended. Can you challenge yourself to try something new next week? Please see below for the list of clubs you could attend.
NGRT Testing
Years 7 and 8 will soon be completing their NGRT (New Group Reading Test). These will begin on the 29 September and run for 2 weeks after. For Year 8 students, they will be conducting the tests in the same way they did last year but for year 7 this will be a new experience. Students have had an assembly from Mr Clark-Lyons on this already, where they were informed of the details and guidance for taking the tests and what expectations are to help them do the best they can.
Nearly all students will take the tests during their English lessons and their teachers will tell them the specific date and time in the next week. They will be completed on computer, using headphones to ensure that students can hear and understand the guidance for the different sections as well as what to do when the test is complete. A small number of students will be taken to a different room for the test, but they will be informed of this so they are aware and ready.
The purpose of the test is so we can understand more about our students and how well they are progressing with their reading ability in relation to their peers. The test will generate a Standard Age Score (SAS) which will show us if students are on, above or below expectations in relation to the national average. From this, we will gain a better understanding of which students require more support in through the Inclusion department and in wider lessons around the school. Once the data has been processed, we will contact all Parents/ Carers to inform them of the results and what this tells us about their current progress.
We hope that the experience will be a positive one for all students, but if you require any further information on the testing or if you have any questions or query about any aspect of the process then please contact Mr Clark-Lyons.
Careers Update
Year 10 and 11
SETA Workshop Open Day – Saturday 18 October
Book to have a taster session where you will be able to:
- find out what being an engineering apprentice actually involves
- chat to staff and current apprentices
- hear about apprenticeship vacancies
- see what it’s like doing practical training at SETA
- and the best bit– have a go at engineering activities yourself in the workshop overseen by experienced instructors
For more information please go to https://www.setatraining.co.uk/seta/events-workshop-taster-day.html
Year 11
Students in Year 11 are encouraged to attend as many college Open Evenings as they can to help them make informed decisions about their post 16 options.
Students should apply for a minimum of two college places or a college place and an apprenticeship.
All of the college open dates can be found on our school website here https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/careers/
If your child would like to book an appointment to speak to our Careers Advisor please email general@thehambleschool.co.uk
Work Experience is just over one month away now. Once your child has received their confirmation letter they need to make contact with their employer.
Here is a list of questions to guide them with this phone call:
- What time should I arrive
- What time will I finish?
- Is there a dress code I need to follow?
- Who should I report to on my first day?
- Will I need to bring lunch or is there somewhere I can buy lunch?
- Do I need to bring anything in particular with me? (notebook, ID, safety gear)?
- What tasks will I be doing?
- Are there skills you’d like me to practise?
- How will my daily routine be structured?
- Will I be working with a team or shadowing one person?
- What should I learn about the company/industry?
- Can I ask about your job/career path?
- Can I get feedback during the week?
- Any health and safety rules I should know?
- Will there be an induction or tour?
Rotary Shoebox Appeal and Competition
All year groups will be competing to put together shoeboxes for the Rotary Shoebox Appeal (https://www.rotaryshoebox.org/). This is to spread a little happiness to disadvantaged children and adults in Eastern Europe by filling a shoebox with toys, educational and hygiene gifts so that children in the most impoverished areas of Eastern Europe, including Ukraine, can receive a present for Christmas.
The students will be putting the shoeboxes together over the next week so that they are ready to be picked up and shipped out, before October half-term. All students who get involved putting together a shoebox for this very worthy cause will receive reward points that will go towards their House totals as part of the House Competition.
Students can either bring in a few items for the boxes or put together a whole shoebox. Boxes can be collected for your child’s tutor.
All shoeboxes/contents for shoeboxes should be brought into school and decorated by Friday 17 October. Thank you for helping The Hamble School support children who are some of the most disadvantaged in Europe.
School Nurse Clinic
The school nurse will be on-site and available to meet with students on the following dates:
- 29 September 2025
- 24 November 2025
- 19 January 2025
- 16 March 2025
- 11 May 2025
- 6 July 2025
Students can be referred to the school nurse via their Progress Leader or at the request of a Parent/Carer. The nurse has 4 pre-booked appointments available per visit and will also host a lunch time drop-in session for students.
The nurse is able to offer:
- One off appointments for advice and information on most areas of physical and mental health such as emotional wellbeing, relationships, sexual health, periods, puberty and healthy lifestyles.
- Up to four sessions of ongoing work on emotional wellbeing or healthy lifestyles.
What the nurse can’t offer:
- Advice or ongoing work for medical conditions which are already well managed and supported by specialists.
- Self harm or more serious mental health concerns which would be better suited to MHST/CAMHS/EYC
Please use the link below by 24 Sep 2025 to make a referral for the next clinic.
https://forms.office.com/e/XRTWPNBRx0
Celebrating Achievements
The students listed below achieved the most reward points this week – Well done to you!
- Year 7 – Sofia B 7-4
- Year 8 – Willow J 8-3
- Year 9 – Anders O 9-7
- Year 10 – Gino D 10-8
- Year 11 – Rayan B 11-2
