It has been another busy and fulfilling week in our school community, full of opportunities for students to showcase their talents and take part in enriching activities.
Our Science Fair brought Monday lunchtime to life with innovative projects led by our students, while many of our performers shone in the Light Up production on Tuesday evening.
Families enjoyed exploring new reads together at the Reading Café and Book Fair and our Parent Forum provided valuable discussion around PSHCRE and RSE.
Key Stage 3 students took part in a Virtual Exams Assembly to support their preparation for upcoming assessments and the PTA delivered a fantastic Easter Disco – thank you for all you do for the school. A particular highlight this week was the House Easter Egg Hunt, which saw over 150 enthusiastic participants and the wonderful creations for Red Nose Day 2026.
On Friday staff benefitted from a collaborative INSED Day with local schools, featuring a keynote from Kit Messenger. Kit is a highly respected education specialist, keynote speaker and former headteacher with over 30 years of experience working with children and young people. She is the founder and co‑director of Changing Chances, an organisation dedicated to moving beyond traditional behaviourist approaches and promoting neuroinclusive, research‑informed practices in schools. Kit is also the co-author of Curious Not Furious, a book that blends neuroscience, psychology, coaching and education to help adults better understand and support neurodiverse learners.
Looking ahead to next week, our Year 11 students will complete their Polish Speaking Exams and Dance GCSE students will be filming their coursework pieces.
We are looking forward to a visit from the gritter—there’s still time to join the naming competition! Submit your entries here: Name the local gritter – Fill in form Students will continue their connections with our community through Care Home Reading visits and the Hamble Early Years Reading Visit later on in the week.
Next week also marks our Key Stage 3 Achieving Excellence Evening and the launch of our new Achieving Excellence Revision Programme, designed to support Years 7–9 as they prepare for exams after Easter. Please do ensure that you are able to make Thursday night with your son/ daughter as this will be a valuable opportunity for you to learn how you can support them at home with their revision and Study Skills. You can sign up here: https://forms.office.com/e/dLmetxDL9X
A reminder that we close for the Easter break on Friday 27 March at pm. Year 11 students will still have access to additional support and revision sessions over the holiday and must follow their Intervention Timetable. It is often said that Easter can “make or break” exam outcomes, so creating and sticking to a clear revision timetable is vital.
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 23 March
Monday 23 March
Polish Speaking Exam
Tuesday 24 March
Year 11 Dance Practical
Gritter Visit at lunchtime
Wednesday 25 March
Care Home Reading Event (selected Year 7 students)
BFG Meet up in the Pavilion
Thursday 26 March
Care Home Reading Event (selected Year 7 students)
Year 11 Mock Results Assembly (period 5)
Hamble Early Years Reading Event (selected Year 9 students)
Achieving Excellence Evening – Key Stage 3
Friday 27 March
Last day of Spring Term – Early Finish 1pm
Year 11 – Test for Success
Future Dates W/B 13 April 2026
Monday 13 April
First day of Summer Term
Tuesday 14 April
Year 7 English Exam
Wednesday 15 April
Year 7 Maths Exam
Thursday 16 April
Year 7 Science Exam
Year 11 Parents’ Eve
INSED Days Announced for 2026–27
We are pleased to share the confirmed INSED Days for the 2026–27 academic year at The Hamble School. On these dates, students are not required to attend school, as staff will be taking part in professional training and development.
INSED Dates 2026–27
- Tuesday 1 September 2026
- Friday 27 November 2026
- Friday 29 January 2027
- Friday 12 March 2027
- Monday 28 June 2027
Families can view the full set of Hampshire term dates on the official Hampshire County Council website:
🔗 Hampshire Term Dates [hants.gov.uk]
All students will therefore start school on Wednesday 2 September 2026 for the new academic year of 2026-27.
Letters
Please read the letters sent home and available on our letters page: https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/letters-to-parents/
Our latest newsletter is available to download here: https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/THS-Newsletter-2025-2026-Issue-3-web.pdf
Theme of the Week – Study Skills and Celebration
As we approach the end of the term, our focus this week is on two key pillars of student success: effective preparation and recognising achievement.
Developing Essential Study Skills
With the Year 7, 8, and 9 Exam Weeks approaching shortly after the Easter break, our assemblies and tutor development programme are currently focused on our ‘Study Skills’ curriculum and new Achieving Excellence Programme. We are teaching students not just what to learn, but how to learn—specifically focusing on how to plan and execute effective revision. These sessions are designed to build confidence and ensure every student feels prepared to perform their best. They also work alongside the Achieving Excellence Evening on Thursday 26 March for Parents/ Carers – Please do come along with your son/ daughter.
Celebrating Our Achievements
This Friday, we are excited to hold our Celebration Assemblies. These events are a highlight of the term, allowing us to come together as a school community to recognise the hard work, dedication, and personal growth of our students. Whether through academic progress or contributions to school life, we are incredibly proud of the effort our students have put in this term.
Setting Goals for Next Term
Reflection is only half of the journey. We are also guiding students to look forward by setting realistic yet ambitious goals for the coming term. By identifying areas for improvement and developing strategies to “accelerate” their success, students can maintain their momentum and return after the break with a renewed sense of focus.
How You Can Help
We encourage you to talk with your child this week about their achievements and aspirations. Reinforcing these positive messages at home helps foster the mindset they need to thrive.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week
This is a global initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. The links below take you directly to the themed book collections from Hampshire Libraries, offering a wide range of titles to support understanding, inclusion, and celebration of neurodiversity.
Books for adults: Neurodiversity – titles for adults
Books for young people: Neurodiversity – titles for young people
Year 11 Update – Mock Results Assembly & Parents’ Evening
Our Year 11 students are approaching an important milestone in their GCSE preparation. On Thursday 26 March during Period 5, students will take part in their Mock Exam Results Assembly. During this assembly, they will receive their mock results in a sealed envelope—just as they will in August on GCSE Results Day.
This format is intentional. It gives students a realistic experience of what the real results day will feel like:
- Building anticipation and reflection on their performance
- Encouraging ownership of their progress
- Highlighting where targeted revision is needed ahead of the summer exams
This moment helps students understand the significance of the months ahead and motivates them to make the best possible use of their time between now and the final examinations.
Parents’/Carer’s Evening – Please Book an Appointment
It is essential that all Parents/Carers attend our Year 11 Parents’ Evening on Thursday 16 April 2026. This is a key opportunity to discuss your child’s mock performance, receive personalised subject feedback and agree next steps for revision.
Please ensure you sign up over the Easter break using the link below: https://hamblecollege.schoolcloud.co.uk/
Your support at this stage makes a huge difference in preparing students for success.
New Group Reading Test
Years 7 and 8 will soon be completing their NGRT (New Group Reading Test). These will begin on the 13 April 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 taken 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 and 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 via general@thehambleschool.co.uk
Achieving Excellence Programme – Key Stage 3 Study Skills Focus Week
We are excited to announce the launch of our new “Achieving Excellence Programme”, supporting all students to make progress inside and outside the classroom.
This programme contains three interactive modules to support students and Parents/ Carers:
- Operational expectations and practices at The Hamble School
- Managing myself as a learner
- Study Skills to support all students to make the most progress
We launch the programme to our Key Stage 3 students W/C 23 March where students will learn about aspects of the above in tutor time and lessons. An important part of our new course is the Achieving Excellence Evening on Thursday 26 March from 5:30pm until 7:15pm.
All students and Parents/ Carers in KS3 are welcome to attend this Evening. Please use the link below to sign up.
https://forms.office.com/e/dLmetxDL9X
There will also be a Study Skills Focus Week and Achieving Excellence Evening in the Summer Term to support our Year 10 students with their Summer PPEs (Mocks). More information to follow.
Key Stage 3 Exams – Important Information for Parents & Carers
As we approach our Key Stage 3 exam period, we want to ensure all students feel confident, calm and well-prepared. To support this, we ask all families to take a moment to watch our Exam Guidance Video, available here:
🔗 https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/revision/
This short video offers practical strategies to help students prepare for the exams.
When will the exams take place?
Key Stage 3 English, Maths and Science exams will take place during morning lessons, Period 1 and Period 2, as students tend to perform at their best earlier in the day. This also allows tutors to prepare and support them beforehand.
- English, Maths, and Science exams: Sports Hall or Skills Centre
- All other subject assessments: Held during normal lesson time in classrooms
KS3 Exam Dates
Year 7
- Tuesday 14 April – English
- Wednesday 15 April – Maths
- Thursday 16 April – Science
Year 8
- Monday 20 April – English
- Tuesday 21 April – Maths
- Wednesday 22 April – Science
Year 9
- Wednesday 29 April – English
- Thursday 30 April – Maths
- Friday 1 May – Science
During the rest of the exam week students will do their other exams in their normal lessons and staff will put revision materials on Class Charts.
We encourage all students to begin revising early, make use of the resources from the Achieving Excellence Programme and speak to their tutors if they need guidance. With the right preparation and support, they will be ready to showcase their progress and hard work.
Weekly Safeguarding Knowledge Booster – Understanding Addiction
This half term in Year 10 PSHCRE, students have been exploring the theme of addiction—what it is, how it develops, and where to seek help. As part of our ongoing commitment to working in partnership with Parents/Carers, this safeguarding booster is designed to give you a concise overview of the key messages students are learning, plus ways you can support conversations at home.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is when a person becomes unable to control their use of a substance or a behaviour, even when it has harmful consequences. It can involve:
- Substances such as alcohol, nicotine, vaping products, prescription medications, or illegal drugs
- Behaviours such as gaming, gambling, or excessive use of social media
Young people are especially vulnerable because their brains are still developing, particularly around decision-making and impulse control.
Signs a Young Person Might Be Struggling
Every young person is different, but possible indicators include:
- Noticeable changes in mood, energy, or behaviour
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Becoming secretive or defensive about phone use, spending, or whereabouts
- Decline in school engagement or academic performance
- Physical signs such as tiredness, red eyes, or frequent headaches
If you notice changes, approach conversations with curiosity, calmness, and openness rather than judgement.
How You Can Support at Home
- Keep communication open – regular check-ins help young people feel safe to share.
- Discuss risks honestly; factual conversations help build resilience.
- Agree boundaries around gaming, screens and social time.
- Model healthy coping strategies (e.g., balance, sleep, movement, breaks).
- Seek help early if you’re concerned; early support is protective.
Support Resources
Helplines & Online Support
- NHS: Help with Addictions – guidance on substance and behavioural addictionshttps://www.nhs.uk/live-well/addiction-support/
- Young Minds – mental health support for young people and parents https://www.youngminds.org.uk
- FRANK – confidential advice about drugs and alcohol https://www.talktofrank.com
School Wellbeing Support
At school, our wellbeing and safeguarding teams are always available to support students. If you’re worried about your child, please email staysafe@thehambleschool.co.uk or via the Report a concern button: https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/report-concerns/
Safeguarding Over the Easter Break
Although school will be closed for the holiday, safeguarding remains our highest priority.
Our StaySafe@thehambleschool.co.uk and general@thehambleschool.co.uk mail boxes will not be checked as regularly over the holiday period.
If you live in a Hampshire County Council postcode, such as SO31, please visit this website: https://www.hampshirescp.org.uk/report-a-concern/
If you live in a Southampton City Council postcode, such as SO19, please visit this website: https://www.southampton.gov.uk/children-families/childrens-social-care/report-a-concern-about-a-child/
If a child is in immediate danger, always call 999.
General wellbeing support and advice can be found on our website: https://www.thehambleschool.co.uk/student-wellbeing-support/
Lockdown Drill
This week, students will take part in a Lockdown Drill as part of our routine safety procedures. This is a planned practice and there is no cause for concern.
Lockdown drills are an important part of our safeguarding approach. They allow us to rehearse how we would respond if there were ever a potential risk in or around the school. The drills help students and staff understand the procedures, remain calm and feel confident that we have clear, tried-and-tested systems in place.
During the drill, students will follow the same steps they have been taught in assemblies and tutor sessions, based on our Partial Lockdown procedure, which includes remaining indoors and following staff instructions calmly and sensibly.
Please reassure your child that this is only a practice and that such procedures are standard in schools to keep everyone safe. Thank you for your continued support in keeping our school community safe.
Football Update – This Week at The Hamble School
Year 7/8 Girls – Cup Run Ends in the Quarter-Finals
The Year 7/8 Girls bowed out of the SSFA League Cup after a hard‑fought 3–0 defeat to an unbeaten Deer Park side. After an excellent first half—highlighted by several superb saves from Lyla R—the visitors eventually broke through after the break and added two late goals. The team showed fantastic resilience and now turn their attention back to the league, where they remain in the race to be crowned Division 2 champions.
Year 7 Boys – Through to the Semi-Finals
A dominant 7–0 win away at Redbridge saw The Hamble School secure their spot in the semi-finals. Goals from Henry K (2), Henry H, Leo, Tommy, Arthur and a stunning 20‑yard free-kick from Player of the Match Tyler capped off one of their strongest displays of the season. They now await either Oasis Sholing or The Greggs School in the next round.
Year 8 Boys – Season Ends with an 8–0 Victory
The Year 8 Boys ended their Division Two campaign in style with a commanding 8–0 win against Regents Park, securing at least third place in the league. Goals came from Alfie C (2), Riley L, Olly W, Noah B, Joe M (2) and Spencer P. With 30 students representing the school this season, it’s been a hugely positive year for the squad.
Year 9 Boys – A Valuable Point in a High-Stakes Draw
The Hamble School drew 2–2 with Oasis Sholing in a gripping match that could shape the title race. First‑half goals from Rico and Wezi gave Hamble control before Sholing fought back to level late on. Despite the frustration, the team remain firmly in contention for the league, with crucial games against Weston and Oasis Mayfield still to come.
Man of the Match: Sam S – Outstanding work in midfield.
Year 10 Boys – Six-Goal Thriller Ends Level
The Year 10s played out an exciting 3–3 draw with Wildern. After falling 2–0 behind, Hamble responded brilliantly through Remy and Louis before Wildern regained the lead. A long‑range free‑kick from Lewis secured a deserved point in a physical contest where Hamble were unfortunate not to snatch a late winner.
Man of the Match: Frankie – Exceptional defensive display and a fantastic solo run.
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 – Lucy B 9-6
- Year 10 – Layla W 10-9
- Year 11 – Scarlett W 11-14
