Let me begin by thanking those parents and pupils who supported the school at Open morning last Saturday; having current parents present to tell their child’s story is a really powerful tool. The pupils who offered tours and classroom experiences also did a wonderful job of promoting Hollygirt and visiting parents remarked on their enthusiasm, politeness and confidence.
I knew from the start that this half term was a short one, but it still seems to be a surprise that there’s only one week to go until half term. The combination of the hot weather, various trips, internal assessments, and public exams means everyone feels ready for a refreshing break. Those most deserving of a break right now are our Year Eleven and Year Thirteen pupils who are fully into their examination period, they have done incredibly well so far, tackling, Maths, English, Psychology, and Biology, among others, but also in some very warm conditions. I wish them the best for next week and hope to see them in school as often as possible to take advantage of revision sessions and staff presence. I would also like to commend the rest of the school for being courteous when moving between lessons in the main Senior School building and keeping as quiet as possible; I would be grateful if parents could remind pupils of this and how much they will value that quiet when their turn comes.
After their practice earlier in the term, I am pleased to report that Year Nine have just returned from a successful Assessment Expedition for their Bronze DofE. Miss Mester, Mr Dean, and Mr Beresford have returned with very positive reports on the skills, resilience and teamwork undertaken by the pupils. Year Three and Year Four had their residential trip to Beaumanor Hall and enjoyed several activities including code-breaking and shelter building, thankfully the lovely weather meant they didn’t require much shelter beyond a bit of shade.
On the topic of enrichment trips, I am looking forward to our whole school end of term outing to Drayton Manor theme park on Monday 7th July. I am especially excited that we can have a day out as a whole school at a single venue, promoting our sense of community and social development. If you haven’t already responded, please check the email from Mr Cholerton and respond using the Microsoft form within; payment is due on Wednesday 21st May.
A reminder for next week, after school on Wednesday, we are hosting an Internet Safety talk for parents. This will run from 5pm to 6pm. Please note that this will be held in the Sixth Form building and not the Senior School as in the original email.
Finally, some staff updates; I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs Esther Sinclair who will join us in September as Head of Science. Miss Amy Hook will be stepping into the role of Head of English from September, as we say good bye at the end of the year to Mrs Rebecca Rowlinson who is leaving Nottingham behind for Dubai, returning to her family resident in that part of the world, we wish her the best of luck in her new job.
Ever Onwards and Upwards,
Ms Purdy
Head