A warm welcome to 2025. The students and staff have all returned fully refreshed and ready to go. No easing in for us all here – we have hit the ground running ! Lessons are in full swing; DNAs are retrieving knowledge from terms 1 and 2 to develop the long-term memory alongside the new content being taught and our wide variety of Extend clubs have commenced. Do encourage participation in as many aspects of the school life as possible; experiences beyond the classroom really do support the character development of our students.
Assemblies
As outlined in an accompanying letter that was sent home earlier this week, my assemblies this week, have promoted the benefits of students being encouraged to be active participants and embrace new challenges in the year ahead. A key part of this has been to develop their thinking around experiences and opportunities that they engage in, both within and beyond school, and how they benefit from these.
Earlier today, each student has been sent a link, via their Edulink Homework, to a short form which I am asking them to complete to help capture their range of activities and experiences. I would really encourage you to support your young person in completing this form so that you can be sure that their response really does capture all that they involve themselves in! I am keen to explore the information that is provided here and will also make sure that Tutors, Heads of Year and Heads of Houses are able to explore the responses of the students in their care, all of which will help provide us with updated judgements on their levels of personal development, ready for our next report publication.
Linked to this theme, we have also published our updated ‘Extend’ programme which contains details of clubs and activities running from the start of this term. A long-established strength of the school has always been how comprehensive the ‘Kingshill Offer’ is and I really encourage all students to seek out opportunities for them to develop their skills and passions.
Letters have been sent home this week inviting Year 7 parents to book appointments with subject teachers on Edulink. The event is in school between 3:45 and 6:45pm. Booking opens on Monday at 7am and will close a week later. We look forward to seeing you there.
Year 11 Revision Club
We warmly welcome all Year 11 students to our revision club in the school library from next week onwards. The club gives students the opportunity to complete practice exam papers and access mark schemes. Running after school until 4:10 in the library every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and on Tuesday and Wednesday lunchtimes in IT2.
New Staff Members
My name is Pippa Wilkinson and I have joined Kingshill as the Personnel Administrator. I have many years experience of working in both HR and educational settings and previously worked at Cirencester College before taking a break to look after my children. During my career break I did voluntary work and qualified as a Life Coach. I was previously a pupil here and now my daughter is a student so I'm very familiar with the site! Outside of work I play netball and horse ride and try and squeeze in time to watch films and read books.
Careers Talks
If your child is interested in a career in the military or unique roles like a Correctional Officer, they can sign up with their Tutor or Mrs. Hicks in the Library. The session will take place during morning tutor time in the library—a great opportunity to explore future possibilities!
Cross Country
Harry placed 12th overall and 1st in Wiltshire, while Joey came 11th overall and 2nd in Wiltshire at the SW County Champs last weekend. Both qualified for the UK XC Nationals at Wollaton Park in March and are thrilled!
Knowhow Malta Tournament
Congratulations to our Year 10, Olly S, who delivered an inspiring speech at the Sports Awards and recently competed in a tournament in Malta as part of the Southampton Academy U15's team. Olly’s dedication and talent continue to impress - keep making us proud!
Y8 HPV Vaccinations
Just a quick reminder that on Tuesday 21st January 2025, we have the Gloucestershire Healthcare Immunisation team in school to deliver the HPV Vaccination to our Year 8 students. A link has been sent out on ParentMail to follow to complete the online consent form.
However, in case you have missed this, please follow the below link to the online consent form to either consent or decline.
Cirencester Kingshill School Unique Code: GC137217
Closing Remarks
In spite of the frosty starts and flurries of snow this past week, our attendance has remained incredibly positive. Thank you to all for doing your utmost in getting our students safely into school. With anticipated sunshine this weekend, I wish you an energised time with friends and families.
