Performing arts

On Friday our Performing Arts Department took a group of excellently behaved students to see ‘& Juliet’ at The Shaftesbury Theatre. Our wonderful Mrs Ruby arranged a meet and greet with the cast and a chance to step onto the stage itself. Ms Ongley was most impressed by the interest that the students took not only in the play but also in demonstrating their knowledge of the conventions of theatre.

Adventures in London

Over the weekend, Mr Wright and a group of students embarked on a walking tour of the landmarks of London which feature in Harry Potter movies. The next trip in Mr Wright’s ‘Adventures in London’ project is to Winter Wonderland.

Sporting achievements

The U16 boys basketball team triumphed over Harris South Norwood, with our captain, Israel, giving a ‘man of the match’ performance. This win saw the team through to the next round of the Croydon Cup, however it was not meant to be after they were knocked out by Harris Crystal Palace. In addition to this the Year 7 and 9 girls netball team played away at Shirley High and, despite the dismal weather, year 7 went on to win their first ever game for the school 12-0. Year 9 narrowly lost. Judith and Amalie were picked as players of the games.

On Wednesday Year 7 and Year 8 performed brilliantly at a rugby development afternoon. Our squad made considerable progress and grasped advanced concepts such as scrummaging, positioning and attacking shapes in a competitive situation. Mr Latouche would like to highlight Ricardo’s attacking runs, which led to being our top scorer for the afternoon.

Keetan and Yochannan also demonstrated excellent crucial tackles in our match against Harris Purley.

Attendance

We are driving punctuality next week, so each morning this week we have reminded pupils to be in their roll call by 8.25am every morning. The gates will close at 8.23am to ensure they are in the right place at the right time. Pupils who arrive after this time will enter via the Late Desk and, as always, will receive a same day detention for lateness. Please remind your child of the need to be in the line up by the time the second whistle is blown.

Local MP visits

We finished the week with a visit from Sarah Jones, Labour MP for Central Croydon.

Following a visit to our Wellbeing facility, The STAR, pupils spent some time with Ms Jones learning about priorities in the local area and the life of a politician. She generously offered to show them around the House of Commons next term.

Christmas shopping

Lastly, our PTA will be holding a Christmas shopping evening on Thursday 1st December from 5:30pm-7:30pm. If you are interested in running a stall, please contact the PTA directly at fophs@orchardparkhigh.net.

Have a great weekend.

Ms C Moran, Headteacher