We marked Anti-Bullying Week using our assembly to remind learners of our core values of Integrity and Collaboration, and how these connect to the British Values of Mutual Respect and Tolerance. Students explored what bullying is, how to recognise it, and the importance of seeking help. Students and staff wore odd socks to show their support. We were also visited by Joe Pepper, Governor for Safeguarding. He spent time with students, who told him they really appreciated the support for reporting bullying and unkindness. We celebrated World Kindness Day by giving all students a Galaxy Ripple and an article about how kindness can create a ripple effect in a community. Students were challenged to carry out a random act of kindness and keep the ripple going across the school. Student and staff donations to the CityHarvest Foodbank last week equated to 186 meals: a testament to the kindness of our young people.

On Monday, two minibuses of Year 11 students also sat scholarship entrance tests for St Dunstan’s Sixth Form. We are very proud of their ambition and hard work. Thank you to Ms Coupland and to St Dunstan’s itself for supporting the students through this special opportunity.

On Tuesday, to mark Remembrance Day, the whole school held two minutes of silence in the playground to reflect on the service and sacrifices the Armed Forces make on our behalf. Thank you to Ms Ruby and Ms Coupland for reading our poem, to the prefects who have been selling poppies and the students for their impeccable level of respect.

On Friday, I held a rewards breakfast for a group of Year 7 students. Congratulations to Kelvin, Aiden, Mitch, Sienna-Rose, Tiwa, Jessica, Daria, Tanya, Enzo and Berat, who were nominated by staff for excellence. They shared their thanks to specific members of staff and made suggestions to improve the school further. They were an absolute delight to spend time with, a credit to their families and the work of Ms Ruby, Ms Goodwin and our Year 7 tutors.

Notices:

As the weather continues to change, please ensure that coats are plain black or navy, without any large logos or patterns. This helps us maintain a consistent and smart appearance. Additionally, please remember that students are not permitted to wear joggers under their trousers. While skins or thermal layers are allowed for extra warmth, joggers or shorts with pockets worn underneath trousers are not.

The Friends of Orchard Park PTA are hoping to hold another raffle at the Winter Show in December but need your help in gathering prizes. Please speak to your family, friends and local businesses to seek out any donations. We have previously been very lucky in receiving vouchers for local restaurants, hampers and other goodies. We would be very grateful for your help again.
Please email: fophs@orchardparkhigh.net with any help you can give.

Ms C Moran, Headteacher