End-of-year message from Ms Simmonds

When I was appointed as Headteacher, I began with an assembly on ‘Demonstrating Curiosity, Determination and Perseverance’ and each and every day I am so impressed that the students live up to this, trying their hardest in their learning and being their best selves, taking pride in what they do, and in how well they treat others in the school community. 

This year has seen us re-establish lots of what makes this school great in providing plenty of opportunities for personal development. Trips for sports, debating, language immersion and the Mérite Jeunesse expeditions have all ran successfully. The recent year group residentials have been the highlight for many students: 

Mrs Williams, Head of Year 7: "The favourite activity was the climbing wall and the encouragement the students showed each other was very moving. The Chicken Game and geocaching brought teamwork, giggles and a box of golden nuggets!"

Ms Gluting, Head of 8: "There was a great stained glass and stone mason workshop in the Naumburger Cathedral as well as a fantastic walk through a stalactite cave combined with a torchlight walk in the evening. This all made for the perfect trip."

Mrs Bolhuis, Head of Year 9: "This was a very active trip with unique activities and a great bonding experience. Students were hard pressed to choose their ultimate favourite activity, but for most it was the keelboat sailing, trapeze and archery tag." 

Mr Davis, Head of Year 10: "The PGL staff repeatedly commented on how enthusiastic and well behaved our students were. Activities such as tree climbing, canoeing and a giant tree swing stood out and we all had a fantastic day out in Edinburgh." 

We have had many other trips and lots of opportunities for students to get involved, such as Night at the Musicals, Jonk Entrepreneuren and the Shakespeare Schools Festival. There are more clubs running than ever and attendance has continually increased. It is a privilege for me to lead such a selfless and talented group of staff who go above and beyond to provide these extra opportunities for our students. 

Students are making the most of all the opportunities they have, and the sense of ‘belonging’ to the school community is growing all the time. There are now over 100 students involved in leadership roles of all different types, whether this be as a School Parliament member, an Eco-Agent, part of the Key Stage 5 Student Leadership Team, Amnesty representative, Humanutopia Heroes, Equalities Committee member or Year 7 Buddy.  This is the students’ school and they have already started to make changes, which they are thrilled about building upon next year. 

We have so many exciting things planned for the next academic year and we are looking forward to welcoming all students back to school on Wednesday, 4th September. I will be in touch during the holiday with an update. Thank you for your partnership this academic year and may I wish you a joyful and fun summer break, where some wonderful memories are made as a family.