It has been a hot, hot, hot week in school. Our buildings are not set up for temperatures approaching 30°C and, given this, we took the decision to allow students to wear PE kit for these exceptionally hot days. The students have responded well, and these changes have allowed us to ensure lessons can proceed with very little fuss. 

In this hot weather, what certainly helps is keeping hydrated. We have been clear to the students the importance of coming to school with a bottle they can fill by using one of the many taps around the school. Our expectation is that students fill their bottles before school, at break and at lunchtime. They can also use lesson transition time. Students will not be allowed to leave lessons to fill their drinks. This means the maximum time they would have to go without having the opportunity to fill their bottles would be 55 minutes.

On Thursday we held our Leavers Assembly and Shirt Signing. These key rites of passage signal the end of the exam season. It was a pleasure to see the students let their hair down and relax after what has been a challenging six weeks. I am also looking forward to celebrating with the Class of 2025 at their Prom later this evening at Bowden Hall. It is always a joyous occasion and a great celebration to end their time at Severn Vale.

Last Friday, 59 students competed in the District Athletics competition at the Prince of Wales Stadium in Cheltenham. It was a brilliant day. The students were a credit to the school, with everyone performing to the best of their ability. We had students take part in every event on the day, including:100m, 200m, 300m, 800m, 1500m, long jump, shot put, discuss, javelin and relay. We are still waiting for the official results, but special mentions go to the following students:

• Grace A - Long jump and 100m

• Joe B - 100m

• Toby W - 200m

• Oskar A - 300m

• Owen O'C - 200m

• Amber H - 100m/200m

• Year 8 boys relay team

• Year 10 girls relay team

Our SV Flow Cricket Teams travelled to Stroud to take part in a cricket festival this week. On Monday it was the turn of the Year 7s. They completed two games, winning one and losing the other.  Both games were played with excellent sportsmanship and encouragement on both sides. There were strong performances throughout and most importantly, all had a brilliant time and represented the school superbly.

On Thursday it was the turn of the Year 8 / 9 team. They had a fantastic day playing three games, coming away with two wins and a narrow loss. They played with determination, amazing sportsmanship and enthusiasm considering the temperatures. Well done who all who took part.

Our Year 9 and 10 rounders teams also played this week, with both travelling to Ribston Hall for their latest fixtures. The Year 9s played a close fixture, losing 13 - 9.5. Batter of the match was Darcy H and fielder of the match was Lotte H. Our year 10s played a very tough game against a superb team, losing 20 - 3.5. Batter of the match was Teanna M and fielder of the match was Sophie B.

As always, I include my weekly reminder about Free School Meals eligibility. If your financial circumstances have changed, your child may be eligible for Free School Meals. If you click on this link you will find guidance on the eligibility criteria and the application process. It's a quick process and we are notified of all FSM entitlements by Gloucestershire County Council each Monday. I would urge you to take a look if you think you may benefit from financial assistance.   

I do hope you enjoy a great weekend.

Kind regards,  

Richard Johnson 
Headteacher