We have a late break-up date for Christmas this year, which means we still have two weeks of the term remaining. These two weeks are just as important as any in the academic year. Lessons will continue; students will be learning new and important material daily. It means that attendance is important up to and including the last day of term. Thank you in advance for your support with this.

It was truly humbling today to see so many gifts brought in by students to support our annual gift drive in support of the Salvation Army. A huge number of gifts were collected which we know will make such a difference to the lives of countless families.  I know that many families are facing challenging times and so to see such generosity was glorious! Thank you so much for supporting this wonderful imitative.

Yesterday evening saw the annual Sports Presentation evening. This is always a fabulous celebration of the sporting achievements of our students and teams. It was a delight to see the hall packed out with students and parents joining in the celebration. It also served as a suitable occasion to commemorate the achievements of one our own staff: Mr Hunte. He was presented with a lifetime achievement award in recognition of his 30+ years teaching PE at Severn Vale School. This was a well-deserved honour and a special way to recognise his contribution to the school and its students as he prepares for a well-earned retirement in two weeks’ time.

It has been a pleasure to see the Year 7 students getting down to their TimesTables Rockstars challenge this week. The battles between the classes are hotting up and it is clear that every point will count. Behind the fun is some serious number practice which is so important in developing mathematical understanding. Thank you once again for encouraging your child to participate in the challenge.

Just the one fixture this week which saw our Year 7 rugby team travel to St Peter’s for their last fixture of the season. The boys expected a tough battle and they were not disappointed!! Both sides were running hard at each other and not taking a backward step. Conditions were freezing with rain coming down sideways, but the rugby played was excellent. Riley C opened the scoring with a length of the field try followed by another excellent try from Mason L. The score was level for most of game but St Peter’s scored twice in the last five minutes to snatch the victory. It has been a fantastic first season for the boys and next year promises more of the same.

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 have a great weekend.

Kind regards,

Richard Johnson
Headteacher