This week

Anti-Bullying week was launched with Odd Socks Day on Monday followed all week by assemblies on the same theme. These began with a brilliant performance by our Black Box drama students.  The assembly was then based on information from the Anti-Bullying Alliance and included a powerful video read by young people from across the UK who had experienced bullying themselves. Students were encouraged to speak out against bullying and to not be bystanders when they see people being treated poorly by others. The government defines bullying as “behaviour by an individual or group, usually repeated over time, that intentionally hurts another individual or group either physically or emotionally”. In the assembly, the difference between banter between friends and bullying itself was explored along with how what seems like banter (online or in person) can turn into bullying. The assembly encouraged students to speak up against bullying, be supportive of those who are bullied, and to tell a trusted adult what is happening to them or others. The School’s Prevention of Bullying Policy can be found here.

The week may have started with odd socks, but it ended spotty! It was great to see so many of our students and staff wearing something spotty in support of Children in Need on Friday. If you would still like to donate, you can do so via ParentPay.

The other big event this week was of course our School Production. Those involved had only eight school weeks to prepare, but anyone who was in the audience would not have known this, as it was absolutely brilliant. Students from all years were involved along with staff from Dance, Drama, Music and other departments (e.g. the Art Department are to be thanked for the amazing backdrop). The acting, music and dance was first class. There were so many sparkling performances by individuals but it as usual it is seeing everyone working together that is always very powerful. We were all in awe of the talent and hard work shining through. It was also lovely to see so many former students coming back to lend their support. The Head Teacher would like to thank everyone involved who gave up so much time to entertain us with a wonderful performance. We are all looking forward to next year already!

Next week – Year 11 mocks

Year 11 are now entering the fortnight of mock examinations and some started this week in subjects like Art. These are very important steps towards the success in the summer. Not only do mock examinations provide students, parents and staff with the most accurate idea yet of where each student is at in each of their subjects, whatever the results, they are encouraged to use the experience to learn and improve in the remaining months to the summer. It is an intense two weeks with lots of papers to complete and we wish them well.

Christmas Trees

Time is running out to order your Christmas Tree. The website will take orders until 24^th November at 4pm. Your tree will then be delivered to Darrick Wood School on Sunday December 3rd, for you to collect and enjoy all through the festive season. 

Please share this fantastic offer with relatives, friends and neighbours.  All profits will go to the PSFA to help fund equipment for the School. You can purchase online via: PSFA Christmas Tree project

Sport

The 1^st XV have just taken delivery of their new shirts – just the boost the team needs in the run up to their crucial match against Wilmington Grammar on 6^th December. With extremely healthy numbers at training after school on Tuesdays, Under-18 rugby is back to its previously joyful best after the lean covid years. We’re extremely grateful to Vizify Analytics (Vizify Analytics | analytics solutions) for their sponsorship – enabling the purchase of the shirts. Anyone who is interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact Mr Simpson – Head of Physical Education.

The new Football Academy kit has also arrived including new jackets and socks for our footballers. Adding to the professional feel will hopefully give them another boost to go on and perform to their very best!

Dates for the diary

Date	Event	Notes
Week beginning Monday, 20th November	Year 11 mock examinations	For two weeks
Week beginning 4th December	Year 13 mock examinations	For two weeks
Wednesday, 6th December	Year 12 Parents’ Evening	On School Cloud system. Information will be sent out shortly