This week

This week in Main Assemblies started with a fantastic performance from our brass band consisting of Vincent, Eira, Elizabeth, Adam, Matthew, Alex and Finn. They played brilliantly and we would like to thank them and Mr Rees, Head of Music for their dedication and entertainment.

The theme this week was A Testing Time, fitting in with the time most year groups are being assessed and Years 11 and 13 are completing public examinations. The worry caused by facing tests when you have not prepared and the potential stress around exams even when you have prepared well were both considered. A link to the youngminds website was provided where there is helpful advice about how to cope during tests. We also considered how school provides the opportunity for tests of other kinds, tests of character, of decision making and of our values. Darrick Wood School’s Curriculum Goal was shared as follows:

To provide all students with the appropriate qualifications, skills and values to equip them for life

The School does this through learning in classrooms, preparing for public examinations and the resulting qualifications but also through the wide range of extra-curricular activities available along with assemblies and form time. Scenarios were shared where pupils can practise for life beyond school in making decisions and applying the School’s values whilst being part of our community.

 
Mr Alan Barker (Head Teacher 1984-2000)

Parents/Carers will have seen the Head Teacher’s email regarding the passing of former Darrick Wood Head Teacher, Mr Alan Barker. Many of the traditions and successes of Darrick Wood that continue through to today are a result of his leadership of the School for 16 years up until his retirement in 2000. We are very grateful for his dedicated service to our school community over those years. He last visited the School to help us celebrate its 40th anniversary, an occasion where Mr Barker, Mrs Rhymaun (his successor) and Dr Airey (current Head Teacher) were able to gather together in the Head Teacher’s office and discuss how privileged we have all been to hold this role and our sense of purpose in helping children and young people in this area of Bromley to achieve a strong education and bright future. Many in our community will have very fond memories of Mr Barker and will miss him dearly. We have sent our condolences to his wife, family and friends.

Year 12 Finance Trip to Bank of America

On Wednesday, fifteen Year 12 Finance students were accompanied by staff to an insight event organised by Inspiring the Future at Bank of America in Bromley.

The event included presentations as well as speed networking sessions with a range of employees showcasing various roles, levels and departments throughout Bank of America. Students were able to engage with employees and ask key questions about life at the Bank as well as within the wider Finance Industry, career progression and guidance on next steps. 

The organisers commented on the exceptional professionalism and enthusiasm of our students which contributed to a successful and meaningful event. 

Reminders

As mentioned before half-term, all students are expected to be fully equipped for school. Please support your child’s success with learning at school by checking their bag in the mornings to see that they are bringing a pencil case full of equipment each day.

We have noted a number of students swapping their blazers for a light jacket type garment. This is not what we would recognise as a school coat to be worn in inclement weather and coats, if worn, should not replace the blazer. We will confiscate any items worn in this way.

Finally, any issues with shoes, coat or uniform must be notified to us in the student planner. We will then liaise with you and your child. Smart appearance and being fully equipped are very much part of the Darrick Wood ethos for success at school.

English Schools Athletics Association

Darrick Wood have qualified for the South East athletics final. 32 girls will be competing for the School at this prestigious competition on 11^th June. We look forward to hearing of their success.

Dates for the diary

Date	Event	Notes
Monday, 3rd June	Years 7-9 assessments for next two weeks
Monday, 24th June	Year 12 examinations
Wednesday, 3rd July	Sports Day – Years 7-9	Norman Park Athletics Arena
Monday, 15th July	Year 8 Sayers Croft trip	Half Mon-Wed, half Wed-Fri
Wednesday, 24th July	Last day of term