Pupils have been visiting the Southampton City Farm as part of their personalised timetable on the Engagement Pathways. Whilst there, they have a one to one session with a farm instructor who will do bespoke activities depending on the pupils individual interests.
There are so many animals at the farm for the pupils to
interact with and loads of jobs to do, cleaning out the goats pen, refilling
the hay, feeding the pigs and sweeping the paths.
During this half term, we are excited to be engaging with ‘Into Film,’ a fantastic nationwide initiative that has kindly provided our school with tickets to see a variety of films at our local cinemas. We have proudly partnered with Into Film for the past few years, and this programme offers pupils the chance to enjoy a shared cultural experience, relax, and spend time together in a fun, social setting.
As part of the experience, some pupils were challenged to use their geographical local knowledge of Southampton to navigate their way to the cinema independently. Miss Longhurst was particularly impressed with Year 7, who demonstrated excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and confidence in finding their way.
The trip also provided an important opportunity to put road safety knowledge into practice, linking directly to our PSHE curriculum. It was great to see students engaging in learning outside the classroom and applying it to a real-life context, reinforcing the importance of staying safe and making responsible choices while out and about.
Overall, the visit was not only an enjoyable and memorable outing but also a valuable learning experience, combining independence, safety awareness, and the joy of sharing a film with friends.
We are proud to work in partnership with a range of amazing charities and organisations across Southampton, helping our students to become familiar with the support available and confident in accessing these services whenever they need them. Today, we were delighted to welcome Rita Slevin, Oral Health Educator, who worked with our KS3 pupils to deliver an engaging and practical session on oral health. KS4 students will have the opportunity to work with Rita in January 2026.
Rita first heard about our outstanding school when she saw Miss Long deliver a speech while collecting our Gold HH5 award. She was so impressed by the dedication and care we demonstrate in supporting our students’ health and wellbeing that she wanted to contribute directly by running workshops to complement our PSHE and HH5 curriculum.
We cannot thank Rita enough for the practical lessons, thoughtful discussions, and hands-on activities she delivered. KS3 pupils not only made excellent progress towards the new 2025 PSHE framework, but they also gained knowledge and skills that will contribute to lifelong oral health. These sessions highlight the importance of making informed choices, understanding personal wellbeing, and building habits that will benefit our students long into the future.
Her support is a fantastic example of how partnerships with local experts enrich our curriculum and help students apply their learning in meaningful, real-world contexts.
Thank you Rita!
KS3 have undertaken some excellent research into recognising the challenges faced by a range of historical figures who worked to make a positive contribution to society. Through this work, students have begun to explore not only the events and individuals who shaped the past, but also the wider social issues that continue to influence our lives today.
Year 8, in particular, have really enjoyed learning about Anne Frank and the context of the Second World War. By studying her experiences, pupils have developed a deeper understanding of the impact of persecution, conflict and discrimination in history. They have reflected on how individuals, even in the most difficult circumstances, can show courage, resilience and hope.
In PSHE, students have linked this historical learning to key themes such as prejudice, discrimination, equality and respect for diversity. They now have a secure understanding of these important concepts and can explain why they matter in modern society. Through discussions and activities, pupils have also explored the importance of the Equality Act and the role of the law in protecting people’s rights and promoting fairness for all.
By making these connections between History and PSHE, KS3 students are developing not only their knowledge of the past, but also their empathy, critical thinking and understanding of how we can contribute positively to our communities today.
The Christmas books are out, and there’s a real sense of excitement around school as Year 7 begin working on a very special festive treat to showcase their developing Oracy skills. Students have been exploring how to communicate confidently, clearly and creatively, and this project gives them the perfect opportunity to put those skills into practice.
Whether they are reading aloud, performing, presenting or working collaboratively in groups, pupils are learning how to use their voices effectively, listen actively and engage their audience. The festive theme has already inspired lots of imaginative ideas, and Year 7 are enjoying the chance to combine creativity with important communication techniques.
This seasonal project not only strengthens their speaking and listening abilities, but also builds teamwork, confidence and enthusiasm for learning. It promises to be something truly memorable so keep an eye out for what Year 7 have in store. Watch this space!
Mrs Foster is busy getting everything ready for our annual Pop-Up Shop, and the excitement is already starting to build! This much-loved tradition brings so much festive joy to our school community, and preparations are well underway to make this year’s shop the best one yet.
If anyone has any contributions they would like to donate, or if you would like to offer your time to help Mrs Foster organise and prepare the shop, please come and speak to her at some point this week. Every bit of support, whether items, time or helping hands makes a huge difference and is greatly appreciated.
The countdown to Christmas has officially begun! In fact, there has already been a hint of seasonal magic in the office… I may have spotted a sneaky pile of Advent calendars all lined up and ready to go, thanks to a very generous donation.
It’s definitely beginning to look a lot like Christmas! 🎄✨
KS4 pupils have been working incredibly hard in PSHE this week as they reflect on their first Knife Crime workshop with Paul from Hampshire Police. The session gave students an honest and powerful insight into the realities and consequences of knife crime, helping them to think deeply about personal safety, decision-making and the impact that violence can have on individuals, families and communities.
Through thoughtful discussion and written reflections, pupils have been exploring how positive choices, awareness and responsible behaviour play an important role in keeping themselves and others safe. Their maturity and engagement have been fantastic to see, and the workshop has already sparked meaningful conversations across the year group.
We are really looking forward to welcoming Paul back this Tuesday for our second workshop, where students will build on what they have learned and continue to develop their understanding of how to navigate difficult situations confidently and safely.
Another excellent example of KS4 demonstrating responsibility, resilience and readiness for the world beyond school.
