Highlight of the Week

Getting to Know Each Other

Before the start of term, Year 7 set off on their annual Bonding Weekend set in a 55-acre activity centre between the Brecon Beacons and Radnor Mountains.

Accompanied by Heads of Houses, Year 7 form tutors and Father Gareth, they arrived in time to begin an afternoon of fun which included bush craft, archery and abseiling. Thankfully, the rain held off for most of the weekend which meant pupils could enjoy a full timetable of outdoor activities, many of which revolved around the lake.

A new addition to the activities this year was Aeroball - a mix of trampolining and volleyball. Pupils were placed into teams and entered the large, enclosed trampolines suspended from trees in the centre’s picturesque grounds. The aim of the game is to hit your team’s ball into your opponent’s goal pockets. A thrilling challenge indeed!

Back at school, the Sixth Form team were delighted to welcome both new and returning Year 12 students at the Induction Morning.

Alun from Circus Sensible led the students through a series of interactive activities which gave them a chance to communicate with one another and work together as a team - all essential skills for success in Sixth Form and beyond. It was a wonderful way to break the ice and see students stepping out of their comfort zones.

After the workshop, students gathered for a picnic lunch in the Sixth Form Garden, giving everyone a chance to meet their form tutor in a relaxed setting. This was also a perfect opportunity for new friendships to form and for students to ask any questions they had about the year ahead.

We ended with an introduction to the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) - a fantastic programme that allows students to independently research a topic of their choice. This qualification not only offers extra UCAS points but also provides valuable research and critical thinking skills, which are highly regarded by universities and employers.

Having got to know each other and forged friendships, everyone is looking forward to the term ahead.