Welcome to the final parent update before the the Christmas holidays.
It has been a busy few weeks in the school, with pupils completing assessments, going on trips and taking part in workshops relating to a number of topics, including financial literacy workshops which are part of an initiative sponsored by Marcus Rashford MBE.
Below you will find information and updates to guide you through the end of this term and the start of the next.
Final Day
Pupils will leave school at lunchtime on Wednesday, with classes dismissed between 1130am and midday. A reminder also that Wednesday will be a non-uniform day, with pupils able to bring a donation if they wish for the charity appeal organised by sixth form pupils with funds going to Islamic Relief.
Progress Day
A reminder that if you have not yet booked your Progress Day appointment, please call the school or email your child's form tutor urgently. All families are expected to attend Progress Day appointments and colleagues will be as flexible as possible to find a time that works for you.
Spring Term
A reminder that the Spring term beings on Tuesday 9th January. All pupils must be back at school and ready to attend from 8.10am on Tuesday 9th January. Every day of attendance really does matter, with the next assessment point only around five weeks away for pupils in almost all year groups.
During the Christmas break, please do take the time to make sure pupils return to school in January with all the equipment that they need for school:
- Black pens
- Green pens
- Pencils
- Ruler
- Rubber
- Protractor
- Glue Stick
- Calculator
Leadership Update
There will be a significant change in the leadership of the school in January.
This week, Mr Cole will be leaving the school. Mr Cole is going to be the Headteacher at Ark Boulton Academy. Having led safeguarding, behaviour and so many important aspects of our school, as well as having taught so many different subjects to a very high standard, Mr Cole will take his experience and expertise into the headship at Ark Boulton in January. While we are sad to see Mr Cole go, we recognise the benefit his excellent leadership will bring to pupils, parents and colleagues at Ark Boulton. In the short-term Mr Cole's appointment at Ark Boulton is an interim one, but we are planning for life at Ark St Alban's without him moving forwards.
I will continue to lead the school alongside Ms O'Connor (Vice Principal) and between us we will be sharing Mr Cole's responsibilities. If you are ever unsure of who to talk to about something, please do get in touch with Ms Kerr (PA to the Principal) who will be happy to direct you.
Merry Christmas
Finally, I hope the school holidays are restful and enjoyable for everyone and I look forward to welcoming all pupils back to school on Tuesday 9th January.