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Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

Our DofE team has returned from another successful expedition. Even a good soaking couldn’t dampen their spirits; students showed outstanding resilience, teamwork and determination throughout. A huge thank you to Mrs Collins for her leadership and support.

Year 10 students have also had a transformative week. Fresh from work experience, they have returned with a renewed perspective on their studies.

On Tuesday, they took part in a mock assembly followed by a vibrant careers event, giving them direct access to a wide range of post‑16 providers and future pathways.

Year 9 students have now received their options choices, and we are delighted that 95 percent secured their first four preferences. We recognise that a small minority may feel disappointed, and we sincerely apologise for this. Please contact the Year 9 team with any concerns so we can support you.

Year 9 have also now had their work experience assembly and are beginning to look ahead to their own placements.

On Thursday, three Year 11 students represented the school at the National Schools Partnership Forum at Eastbourne College. We were the only secondary state school invited to form a panel discussing partnership work between state and independent schools in the area. Our students spoke with honesty, insight and confidence, showcasing the talent, character and ambition we see in them every day. Dr Joe Spence commented: “Thank you for being with us last night and for bringing your energy and passion for partnership — and your brilliant pupils — with you.” There were many compliments about how impressively the Willingdon group presented.

GCSE exams have continued this week, and Year 11 students have shown remarkable resilience, maturity and determination. It is inspiring to hear them speak so ambitiously about aiming higher and refusing to settle. Their leavers’ assembly will take place next Friday.

Next Thursday, we look forward to our KS3 Rewards Evening, where we are thrilled to welcome a very special guest speaker, Eddie the Eagle. He will also deliver an inspiring session for all Year 10 students to set them confidently on the pathway to Year 11.

Outside of school, a staff team will be taking part in a local Rainbow Run this weekend in support of St Wilfrid’s hospice. We also remind families about the upcoming community event, Music in the Park 2026 at Huggett’s Lane Recreation Ground on Sunday. In addition, a circus event is planned for Friday, 3rd July at Willingdon, a joint fundraiser with Polegate Primary to support both schools.

Finally, I have been invited to represent Headteachers at the Department for Education on Monday. I will be feeding back our concerns regarding the Ofsted framework, including how I feel it has not been shared widely enough with parents nationally to help them fully understand what it means for their local schools. I will share an update from this meeting in next week’s bulletin.

Have a lovely weekend.

Kind regards,

Mrs May
Headteacher

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Message of thanks from Francesca Milling

Head | Lancing College Prep Worthing

Thank you to our Year 11 students' Oly, Ava and Eva for their wonderful presentation last night at the National Schools Partnership at Eastbourne College. Please see below feedback from the Headteacher at Lancing College Prep in Worthing;

Dear Mrs May,

I just wanted to write to say how incredibly impressed and moved I was listening to you and your pupils speak at yesterday’s conference.

The pupils were truly remarkable, and they brought tears to my eyes. I felt such a strong sense of pride in them, despite not knowing them personally, which is a testament to the environment you have clearly created and the impact you are having.

You were absolutely fantastic – so authentic, insightful and inspiring. Thank you for sharing your work so generously; it really stayed with me.

Very best wishes,

Francesca Milling

BSc Hons, PGCE, MA Education

Head | Lancing College Prep Worthing

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PASTORAL STRUCTURE UPDATE

As we move into Term 6, and begin our preparations for the next academic year, we have reorganised our pastoral teams. This adjustment is designed to ensure consistency and strong relationships as students transition into their new year groups for September.

From Monday 8th June, staff will be working within their new year groups they will be supporting from September, to help to establish routines, expectations, and a smoother transition the other side of the summer holidays.

Please find the updated allocations for Term 6 below:

• Year 7 – Mrs Paige Muller, Ms Catherine Johnson

Miss Lauren Clarke and Mr Richard De Panama

• Year 8 – Mr Anthony Roche

Miss Alexis Turner

• Year 9 – Mr Dale Scowen, Mr Liam Keast

Mrs Davina Taylor

• Year 10 – Mr Lee Gordon

Ms Lisa Wilding

If you have any issues or questions, please direct them to your child’s Coach in the first instance. If needed, you can use the pastoral inboxes which will be monitored by multiple staff in each team as below:

Pastoral-7@willingdonschool.org.uk

Pastoral-8@willingdonschool.org.uk

Pastoral-9@willingdonschool.org.uk

Pastoral-10@willingdonschool.org.uk

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Therefore, from September, the pastoral structure is currently planned to look like the above:

The pastoral team in school will be led by Mr Tom Cain – Assistant Headteacher, who will lead on behaviour. Ms Helen Arnold will lead on Attendance.

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Activity Day 2026!

URGENT - Please make sure every student has booked an activity for Activity Day to avoid being randomly assigned a free in-school option. Please see the updated Activity Day Booklet for up-to-date numbers and information regarding Chessington.

Many thanks,

Mr Smith

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Activity Day 2026 Booklet - Community Bulletin

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Thank a Teacher Day is on Wednesday, 17th June, this is a moment to recognise the dedication, creativity, and care that teachers and teaching staff bring to their classrooms every day.

Last year, over 100,000 personalised e-cards were sent to teachers across the country. From teaching assistants to school leaders, every educator deserves recognition.

For more information or to send a free personalised e-card, please see the website:

https://thankateacher.co.uk/thankateacherday/

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Changes to free school meal eligibility from September 2026

The government has announced that the eligibility criteria for free school meals, will change from 1 September 2026.

From that date students will be entitled to free school meals if their parents or carers receive any form of universal credit. However not all students who qualify for free school meals will be entitled to other associated school-related benefits (known as Pupil Premium funding).

Please apply now via the link to the East Sussex County Council portal if you believe you qualify. Free School Meals

Please note that if you are currently in receipt of free school meals, East Sussex County Council will be re-checking for eligibility under the new criteria, and you do not need to re-apply.

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For information – Tick Awareness Campaign Toolkit 2026

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has launched its annual tick awareness campaign. The campaign runs throughout the spring and summer months when ticks are most active and more of us spend time outdoors.

The campaign aims to increase awareness of where ticks are found and how to remove them safely and quickly, as some tick bites can result in infections such as Lyme disease.

What is Lyme disease and why do we need to be tick-aware? – UK Health Security Agency

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Students in Years 7 - 11

Are you interested in performing in Phoenix Festival this year, taking place on Monday 20th July. If the answer is yes, please complete the simple form below.

Phoenix Festival Google Form

Please note, this is a gauge of interest only form

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We have our Year 6 Parents' Evening scheduled for Wednesday, 24th June - if you place your Year 6 child's uniform order on ParentPay before this date you can collect your order on this evening.

Dear Parent/Carer,

Summer 2026 - Uniform Ordering Procedure

We are writing to advise you of the order processes for Summer 2026.

We are asking Parents to place their uniform order via ParentPay.  You should already have ParentPay log in details for your children in Years 7-10 and for Year 6 parents the log in details are being sent with this letter.  Please note we do not take debit/credit cards.

If you wish to collect your child’s order before the end of the school summer term, all pre-paid orders must be placed on ParentPay by Monday, 20th July 2026.  We will email you when your order is ready for collection.  Please collect your orders ASAP in case of any returns.

For any late orders placed during the summer break we will make these orders up ASAP and we will email you when your order is ready and you can collect your order from school on the following holiday dates ONLY.

Friday, 24th July between 9am - 1pm

Friday, 28th August between 9am – 1pm

Friday, 31st July between 11am-2pm

Tuesday, 1st September between 9am – 1pm

Please note any orders placed after the 28th August cannot be guaranteed to be ready for collection before the beginning of the new term in September.  Also, any late orders placed in the first week back to school in September, cannot be guaranteed to be ready for collection that first week back.

There will not be the facility to try on uniform in school, so you would need to email us via uniform@willingdonschool.org.uk if you subsequently needed to make a return or exchange.  After the end of the school summer term, you will only be able to make exchanges or returns on the above dates.  There will also be no facility to purchase extra uniform at the time of collection as all orders must be placed on ParentPay.  If you do have a return, it must be returned to school before the end of August.  Any orders placed after the 1st September and needing a return or exchange must be returned within 30 days.

If you do not have ParentPay login details, these can be requested by emailing agwilliam@willingdonschool.org.uk  by Monday, 20th July.

PLEASE NOTE – Uniform will not be available to purchase/try on at any other time during the holiday period or on our Inset Day on the 2nd September.    It is therefore advisable to order and collect your uniform in plenty of time before the end of the summer term, in case exchanges are required.

If you need to return any items for an exchange, please ensure you return the item in its original condition, complete with tags attached and with the bag, so we are able to resell the item.

If you have ordered a calculator, this can be collected with the uniform order.  Phone pouches ordered for the new Year 7s, will be handed out on the first day in coaching time.  Maths sets ordered will be handed out in the first Maths lesson.

Yours faithfully,

Mrs S Tomalin
Headteacher’s PA

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Students in Year 7, 8 & 9

I’m writing to invite you to a Parent/Carer Information Evening for students attending the Morfa Bay trip in 2026. The meeting will take place on Tuesday 16th June, from 5:30pm to 6:15pm in the Main Hall.

This will be a great opportunity to share key information about the trip, including the range of activities students can expect, the recommended equipment/kit list, and timings for departure and return. There will also be an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. We hope you are able to attend and look forward to seeing you there.

If you are unable to make the evening, all key information will be shared afterwards.

Mr Cain
Head of Year 11 and Morfa Bay trip organisor

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Duke of Edinburgh Expedition

A huge congratulations to our 27 Year 9 students on successfully completing their Duke of Edinburgh expedition at Blackland Farm this week.

Throughout the expedition, students demonstrated outstanding resilience, determination, and teamwork as they worked together to meet the challenges of the journey. Facing demanding conditions, including some particularly difficult weather and a significant thunderstorm, they remained positive, supported one another, and persevered to complete all the requirements of the expedition.

The experience tested their navigation, communication, and problem-solving skills, while also encouraging independence and personal growth. It was inspiring to see students rise to every challenge and display such maturity and commitment throughout the expedition.

We are incredibly proud of all the students who took part. Their achievements reflect not only their hard work and preparation but also the strength of character they showed when conditions became tough.

Well done Year 9, on this fantastic accomplishment. Congratulations on completing your expedition, and we look forward to celebrating your continued success in the Duke of Edinburgh Award programme.

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Year 7 Literacy in Coaching Time

This Wednesday’s session focused on understanding what we don’t know yet so that we can learn and revise. Students looked at two topics that they cover in Year 7: chemical reactions and Brazil. Over the course of the next few weeks, students will use reading fluency strategies to perform a presentation to a small audience on their chosen coaching group topic. Students will be allocated their parts on Wednesday, and a copy of the text will be on Edulink for students to rehearse outside of lessons.

Top tip: Try saying your lines out loud at home in different ways to help you to remember them. Try a loud voice, a whisper voice, slow pace, fast pace. Check your voice is clear.

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Year 7 Gold Reader Club

14 Year 7 students are currently working extra hard to achieve a Gold Reader pass on Sparx Reader by reading above and beyond their weekly allocation of SRP. Thank you to the Year 8 and Year 9 KS3 Student Leaders who are supporting the club and encouraging the students. The students need to earn their Gold Reader pass on or before 9am on Monday 29 June.

Top tip: Support students to complete a few minutes of Sparx Reader every day to earn points regularly. Follow their Gold Reader pass progress by checking the home screen on Sparx Reader when students log in.

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Sparx Reader Deadline is Monday

Parents receive email updates from Sparx Reader on Saturdays. Please use these to check if careful reading has been completed. KS3 students will complete a Sparx Reading Assessment at the end of June. Regular careful reading will help students to be confident and resilient when completing this assessment.

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Coming up Author Visit by Anthony McGowan

In July, students in Years 7, 8, and 9 will take part in an author visit by Anthony McGowan. Head down to the library to borrow one of his books before the event. Great to see students reading and borrowing these books.

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Reading in Year 7 Coaching Time

Well done to 7AED, 7JBA and 7SPA who all logged their class reading on the year group library this week.

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w/c 8/6/26

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tcain@willingdonschool.org.uk

pastoral-11@willingdonschool.org.uk

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

We wanted to say a huge well done again to our Year 11 students for what has been a fantastic week during their exams. The feedback from the Invigilators continues to be extremely positive and we hope that this is replicated in the result they received in August.

Again, it has been another long and demanding week, with a large number of exams completed, but students have really stepped up. We have been really impressed with how they have taken ownership of their learning, attending lessons outside of exams, staying for additional support with staff, and showing a real determination to do well. Next week is our final full week of exams, with 10 more exams taking place across the week. Most students will have at least one exam each day, so it remains an important and busy week.

Please see the timetable below for full details:

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Looking ahead to Friday, we have our Year 11 Leavers Assembly for the students. They should arrive at school as normal for 8:30am to sit their Chemistry Paper 2 exam. After the exam, students will have the opportunity to take part in the tradition of shirt signing before moving into the Main Hall at 11.30am to begin our Year 11 Leavers’ Assembly. Students will be dismissed from school between 1-1:30pm following the assembly.

As a reminder, students must not arrive to the Chemistry exam with any writing on their clothing or skin, as they will not be allowed entry into the exam. We would really appreciate your support in reminding students that shirt signing does not take place until after the exam finishes on Friday morning.

Finally, as we begin to look ahead, a reminder that the Year 11 Prom will take place on Friday, 3rd July. Please ensure that all final balances are paid by Friday, 12th June.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. We’re incredibly proud of how the students are conducting themselves.

The Year 11 Team

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Study Guides / Text Book Donations

Now that students have completed their English exams, we would be grateful for any donations of unwanted English study guides or set texts. If you would like to donate, please hand them to your English teacher or hand in at reception.

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Year 11 Yearbook 2026 - Google Forms

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lgordon@willingdonschool.org.uk

pastoral-10@willingdonschool.org.uk

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

Well done to Year 10 for another successful week at school. It has been a busy and productive week for the year group, with a number of important events and opportunities taking place.

On Tuesday, students received their mock examination results. Following this, Mrs May and I led an assembly to support students in reflecting on their performance, recognising their achievements, and identifying areas to develop as they continue their journey towards Year 11. Throughout coaching time this week, students have also spent time reflecting on their recent work experience placements and setting personal targets based on their mock examination outcomes.

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Thank you to all the parents and carers who attended our Year 10 Parents' Evening last night. It was a very positive evening with a fantastic atmosphere throughout. Students received valuable feedback from their class teachers, helping them identify the next steps in their learning and preparation as they move towards their final GCSE year.

Unfortunately, our Careers Adviser, Mrs Rooney, couldn’t attend the Parents’ Evening, however, if you have any questions about Taster Days, college courses, careers advice, or post‑16 pathways, she would be very happy to help.

Her contact details are srooney@willingdonschool.org.uk or 01323 485254 ext 281.

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This week, Willingdon also hosted a Careers Fair, giving all Year 10 students the opportunity to meet and speak with a wide range of education and training providers during the school day. Thank you to the parents, carers and students who attended the event after school to gain further information and guidance regarding post-Willingdon pathways. These conversations are invaluable in helping students make informed decisions about their future.

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A reminder to parents and carers to ensure that college taster days are booked as soon as possible so students do not miss out on these valuable experiences. Please see the dates listed above and visit each provider's website to complete the booking process.

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It has been pleasing to see Year 10 students demonstrating a positive, ambitious and focused approach to their learning this week. A particular mention goes to our GCSE PE students, who have shown excellent engagement and determination while studying movement analysis in sport, challenging themselves to deepen their understanding of this important area of the course.

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On Thursday, we welcomed guest speaker Ben Walden (Contender Charlie) into school, who worked with 70 members of the year group. Students were fantastic throughout the two-hour session, and Ben commented that they were some of the best students he has worked with. Well done to all those that took part in the session.

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Finally, congratulations to Lydia Verth on her outstanding achievement of winning a gold medal at her recent England Home Nations Gymnastics competition. This is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to the dedication, commitment and hard work she consistently demonstrates in her training. We are incredibly proud of her success.

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A reminder for Year 10 students need to book on to an activity for our Activity Day on Tuesday 21st July if they haven’t already. If your child hasn’t booked on to an activity, please access ParentPay to book which include free activities. The Activity Day booklet can be accessed on the school website. Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to another positive and productive week ahead.

The Year 10 Team

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Mr Keast and Ms Johnson - Joint Head of Year 9

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lkeast@willingdonschool.org.uk

cjohnson@willingdonschool.org.uk

pastoral-9@willingdonschool.org.uk

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

It has been a really positive and successful first week back for our Year 9 students, and I would like to thank both students and families for the support shown throughout the week.

One of the biggest changes this term has been the introduction of the Yondr pouches and our move towards becoming a truly phone-free school. I have been incredibly impressed with the maturity students have shown in adapting to this change so quickly. The difference around the school site has already been really noticeable, and it has been fantastic to see students engaging more positively with one another and focusing so well in lessons and social times.

On Wednesday, students also attended an assembly led by Mrs Rooney regarding the work experience programme they will undertake during Year 10. This was an important opportunity for students to begin thinking about future pathways and the valuable experiences that lie ahead as they move closer towards Key Stage 4 and beyond.

As part of our preparations for September and the students’ transition towards their GCSE years, there will be a few structural changes within the Year Team from next week. Mr Scowen will be joining the year group alongside Mr Keast as Head of Year, and we are also delighted to welcome Mrs Taylor back to the year group as our Pastoral Support Leader. In addition, the Year Team will now be based in the Year 10/11 office to help begin this transition process and ensure students continue to feel supported as they move towards the next stage of their school journey.

Overall, it has been lovely to welcome students back and see so many of them approaching the new term with positivity, maturity and ambition. We are looking forward to building on this strong start over the coming weeks.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support, and we hope you all have a lovely weekend.

The Year 9 Team

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Dear Year 9 Parents/Carers,

Your child will begin studying GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature next academic year. Students have previously found it useful to purchase study guides to support their learning in Years 10 and 11.

If you would like to purchase these texts for your child, you can still do so via ParentPay until Friday, 3rd July. The cost for each item is below.

Prices for CGP Study Guides

CGP Guide for An Inspector Calls         £3.35

GCP Guide for Romeo and Juliet           £3.35

CGP Guide for A Christmas Carol          £3.35

CGP Guide for AQA Poetry Anthology   £3.35

CGP Guide for AQA English Language   £3.35

Prices for Texts

Romeo & Juliet                                           £3.25

A Christmas Carol                                      £3.00

An Inspector Calls                                     £8.50

Warmest wishes,

Megan Jenkins-Daynes

Deputy Head of English

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aroche@willingdonschool.org.uk

pastoral-8@willingdonschool.org.uk

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

Welcome back after what I hope was an enjoyable half term break. It was wonderful to have such fantastic weather over the holiday, although unfortunately we seem to have returned to the rain! Despite this, I am pleased to say that students have returned in great spirits as we begin the final term of the academic year.

I would like to take this opportunity to say how pleased I am with the overall behaviour and attitude of our Year 8 students as we move towards the end of another successful year. It was fantastic to see so many students receiving rewards, certificates, and prizes during our rewards assembly on the final day of last term. Thank you also for the many kind messages from parents following the event, they were greatly appreciated.

I am delighted to report that almost 90% of our Year 8 students have now purchased and are using their phone pouches. Thank you for your continued support with this initiative. Our aim is to move towards all students having pouches in place. The system is working extremely well, with students usually cleared by 3:05pm each day.

What has been particularly pleasing is the feedback we have received from students themselves. Many have commented that not having immediate access to their phones throughout the school day has reduced temptation and helped them remain focused in lessons. This has led to improved engagement with learning and supports our wider aims of improving both educational outcomes and student wellbeing.

A huge congratulations goes to our top achievement point earners from the final week before half term. Each of the following students earned over 90 achievement points during the week:

• Tochi O
• Isabella P
• Ashley G
• Isabel K
• Thomas L
• Dylan M

Well done to all of you. Some well deserved treats and chocolates will be coming your way!

In terms of attendance, Year 8 achieved 94% attendance last week. Whilst slightly below our target, it remains a strong figure. A special congratulations goes to 8JWI, who topped the attendance table with an impressive 95.5%.

As we enter our final term before students move into Year 9, attendance remains incredibly important. The habits and routines established now will help prepare students for the increased responsibilities that come with Year 9 and the options process that will follow in the future.

I would also like to celebrate an outstanding achievement by one of our Year 8 students. Jade Keen recently attended her first Police Cadets meeting after successfully completing a highly competitive application and interview process. Competing against over 40 applicants, Jade secured one of only a small number of available places.

This is a fantastic accomplishment. Through the Police Cadets programme, Jade will be supporting her local community, learning valuable skills and experiences, and representing both the Police Cadets and our school. We are incredibly proud of her achievement and look forward to hearing about her future successes. Well done, Jade!

A reminder regarding the proposed Thailand 2028 trip. An information meeting will take place after school on Wednesday, 17th June at 5:30pm. Representatives from Projects Abroad will be attending to speak with prospective applicants and their families.

Interest in this trip has been exceptionally high across year groups. Unfortunately, not all students who express an interest will be able to secure a place. However, please be assured that a fair and transparent selection process will be followed when allocating places.

Finally, this is the last call for students to sign up for Activities Day, which will take place on Tuesday, 21st July.

Unfortunately, we are no longer able to offer any additional places for Chessington as we have been unable to secure another coach. However, there are still several students who have yet to select an activity.

If an activity has not been chosen by the end of next week, students will be allocated a place within a school based activity. To avoid disappointment, please ensure your child makes their selection as soon as possible.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support. I wish you all a wonderful weekend and congratulate our students on a successful first week back.

Kind regards,

The Year 8 Team

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Mrs Naylor & Mrs Muller - Joint Head of Year 7

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lnaylor@willingdonschool.org.uk

pmuller@willingdonschool.org.uk

pastoral-7@willingdonschool.org.uk

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

Year 7 have made an excellent start back after half term! We have been particularly impressed with how well they have adapted to the new phone policy, they have come into school efficiently and dealt with the new entry routine with respect and lovely manners. This has made the process so much easier for us as a year team so a huge well done Year 7!

We have started conducting our visits to the Primary schools to see the next group of Year 7s and had a huge number of volunteers to help us with these visits which was brilliant! The students who accompanied us on visits so far have been so helpful and reassuring to the Year 6s, a huge thank you to those students!

Finally, we'd like to remind you of the importance of keeping attendance high as we enter our final term of the year, lessons are continuing as normal and we need students in and ready to learn so we can prepare them to go into Year 8 in September! There are some exciting events during this term and we don't want any Year 7s missing out!

Have a lovely weekend.

The Year 7 Team

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Community Posts

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E-Newsletter

https://mailchi.mp/childrenwithcancerfund/november-e-newsletter-10340776?e=42c98e22bc

Children with Cancer Fun Run Update

https://mailchi.mp/childrenwithcancerfund/join-our-volunteering-team-for-run-to-run-10341090?e=42c98e22bc