Headteacher's Bulletin
17/05/24 - Edition 27
Highlights of the week
I hope this bulletin finds you well. As we move towards the end of this busy term, there are many wonderful achievements and events that have taken place this week at Twickenham School.
Our Year 11 students have continued their exams in an exemplary fashion, embodying our school values with each test they complete. It's wonderful to see and hear the positive atmosphere as they leave the exam hall and it is a testament to their hard work and the dedication and support of their teachers, right up to the very end.
Year 9 students were recently involved in a series of workshops on raising awareness of and preventing violence against women and girls. They have been sharing what they have learned in assemblies. Well done!
Additionally, our students have been eagerly preparing for tonight’s talent show, which promises to be an evening of impressive performances and school spirit.
Last Friday, our Drama Master Learners had the privilege of attending a performance of Machinal at the Old Vic. It was a thoroughly enriching experience that left a lasting impression on our budding thespians – thank you so much to all the teachers who support these events.
We are also thrilled (and slightly relieved) to announce that we are nearing the end of our recruitment cycle and will soon welcome twelve new specialist teachers to the Twickenham School team. Their expertise will greatly enhance our educational offerings and support our continuous school improvement efforts. As Twickenham School goes from strength to strength and grows – so must our staff body.
Please may I remind parents of the following important points:
1. Year 11 Study Leave: Year 11 students will begin study leave on 15th June. This structured approach to revision during the school day has consistently yielded excellent exam results and significant progress. We ask for your support in encouraging your children to attend all additional teaching sessions and support activities.
2. Uniform Policy: Students must wear either a blazer or jumper in the school corridors as part of our professional dress code. They may remove these in class if needed, but maintaining a professional appearance in common areas is important. Blazers and jumpers may be removed during class time – but the cool corridors require professional dress.
3. Communication Protocol: Please could parents not approach other students to discuss issues between students. Contact the school so that we can mediate any concerns appropriately. Please also ensure that communication with our staff, whether in email form or via telephone, is always polite, courteous and professional.
4. Car Park Changes: We will soon install a barrier for the school car park to ensure our teachers can arrive, park, and start their lessons promptly. Parents will need to park on Ross Road, in the unrestricted parking zones opposite the school or drop and collect students at a further distance . Please be prepared for this change.
5. Road Safety: Remind students to be vigilant when crossing the roads at the traffic lights on Hospital Bridge Road. Despite staff supervision, it is crucial that students remain alert and avoid distractions such as mobile phones.
Finally, I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the wonderful parents who have volunteered for the PTA. Your fundraising efforts are invaluable, and we look forward to receiving our most recent gifts of cricket bats & balls and 2 NBA-grade basketball hoops recently funded by your generosity. The students will be absolutely thrilled! Photos to follow! If you would like to join the PTA in their fundraising efforts please sign up for Rugby parking duties below!
Thank you all for your continued support and commitment to making Twickenham School a place where our students can aspire, achieve, and enjoy.
TS Spotlight - Empowering Minds
The latest edition can be read here. This edition is about Twickenham School's Mental Health Focus and was written by Mr Savvidis, Mental Health Lead
Rugby parking Volunteeers needed
The Friends of Twickenham School (PTA) are in search of volunteers to help run the rugby parking on 8 June. As the biggest fundraiser the FOTS has, its very important that they are fully staffed. If you have some free time to help out, please click here to sign up.
A message from the Metropolitan Police
Dangers of open water
As the hotter days approach, please communicate to your children the dangers of swimming in local rivers and other bodies of open water. Sadly we have seen children and adults lose their life in recent years in local rivers, some of which have been strong swimmers.
In PE this week
Highlights:
- Tennis Club Attendance: The Tennis Club witnessed a remarkable turnout this week, with over 30 students participating. This surge in attendance underscores the growing enthusiasm and engagement within the student body towards physical activities.
- U13 Girls Cricket Team Victory: Congratulations to the U13 Girls Cricket Team for securing their first victory of the season. Their hard work and dedication have paid off, reflecting positively on the team's commitment to excellence.
- Year 8 Boys Football Match: The Year 8 Boys Football Team showcased their skills and sportsmanship in a competitive match against Hampton High. Their commendable performance highlights their resilience and teamwork on the field.
- Rounders Season Kick-off: Both the U13 and U15 Girls Rounders teams commenced their seasons with two closely contested matches. Despite the outcomes, the teams demonstrated determination and skill, setting a promising tone for the rest of the season.
Next week's sporting fixtures
Monday 20 - Year 7/8 & Year 9/10 Girls - Rounders - Twickenham School vs Christ at TS
Tuesday 21 - Year 7/8 Girls - Rounders - Twickenham School vs RPA at TS
Thursday 23 - Year 9/10 Girls - Rounders - Twickenham School vs RPA at TS
Gallery of Awesomeness
Twickenham School's positive noticing has been recognised in the Paul Dix's Gallery of Awesomeness. It really feels brilliant to share or receive some kind words or a complement. Please continue to encourage your children to spread kindness.
Dates for the Diary
27-31 May - Half Term
Wishing you a wonderful week ahead.
Jonathon Lisseman
Headteacher
Twickenham School
Percy Road
Twickenham
TW2 6JW
0208 894 4503