Dear All,

I would like to thank all the parents who attended the coffee morning. I thoroughly enjoyed our 'chat' as well as hearing your views. Our students continue to impress with their manners, behaviour, kindness and aspirations. As we go into the winter months and darker evenings, may I please remind our students (boys and girls alike) not to walk alone in unlit areas.

Wishing you all a lovely weekend.

Assal Ruse

Wednesday 9th October: Open Evening 5:30pm until 8pm. School finishes earlier at 1:20pm, for all year groups.

3rd - Swans (227 points)

4th - Crowns (201 points)

David Trendell

Well done to the following students who have achieved the highest Epraise points so far:

Year 7: Tobie C

Year 8: Rhianna C

Year 9: Daniah F

Year 10: Fawzia S

Year 11: Riley G

I am delighted to report on the fantastic progress of our Year 7 students. Their excellent settling in has been commendable, showcasing their adaptability and enthusiasm for learning.

We have observed wonderful displays of kindness among the students, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Their fantastic uniform reflects their pride in being part of our school community, and its heartening to see them represent our values so well.

Moreover, I want to highlight the excellent attendance at our enrichment clubs, including homework club. Participation in these activities not only enhances their learning experience but also builds essential skills and friendships.

In line with government guidelines, The Matthew Arnold School does not permit the use of mobile phones on school site. It is with a heavy heart that I have had to deal with a number of Year 7 students, using their mobile phones on the premises. Students are not permitted to use their phones; for calls, texting, photographing or checking the time, at any point during the school day. I implore you to speak to your children and ensure they are aware of the severity of using their mobile phones at school, particularly for videoing and photographing. This initiative aims to minimise distraction and improve classroom behaviour, ensuring that our students can focus on their education. We appreciate your support in reinforcing this policy at home.

Thank you for your continued partnership in making this year a success.

Rachel McGrath

Our young scientists have been busy with practicals over the last few weeks. From investigating 'how light intensity affects the rate of photosynthesis', to testing for diabetes using Benedict's solution in different concentrations of glucose water, our Key Stage 4 students have been busy learning and revising key practicals for their GCSE exams.

In Music, Key Stage 3 students have been learning the basics of music theory and how to read different notes on a page.

Year 7 students have been delving into the world of 'Kick' by Mitch Johnson and are following Budi's adventure in Jakarta where he dreams of being a professional footballer. Students are very creative in their predictions about what will happen next!

Year 7 students have been getting to grips with their building project and designing on Sketch Up.

Year 7 and Year 8 have enjoyed making their cinnamon rolls in Food Technology, whilst Year 10 have been cooking protein rich dishes these last weeks.

These sessions are not compulsory for students, but are strongly recommended and will provide much needed support for your child as they prepare for their first set of Year 11 mocks. The table below shows when the sessions are running.

Congratulations to our Year 11 students Genevieve H, Jessica T, Amelia S, Ella B, Georgia B, Eleanor B, Edie B and Bethany A on their victory at their latest netball tournament. They have not lost a single match since they started at the Matthew Arnold School! We are all incredibly proud of them.

We have also seen some fantastic sportsmanship with the following:

Year 9 Boys' Football: This winning team have got their league campaign off to a successful start, running out with a convincing 6-1 win against Jubilee High School and a 6-3 win over Sunbury Manor School.

Year 7 Boys' Football: Representing Matthew Arnold for the first time was a fierce encounter against long-time rivals, Magna Carta School. Putting the occasion aside, the boys ran out 4-1 winners.

Well done to all involved!

The Matthew Arnold School were extremely fortunate to have Mr Ryan from Twickenham School come and present to our Years 7-10 students the importance of first aid and what to do in different situations. Our students were given an insight into how to use a defibrillator, administer CPR, the safest way to put someone into the recovery position and how to use an Epipen. Each year group engaged in the training and demonstrated a secure understanding into how to respond to different situations. We would like to thank Mr Ryan for giving up his day to support our students in understanding the importance of delivering first aid.

Our students recently had the incredible opportunity to visit the Brooklands Innovation Academy at Brooklands Museum. The day was filled with inspiring talks from renowned figures in the world of STEM, including Simon Singh and Brian Cox. Their engaging presentations sparked curiosity and excitement among our young learners, celebrating the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

It was a memorable day that encouraged our students to dream big and explore the endless possibilities within the STEM. 🌟

We look forward to more such enriching experiences in the future!

School photo samples were handed out during Tutor time this week. If you would like to order copies, please follow the link below to Tempest Photography.

Applications are open for a new Parent Governor to join our Local Governing Committee. This is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside school leaders and fellow governors to support our school’s vision and influence key decisions.

All registered parents will have received a letter through Arbor which includes the details of the position and how to apply – closing date is Thursday 10th October. If you would like another copy, or a digital version of the application form, please email clerk@matthew-arnold.surrey.sch.uk

If we receive more than 1 application parents and carers will be asked to vote for the candidate in a secret ballot. If that is necessary, voting papers and instructions will be sent to all parents and carers so please do watch out for these.

If you have any queries or are interested in more information we’d love to hear from you! Please send enquiries to clerk@matthew-arnold.surrey.sch.uk

Breakfast club is fast approaching its one year anniversary, starting in December last year. Every morning, Miss Fuller and Mrs Willoughby make sure students start the day with a hearty breakfast. From toast with a selection of toppings (although students particularly like the chocolate spread option!), cereals, hot chocolates and cereal bars, we welcome around 80 students per day to breakfast club! There is no cost and all students are welcome to enjoy breakfast with their friends.

Students can find Miss Fuller and Mrs Willoughby in L20 if they wish to join.

Our ducks have started to lay eggs! They are happy, healthy and are loving the rain! Our chickens are giving us on average six eggs a day, and continue to be loved by all students.