Headteacher's Bulletin
11/10/24 - Edition 40
Mr Lisseman - Headteacher
Dear Parents and Carers,
As the days grow shorter and the weather turns crisp, we find ourselves nearing the end of what has been a wonderfully busy and productive first half term at Twickenham School.
We were delighted to visit Nelson Primary just this morning to join their Harvest Festival celebrations. It’s always a joy for our former students to return to their primary school, reconnect with their old teachers, and see the next generation in action. The visit fostered a wonderful sense of community and gave our students a chance to reflect on how far they’ve come since starting their secondary education.
Today, our Year 10 students took part in the Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge. This initiative provides students with the opportunity to develop their public speaking skills and build their confidence in articulating their thoughts and ideas. The challenge couldn’t have come at a more apt time, following the government’s recent report on National Oracy, which powerfully stated:
“Education should equip young people to ask questions, articulate ideas, and formulate powerful arguments. However young people express themselves and communicate, we should be providing opportunities for them to deepen their sense of identity and belonging, listen actively and critically, and learn a fundamental principle of a liberal democracy – being able to disagree agreeably.”
The Speak Out Challenge supports our students in honing these crucial skills, preparing them to engage thoughtfully with others, present confidently, and make meaningful contributions to society. You can read more about the report and its recommendations here.
We were also delighted to receive our report from the recent Quality of Education review. Which was led by four very experienced Senior Leaders and the Deputy CEO of Bourne Education Trust. The review praised the school for its excellent examination results, exceptional behaviour, high standards in teaching, and robust support for student well-being. Notably, the positive impact of our whole-school reading strategies. The report also recognised the safe, supportive environment we have cultivated, which is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our staff and the vibrant learning culture we continue to foster at Twickenham School.
Meanwhile, our preparations for the House re-launch are heating up. Students have been presenting to each other the potential candidates for Heads of House. The nominees, chosen by our Student Leadership Team, are: Sir Mo Farah, Sir David Attenborough, Marie Curie, Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai, and Florence Nightingale. Today marks the final day of voting, and we are eagerly anticipating the announcement of our new house names.
As always, thank you for your continued support. We wish you all a restful weekend.
Ms Clark - Head of English
Year 10 took part in workshops today to practice their speaking skills for GCSE English Language. Workshops were aimed at improving public speaking, helping students develop techniques for delivering speeches with clarity, confidence, and impact. Through activities like mock presentations, voice projection exercises, and peer feedback, students learn to overcome anxiety and engage audiences effectively.
They did incredibly well and gave speeches on a variety of interesting topics. Well done to our amazing finalists who will be delivering speeches in assembly in the next few weeks!
Ms Bailey - DofE Co-ordinator
The program is beneficial for students because it encourages personal growth, teamwork, and problem-solving, while also fostering a sense of community through service. Completing the DofE Award boosts university applications and job prospects, showcasing students' dedication, commitment, and determination.
Parents of interested students are invited to the Parent Info Evening on Thursday 17 October 6-7pm.
If you can't make it to the meeting but your student would like to take part in the DofE, please email info@twickenhamschool.org.uk and the information will be sent to you.
Ms Aitken - Head of Music
Recently, Music students had the exciting opportunity to see Heathers: The Musical at Richmond Theatre, a darkly comic show set in the chaotic halls of Westerberg High. The musical follows Veronica Sawyer, an ordinary student whose life spirals after befriending the ruthless "Heathers" and falling for JD, a dangerous rebel.
With its mix of biting humor, gripping drama, and electrifying musical numbers, Heathers captivated the students, offering an unforgettable night of entertainment and insight into the complexities of high school life.
Ms Green - Head of Drama
I'd like to share this piece from the Guardian news paper on the importance of Drama in schools.
The Guardian article highlights how several stars of stage and screen, including David Oyelowo, James Graham, Es Devlin, and Sally Cookson, are uniting to address the challenges facing drama schools in the UK. These industry veterans share their thoughts on how to make the performing arts more accessible to diverse talents and discuss the importance of drama education in fostering creativity. They also reflect on their own experiences and advocate for increased support for the next generation of actors and theatre professionals.
Mr Hayes - Head of PE
A big well done to our Year 7 Boys Football team on their fantastic performance in their first league game against RTS! The Year 11 boys also showcased their skills in a closely contested match against Hampton High.
Our Year 9-11 Girls Netball teams delivered a strong performance against RTS, and we’d like to recognize the U16 Boys and Girls Table Tennis teams, with the girls finishing in 2nd place—great job!
Special thanks to our master learners who participated in a golf workshop at Hounslow Golf Park. Your commitment to developing new skills is commendable!
Star of the Week!
This week’s Star of the Week goes to Liam C for his Man of the Match performance in the Year 7 Boys Football game. Well done, Liam!
Additionally, next week marks the end of term House Games during PE—let’s finish strong!
