Over the Easter holidays we are going to take a break from our normal school work. Teachers will not be setting work over this period, but will start again on the first Monday on the new term (20 April). Whilst we are aware that so many students and their families have got into good routines, we do all need a break.

As an alternative to set school work, this Friday we will publish in the Pulse a list of suggested optional activities that students can get involved with. These range from exercise classes and dance, to wildlife projects, competitions and quizzes, to interesting websites to visit and ideas of activities that expands horizons. Students can also, of course, use this time to make sure they are up to date with their Show My Homework activities ready for the new term, however please keep in mind staff will be far less contactable during the holidays.

If you are a key worker then the school will remain open to your children Monday – Thursday the first week and Tuesday – Friday the second week (i.e. not over the Bank Holiday weekend). The format of the day will change slightly and become more activity-based, reflecting the fact there will be no set work during this period. Every day there will be a sandwich lunch available which students can opt into each morning. We’ve done some phoning around of parents and it indicates we will have children in school each day of the holiday, so please do use this service if it makes your working lives easier - we really don’t mind.

This will probably be my last letter this term (although we are expecting an announcement about GCSEs midweek so we may be writing to Year 11 parents/carers before the end of the week), so please accept my best wishes for the Easter holidays.

Many thanks for your continued support, cooperation and hard work. We appreciate it.