Dear Parent/Carer,
Nadolig Llawen
As we rapidly approach the end of term, I would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and thank you for your continued support. It is fantastic to write a festive letter that is not dominated by Covid 19 mitigation or risk assessment. However, that is not to say that we do not continue to face many educational challenges as a result of the pandemic.
Attendance
We know that there is a significant correlation between good attendance and academic achievement. We also know that national school attendance levels are way below the pre-pandemic figures. As one would expect, all of the former Rhosnesni students who contributed to our record breaking outcomes in August ’22 were good attenders. In short, missing the minimum amount of time in school is absolutely crucial to examination performance. If your child is rarely absent and works conscientiously in lessons, they will be successful at Rhosnesni High School. In the new calendar year, please continue to support us as we strive to reduce absence levels and accelerate our learners’ skills and progress.
GCSE Preparation
Whilst it will be difficult for our current Year 11 students to match or surpass the incredible outcomes of last summer, we have set them this significant challenge. However, in January, our mantra will again be ‘no pressure, just practice‘. This philosophy can be applied throughout the entire school, not simply in relation to GCSE preparation. Homework, independent study and outstanding behaviour in lessons are the cornerstones of academic success. Those youngsters who practise, revise and seek feedback from my colleagues always do well in examinations, tests and assessments.
Transition
The biggest Year 7 cohort we have seen in recent years has made a superb start to its journey. The vast majority of our youngest students are incredibly polite, well-presented and enthusiastic. These children are a credit to our parents and the embodiment of our school values: respect, honesty and success. We are very proud of them all and confident that they will continue to shine.
As always, we are working extremely closely with our cluster of local primary partner schools to develop transition activities and to plan for the new curriculum. We are anticipating another large Year 7 group in September ’23 and are continuing to develop and improve our existing facilities.
The Rhosnesni Way
As I have said many times before, the exponential growth of our school over the past few years is the biggest indication that the ‘Rhosnesni Way‘ is what local parents want. We will always insist on the highest of standards for every student. Aspirations and values are so important, which is why we will continue to build a culture based on ‘doing what is right, not what is easy‘. Simple things like uniform, attendance, punctuality, responsible behaviour and kindness are essential and non-negotiable.
Considerate Parking
I would like to thank those parents/carers who are extremely careful not to drop-off or collect their children near to the school gates. Every year, I explain that people who park directly opposite (or in close proximity to) our school entrances inadvertently endanger the lives of students as they attempt to cross.
Rhosnesni Students in the Community
My colleagues and I believe that Christmas should be a time that brings out the best in our students. However, we strive to foster kindness, consideration and charity throughout the school year. This term, we have been delighted to see so many of our youngsters volunteering for litter picking, planting trees and carol singing in local care homes. As I am sure you are aware, in November our senior students recited the exhortation at this year’s Service of Remembrance in Wrexham. This was a huge honour for our school.
It is with immense pride that we reflect on some of the fabulous things our students have done in the service and support of other people.
Professional Learning / Teacher Training Days
Please remember that Rhosnesni students break up for Christmas on Thursday 22nd December and return on Tuesday 10th January. Friday 23rd December and Monday 9th January are both teacher training days.
I hope that you have a wonderful Christmas break and I look forward to the achievements of 2023.
Cofion,
Mr A Brant
Headteacher