I hope this letter finds you and your families well; a Friday update for you as always.
A busy week for us in school, as we welcomed back many of the Class of 2021 to celebrate their GCSE success in the summer, despite the toughest of circumstances that we have all encountered, these past few years. Like our current students, they epitomise resilience and a determination to do well, despite the odds that are often stacked against them. It was great to hear about how they are getting on at college and that they have been able to make the transition to their Level 3 qualifications, relatively smoothly. We look forward to hearing about their future successes, in the coming months and years.
Year 11 and some of Year 10 took part in a College Roadshow on Wednesday. Sixth Form Colleges were welcomed into school and were able to talk to students about the courses that they offer, and what it is like to be a student at those institutions, with all they can offer. Hopefully, Year 11 are beginning to develop some clear ideas as to what courses they may like to study and where, before completing application forms and interviews in the coming weeks.
I met with the Local Authority on Thursday afternoon. Unsurprisingly, Covid-19, amongst other things, was discussed. The LA have advised all schools to begin to wear masks again, until further notice, as positive cases are on the rise again. For us at Kelmscott, this is already in place, of course, and is hopefully making a difference. The LA have asked me to share some information with you about Covid-19, as well as a letter from the Public Health team, both are attached to this letter. Some interesting points to note about PCR testing when a variety of, on paper, non-Covid-19 symptoms are being experienced, as well as advice on vaccinations for 12-16 year olds for those interested, who have yet to be vaccinated.
Re: Covid-19, there have been six confirmed cases this week here at Kelmscott for your information.
I have also attached some information about a winter holiday activity programme, run by the Borough between the 20th and 23rd of December, for those interested. Great that some students have this opportunity to be active and engaged in fun activities, during the holiday time. Why not give it a try?
Thanks to those of you who responded to my plea for Kelmscott school uniform that no longer fits your child. If anyone else has any uniform that is in relatively good condition, we would be most grateful to receive it.
Congratulations to our Year 9 boys basketball team for their 16-13 win against Leytonstone School, well done boys.
Finally, congratulations to Austeja Rusaite in 7L who amassed the most rewards points last week with twenty-six to her name. Keep up the good work.
Many thanks for your ongoing support.
Yours sincerely
Mr Sam Jones
Headteacher