31 Ionawr 2024
Celebrating the Four Purposes in Action
Welcome to the School Blog. This week, we are celebrating how our students embrace the Four Purposes of the Curriculum for Wales in the classroom and through a wide range of activities within our school community. From ambitious, capable learners excelling in their studies to enterprising, creative contributors bringing innovative ideas to life, our students consistently demonstrate the values that underpin their education.
Whether through collaborative projects, performances, outdoor learning, or leadership roles, they develop as ethical, informed citizens who understand their responsibilities in an ever-changing world. Meanwhile, our focus on health and well-being encourages them to grow as healthy, confident individuals, prepared for personal success and positive contributions to society. Throughout this week’s School Blog, we will showcase the ways in which our learners put these principles into action, highlighting their enthusiasm, resilience, and commitment to making a difference.
Join Us for Our Sixth Form Open Evening
We are excited to invite prospective students and their families to our Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday, 6th February, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore what our Sixth Form offers, from a broad range of A-Level and vocational courses to outstanding enrichment opportunities and tailored support for university and career pathways. Throughout the evening, visitors can tour our excellent facilities, meet our dedicated staff, and speak with current students who will share their first-hand experiences of Sixth Form life.
Subject-specific stalls will provide insight into course content, entry requirements, and future career prospects. Our team will also be available to answer questions about the application process, academic expectations, and the wealth of extracurricular activities on offer. Whether you are aiming for university, an apprenticeship, or direct employment, our Sixth Form is committed to helping you achieve your goals. We look forward to welcoming you and supporting your next academic step!
Bringing Theatre to Life
As part of their Theatre in the Community project, our Year 12 and 13 Performing Arts students had the exciting opportunity to take their performance to Ysgol Estyn, where they delivered an outstanding show. This experience aligned closely with the Curriculum for Wales, encouraging students to develop as creative, confident individuals while applying their skills in a real-world setting. Their dedication shone as they brought characters to life, captivating the Year 3 audience with an engaging and dynamic performance. The young pupils responded with enthusiasm, fully immersed in the experience.
By performing in a school environment, our students refined their communication and collaboration skills while inspiring younger learners through storytelling. This project highlights how performance can be a powerful learning tool, helping students become ambitious, capable learners who use their talents to make a positive impact. Here they are during their dress rehearsal, making final preparations before the audience arrived, ensuring everything was just right for their big moment on stage.
Growing for the Future
Last Friday, our Year 10 pupils embraced the challenge of the windy weather to take part in an exciting tree-planting project, enhancing the sustainability of our school environment. With support from @KeepWalesTidy, they planted rare Welsh fruit trees, including a Cariad Cherry, Afal Ynys Enlli, Cox Cymraeg, Denbigh Plum, and Penrhyn Pear. This hands-on experience developed their teamwork and problem-solving skills while deepening their understanding of environmental responsibility and biodiversity—key elements of the Curriculum for Wales.
By actively engaging in real-world learning, our pupils demonstrated ethical and informed citizenship, recognising how their actions positively impact the environment for future generations. They already look forward to watching the trees grow and, hopefully, returning in years to come to enjoy the fruits of their labour. This project is a fantastic example of learning beyond the classroom, fostering ambitious, capable learners who take pride in their contribution to a sustainable future. Da iawn to all involved!
Professional Learning Workshops
This Wednesday after school, our dedicated teaching staff participated in professional learning workshops focused on enhancing the classroom experience and further supporting student success. These workshops provided a valuable opportunity for teachers to share best practices and collaborate on strategies to refine their teaching approaches. One key focus was impactful feedback, where teachers explored ways to provide constructive and meaningful feedback that drives student progress. Another emphasis was on developing Cymraeg, with workshops examining effective integration of the Welsh language across the curriculum.
Literacy strategies were also a priority, with teachers discussing new methods to engage students in reading and writing. Additionally, sessions explored digital learning, ensuring technology enhances interactivity in lessons. Finally, developing numeracy skills remained a core focus, as teachers shared ideas for embedding mathematical thinking across subjects. These workshops reflect our commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring our teaching practices evolve to meet students’ needs and help them thrive academically and personally.
Sporting Updates
Congratulations to Tom, our talented Sixth Former, selected for Wales U20s against France tonight! An incredible achievement—we’re so proud. His dedication and hard work have paid off. The whole school is cheering you on, Tom—best of luck!
Year 7 Kick Off Inter-Form Tag Rugby
With the Six Nations starting this weekend, Year 7 kicked off their inter-form tag rugby competition! Excitement ran high as teams showcased skills and teamwork. Special thanks to Ben and George (Year 11) for expertly coordinating and refereeing. Their leadership ensured a smooth event. Results coming soon, but rugby spirit thrives here!
U13 Boys Rugby and Girls Football Teams Shine
Our U13 boys rugby team qualified for the Clwyd and Powys Plate after competing at Eirias Park today. Their teamwork, resilience, and determination highlight their growth as ambitious, capable learners and enterprising, creative contributors. Meanwhile, our U13 girls football team secured a quarter-final place with an outstanding 7-0 victory over Ysgol Godre Berwyn, Bala! Congratulations to the team for their exceptional performance. Special thanks to CAFA for the new football kit and to Mr Gadie for refereeing the match. Both teams show true sportsmanship and embody the Four Purposes of the Curriculum for Wales through dedication and achievement. We look forward to following their continued success!
Year 7 Girls Rugby Team Shine at Round Robin Tournament!
Heddiw, our Year 7 girls rugby team competed in a round-robin tournament at Ysgol Dinas Brân. They faced Ysgol Emrys and Ysgol Bro Idris. They showcased their skills, learned valuable lessons, and displayed determination, resilience, and enthusiasm. This event highlights their growth as ambitious learners and creative contributors, embracing new challenges and giving their best. Well done to all!
Upcoming Events
You can see our full range of upcoming events by heading over to our Events Calendar page.
In Closing
After a busy week we’re proud of how our students embrace the Four Purposes of the Curriculum for Wales. Whether through academic success, sporting achievements, creative projects, or leadership roles, they develop the skills needed to thrive. From Year 7 rugby to Year 12 and 13 performances, our learners stay committed to impacting school and community.
Diolch yn fawr am ddarllen, and we hope you have a wonderful week ahead!
See you back here soon for the next School Blog!
Safeguarding
If you have any safeguarding concerns, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Officers: Mr Colin Ellis, Mrs Gail Davies and Mr Craig Stewart. You can reach them via the School Office or by using our Contact Form.
