3 Gorffennaf 2026
As we come to the end of another fantastic week at Castell Alun, it has been wonderful to celebrate the incredible breadth of opportunities our students continue to embrace, both in and beyond the classroom. From achieving national success in languages and exploring careers in finance, to performing on stage and preparing for our much-anticipated school production, this week’s stories showcase the talent, ambition and dedication of our learners.
Our students continue to demonstrate our core values of Respect, Determination and Honesty, whether they are collaborating as part of a team, challenging themselves through new experiences or sharing their talents with others. We are immensely proud of everything they achieve and grateful to our dedicated staff and the many organisations that work alongside us to provide such inspiring opportunities.
We hope you enjoy reading about another week of successes from across our school community.
Anthea Bell Translation Competition
Congratulations to all students who participated in the Anthea Bell Translation Competition. There were over 25,000 entries nationally and Oxford University spent time finding the best translations. This week Mr Ellis presented the students with their certificates. Well done to Katie (Year 9) who won the German – English Translation for Wales and Mattéo (Year 7) who was commended for his Level 3 French to English Translation. Another big congratulations to Grace (Year 9), Mia (Year 9), Matilda (Year 8), and Emilie (Year 7), who received certificates for their translation entries. The MFL department is very proud of your work ethic in languages and hope that you all continue your love for languages.
Félicitations! Herzlichen Glückwunsch! Llongyfarchiadau!
Year 12 Experience the World of Finance
Year 12 students interested in careers in Finance enjoyed an exciting and immersive day at Bangor University, where they took part in an interactive Investment Challenge designed to replicate the fast-paced world of the stock market.
Working in teams, students became budding investors and media analysts, making real-time decisions as market conditions changed throughout the live simulation. They analysed financial news, monitored market trends and carefully considered the risks and rewards of each investment, putting their critical thinking, teamwork and communication skills to the test.
The challenge provided a fantastic insight into the world of finance and investing, giving students the opportunity to experience how global events and breaking news can influence stock prices and investment decisions.
It was a brilliant day filled with enthusiasm, collaboration and healthy competition. Our students represented the school exceptionally well, demonstrating curiosity, resilience and professionalism throughout the challenge.
A huge thank you to Bangor University for hosting such an engaging and inspiring event. We look forward to seeing where our future investors and financial analysts go next!
Theatr Clwyd Gig Night
We are incredibly proud of the many talented Castell Alun students who took to the stage at Theatr Clwyd’s Gig Night last night, representing both the school and the local music community with confidence, enthusiasm and outstanding musical talent.
A special congratulations goes to our Year 9 band, who delivered a fantastic performance and impressed the audience with their energy, teamwork and musicianship. Well done to Maisie, Daisy, Elliot, Thomas, Teddy and Wilf on a brilliant performance.
We were also delighted to see so many of our students performing as part of the Junior, Intermediate and Senior Rock & Pop Ensembles:
Junior Ensemble – Amelia, Intermediate Ensemble – Seren, Senior Ensemble, Olivia, Ben, Dan, Logan, Harry
Taking part in live performances like these requires dedication, resilience and confidence, and our students represented themselves and Castell Alun exceptionally well. Opportunities such as Gig Night not only develop musical skills but also build teamwork, creativity and self-confidence—qualities that will support our learners both in school and beyond.
A huge well done to everyone who performed, and thank you to Theatr Clwyd for providing such an inspiring opportunity for young musicians to showcase their talents. We look forward to seeing what our performers achieve next.
Da iawn to all involved!
Ambassadors Programme
Last week, our Year 12 students attended an inspiring presentation, here in school, from Nightingale House Hospice, based in Wrexham, to launch an exciting new volunteer scheme for young people.
The programme offers students the opportunity to give their time to a truly worthwhile local charity while gaining valuable experience across a range of sectors, including healthcare, hairdressing, hospitality and finance. These placements will help students develop important employability skills, build confidence and enhance their future university and career applications.
Nightingale House Hospice provides specialist care and support to patients and families across the region, making a real difference to the lives of many people in our community. By becoming involved, students will not only gain practical experience but also have the chance to give back and support an organisation whose work is invaluable.
We are delighted to be developing this partnership with Nightingale House and look forward to seeing our Sixth Form students take advantage of the opportunities available. This marks the beginning of what we hope will be a successful and lasting collaboration, providing enriching experiences for our students for years to come.
The Show Must Go On!
With opening night just around the corner, excitement is building as the cast, band and production team put the finishing touches on this year’s school production of School of Rock.
The school hall has been buzzing with energy during the final rehearsals, as students work tirelessly to perfect every song, scene and dance routine. From fine-tuning harmonies and choreography to polishing character performances and timing, every rehearsal has brought the production one step closer to opening night.
Behind the scenes, there has been just as much hard work taking place. Our backstage crew, lighting and sound technicians, costume team and staff have all been working together to ensure every detail is ready, creating a truly professional production for audiences to enjoy.
One of the highlights of the show is the incredible live band, whose talent and dedication bring the music of School of Rock to life. Alongside the cast, they have shown real commitment, resilience and teamwork throughout the rehearsal process, supporting one another and embracing every challenge along the way.
The production has been a fantastic example of creativity, collaboration and determination. Students have developed not only their performance skills but also their confidence, communication, problem-solving and ability to work together—qualities that will benefit them far beyond the stage.
As the countdown to opening night continues, we are incredibly proud of everything our students have achieved. We cannot wait to welcome audiences and share the results of months of hard work, passion and dedication.
‘Break a leg’ to our amazing cast, band, crew and production team! We know you’re going to rock the stage!
Lost Property Gallery
Here are photos of this week’s lost property. Students should speak to their group tutor to arrange collection during registration or at another suitable time during the school day. At the end of each half term, any unclaimed items will be donated to charity.
Upcoming
Our annual CAFA Car Boot Sale is fast approaching, and pitches are selling quickly! If you are thinking of having a clear-out, now is the time to secure your space and support a great cause.
Every penny raised helps CAFA continue to support our students in a wide variety of ways, providing valuable resources and opportunities that enhance school life.
As well as plenty of bargains to browse, there will be a used uniform sale and refreshments available, including delicious bacon rolls.
The event will take place in the school back yard, off Stryt Isa, with parking available on site.
Sellers from: 9.00am
Open to the public: 9.30am – 12.00pm
Location: School back yard, off Stryt Isa
Come along, grab a bargain, enjoy a bacon roll, and help support our school community. Click here to book a pitch!
In Closing
As another busy and successful week draws to a close, we would like to thank our students, staff, parents, carers and wider community for your continued support. It is through our shared commitment that we are able to provide such a wide range of opportunities, enabling every learner to develop their talents, discover new passions and work towards their own successful future.
Good luck to everyone involved in next week’s performances of School of Rock. We look forward to welcoming audiences and celebrating what promises to be an outstanding production.
We wish you all a safe, restful and enjoyable weekend.
Diolch yn fawr am eich cefnogaeth barhaus. Dymunwn benwythnos hyfryd i chi gyd.
Safeguarding
If you have any safeguarding concerns, please contact our Designated Safeguarding Officers: Mr Ellis, Mrs Davies or Mr Stewart. You can reach them via the School Office or by using our Contact Form.
