23 Hydref 2026
As we reach the end of our first half term, it is wonderful to reflect on what has been a busy, productive and successful start to the academic year at Castell Alun. Over the past eight weeks, our students have embraced a wide range of opportunities, both in and beyond the classroom, demonstrating our school values of Respect, Determination and Honesty.
From sporting successes and individual achievements to fundraising, community activities and exciting learning experiences, there has been so much to celebrate. We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful to our staff, parents and carers for their continued support and commitment throughout the half term. This week’s Blog highlights just some of the fantastic things happening across our school community.
Celebrating Harvest
This week, our Lower School Harvest Assembly provided a wonderful opportunity for students to reflect on the importance of gratitude, kindness and supporting those in need. The assembly was led by our Year 7 students, with Dylan, Arthur and Jacob doing a fantastic job as readers, confidently sharing the messages of Harvest and the importance of helping others.
We were also treated to a beautiful piano solo by Amelia, who gave an outstanding performance of Fountain in the Rain, adding a lovely musical element to the occasion. As part of our Harvest celebrations, we have been collecting food donations, which will be distributed to local food banks to support families and individuals within our community. A huge thank you to everyone who has contributed so generously.
Developing Skilled Readers
At Castell Alun, we recognise that reading is one of the most important skills a young person can develop, opening doors to learning, achievement and future opportunities. Developing literacy and advanced reading skills is a national priority in Wales and a key focus within our School Improvement Plan for 2026–27.
Today our teaching staff will take part in a dedicated professional learning day focused on developing Advanced Reading Skills across the curriculum. This is an important part of our ongoing commitment to improving teaching and learning, ensuring that students develop the skills needed to become confident, independent and capable readers.
Reading is about much more than understanding words on a page. As students progress through secondary school, they need to develop increasingly sophisticated skills, including interpreting information, making inferences, analysing viewpoints, evaluating evidence and thinking critically. These skills are essential across every subject, not just English and Welsh.
Our whole-school reading strategy focuses on ensuring that students progressively develop these skills through meaningful and authentic opportunities across the curriculum. Friday’s training will support teachers in developing effective approaches to teaching reading within their subjects, building on initiatives already underway, including our Year 7 extended reading homework and targeted reading support.
We encourage families to support reading at home, particularly reading for pleasure. Whether it’s a novel, magazine, graphic novel or an online article about something that interests them, regular reading helps develop vocabulary, comprehension and confidence. Even 10–15 minutes a day can make a positive difference. Talking to your child about what they are reading and asking questions about their opinions, predictions or understanding can also help develop deeper thinking skills.
Our professional learning day represents an important investment in our students’ futures. By working together, we can help every young person develop the reading skills they need to succeed, both in school and beyond.
Thank you for your continued support in helping us make reading a priority for every learner.
Think Pink!
Our Sixth Form students and staff have been showing their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month by wearing pink to school and making donations to this important cause. It was wonderful to see so many members of our school community coming together to raise awareness and contribute towards supporting those affected by breast cancer.
At Castell Alun, we are incredibly proud of our commitment to supporting a wide range of charities throughout the year, reflecting our school values of Respect, Determination and Honesty, as well as the kindness and generosity of our students and staff. A huge thank you to everyone who took part and donated, helping to make a positive difference and demonstrating the caring spirit of our school community. Diolch yn fawr i bawb!
Year 11 Football Success
Congratulations to our Year 11 U16 Boys’ Football Team, who have secured their place in the next round of the cup following an impressive 4–0 victory against Ysgol Connah’s Quay!
Despite the challenging conditions and relentless rain, the boys demonstrated fantastic teamwork, determination and resilience throughout the match. Their hard work and commitment paid off with an excellent performance and a well-deserved win.
We are incredibly proud of the team for representing Castell Alun so positively and wish them every success as they progress to the next round of the competition.
Da iawn, boys! A fantastic result – let’s keep the momentum going!
Gymnastics Success
We are delighted to celebrate the fantastic achievement of Castell Alun student Ava, who recently represented North Wales at a gymnastics competition in Cardiff.
Following her success at the North Area competition in September, Ava was selected to compete for Team North Wales, where she delivered an outstanding performance. Competing at Zinc level in the 12–13 years category, Ava was crowned Beam Champion, securing 1st place on beam and helping Team North Wales achieve an impressive 2nd place overall.
This is a wonderful accomplishment and a testament to Ava’s dedication, determination and hard work. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and the commitment she has shown to her sport.
Llongyfarchiadau mawr, Ava! A fantastic achievement and one to be very proud of!
Equestrian Success
We are delighted to share the fantastic achievement of Year 10 student Isla, who has been crowned British Champion in Equestrian Vaulting!
Following an incredibly successful season, which had already seen Isla crowned Welsh Champion, she went on to compete at the British Equestrian Vaulting Championships on 11th October. With over 90 competitors taking part at the beginning of the season and just 15 reaching the final competition, Isla delivered an outstanding performance to secure 1st place in her category for both Freestyle and Compulsory, earning the prestigious title of British Champion!
This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to Isla’s dedication, determination and countless hours of hard work and training. We are incredibly proud of her success and delighted to celebrate such an impressive accomplishment within our school community.
Llongyfarchiadau mawr, Isla! What a fantastic achievement – Welsh Champion and now British Champion!
Upcoming Events
Year 13 Parents’ Evening – Thursday, November 5th – 4:00PM to 6:30PM
Lost Property
A reminder that each Friday, photographs of all unclaimed lost property are shared on the School Blog for parents and carers to view, as well as on Google Classroom for students to check. If students recognise an item, they should speak to their group tutor to arrange collection during registration or at another suitable time during the school day. Any items that remain unclaimed at the end of each half term will be donated to charity, so please do take a look each week to see if you spot anything familiar!
In Closing
As we head into the half-term break, we would like to thank all our students, staff, parents and carers for their hard work, enthusiasm and support over the past few weeks.
We hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved rest and has the opportunity to spend some quality time with family and friends. Whether you’re heading away or enjoying some time at home, we wish you all a relaxing, safe and enjoyable holiday.
We look forward to welcoming everyone back after the break, refreshed and ready for another exciting half term.
Have a wonderful half-term holiday!
Mwynhewch wyliau hanner tymor hyfryd!
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.
