In this edition
6 Chwefror 2026
Welcome to this week’s school blog. We are excited to share the latest news and achievements from across our school community. This week has been full of celebrations, successes and exciting opportunities for our students.
From welcoming prospective Sixth Form students to recognising achievements in biodiversity, sport and digital learning, there has been much to celebrate. Importantly, we thank staff and students for their continued hard work, commitment and professionalism.
A Warm Welcome to Our Prospective Sixth Form Students
This week, we welcomed prospective Sixth Form students for next year, including current Year 11s and students from other schools across the region. The event was well attended and offered visitors a valuable opportunity to explore life in our Sixth Form.
Students and families met staff and students, learned about courses on offer and gained insight into the opportunities available. Consequently, feedback from attendees was extremely positive.
A special thank you goes to Sarah Edwards, Director of Sixth Form, for leading the event so successfully. Overall, the evening reflected our welcoming, supportive and high-achieving community.
Celebrating Student Success: Bionet 2025 High School Award Winners
We are incredibly proud to share that our students were presented with a trophy after being named winners of the Bionet 2025 High School Award at the Marvellous Meadow Conference.
The award recognises their positive impact on biodiversity across North East Wales. As a result, it celebrates the dedication, teamwork and commitment shown in supporting local wildlife.
This achievement is a real testament to students’ passion for environmental sustainability. Well done to everyone involved.
Supporting Student Success: Interview Preparation Workshop
On Monday 2nd February, selected students took part in an interview preparation workshop designed to support upcoming interviews. Students worked alongside Miss Lucy Jones and Louise, our careers advisor.
The session focused on developing effective interview techniques and improving communication skills. Consequently, students felt more confident when discussing their strengths and experiences.
Students engaged enthusiastically, practised responses and received tailored guidance. Overall, many left feeling reassured and better prepared for their next steps.
LGBTQ+ History Month: Learning from the Innovators Who Changed History
Every February, we celebrate Mis Hanes LHDTC+ / LGBTQ+ History Month to raise awareness of the impact LGBTQ+ people have had on history. This year’s theme is Arloeswyr LHDTC+ / LGBTQ+ Innovators.
Information is being shared around the school to highlight LGBTQ+ figures in science and beyond. Meanwhile, the school’s LGBTQ+ group has begun creating a collage representing their identities.
We hope to share the completed collage by the end of the month. Importantly, these activities encourage understanding, inclusion and respect across our community.
Secondary School Sports Awards Evening – September 2026
Our Secondary School Sports Awards Evening will take place in September 2026, celebrating sporting achievements from the 2025–2026 academic year. The evening will recognise success in school sport and achievements beyond school.
In addition, we will celebrate contributions as coaches, officials and volunteers. To help us recognise achievements, parents and carers are invited to share details of regional or national representation.
Photographs may also be submitted for inclusion in the presentation. Please send information to beccy.rowlands@castellalun.com or complete the Google Form provided.
Calling All Creative Linguists: Anthea Bell Translation Competition
We invite students to take part in the Anthea Bell Translation Competition. Participants can translate from French to Welsh, French to English or German to English.
Entries should be submitted to Miss O’Neil via Google Classroom or in T14 by 20th March. Winners will be selected by Oxford University in June 2026.
Sporting Updates
We are incredibly proud of Mason, who captained his Wales team last week and delivered a strong performance throughout the match. Leading by example, he showed commitment, skill and leadership.
To captain a Wales team is a fantastic achievement. Overall, Mason’s performance reflects his dedication and hard work both on and off the field.
Lost Property
Each Friday, we’ll share photographs of unclaimed items on the School Blog for parents and on Google Classroom for students. Students should speak to group tutors to arrange collection.
At the end of each half term, we will donate any remaining items to charity. Consequently, we hope this system helps students reunite with their belongings.
Upcoming Events
Safer Internet Day 2026 will take place on Tuesday 10th February with the theme “Smart tech, safe choices”. Students will explore online safety and digital responsibility through lessons and activities.
In addition, parents and guardians can join an online presentation at 5:00pm. Gavin O’Loughlin and Mr Carl Mitchell will share practical advice and school-based approaches.
The session lasts around 45 minutes and includes time for questions. We’ll send the joining details in advance and record the session for anyone who can’t attend live.
Year 9 Parents’ Evening will take place on Thursday 26th February at 4:00pm.
In Closing
Thank you to students, staff and families for your continued support. We look forward to sharing more successes with you next week.
Diolch am ddarllen / Thank you for reading.
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.
