Welcome!
Welcome back to the School Blog, students, parents, and carers alike! We’ve completed our first full teaching week, and our Year 7 students, along with those who’ve transferred into Year 12, seem to have settled in remarkably well. You may have noticed some media headlines featuring Castell Alun in late August. We’re thrilled to share that our A and AS Level, as well as GCSE results, ranked among the very best in the country and shone locally as well.
Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all the families who collaborated closely with us to ensure our examination students achieved their personal best, based on their individual abilities and skill sets. We firmly believe that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work, and on results days, there was a wonderful atmosphere among students with diverse aspirations.
A Great Start to the Term
This morning, we held our first main school assembly. A big diolch to Sibella, Ava, and Celyn (all Year 11) for their lovely readings as we explored the theme of new beginnings and perseverance.
The campus buzzes with excitement, and we hope you can sense this through our School Blog, social media and website. If you haven’t already downloaded the new Sims parent app, please do so at your earliest convenience. All parents/carers should have received an invitation to join the app via email in recent weeks. However, if this email hasn’t arrived or has gone astray, you can contact the school office for further information. We intend to use the app to provide updates on attendance, behaviour, and achievement. Additionally, you can use it to update details and add relevant medical information.
Safety First
Yesterday, we conducted our statutory school lockdown practice as part of our standard wellbeing and safety procedures. All students responded exceptionally well, and any potential concerns were avoided as each individual walked through the event. Please remember, however, that a real-life scenario requiring lockdown remains exceedingly unlikely. Di iawn and diolch pawb.
Extracurricular Excitement
Although we’re currently unable to run extra study buses, it’s wonderful to report that our extracurricular sessions are already seeing great attendance. The extracurricular timetable for September to October half-term can be found here, featuring a variety of fun clubs. We really want everyone to remember that school isn’t just about the classroom—there’s a rich variety of activities available beyond the daily timetable! It’s crucial that students pursue their hobbies and passions alongside their studies.
Next Tuesday, a representative from Only Boys Aloud, a famous Welsh Boys’ choir, will visit the school to deliver a one-off singing workshop to boys in the lower school. We’re incredibly fortunate to have secured this exciting experience, primarily for boys in Years 7 to 9.
On Wednesday next week, most of our Year 7 students will participate in Cognitive Ability Testing (CATS). All students will receive full guidance and support throughout the process.
Upcoming Events
Our New Intake Open Evening is already on the horizon, scheduled for Thursday, 28th September. This event is mainly aimed at students wishing to join Castell Alun in Year 7, September 2024. The evening begins at 6.30 pm, and we kindly ask parents/carers to park in the rear car park. A talk will be delivered by the Headteacher and Mrs Lisa Allen, Student Development Manager for Year 7, at two times during the evening, 6.30 pm and 7.15 pm.
Parents/carers and their children will have numerous opportunities to visit all areas and subjects within the school. They will also be able to engage in various activities. Current Year 8 and 9 students will host tours of the campus—so you can get the unfiltered low-down on school life! Every year, we’re told that our students are wonderful ambassadors for Castell Alun, and they are a credit to you, their parents/carers. If you’re unable to attend this Open Evening, a smaller open morning is available on the following day, Friday, 29th September. Please book a place in advance via the school office if you wish to attend and couldn’t make it to the Open Evening.
Celebrating Successes
We already have some successes to celebrate! Our Year 11 boys’ football team played against St David’s and Hawarden in the first round of the Flintshire Cup this week. The lads won the group on goal difference and now progress to the next round. Di iawn! A photo is available on Twitter.
Additionally, Emily (Year 8) participated in the British Ju Jitsu National Championships in Walsall last week. She trained incredibly hard, qualifing for Random Attacks, Open Hand Kata, Continuous Fighting, and Pairs Demonstration. Emily performed exceptionally well and earned a gold medal in each of these categories! Incredible job, Emily! Ardderchog!
Final Thoughts
Many of you will be enjoying the Rugby World Cup—C’mon Cymru!
See you back here soon for the next School Blog!
