School Blog (16/04/21)


Welcome to the School Blog. Leading Castell Alun, a school held in such high regard both locally and nationally, is a privilege. We focus on learning—developing, improving, and progressing. For effective learning, everyone must feel happy and safe, both physically and mentally.

My vision for the school emphasises high standards, inclusion, and developing well-rounded, happy, and resilient individuals engaged in the learning process. This vision is built on hard work, integrity, respect, and teamwork. These are the minimum expectations for everyone within the Castell Alun community. We all recognise the school’s incredible potential.

After months of blended and home learning, it’s thrilling to start a new term with students back on the premises. With so much prior disruption, our top priority is caring for and making students happy. Additionally, we will focus on consistent everyday routines and habits while maintaining high standards in teaching and learning. I am pleased to report that the term has started very well, with staff and students clearly happy to be back in classrooms together.

I extend my thanks to the Senior Leadership Team, who have supported me during my transition to the school. I am grateful for their guidance, especially from the previous Acting Headteacher, Mr Paul Edwards.

As your new Headteacher, I aim to be visible and approachable. I will champion our students and their many successes, while committing wholeheartedly to the school’s long-term development.

Our staff look forward to the virtual Year 7 Parents’ Evening on Thursday 22nd April, from 4pm to 6.30pm. Year 7 parents/carers can now book appointments.

I recently had the privilege of touring our exciting new build. It’s an impressive building that will provide an excellent learning environment, benefiting all our students. I am glad to report that the project is on schedule. Many thanks to Willmott Dixon for their commitment to the project.

We have been informed that Lateral Flow Tests will be offered on a voluntary basis to students in Years 7-9 in the coming weeks. When we have more information, I will contact you again. Parents/carers will need to complete and return a consent form before students receive self-test kits. The kits are likely to arrive next week, and we hope students will begin self-testing on Wednesday and Sunday evenings, as is already the case for Years 10-13.

The school gratefully received recognition from the community council for its contribution during the COVID pandemic. We hope to operate at full capacity in the long term.

I look forward to working with you all in the coming months and years. In the meantime, take good care of yourselves and your loved ones during these challenging times. Let’s hope the good times are just around the corner.