School Blog (17/02/23)


Welcome to the School Blog. With the days gradually lengthening, both students and staff look forward to a well-deserved break.

Yesterday evening, we held our Year 9 Parents’ Evening, providing essential advice and guidance to all students on their options for the next academic year. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended; we highly value our partnership with each family as we strive to deliver the best possible education. If parents, carers, or Year 9 students have further questions, please contact the school at your earliest convenience. We will promptly assist in any way we can.

Our thanks go to Lily (Year 7), Harry (Year 8), and James (Year 9), who read beautifully this morning during our Lower School Assembly, centred around World Book Day. We have exciting plans to celebrate this occasion at the start of the next half-term. Additionally, our Year 10 GCSE Music group treated us to a delightful performance of “Day Tripper,” much to the enjoyment of both students and staff.

Today, our Year 11 PE students are undertaking their mock practical examination moderation. This is to prepare for the real examination scheduled for Friday, 24th March. As we enter the final stages of public examination preparations, we strive to balance encouraging a revision schedule with emphasising the importance of personal well-being. It is essential for students to relax and pursue other interests alongside their studies.

Upon returning to school on Monday, 27th February, Year 10 students will sit their school examinations. The week will be busy, with St. David’s Day celebrations spread over several days, culminating in a whole-school assembly on Wednesday, 8th March. We will provide more details in our next School Blog.

That same week, the NEU teaching union has signalled further industrial action. Over 60 of our staff members belong to this union, and if the strike proceeds as planned, it will significantly impact our ability to open the school safely. With a heavy heart, we ask you to refer to the Headteacher’s communication regarding school closure. This will be emailed out later today.

On Friday, 3rd March, around 40 of our Year 7 students will visit Glan Llyn, the outdoor education centre. Excitement is high among those participating, and we eagerly anticipate hearing about their experiences and sharing photos with you.

Finally, we are currently advertising for an Assistant Headteacher to begin in September 2023. Mr Kevin Davies (Assistant Head and Head of Sixth Form) has announced his intention to retire at the end of the academic year. Mr Davies has served the school with great distinction for 41 years, and his name resonates across generations, earning the highest accolades from everyone connected to the Castell Alun family.

We hope you all have an enjoyable week and thank you for your continued support of our school. See you back here soon for the next School Blog!