School Blog (26/01/24)

Welcome to the School Blog. We have reached the midway point of the school year, having just hosted a highly successful Sixth Form Open Evening last night. A substantial number of families joined us, and each one attended a talk by Mr. Ellis, our Headteacher, and Miss Edwards, Director of Sixth Form Studies. The enthusiasm from our students was palpable, as well as from the large number of attendees from neighbouring secondary schools. We are optimistic about a thriving Sixth Form come September 2024.

For those who missed the event, do not worry. We are always available for further discussions and can arrange personal tours of the school and its subjects. If you’re interested, please contact the school office at 01978 760238 to book a visit.

A photo from Young and Mindful's visit in January 2024

A group of Year 7 and 8 students has completed the ‘.b’ course through Young and Mindful, a self-education programme for young people. Mrs. Shilpa Vyas engaged with our students, discussing the course and inspiring some to become Young and Mindful advocates, serving as peer support for others. We hope to sustain this momentum and potentially develop future wellbeing ambassadors. Mrs. Vyas thoroughly enjoyed her time with us and hopes to return soon. We extend our gratitude to Shilpa for her valuable contribution.

A photo of Mark Williams from Big Ideas Wales with several Castell Alun students

On Monday, Mark Williams, representing Big Ideas Wales, visited the school to share his entrepreneurial journey with our Year 12 and 13 students. Mark’s award-winning business, Limb-art, specialises in prosthetic leg covers. His session was both engaging and inspiring, offering honest insights into the realities of starting a business. Mark provided expert advice and served as a true role model. We deeply appreciate his contribution.

We also encourage other parents to engage with us by sharing their work-related experiences, following Miss Lauren Robinson’s appeal. If you have a story that could benefit our students, please contact Miss Robinson at the school.

Our Year 11 trial exams and science practicals are nearing completion. Congratulations to all students who have given their best effort. Results will be available on Thursday, 8th February, during our Mock Results Day. While many students performed well, some still have untapped potential. With approximately ten school weeks remaining before the actual exams, we continually remind students to keep working hard and maximise their potential. Although it was fantastic to see so many at our Sixth Form Open Evening, it’s essential that everyone realises we are now in the final stretch, with formal examinations beginning in May.

On Thursday, 1st February, we invite all Year 10 students and their parents/carers to Parents’ Evening. This will be the first face-to-face opportunity to discuss the progress of these students since the start of their GCSE courses. We hope everyone can attend. Following this, in the final week of the half-term, Year 10 students will undertake internal examinations, providing invaluable feedback on their GCSE or equivalent progress so far.

Thank you for taking the time to read this update. It is always beneficial to keep everyone informed through our School Blog.

See you back here soon for the next one!