27 Mawrth 2026
In this edition
As we reach the end of a very busy and successful half term and head into the Easter holidays, it is a great opportunity to reflect on all that has been achieved across the school community. This term has demonstrated our core values of respect, determination and honesty through the commitment of our staff, the kindness of our students and the positive way everyone continues to support one another.
From developing our Cymraeg skills and supporting local charities to outdoor learning experiences, sporting success and preparation for life beyond school, there has been much to celebrate. We are extremely proud of the effort, enthusiasm and resilience shown by our students and staff.
Staff Strengthen Cymraeg Skills
Twelve members of our teaching and support staff have completed a 20-hour Welsh language course with Dysgu Cymraeg. Staff showed real dedication by giving up their time after school on Mondays for 12 weeks.
Mrs Wareing, our Head of Cymraeg and Bilingualism, said she was proud of the staff for trying their best to improve their Cymraeg. It has also been wonderful to hear colleagues practising and trying to siarad more Cymraeg with one another.
We will continue to explore further opportunities for staff to develop their Welsh language skills. As a result, students will continue to experience Cymraeg across the curriculum. Da iawn a diolch i bawb am eu hymdrechion gyda’r iaith.
School Community Donates Nearly 1,000 Books to Support Hope House
Our recent book donation in support of Hope House was a huge success. Thanks to the generosity and kindness of our school community, we collected almost 1,000 books, which is an amazing achievement that will make a real difference.
A special thank you goes to Cari W for her fantastic idea to launch this initiative. In addition, thank you to Jake and Jas in Year 10 for their hard work in helping to organise, collect and sort the donations.
The team at Hope House expressed sincere gratitude for the contribution, and it is heartwarming to know these books will benefit others and support their work. Finally, thank you to everyone who donated books and supported the campaign. Your generosity truly reflects the spirit of our school community.
Year 8 and 9 Glan Llyn Adventure
Over the last month, two different Year 8 and Year 9 groups have enjoyed trips to Glan Llyn. The mornings began with sessions on the climbing wall and high ropes course, where students conquered their fears and encouraged one another.
Meanwhile, the fun continued in the afternoon with canoeing and raft-building on Llyn Tegid. Students combined Welsh communication skills and teamwork to build floating rafts before heading out onto the lake.
The students were brilliant ambassadors for the school, showing positive attitudes, respect and real enthusiasm in their efforts to siarad Cymraeg.
On dydd Llun, the Cymraeg department also took a group of 40 Year 8 students to Gwersyll yr Urdd Glan Llyn, Bala, for a day of outdoor activities and siarad Cymraeg. Everyone had an ardderchog day on the climbing wall, high ropes, rafts and canoes, even if one or two came home a little wet.
Preparation for Life
Our Year 13 students have continued their Preparation for Life sessions during registration time. This week, we welcomed Bev Carroll, who delivered an informative sexual education session, and Nessa Downward from Skipton Building Society, who led a practical workshop on understanding pay.
Nessa also brought along an escape-room challenge, much to the students’ excitement, and a few groups even managed to escape. Diolch yn fawr to both speakers for supporting our students as they prepare for life beyond Sixth Form.
Sporting Updates
A huge well done to our Year 9/10 girls’ rugby team, who put in a strong performance against a tough Dinas Bran side. Despite the final score of 54–10, the team played some fantastic rugby and showed determination, teamwork and resilience throughout the match.
Jess scored our try, and there were some impressive tackles across the game. Also, a special shout out goes to Year 10 captains Edie, Mila and Issy for their excellent leadership, motivation and help in organising training.
Year 7 students also enjoyed a fantastic day at Deeside taking part in a range of sports activities organised by Gwella. Consequently, pupils had the opportunity to try football, badminton, inflatables and even the ice rink.
Mrs Wareing Takes on 50k Challenge
We are incredibly proud of Mrs Helen Wareing, who is taking on an inspiring challenge to raise money for a cause very close to her heart. On 11th April, Mrs Wareing will run the She Ultra 50k race on the Llŷn Peninsula, an extremely demanding endurance event that requires real commitment, resilience and determination.
Mrs Wareing is undertaking this challenge in memory of her brother, Wynne, who received cancer treatment for almost three years at the Shooting Star Unit in Wrexham. Throughout that time, Wynne and his family experienced exceptional care and support from the team there.
By completing this challenge, Mrs Wareing hopes to give something back to the unit and help them continue their incredible work. She has trained hard for many months, and we are grateful to everyone who has already supported her fundraising efforts.
We wish Mrs Wareing the very best of luck and congratulate her on such a meaningful effort. You can support her fundraising here: JustGiving fundraising page.
Lost Property Gallery
Here are photos of this week’s lost property. Students should speak to their group tutor to arrange collection during registration or at another suitable time during the school day. At the end of each half term, any unclaimed items will be donated to charity.
Upcoming
Year 10 Parents’ Evening – Thursday 23rd April
CAFA Quiz Night at Castell Alun – 17th April 2026 – 6:30pm start
Tomorrow we will wave off our Year 10 students and staff as they head to Italy for their ski trip. They will spend a week in a resort in the Italian Alps, which offers a large ski area suitable for all abilities, from beginners to advanced skiers. Furthermore, the high altitude should give them an excellent chance of good snow conditions throughout their stay.
In Closing
As we finish the term, we would like to thank all students, staff and families for their continued support and commitment throughout this busy half term. We wish everyone a safe and restful Easter break and look forward to welcoming students back next term for another positive and successful period of learning.
Gwyliau Pasg hapus. Happy Easter and enjoy the holidays.
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.
