School Blog (27/05/22)

School Blog

27th May 2022

Examination Season and Student Achievements

Welcome to the School Blog. The examination season is in full flow, and our students have impressed us with their responses. Despite their recent lack of participation in such assessments, they have shown resilience. Many of you are aware that students across Wales have taken issue with certain papers. Our staff are providing feedback to Qualifications Wales.

Fond Farewells and Exciting Events

The year has flown by quickly. Yesterday, we wished a fond farewell to our Year 11 students. However, the vast majority returned this morning to sit a Science exam, which they will continue doing over the next month. Everyone is excited about their Leavers’ Prom at St. David’s Hotel in Ewloe on the evening of Thursday, 30th June.

Today, our Year 13 students looked almost unrecognisable in their suits and dresses for their school leaving ceremony. We all look forward to seeing many parents at the gathering this afternoon. The guest speaker is former student, Miss Catrin Pugh (Katie Piper Foundation Ambassador). Catrin regularly speaks on the national stage, and we are honoured to have her for this special occasion. The festivities will continue at the Year 13 leaving meal in Pulford this evening.

Impressive Achievements

Believe it or not, Harvey (Year 7) recently learned to drive a car and competes in Junior Autograss racing competitions with his North Shropshire club. He recently raced at Telford and won his first trophy, placing first in 2 out of 3 races! Harvey will soon compete in the British Autograss Series, racing against the fastest boys and girls from across the UK and Ireland. Harvey, we are seriously impressed. Best of luck for your two-day meeting at Cwmdu in June.

Congratulations to Dan (Year 11), who qualified to represent Wales in the National Cadets Athletics championships. He will participate in the 400m event and the 100m relay. A major pat on the back to Elin (Year 13) for achieving a Merit in her Grade 8 Flute exam. That’s truly impressive – congratulations! Josh (Year 8) reached a milestone by being selected to represent Wales and will receive a cap for the National Under 13s Cricket team. Superb stuff!

Duke of Edinburgh and Sporting Triumphs

Well done to over 50 students who completed their Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award after two successful expeditions in the Clwydian Hills. We are proud of every single one of you. This feat speaks highly of the calibre of individuals involved.

As we round off this half term, here are other significant achievements on the school sporting front. On Wednesday, our Year 7 and 8 tennis teams competed against the Alun School and Hawarden High. After stiff competition, both our Year 7 and 8 boys became Flintshire Champions. We are participating in the ‘Road to Wimbledon’ championships and are proud to announce that our top four boys and girls have all progressed to the next round – well done, everyone! Special mention to Alex (Year 8), Lily, Chloe, Ivy (Year 9), Emlyn, Alfie (Year 9), Josh, and Sam (Year 8).

GLAMbassadors and Athletics Success

Our Year 7 and 8 girls are part of a GLAMbassadors programme, encouraging girls to be more confident in physical activity. They represented us admirably at the Youth Sport Trust Girls Active Inspiration Day and returned to school to spread the word and help others enjoy the benefits of sporting activities. We thank Robin, Alex, Dottie, Evie, Liv, Amy (Year 8), Isabella, Nellie, Carys, and Seren (Year 7) for promoting girls’ confidence in sport.

Castell Alun performed strongly at the Year 8 and 9 Athletics event for Flintshire schools this week. Standout performances came from Luca (Year 9), who won the 1500 metres race. Impressive first or second-place finishes in their events were delivered by Harry, Evan, Charlie, Milo (Year 9), Liv, and Dotty (Year 8). These students now progress to represent Flintshire in the North East Wales Athletics competition.