30 Ionawr 2026
Welcome to our latest Castell Alun School Blog. This edition shares a wide range of positive experiences and achievements from across our school community. From celebrating a love of reading to taking part in real-world engineering challenges, there has been much to celebrate.
In addition, the blog highlights sporting successes, leadership development and practical updates that support daily school life. Overall, we hope you enjoy reading about the enthusiasm, commitment and achievements of our students and staff.
Celebrating National Reading Day at Castell Alun
We celebrated National Reading Day at Castell Alun this week. During DACW in registration, students discussed the importance of literacy and shared favourite books and reading habits.
Students also took part in a “Hallways of Quotes” scavenger hunt, where they searched for quotes displayed around the school and identified the books they came from. Bonus points were awarded for naming the author, and prizes included vouchers to spend on a new read.
On Thursday, the library transformed into a “Bookflix” area where students relaxed while reading, enjoyed snacks and discussed “Top Trending” and “Coming Soon” books. Our Sixth Form students provided fantastic support throughout the event.
Meanwhile, staff shared their current reads on the book display, and students enjoyed a form-time quiz that challenged their thinking. Looking ahead, the Charity Committee will take reading into the community to support a local children’s home or hospice.
Year 7 Take on the Airbus Plank Challenge
On Monday 26th January, all Year 7 students took part in an interactive engineering workshop led by Airbus as part of the Airbus Plank Challenge. To begin with, working in teams, pupils stacked planks in the correct order while meeting specific customer requirements against the clock.
In doing so, the activity introduced students to key concepts from LEAN engineering and manufacturing. As a result, it also offered valuable insight into how engineers solve problems in real workplace settings.
Throughout the challenge, students developed teamwork, communication, leadership and problem-solving skills. Moreover, it was a fantastic opportunity to engage with a world-leading aerospace company based locally in Broughton.
Overall, students approached the challenge with enthusiasm and maturity, thereby making it a memorable experience. Finally, thank you to the Airbus staff who delivered the sessions and to Miss Robinson for organising the day.
Sporting Updates
It has been a fantastic week for sport and leadership at Castell Alun. Our Year 11 boys’ football team secured a 3–1 victory against Caernarfon to progress to the final eight of the Welsh Cup.
Meanwhile, the Under 15 girls’ team travelled to Syr Huw Owen and recorded a thrilling 5–3 win, also earning their place in the last eight of the Welsh Cup. Despite cold conditions, both teams showed determination and pride.
In addition, we welcomed Rachel Dathan from Hockey Wales, who delivered a Hockey Leaders workshop to 16 students. Students developed leadership, communication and organisational skills through engaging activities.
Students will now apply these skills by delivering a Primary Schools Hockey Festival in March. This provides an exciting opportunity to lead, inspire and give back to the wider community.
New Lost Property System to Help Students Reclaim Belongings
Each Friday, photographs of unclaimed items will be shared on the school blog for parents and on Google Classroom for students. Students should speak to group tutors to arrange collection during registration or another suitable time.
At the end of each half term, any remaining unclaimed items will be donated to charity. As a result, we hope this system helps students reclaim their belongings more quickly.
Upcoming Events
Sixth Form Open Evening – Thursday 5th February, 5.30pm
Year 9 Parents’ Evening – Thursday 26th February, 4.00pm
In Closing
Thank you for taking the time to read our school blog and for your continued support. We are proud to share the achievements and experiences of our students and staff, and we look forward to keeping you updated.
We hope you have a relaxing and enjoyable weekend. Diolch am ddarllen a mwynhewch y penwythnos.
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.
