Friday 16th April 2021


A selection of photos from my recent visit to the new build.

It is an honour and privilege to lead Castell Alun, a school which is held in such high regard both locally and nationally. We are all about learning – developing, improving, and moving forward. For learning to take place, everyone needs to feel happy and safe, both physically and mentally. My vision for the school is a commitment to high standards, inclusion and developing well rounded, happy, and resilient people who are fully engaged with the learning process. This vision is built on values of hard work, integrity, respect and teamwork. I would expect these are minimum expectations of all within the Castell Alun community. I am sure we are all aware of the school’s incredible potential.

After several months of blended and home learning it’s very exciting to start a new term with students actually on the premises. After so much disruption the number one priority will be about caring and doing our best to make students happy. In addition, we will focus on ensuring that everyday routines and habits are consistent, whilst maintaining high standards in teaching and learning. I am pleased to report that the start to term has gone very well indeed and staff and students are clearly really happy to be back in classrooms together.

May I please record my thanks to the Senior Leadership Team, who have been a great support as I have transitioned over to the school personally. I am grateful for their guidance and support, particularly that of the previous Acting Headteacher, Mr Paul Edwards.

As your new Headteacher, I aim to be visible and approachable and a leader who truly champions our students and their many successes, whilst being whole-heartedly committed to the long-term development of the school.

Our staff are looking forward to the virtual Year 7 Parents’ Evening which will be held on Thursday 22nd April from 4pm – 6.30pm and for which all Year 7 parents / carers can now book appointments.

I also had the privilege of walking through our exciting new build earlier this week.  It’s a very impressive building and will be an excellent learning environment, which will benefit all of our students. I am glad to report that the building is currently on schedule and I thank Willmott Dixon for their commitment to the project.

Students accepting our Community Certificate

We have recently been informed that Lateral Flow Tests are to be offered on a voluntary basis to students in Years 7-9 in the coming weeks. When we have further information I will contact you again, and parents / carers will be required to complete and return a consent form in advance of students receiving self-test kits. We are told that the kits are likely to arrive in school next week and we hope that students will be able to begin self-testing on Wednesday evening, followed by Sunday evening, as is already the case with participating students in Years 10-13.

Finally, the school gratefully received recognition from the community council for its contribution during the COVID pandemic. I now hope that the school is able to be at full capacity for the long term.

I look forward to working with you all in the coming months and years. In the meantime, do take good care of yourselves and your loved ones in these difficult times, but let’s hope that the good times are just around the corner.

Cofion

Mr C. Ellis