Teddington School Newsletter
Friday 20 October 2023
Headteacher's Message
I hope this week's newsletter finds you well, and that your children have enjoyed the first half term of the new school year. I want to begin by extending my gratitude for your continuous support. This half term has been filled with many successes, and the school community has come together to create a positive and productive environment for our students. The newly built canteen, inclusion, pastoral, and drama spaces have been working incredibly well, and we're thrilled to see our students looking incredibly smart in their new uniforms.
We have worked tirelessly this half term to broaden the enrichment opportunities available to all students. Below are a few highlights from this past week.
On Monday, our Year 10 students embarked on an exciting visit to the iconic Kew Gardens. They explored the grounds and linked their surroundings to their classwork, drawing inspiration from the vibrant natural surroundings. This trip allowed them to immerse themselves in the botanical world, fostering their creativity and nurturing their artistic talents.
Our first TEDdinton Talk of the year was held on Wednesday, where we welcomed a personal trainer who has rapidly grown his business. Students with an interest in Physical Education and Exercise were invited to listen to his story and journey. As a former teacher, it was interesting to hear how he has applied his skills and knowledge to grow and run a hugely successful business.
On Wednesday and Thursday, our Year 13 Oxbridge applicants sat their admissions tests. I am so proud of their dedication and hard work in preparing for these challenging assessments. The support and encouragement from teachers and staff has been essential during this crucial time, and we believe in their potential.
Yesterday, our Year 12 Geography students participated in a rigorous fieldwork exercise. This hands-on experience is invaluable for their academic growth and has provided them with a deeper understanding of the natural world. We're excited to see how they will apply this knowledge in the future.
And finally, Year 11 students have begun their mock exams this week. They have been superb so far and really approached the challenge with focus and maturity. I want to wish them all the best for the second week of mocks which begin after half term. These exams are essential for their progress through Year 11, particularly the feedback they will receive around areas to develop in preparation for the summer exams.
For now, I wish you a safe and restful half term break and look forward to welcoming the students back to school on Monday, 6 November, for an 08:40 start.
Mr P Grills
Headteacher
A message from our Basketball Captain, Ronnie Thomas Armstrong!
Weekly Highlights
Daisy Smith did an incredible job singing for the ‘Off The Record’ charity event in Twickenham on Friday 29 September. Off the record are based in Twickenham and offer free and confidential counselling services. For more information click here.
Our Year 7s have taken a step towards a greener future! Students have been given brand-new reusable water bottles this week as part of a school-wide initiative to promote sustainability and reduce plastic waste.
This week, our Year 13 Chemists completed a practical to determine the order of a reaction with respect to Hydrogen ion concentration. Great attention to detail shown by all!
Black History Month
"Arriving in the UK at the age of 7, Joan Armatrading began to write her own songs at 14 and taught herself to play the guitar. She went on to become the first black female artist to be nominated for a Grammy in the Blues category and became the first UK artist to debut at number 1 on the Billboard Blues Chart." ~ Merryn, for Black History Month
"I want to recognise Malorie Blackman for creating some of the best books in the world, like the Noughts and Crosses Trilogy. Many of her books have won awards and she was the first black Children's Laureate. My favourite of her books is 'Pig Heart Boy'." ~ Alex, Year 7
"Mary Seacole helped wounded soldiers in the Crimean War and used her life savings to travel there from Jamaica. She showed incredible determination, drive and kindness throughout her life, and is someone we can all look up to." ~ Ariya, Year 8
Miss Pleavin's good luck message for our students sitting Oxbridge exams
Weekly Head of Year Message
I have been thoroughly impressed by the maturity that Year 9s have shown this year. The whole year group have taken a massive step forward in the classroom this year and will be ready to make their GCSE choices towards the end of Year 9. I am constantly receiving praise from teachers, and I would like to congratulate Year 9s on their brilliant attitude to learning which will aid them in getting an excellent education. Students need to continue to drive with this attitude as they realise what they enjoy studying and what they want to continue to study for their GCSEs.
There have been numerous extra-curricular opportunities outside of the classroom this half term. I have seen a great deal of participation from Year 9s in extra-curricular activities and I encourage anyone who has not attended at least one extra-curricular to do this soon. We are extremely lucky with the wide range of activities on offer, ranging from basketball, to chess, to dance to my personal favourite Ultimate Frisbee, which has seen a great turn out from Year 9 students. Students that attend extra-curriculars benefit in so ways, and it helps them to be healthy learners as well.
This term’s career focus has been Teamwork. Students have been discussing how they can work well with others by remaining positive, behaving appropriately for the workplace, sticking to deadlines, and taking responsibility for work. All of these skills are vital in students becoming future ready.
And finally, students have been given the chance to reflect on numerous global topics through assemblies. Topics have covered Black History Month and the importance of recognising and celebrating everyone’s history, World Languages Day with the importance of speaking languages, and the importance of acceptance in society. These assemblies help our students become better global citizens.
Mr F Hole
Head of Year 9
Newspaper Club
We have a fantastic opportunity for any budding journalists to have their writing published in an actual newspaper! If your child is interested in becoming part of the team that launches our new school newspaper, please ask them to go and see Mr Hall in room 108 on Fridays between 14:00 - 15:00 commencing from Friday 10 November.
We can't wait to read the pieces our students produce! 📝
Olio Impact Report
Please have a look at Olio's Impact report for September. This report shows the food fit for consumption that has been collected and distributed within the local community by Olio - the food waste heroes!
Reward Prizes Pyramid
Please see our new 'Reward Prizes Pyramid' that is currently in affect. It's an accumulation of rewards throughout the academic year which is based on the bronze, silver and gold merits that students can potentially receive throughout the school day.
Good luck to all students, keep up the great work!
PTA update - Bringing nature to our School
We are thrilled to announce the next phase of our exciting garden project. A wild meadow that will not only capture the beauty of nature but also beckon the local wildlife. What's more, students will play a significant role in nurturing and preserving this ecosystem. This enchanting transformation will not only enhance our school's facade but also be a source of learning and joy for our students. We have been lucky enough to have this project meticulously crafted by Wild Thomas Gardens (www.wildthomasgardens.com), who are loving parents within our school community. This initiative is set to transform our school's surroundings into a thriving oasis of greenery and inspiration.
🌿 Garden Project Highlights – as seen in pictures below 🌿
• Subtle mix of colourful flowers & grasses that will brighten up the school grounds.
• Educational Corners: Spaces where students can learn about plants and wildlife.
• Restful Retreats: Tranquil areas to relax and unwind.
• Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Sustainable gardening practices that teach eco-consciousness.
🌟 Calling All Volunteers 🌟
We're seeking your support! To make this project a resounding success, we need volunteers on the afternoon of Friday, 27 October. Whether you're a green thumb or just eager to lend a hand, we welcome your participation.
Date: Friday, 27 October
Time: Afternoon
Your enthusiasm and dedication will be highly appreciated. Join us in nurturing a greener, more vibrant school environment.
For volunteering inquiries, please contact Sophie via sophietomo2@yahoo.co.uk.
Upcoming Dates
23 October - 3 November - Half Term
3 - 6 November - Silver DofE Qualifying Expedition
6 November - Students return
8 November - Ski Trip Information Evening
13 - 15 November - Year 13 A Level Biology Residential Trip
16 November - 'The Woman In Black' Theatre Trip
Broom Rd, Teddington TW11 9PJ