Headteacher’s Spring Term Blog 2025
Happy Easter!
This has been another extraordinarily busy Term at RFSS, but it is what we do, and what we do well! The make-up of this academic year is a little unusual, meaning we’ve had a long run up to Easter, but staff and students have continued to work together well in order to ensure it has been a pleasant time for all of us.
Thank you to everyone who has completed the survey to offer their views on the school thus far – if you have yet to do so, please find the link here: https://parentview.ofsted.gov.uk/login?destination=/give-your-views
Once again, it has been a positive Term, and I am proud of our community for what we have achieved.
Round Up from the Heads of Year
Year 7
Hello and Happy Easter! It has been a busy term, for sure. Year 7 have adapted to change excellently since we came back from February half term, and have worked incredibly hard in their lessons, gaining confidence here at RFSS. They continue to settle and mature, learning new skills in every lesson. They have participated in countless sporting fixtures, PSHE drop down days and more, and a huge shout out has to go to our KS3 Girls’ football team, who have been undefeated all season. Year 7 have been involved in all manner of events, from House competitions, High-Achievers’ Club, raising money for Myton Hospice and dancing workshops. All students have reflected our school values and I look forward to working with them all as the year continues.
At this point in time, my role as temporary Head of Year 7 has come to end, and I thank all of you who I have met and have worked with since February. I will be overseeing Year 7 in my role of KS3 lead moving forwards and leave you all in the very capable hands of Miss Devine. I would also like to thank all of you who attended Year 7 Parent’s and Carers’ evening last week, and for your time in ensuring your children progress as well as possible. Have a lovely, restful Easter, take care.
Mr Hallmark – KS3 Lead and Head of Year 7
Year 8
What a fantastic term it’s been for Year 8! We kicked things off with the National Careers Event, where students explored all kinds of future opportunities and got a real insight into the world of work. It was great to see them so engaged and curious about their next steps. Some of our students also took part in an amazing dance workshop at Rugby School, showing off their creativity and teamwork. Others had the chance to visit the Royal Opera House, experiencing world-class performances and gaining a real appreciation for the arts. A special shoutout to those who have been accepted into the Warwickshire Police Cadets – what an incredible achievement! We’re so proud of you for stepping up to serve your community. And of course, our Under-13 football teams have had an amazing term with plenty of victories under their belts. The dedication and team spirit on display have been brilliant!
It’s been a busy and rewarding few months, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. Have a great break, Year 8 – you’ve earned it!
Miss Angell – Head of Year 8
Year 9
Happy Easter! Year 9 have certainly had to step it up a gear since February half term, and have done so brilliantly. As we close Year 9’s last half term as Key Stage 3 students and prepare for the GCSE subjects to begin after Easter, I’d like to recognise the time, effort and maturity that Year 9 have shown both in selecting their subjects, and the consideration for their aspirational futures that will follow. As parents, your communicative nature and feedback has been hugely appreciated by myself and the rest of the Key Stage 3 team here. Year 9 have taken part in a host of activities this half term, from sports fixtures, to PSHE workshops, and most recently the careers event working with Natwest, where they created their own business model! It was brilliant to see our Year 9s working collaboratively and well done to the winning team who will be going to London to present their business idea!
It has certainly been a busy term, but we are all looking forward to seeing how well Year 9 start their options subjects after half term. Please do get in touch if you or your child have any concerns moving forwards. Thank you and take care.
Mr Hallmark – KS3 Lead and Head of Year 9
Year 10
As KS4 Lead, I have had the chance to work very closely with Year 10 in the past few months, acting as stand-in Head of Year for Year 10, I have had the privilege of working closely with an incredibly mature and focused group of students. In the short time I’ve been in this role, I’ve been consistently impressed by the way the students have approached their school life, particularly in how they’ve engaged with assemblies and external speakers.
When we have had guest speakers or important discussions in assemblies, it’s been evident that the students are not only attentive but are genuinely interested and eager to learn. Their maturity has shone through, as they ask thoughtful questions and engage in conversations that show a deep understanding of the topics discussed. It’s truly been a pleasure to see this level of engagement at such a crucial stage in their academic journey.
One of the most rewarding parts of this experience has been the meaningful conversations I’ve had with students about their future steps, particularly in relation to their upcoming GCSEs. Their curiosity and desire to understand the process have been refreshing, and I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to help guide them through this important stage of their education. The questions they ask often reflect a genuine desire to succeed and take control of their future, which is both inspiring and motivating.
I also want to take a moment to highlight that our fantastic Head of Year will be returning soon. While I’ve been honoured to step into this role temporarily, it’s clear that the students have greatly benefited from the leadership and guidance they’ve received from their regular Head of Year. She is very much looking forward to picking up where she left off and continuing to support the Year 10s on their journey through this pivotal year.
Mr Rupal – KS4 Lead and Head of Year 11
Year 11
As the Head of Year 11, it’s hard to believe that we’re at the end of this chapter. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of guiding our incredible students through one of the most significant periods in their educational journeys. From the excitement of beginning their GCSE studies to the intensity of preparing for exams and the contemplation of life beyond school, it’s been a year of growth, challenge, and immense achievement.
This group of students has shown remarkable commitment and responsibility in preparing for their exams. They’ve embraced the challenges of their GCSE subjects with determination, and despite the pressures that often come with exams, they’ve shown incredible resilience. It has been inspiring to watch so many students push themselves to reach new academic heights.
But their efforts have gone beyond just exam preparation. They’ve also been working tirelessly on their future goals and next steps. Many students have applied for college placements, apprenticeships, and even started to explore career paths. Some have taken part in work experience or have been involved in extra-curricular activities that align with their future ambitions. This proactive approach has shown their maturity and their understanding that education is not just about exams, but also about preparing for what comes next.
As I look back on this year so far, I can’t help but feel incredibly proud of each and every one of them. They’ve faced challenges, whether academic or personal, and have handled them with maturity and resilience. The way they’ve supported one another through the stress of revision, the ups and downs of their personal lives, and the uncertainty of what lies ahead speaks volumes about the strength of this cohort.
Wishing all of you the very best in your exams and beyond. You’ve earned it!
Mr Rupal – KS4 Lead and Head of Year 11
Year 12
The Spring term for Year 12 at RFSS has been marked by significant success, particularly in vocational courses and GCSE resits. The results reflect both student effort and continued staff support.
Vocational Exam Results
Students in Sport, Business, and Media excelled in their January assessments, demonstrating strong practical and theoretical understanding in these fields.
GCSE Resit Results: English and Maths
In the Level 2 resit courses, students showed impressive results in GCSE English and Maths.
- English: The pass rate of 69.1% is significantly higher than the national average of 40%, with a progress score of 1.0, indicating positive progress.
- Maths: The pass rate of 47.1% far exceeds the national average of 29%, with a progress score of 0.53, reflecting notable improvement in exam techniques.
These results highlight the resilience of students and the dedication of the teaching staff in providing the necessary support.
Student Progress and PPE Exams
In late January, academic students sat their first Pre-Public Exams (PPEs), offering insight into their progress. The next PPEs will take place in June 2025, essential for final exam preparations.
Student Extra-Curricular Achievement: Joseph Bushell Wins Articulation
Joseph Bushell won the Articulation competition, a national public speaking contest on art and culture. His success showcases his strong analytical and communication skills. Additionally, Lucy Day, Flynn Ridgeway, and Sam McInally have excelled in football and athletics, further demonstrating the diverse talents of our students.
Enrichment Activities
Year 12 students participated in enriching activities beyond the classroom, including Social Media Marketing, University preparation sessions, and the Reading Club. These programs supported both academic and personal growth.
Year 12 and Year 13 Visit to the UK University and Apprenticeship Search Fair
On 11th March 2025, Year 12 and 13 students attended the UK University and Apprenticeship Search Fair at King Power Stadium, Leicester. This event helped students explore higher education and apprenticeship options, aiding their future career decisions.
Future Dates
Work Experience Week: 14th – 18th July. Tutors have been working to secure placements aligned with students’ career aspirations. This experience offers a chance to gain practical insights and develop key skills for future careers.
Mr Chadwick – Assistant Headteacher: Sixth Form
Mr Edwards – Assistant Director of Learning for Sixth Form
Ms Bagnall – Assistant Director of Learning for Sixth Form
Year 13
As Easter approaches, we draw to the end of Year 13’s final full term at RFSS. But we are by no means slowing down, and it is full steam ahead as students prepare for the culmination of their Sixth Form journey. Students underwent their last set of PPEs this term which produced some very pleasing results, encouraging our students to feel really positive about their upcoming final exams. Our vocational students also sat external exams in January, and with some pleasing results in the bank, many of them are now just putting the finishing touches on their coursework before completing their courses. For A Level students, the external exams are fast approaching and teachers are putting in as much support as they can; we have planned booster sessions and briefings to happen immediately prior to each exam, and lessons will be continuing right up until the last moment to give students the maximum teacher input.
The majority of our students are looking forward to attending university next year, and many of them have already made their final choices on UCAS. Those who haven’t yet decided have until 4th June to do so. It is fantastic to see students choosing between a number of excellent offers from universities. In order to help them with understanding the world of Student Finance, we invited a speaker from Leicester De Montfort University to run a session with Year 13 students and their parents in March to explain how it all works, and most students have now completed their applications.
Those who are planning on pursuing a different path from university next year attended an Apprenticeship Search Fair in March. We are really excited about the number of students gaining places on apprenticeships schemes which will really prepare them for the world of work.
Alongside their academics, Year 13s have continued to lead the school in extra-curricular activities this term, acting as role models for our community. It has been lovely to receive the “About Me” profiles from Sixth Form students who are preparing to mentor younger children in the school with their academics, social interactions, anxieties and general concerns. The Prom Committee are also continuing in their efforts to ensure Year 13s are given a fitting send off at the end of the year, and the rest of the school have benefitted from their efforts to fundraise with the bake sales that have taken place at break and lunchtimes.
We hope that all our students will have a lovely break over Easter, managing to balance their revision with some rest and recuperation. Revision sessions will be running in school for some subjects so we look forward to seeing lots of students there, and if not, we will see all students back on 28th April, ready for the final push.
Mr Chadwick – Assistant Headteacher: Sixth Form
Mr Edwards – Assistant Director of Learning for Sixth Form
Ms Bagnall – Assistant Director of Learning for Sixth Form
Set for Life
Community
Community is part of our Set for Life curriculum and is our commitment to ensuring students have the opportunity to develop their social skills through working collaboratively and celebrating similarities and uniqueness.
World Book Day 2025
What a fantastic day this was! We had activities and challenges taking place all day, staff were dressed up as book characters and the RFSS Big Read was a huge success.
