Dear Parent/Carer,
As we approach the February half term, I would like to provide an update on school activities and successes over the past few weeks.
This week our Year 10 students have ventured out into the world of work across a wide variety of work experience placements. We have seen students working in dental surgeries, primary schools, car showrooms, cafes, pharmacies and more. The feedback from employers has been so positive, and it is fantastic to see our young people preparing themselves for their future careers and representing themselves so well.
Year 11 have engaged well with their first full PPE mock examinations, showing stamina and resilience through what has been a gruelling three weeks. We look forward to sharing their results and more importantly next steps in learning, with parents after the half term holiday.
We were delighted to see our very first entrants in the Bolton heats of The Battle of The Bands, held at The Roundhouse music venue last week. “Five Blind Chickens”, comprising Year 8 musicians and the Year 9/10 group “Stave and Close”. Both bands put on a great performance and it was a great experience for them to perform in a professional venue. We now have over 100 students taking part in weekly musical instrument lessons.
At the end of January, the Geography and History departments arranged for all Year 9 students to take part in a field trip to Salford Quays. The students undertook a survey of the urban area and visited the Imperial War Museum. All were a credit to the school.
This week we have celebrated “Chinese New Year”, with the tradition of the Sharples Dragon once again making its way around the school to distribute treats.
Next week, many of our families will begin their observance of Ramadan and we are supporting our students to continue with their normal studies at school through provision of quiet spaces at lunchtime and PE will deliver orienteering to students. We are also planning our annual Sharples Year 9 Iftar which will be held on Friday 6th March and the Easter Sharples Family Meals for Y8 which will take place at the end of term.
I would like to thank all parents who joined us for our Parent Forum and PTA Meetings this term. We discussed the new “Sharples Way” expectations which have received great feedback, and enjoyed a presentation from our Health Care Worker and First Aid Lead. Your input and support is vital to improving our school together.
Finally, I would like to remind you that our mobile phone policy has been updated in line with new DFE guidance and the latest version can be found on our website.
We look forward to welcoming all students back after the break on Monday 23rd February at 8.45am
Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable half term.
Yours sincerely
Ms C Molyneux
Headteacher
