Once again we had an exceptional response from pupils who went on our Horizons activity week in Llanneli in Wales during the summer term.  Despite the weather being the wettest South Wales had had for many a year, spirits soared as many of our pupils achieved beyond their expectations, conquering fears, gaining confidence and forging meaningful and lasting friendships.  Highlights included the 30ft waterfall jump, rock climbing and abseiling and our mountain climb which culminated in a talent night during our sleepover in a barn.

Many experienced a renewed encounter with God or a first time commitment to Him; there were many God-centred moments which will no doubt remain a lasting testament to the wonderful times we had.  Staff were inspired both by the enthusiasm and the inexhaustible supply of energy of the pupils and Horizons staff.

The reception area underwent a transformation during the summer holidays, with the installation of a new office for Mr Southey and a purpose-built private study area, as well as the laying of a new carpet.  The Library has been relocated to a designated room. 

The whole school now feels much brighter and cleaner, with all the corridors and doors having been given a fresh coat of paint.  The corridor next to the hall features a colourful mural painted by pupils from Y10.  It illustrates the verse from Psalm 24:1 - 'The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.'

During the Summer Term, we launched our 1000 Acts of Kindness initiative for Hope '08.  Staff and pupils have been encouraged to think of ways that they can show kindness to those in their community, both at school and at home.

So far, pupils have shown kindness to others by making cakes to give away, washing cars, mowing lawns and picking up litter, to name just a few ideas.  We are on our way to our target of 1000 acts of kindness, but we still have a way to go!

Please encourage your child to get involved in this initiative during the rest of 2008.  It is a fantastic way to show God's love to those around us.

Head of Primary and Head of Seniors 

Jackie Swain has been Head of Juniors for a number of years.  Jackie has extended her responsibility to oversee the Infant Department as well.  Her new title is Head of Primary.

Gary Mace has been appointed as Head of Seniors. 

We now have a three tier system as far as overseeing the well-being of the pupils and disciplinary matters is concerned.  The class teacher remains the first port-of-call for the vast  majority of matters.  If things become more serious, Jackie and Gary can be approached.

In January, we were pleased to welcome our new Head of Maths, Mr Gary Mace, who will be teaching Senior Maths and Junior Science.  Mr Mace has 17 years of teaching experience in 4 different schools, including a large Christian school in Sydney, Australia.  Mr Mace spent 6 years in Australia, also working at a Scripture Union residential camp before studying for 2 years at Hillsong Bible College.  He returned to the cooler climes of the UK 4 years ago, and joins us from the National School in Hucknall.