Dear Parents and carers, 

On Thursday we held the first meeting with the new Head Students. They will be doing a whole school assembly on Teams to go through the new plans for student voice which will result in them having a far greater influence in Hessle. More information will come out later this term but in short, there will be a number of different councils focusing on a specific area each led by one of our 8 Head Students. The Head Students, all Sixth Form, are a very impressive group.  

We have reviewed the fire drill procedures following our recent practice. It went well but there are always tweaks to me made to make the process even better. Although such drills are common, they are important. I have had experience of an actual fire in a school and the drill the students went through was immaculate and reassuring. That is why it is taken so seriously.  

This weekend we have a number of students out on the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh qualifier trip, so I hope they have an enjoyable and successful expedition. Continuing the success themes, our school came top of the Trust Year 11 English revision sessions last week, with 8 students being in the top 30 and 3 in the top 10. And even better, one of our students was at number 1. Tomorrow, yes Saturday, we have 110 students coming into school for additional English sessions ready for the exam on Monday.  

In the summer, it is great to see the field full of students enjoying the space, playing sport, or sitting around chatting. Our onsite facilities are marvellous yet easily taken for granted so good to see them being used so much.  

Just a heads up that this Tuesday is the Portia House Charity Day. 

Finally, a few days ago, I came across a gentleman (around 7am) who was walking his dog towards the school gates, wondering if the Old House (Tranby) was still there. He was a former student, so we had a chat and I told him that we were looking to start a former student group for the school’s centenary year. It did bring home to me the important role schools play in our lives, even long after we have left.  

Enjoy the weekend 

Mr Nixon

Headteacher