Principal's update 26 May 2023
Published on 26/05/23
Dear Parents and Carers
Today we said an official goodbye to our Y11 students, as they continue with their GCSE examinations. A barbecue lunch prepared by the catering team was followed by netball and handball matches against staff teams. Our Leavers Assembly looked back on their journey at HVC over the last 5 years, with lots of wonderful photos and memories. There was even a special performance by our Y11 band! We wish them all every success in their future studies and careers.
After half term, we will enter the end of year assessment period for Years 7-9. Although they won’t have assessments in every subject, they will be assessed formally in English, Maths, Science, Languages and Geography. Teaching staff will let students know what the format of the assessment will be and what materials they should access in order to revise. School assemblies the first week back will give students advice about how to revise and what revision methods are most effective. These low stakes assessments are a good preparation for the important exams which follow in Years 10 and 11. They are not something to worry about, but they are excellent practice for the independent study and revision which are key to future exam success.
What’s going on in school:
- We are excited to announce that we are about to launch the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh programme to our current Year 8 and 9 students to complete during the next academic year. There will be an assembly on Wednesday 14 June for all current Y8 and Y9 students, as well as a Parent Information Evening on Tuesday 20 June from 6.00 - 7.00pm. If you think your young person is keen to complete their DofE or you would just like to know more, then please get this date in your diary! If you would like to know more about the award prior to this event, please have a look on: DofE - The Duke of Edinburgh's Award
- Students from Hope Valley Pathways enjoyed a fascinating visit to the Ensana Buxton Crescent on Wednesday. The visit was part of the Derbyshire Education Business Partnership's (DEBP): 'Pathways to Success' employability programme that students have been working towards this half term. Students had the opportunity to take a 'behind the scenes' tour of the Crescent to look at the spa, hotel rooms, catering department etc. and gain an insight into what it is like to work within the Hospitality sector. The tour was led by Lydia Eaton (Spa Manager- a past student at Hope Valley College) and Lisa Towndrow (HR Manager) who were incredibly informative and happy to answer lots of questions.
Y10 Work Experience
Most Y10 students have received 'Student Work Experience Agreements'. Please can these be signed and returned to reception as soon as possible. The deadline for returning these agreements is 9 June. Agreements will follow shortly for those students who have not yet received one.
Upcoming Cricket Matches
Wednesday 7 June Y8 cricket match vs Westborne at Hathersage Cricket Club. Those playing need to be picked up from Hathersage Cricket Club at around 16.00-16.30
Tuesday 27 June Y10 cricket match vs Westborne at Hathersage Cricket Club. Those playing need to be picked up from Hathersage Cricket Club at around 16.00-16.30
Summer Uniform
As the weather improves, students may prefer to wear shorts to school. As part of our School Uniform Policy, students may wear plain navy blue or black knee length tailored shorts. A good example can be found here: Buy 2 Pack Chino Shorts (3-16yrs) from the Next UK online shop
Well dressing
Each year, Miss Nicklin, Head of Design, leads our students in designing and creating a well dressing which ties in with Hope Wakes week. We would be very grateful for any petal or flower donations to help us complete our well dressing. If you are able to contribute anything, please bring these into school on the week commencing 12 June. Thank you in advance.
Lost Property
If your young person has lost any belongings, please ask them to check at reception before half term. All items not claimed will be donated to charity during half term.
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service Water Safety Video
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service launched a hard-hitting water safety video called 'Thando's Story', told in the words of Mr and Mrs Ndlovu who lost their much-loved son Thando in July 2021. Thando's Story aims to encourage parents, carers and guardians to speak to young children about the dangers of open water, and directly warn young people in the hope that Thando's death will leave a legacy that will prevent future water deaths. You can link to Thando's Story here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Jz5t3BA6rQ
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Thank you for reading our communication. Here are some helpful email addresses, should you need to contact us:
Kind regards |
Gaynor Jones, Principal
Hope Valley College
T: 01433 620555
