Dear students, parents and carers.

 

We are now starting to see an emerging picture of what September will look like, so this seems like a good moment to write to you. The government has announced that, with health and safety measures carefully implemented, all students will be returning to school in September.  That of course means that here at the Sixth Form we are now looking to get everyone safely back in for their lessons. Things will not be exactly as they were before and you should expect some necessary changes to ensure that all members of our community are kept safe, but our priority will be on helping you to successfully return to your studies and continue with your A-Levels. 

 

Over the coming days we’ll be working hard to put plans into place for this safe return and more details will be published by Mr Brady and shared with you as soon as possible.  Keep an eye out for the latest updates on the website and on our social media pages.

 

A large part of our preparation to return includes reflecting on how everyone has progressed during the lockdown.  You’ll be getting your final report of the year sent to you next week and this will be followed up in the final week of the year by an opportunity to meet with your tutor.  This ‘Pastoral Week’ is being run across the entire school and it is our intention that every Dene Magna Student, from years 7 to 12 will meet with their tutor, along with their parents, for approximately half an hour.  You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your lockdown, how you are now and what you will need to focus on in order to be ready for the year ahead.  Your tutor will be able to advise you on how to set personal goals and targets; what to work on with your UCAS applications and any alternatives you may have considered; how to approach your EPQ; any concerns you may have about your A-level subjects. What we need you to do is to consult with your parents/carers to make an appointment using the Parents Evening system.  We are running the Pastoral Week from Monday 13th to Thursday 16th July and appointments are available until 5pm. For Year 12, these appointments will take place at the Cinderford Campus. If you need any advice or additional information, please contact c.etheridge@denemagna.gloucs.sch.uk.

 

I want to take this opportunity to tell you how proud we are of you all.  You have worked hard: despite the inevitable struggles with motivation every one of you has kept going and made progress. When I asked staff about nominations for commendations I was overwhelmed by the responses - so many of you have really impressed your teachers with your resilience, determination and maturity. 

 

Lockdown measures are easing, but life isn’t quite back to normal yet, so as ever I wish you all good health - stay sensible, remember to keep your distance and continue to look after each other.