Blog

Blog week ending 4th February

Posted on: 04/02/2022

Congratulations to Joshua V-S and Robert D who have both successfully completed their Bikeability Level 3 training, well done to you both! The programme teaches students to cycle safely and confidently in busy traffic environments – and is completely free of charge. Many of our students cycle to school, which is obviously a great way to keep fit, but has many other advantages too;

1. It encourages independence

You are in control of getting to school yourself. It will also teach you the importance of time management as well as build your self-confidence and sense of independence. You will also feel an enormous sense of achievement getting to school by yourself.

2. Cycling reduces congestion

In addition to cleaner air, which is great for the planet, the reduction of cars will make the roads quieter and safer, especially at the school gates!

3. It provides an active start to the day

Schools in the US have seen improvements in grade performances from children who cycle to school. The active start creates energy that helps concentration levels in class. Cycling to school can help with achieving the recommended daily dose of exercise as well.

4. It will save you money

Reducing the amount of driving will decrease the amount that you will spend on fuel. With the rising price of fuel these days that is definitely a bonus! Using your car less will also minimise the wear and tear of the vehicle itself.

Pictured left Robert D & right Joshua V-S

Congratulations to our Year 8 first team who have just secured another important win, beating St Johns Gravesend 8-0. A great performance from the entire team including two hat tricks from Pharell and Isaac. The team are, so far, unbeaten in the Dartford District League Cup Competition.

Special thanks to our Head Girl and Head Boy, Lilah and David A who formed part of the interview panel to help recruit a new member of staff to our Pastoral Team. The Student Leaders form an invaluable part of our recruitment process. Additional thanks to Archie M and Margaret (also of Year 9) who provided guided tours of our school to all candidates.

Kent Teacher of the Year Awards 2022 – who will you nominate? The Kent Teacher of the Year Awards provide an opportunity to recognise the people who really make a difference to our school and its students!

Nominations are welcome for all members of our school community - teaching staff, support staff, members of the PTA and senior leaders. To nominate a member of our school please click here to complete the form. Every one of your nominations means so much to our staff!

Mr Carter was particularly impressed with history work submitted by Liam S of 7E who really exceeded our ‘take it further’ expectations with a skilfully written and brilliantly executed short video. Liam roped in family members to help present his work in the most engaging way, a live news report! You can see his report by clicking here

Miss Ryan would like to hear from anyone who is interested in entering The Young Songwriter Competition 2022. The Song Academy believe that songwriting and music has the power to transform the lives of young people by helping them find their voice. Through songwriting young people can communicate their thoughts and feelings and connect to others. This creative and therapeutic process helps young people discover and develop their identity, overcome challenges, feel empowered by speaking up and advance their creative and social skills. The Open Mic Night next week would be a great opportunity for students to try out their own songs. Joining me on the piano at the open mic event will be Pete Saunders (from Dexy's Midnight Runners) who knows a thing or two about song-writing and having a career as a musician.

To find out more regarding The Young Songwriter 2022 competition, please click here

Every Wednesday after school, Play Place provide two hours of fun and stimulating activities from archery to computer games. All games and activities are supervised and coaching and support is provided by their staff. The service is funded by Dartford Council and is completely free of charge.