Newsletter, 19th November 2023

Good afternoon, 

I hope that you and your family are well. In this week’s newsletter we reflect on a successful mock exams week for Year 11 and look back at an exciting event for members of our science club. 

Year 11 Mock Exams 

As expected, our Year 11 students have conducted themselves brilliantly in their exams, and, more importantly, shown a real desire for success. Pre and post-exam conversations have been very much focused on the content of the exam, with students thinking carefully about what might come up on the paper or reflecting on what they wrote. Of course, in some cases, students have reported that they have found the exams difficult, and this is to be expected. Nonetheless, we are confident that this group of students will achieve mock grades that will give them impetus for further success as the year progresses. We believe that with hard work and with the right support all our students can achieve incredible things and go on to make the world a better place - the fantastic attitude of our Year 11s firmly underlines this belief. Keep it up next week, Year 11! 

Parent Governor Election 

Earlier this week, we notified all parents and carers of an opportunity that has arisen to join the Westfield School Local Governing Body as a parent governor.  If you would like the chance to make a positive difference to the school by applying for this voluntary post, and you haven’t received the Weduc message/email sent on Monday 13 November, you can find the details and apply at www.westfield.chorustrust.org/governance. 

Year 7 Football 

Well done to our Year 7 football team who put in a resilient and professional performance in a 3 – 3 draw with Handsworth. The team worked hard to pull it back to 3-3 after being 3-1 down at half-time. Our goalscorers were Max, Mia and Jacob. 

Science Club Biofest Project 

Members of our science club were proud to attend an event celebrating their collaboration with the University of Sheffield and other Sheffield schools around the Biofest project. Our science club contributed to a short film on how hydroponics systems can be used to grow food in areas where climate change has degraded soil. The film can be viewed here.  

Attendance Matters 

We have enjoyed another week of improved attendance from our students. Attendance last week was above the national average for secondary schools nationally and epitomises our students’ commitment to their learning. Thank you for your support in ensuring your child attends school regularly, as we know that ultimately students who attend well achieve well.  

With many thanks for your ongoing excellent support. 

Joe Birkbeck 

Head of Westfield School