Fabulous Year 11

Miss Tuddenham writes to her Year 11s, their parents and carers.

I hope you are all safe and keeping well during these unprecedented times.

As a year group, I have been continually impressed with your positive mindset and your commitment to the high standards of behaviour and attitude to learning. You have worked incredibly hard during KS4 and it has been an absolute pleasure to see you grow into the responsible, resilient and respectful young adults that you have become.

As your Director of Learning, I feel great sadness that your end to Year 11 was cut so unfathomably short, with the removal of the exams, the leavers’ assembly and the prom. These are rites of passage that you so dearly deserve, and I know that both teachers and students alike feel disappointed. GMS and I will endeavour to provide you with a formal end to your KS4. We are, of course, unable to say when or where, but we do hope to provide an opportunity for a final celebration at some point in the future.

The government process regarding exam results is very much still in the planning stages. Once the government (DfE) and exam boards have finalised their approach, they will contact schools. As soon as we have further information, we will of course let you know. Please rest assured that we will do our utmost to support you all during such challenging times.

In the meantime, please remember that it is very important that you continue with the GCSE work that is set for you on SMHW. Until we have further guidance on how to exactly award grades, please do everything you can to put yourself in the best position. A-Levels are rightfully challenging and require a lot of independent study, ensuring your brain is engaged and productive will keep up the momentum of learning and establish good working habits- regardless of the subjects you choose to study post-16.

If there is one life skill that I have focused on with you over the last two years, it is that of ‘resilience’. With this life skill in mind, you can overcome this challenge with kindness and positivity. GMS and I are here to support you even if we are not in school. The life skills and knowledge you have developed at GMS mean far more than any exam result. I am awfully proud of you. I encourage you to continue to aim high and I know you will achieve great things.

Finally, it is important to remember that I am still available to contact, should you have any questions or concerns about school related issues. I would be happy to respond to any emails should you need advice or guidance.

Stay safe, stay healthy, stay positive and see you soon.

Best Wishes

Miss Frankie Tuddenham

Year 11 Director of Learning