A Message from Principal, Mr Martin

As we approach the end of the half-term, I am delighted to reflect on a rich and rewarding few weeks of learning, celebration, and community engagement across the school.

A highlight of the term was our involvement in the VE Day 80th anniversary commemorations. It began several months ago, with one of our Sixth Form students, Libby, designing the Clifton VE Day logo, which was used on all the letters, posters and social media. In Art, students in Year 9 were tasked with creating a piece of art inspired by VE Day, and the top four pieces received a prize from the organising committee. On the day, our students laid wreaths, sang and read poetry during the service of remembrance at the war memorial in Clifton, along with the Sea Cadets, Clifton Parish Councillors and Rev Caren Topley. It was a truly meaningful event and an opportunity for students to engage with history, and honour the legacy of those who gave so much in service of our country and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Last week, we celebrated the final school days of our Year 11 and Year 13 students. These milestones were marked with warmth and joy as students bid farewell to peers and staff. We wish them the very best as they continue their public examinations and take their next steps into Sixth Form, apprenticeships, college or university. 

Our Duke of Edinburgh Award participants have made fantastic progress this term, completing bronze, silver and gold practice and qualifying expeditions. The resilience, teamwork and independence demonstrated by students at all levels has been commendable, and we are proud of the skills and friendships being developed through this programme. I would like to thank all the staff who have given up their time to help our students participate in such an important scheme. 

In sport, our students continue to demonstrate dedication, teamwork and a commitment to excellence. The 1st XI football team competed with great determination in the National Final Cup at Stoke Stadium. Although this wasn’t our day, the fact that this team has reached three national finals in a row shows what an incredibly talented group of players they are. Meanwhile, our U15 Girls’ Football team were crowned District Cup Champions after an outstanding season, the U14 Boys reached the District Cup final and the U16 Girls’ Football team reached the County Cup final, narrowly missing out on penalties after a hard-fought draw.

In Performing Arts, rehearsals are well underway for our Summer Arts Festival and the upcoming school musical, 9 to 5. These events promise to showcase our students' creativity, collaboration, and talent. We encourage families to attend and celebrate their achievements. Details can be found below.

Finally, we send our best wishes to our Geography students as they depart for their field study trip to Sorrento, Italy. We hope this experience offers both academic enrichment and unforgettable memories.

Thank you for your continued support throughout this half-term. I wish you all a restful and enjoyable break.