Message From The Head

Happy New Year to All

This term has begun for students and staff in a new and exciting way. As parents will be aware, we have introduced vertical tutoring, where students are placed in mixed aged Tutor Groups during their Tutor Time. The first day back began with students meeting their new Tutor and fellow students in their Tutor Group ranging from Year 7 through to Year 13. All students had the chance to participate in ‘getting to know you’ games and team building activities as well as attending their first House assembly. Mr Smith-Childs, Deputy Headteacher, has led this innovation with Mrs Birch, Vertical Tutoring Co-ordinator, and he has written to all parents with an explanation of the new Achievement Points system and Attitude to Learning policy. His letter can be found by clicking this link.

The re-introduction of the House system has been eagerly awaited by many ex-students and parents, as well as current staff and students. The four traditional Houses (named after the Earls of Warwick) of Newburgh, Dudley, Beauchamp and Greville, have been retained but with a modern slant. Each house has approximately 220 students and aims to create a ‘mini school’ family feel. Already students are proud of their House identity and are looking forward to earning Achievement Points for their Houses. There are many activities planned which will promote team work, leadership and also healthy competition between houses. It is particularly pleasing that in an Olympic year, students at Coleshill will be participating, competing and celebrating achievement as part of a team.

This term is a busy one in many ways, for instance the examination season is fast approaching. Year 11 and Sixth Form January examinations begin next week and there are further examinations in March 2012 before the main summer examinations begin in May. I am pleased that students are well prepared for their examinations and confident of achieving their potential. Staff have planned many revision and booster sessions to ensure students have every chance to succeed.

I am delighted with the increase in numbers applying to enter Coleshill from September 2012. As visitors to the school remark, the school is a friendly welcoming environment with good behaviour and students who work hard. The school is continuing its rapid rate of progress and popularity for Year 7 entry and Sixth Form entry is increasing as a result.

Prospective students and parents are welcome to visit the school at any time and I would be delighted to meet with them. Please contact Yvonne Holder, Head’s PA on 01675 462435 to make an appointment.

Mark Rhatigan
Headteacher
5 January 2012

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