Dear Parents and Carers,
I hope you're well.
The second full week of term has flown by, our Yr 7s and new starters have settled in incredibly well, it feels like they have been part of our community for a long time.
Danebury has been a hive of activity this week.
Well done to all pupils who sat their CATs and GL Assessments last week, we have more over the next week. Pupils cannot prepare for either assessment, they are carried out on computers and centre around English, Maths and Science. The data generated from the assessments are benchmarked Nationally and provide us with baseline data. Teachers will look at this data when they plan lessons to ensure adaptations are made to meet the needs of the learners. We will also identify small intervention groups who will take part in a series of booster classes, securing key knowledge and skills in numeracy and literacy is a priority as early as possible.
The school photography team came in for Yr 7, 9,11 and our pupils who have joined us since last year’s photos were taken. They will be back in 2 weeks for Yr 8 and 10, we will also have a whole school photo and tutor group photos. We are going to trial sending them electronically this year, it speeds up the process of you receiving them and reduces printing waste.
We have had two reviews this week, our Chair of Governors paid a visit on Wednesday to see how the pupils were settling into their learning, to carry out safeguarding checks and pupil voice panels. On Thursday we had our first Trust Review of the year, the focus was on Safeguarding. The initial feedback on both days was incredibly positive across all aspects of safeguarding. The highlight for us as staff was the feedback from the pupil panels that were held on both days. All pupils said they felt safe, felt known, felt heard and were happy at Danebury. I look forward to sharing the highlights and AFIs of the review when I receive the written report.
On Friday we held our first Fire Evacuation Drill of the year. I was astounded by the impeccable standards the whole school demonstrated. All pupils evacuated in silence and remained silent in tutor lines on the field whilst registers were taken, to ensure everyone was accounted for. This was done in record breaking time, 4minutes and 36 seconds from start to finish, I'm so proud of the maturity all our pupils showed.
I really appreciate your patience and co-operation with the adjustments to parking at the end of the day. I have spoken to the bus, minibus, and taxi drivers to ensure they are aware of the areas they can park in. Last week seemed calmer. I will be in the position to share some new information regarding two of our routes in the next week. I continue to work closely with HCC and Unity to improve the service of our routes.
On Wednesday 24th September, we are holding our last Open Morning, please spread the word! We have had lots of prospective pupils and families in for tours this year, there is always room for more! I would also like to take the opportunity to thank those parents and carers who have taken the time to email or post on our social platforms, such positive messages about their child's experience settling in this year. I do share them all with staff, I cannot tell you how much of a boost that gives us all, we really appreciate you.
Have a good weekend.
Warm wishes
Nicky Goodridge
