It is hard to believe it is Friday again already; what a jam-packed and exciting week it has been here at Carisbrooke! They say time flies when you’re having fun, and that’s certainly been true for us over the past few days.
On Tuesday, the annual Year 7 Disco was a huge success. The excitement and enthusiasm from our students was infectious, and it was a joy to see them so relaxed, having fun, and clearly growing in confidence as a year group. A big thank you to Mrs Lythgoe for organising such a fantastic event, and to all the staff who gave up their evening to help create such a memorable experience.
On Wednesday, our Year 10 and 11 students took part in an inspiring playwriting workshop delivered by The National Theatre. We’re incredibly grateful to Mr Lyle for arranging this enriching opportunity. I can’t wait to see the creative ideas that come to life as the students begin developing their plays for a competition in March next year.
Yesterday was another highlight as we welcomed not one, but two visiting authors as part of the Isle of Wight Literary Festival. Students in Years 7, 8, and 9 had the privilege of hearing from either Annelise Gray or Anthony McGowan, both of whom shared their journeys as writers and offered real inspiration to our budding young readers and authors. A heartfelt thank you to Ms Ryan, our Librarian, for making this visit happen at short notice, ensuring our students didn’t miss out on such a special experience.
Today marks the exciting departure of our China trip. We wish all staff and students a safe journey and an unforgettable adventure! Mr Briscoe and the team have meticulously planned an itinerary packed with cultural and educational experiences. I know that they are planning on sharing updates (technology permitting!) via our social media channels over the next 12 days, so do keep an eye out.
Today also coincided with World Mental Health Day, and we marked it with a yellow-themed non-uniform day to raise funds for the incredible work of the charity Young Minds. Supporting the mental health of our young people is a key priority at Carisbrooke, and it was heartwarming to see our whole community come together in solidarity. Huge thanks to Ms Peckham (who champions mental health across the school all year round) for organising today’s ‘Healthy Minds Fair’, complete with interactive activities and free fresh fruit for all.
Young Minds have lots of information, support and resources for parents on their website, which you can find here. Every £35 raised today will pay for a vital counselling session for a young person. If you haven't yet made your donation, you can still do so on Arbor over the weekend and we will share our total amount raised on Monday.
Year 7 parents and carers will have received details today about how to book appointments for the Year 7 Tutor Evening, taking place on Thursday 6 November after half term. This is a valuable opportunity to discuss how your child has settled in and how we can continue working together in the home-school partnership. If you have any difficulties booking an appointment, please contact Reception for support.
I am delighted to share some fantastic news from within our leadership team. Following a rigorous external recruitment process, Miss Bracegirdle has been appointed as our new Assistant Headteacher for Pastoral Care. She impressed the panel with her clear leadership qualities, strategic approach to safeguarding, and unwavering commitment to ensuring every student receives the support they need. Her vision for Carisbrooke as a “community that stands for each other” truly resonated, and I’m confident she will make a significant impact in this role. Please join me in congratulating her on this well-deserved appointment.
Finally, a reminder that we have just one week left before we break up for a well-earned two-week half-term holiday. Please note that Monday 3 November is a staff development day (aligned with our Multi Academy Trust, HISP), so students will return to school on Tuesday 4 November.
Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable weekend.
Natalie Sheppard
Headteacher
Important Safeguarding Notice: Children’s “Spy” Books
