
This week marked the final set of Year 11 trial exams, and I would like to commend our students for the maturity and focus they demonstrated throughout. Their positive attitude and calm approach have given them valuable insight into their strengths and areas for development, helping them take the next steps in preparing for their final GCSE examinations.
As a follow-on to the trial exams, a reminder that Year 11 Parents’ Evening will take place on 4 December. Appointments can be booked via Arbor and this will provide a valuable opportunity to discuss progress and next steps. If you have any queries or experience difficulty with bookings, please contact donna.godfrey@carisbrooke.iow.sch.uk.
Last month, a small group of our students embarked on a remarkable adventure that took learning to an entirely new level. Thirty students from Carisbrooke College and the Island VI Form had an unforgettable cultural and linguistic journey across China, a trip that continues to resonate deeply with all who took part.
The full story is captured beautifully on our website (linked below), and I encourage you to have a read. I am immensely proud of our students for representing the school with maturity, openness, and enthusiasm. Experiences like this do more than deepen language ability; they broaden perspective, strengthen independence and create memories that last a lifetime. My sincere thanks go to the staff who planned and accompanied this ambitious journey and to the families who supported their children in participating.
I also encourage you to visit our website for updates on our recent sporting achievements and the wide range of extra-curricular activities taking place across the school. These moments truly highlight not only the enthusiasm and talent of our students, but also the dedication of the staff who give their time, energy and expertise to provide such enriching opportunities.
As per an email sent out on Thursday, please remember that hoodies are not permitted in school. Thank you for your support in helping us maintain high expectations around uniform.
As we near Christmas, please remember some of the festive events happening at school. Our Christmas Concert at the Minster in Carisbrooke, the students’ Christmas production, the Reverse Advent Calendar (for which we are collecting food and toiletries for the local food bank) and the Santa Dash on the last day of term are all wonderful opportunities for the school community to come together and celebrate the season. Additionally, Christmas lunch will be served in the canteen on Wednesday 17 December - a festive treat for all our students and staff. Please remember to book your child's Christmas lunch on Arbor by 9 December.
Have a lovely weekend.
Natalie Sheppard
Headteacher