
As we approach the end of another busy week, I would like to take a moment to thank our entire school community for the remarkable way you have responded to some very challenging circumstances.
The recent period of extreme heat has tested us all. Throughout these unusually high temperatures, our staff and students alike have been absolutely fantastic. We have made every possible effort to keep the school open safely, adapting routines, monitoring conditions closely and supporting one another throughout. Whilst it was unfortunate that we had to close the school for two days, these situations do occasionally arise when the safety and wellbeing of students and staff must come first. I am incredibly grateful to our staff for going above and beyond, and to our students for the mature and positive way they have approached these challenges.
This week we introduced students, staff and parents/carers to our new mobile phone procedure, which comes into effect on Monday 29 June. The procedure has been introduced in line with government expectations regarding the use of mobile phones in schools. Thank you to everyone for your support and cooperation as we implement these new arrangements. We appreciate the positive response from our school community and look forward to the benefits this will bring to students' learning and engagement throughout the school day.
Today, the Inter-School Team Show Jumping Competition took place. We would like to thank Mrs Peake for her work in supporting and coordinating our students' involvement. We look forward to hearing more about the event and celebrating the achievements of those who took part.
Looking ahead, next week promises to be another exciting one. On Wednesday, we will be holding our Summer Showcase, a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the talents, creativity and hard work of our students. Full details can be found further down in this newsletter. If you are able to attend, please do come along and support our students as they share and celebrate their achievements. We look forward to welcoming as many families and members of the community as possible.
Our Year 10 students will also be attending their Taster Day at the VI Form next week. This is an important opportunity for them to experience post-16 education, explore future pathways and begin considering their next steps as they prepare for the future.
As we look ahead to the summer break, we also say a fond farewell to Jiaxin Yan, who has been a valued member of our community and has made a significant contribution to the development of Mandarin at Carisbrooke College.
Jiaxin has shared the following message with us: "When I first arrived on the Isle of Wight, everything was new to me. I was nervous, excited and unsure of what to expect. However, the daily morning greetings and the smiles I received from both staff and students quickly made me feel welcome. Thank you for making my experience so special. I wish every student success in their studies and dreams, and every member of staff happiness and fulfilment in the future. Carisbrooke College will always hold a special place in my heart.
On behalf of everyone at Carisbrooke College, I would like to thank Jiaxin for her dedication, enthusiasm and support for our students and for Mandarin. We wish her every success and happiness in the future.
Finally, a reminder that on the last day of term, Friday 24 July, school will finish at 12.00 noon. School transport providers have been informed of the earlier finish, and school buses will collect students at this adjusted time. Please ensure that any alternative arrangements for collection are made in advance if required.
Have a lovely weekend.
Natalie Sheppard
Headteacher