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🎓 End of Half-Term 1 - Update

By Mr Keep
As we reach the end of the first half term, I want to take a moment to say a sincere well done to all our Year 11 students. The start of this academic year has been full of challenge, opportunity and growth and students have responded with maturity, focus and resilience.

This half term has seen Year 11 settle into their routines, engage with their subjects and begin to look ahead to life beyond GCSEs. From the launch of revision booklets to enrichment trips and careers planning, students have shown a real commitment to making the most of their final year.

Teachers and leaders been particularly impressed with their attitude in lessons, their contributions to extra-curricular activities and the way they’ve supported one another. It’s been a strong start and we’re proud of them.

🌟 Careers Fair & Sixth Form Open Evening

Thank you to all families who attended our Careers Fair and Twynham Sixth Form Open Evening. Both events were well attended and provided valuable insight into the wide range of opportunities available after Year 11.

Visitors and external stakeholders gave some very positive feedback about our students, noting their thoughtful questions, genuine interest and respectful engagement. These events are key milestones in the Year 11 journey, and it was fantastic to see so many participating so positively.

📚 Balancing Rest and Revision

Half term is a chance to recharge - but also a valuable opportunity to prepare for the upcoming mock exams. Here are a few tips to help students strike the right balance:
  • Rest matters: Encourage early nights, time outdoors and screen-free breaks
  • Plan ahead: Use the revision booklet to build a realistic timetable
  • Small steps: Short, focused sessions are more effective than cramming
The revision booklet is also available on the Year 11 Revision Pageon SharePoint or via the separate blog post (search ‘Revision’ if you’re unable to find it). This includes subject-specific resources, guides and useful links.

🚧 Christchurch Roadworks

Please be aware that major roadworks will begin in Christchurch from Monday 27 October, affecting the A35 Christchurch Bypassand surrounding roads. These works will run for three weeks and include full closures in two phases:
  • Phase 1 (27 Oct – 10 Nov): Eastbound closure
  • Phase 2 (10 Nov – 17 Nov): Westbound closure
Diversion routes are extensive, with delays of up to one hourexpected. We strongly advise families to plan ahead, especially for journeys to and from school. Full details and maps are available via BCP Council. Please note our Year 11 Mock Exams will continue as planned starting on Monday 10th November.

🛡️ Safeguarding Over Half Term

As students enjoy the half term break, including Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations, we encourage families to talk openly about safety and wellbeing. A few helpful reminders for our young people:

  • Staying safe online: Be mindful of what’s shared and who it’s shared with
  • Going out with friends: Stick to well-lit areas, stay in groups and keep in touch with home
  • Seasonal events: Attend organised firework displays and avoid risky behaviour around open flames or unfamiliar areas
If you have any concerns about a child’s welfare, you can contact the BCP First Response Hub on 01202 123334 or email childrensfirstresponse@bcpcouncil.gov.uk. For out-of-hours support, call 01202 738256. For any further information please visit : Safeguarding and Wellbeing - Twynham School

🗓️ Key Dates and Reminders

  • Monday 3 November - INSET Day (school closed to students)
  • Tuesday 4 November - School resumes
    • Year 11 will begin the day with an extended assembly, starting with a line-up in the quad at 08.40am
  • Monday 10 November – Mock exams begin. 
    • A full Mock Exams Information Bulletin will be published after the break

📣 Stay Connected

As always, you can contact the Year 11 team directly at year11@twynhamschool.com or via the Arbor Parent Portal. Please note these will not be monitored or checked during the half-term break.

We wish all our students and families a safe, restful and productive half term. We look forward to welcoming everyone back with renewed energy and focus.

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