Dear Parents and Carers,
As we draw this wonderful half term to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the significant achievements and positive atmosphere within the academy. We have been incredibly proud to witness our students consistently excel, both in their academic pursuits and their personal development.
It has been a pleasure to welcome our new Year 7 students to Shafton and to see how well they have settled into secondary school life. Our older students have stepped up into their new year groups with a renewed sense of purpose and focus.
One of the most noticeable and pleasing developments has been the enhanced sense of responsibility our young people have taken regarding their attendance. There has been a clear and commendable step up in the commitment to attend school every day, to arrive on time, and to ensure they are fully prepared and equipped for learning. This collective responsibility has had a transformative effect on the learning environment. The climate for learning across the entire academy has felt remarkably calm, purposeful, and focused, allowing our students to be deeply engaged with their studies and to work diligently towards their goals.
Our students continue to be our most enthusiastic ambassadors. They naturally welcome visitors into the academy with warmth and confidence, seizing the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions about their daily experiences, their subjects, and their aspirations.
This half term, in particular, it has been a pleasure to welcome a number of important guests. We have hosted leaders from various other academies, providing an excellent opportunity for professional dialogue and shared best practice. We were also pleased to receive Councillor Ashley Peace, the Cabinet Spokesperson for Children's Services. Without exception, these visitors have recognised and commented on the warmth, the intellectual engagement, and the purposeful atmosphere that defines our academy. The commitment shown by our students to their learning and their courteous interaction with guests truly reflects the strong community spirit we foster.
Every day, we are filled with excitement about the diverse and rich opportunities we can provide for our young people, helping them to discover their talents, challenge themselves, and prepare for their futures. We remain committed to ensuring that every student has access to the highest quality education and a wide range of extracurricular experiences that broaden their horizons.
None of this success would be possible without the partnership we share with you, our parents and carers. We extend our sincerest thanks for your ongoing support, encouragement, and commitment to your child's education. Your belief in our academy is fundamental to our shared success.
Wishing you and your families a safe and restful half term break.
Yours sincerely,
Alison McQueen
Principal