Head’s News – 19th June
Verulam School opens again to students
It was a great pleasure to welcome back Year 10 and 12 students this week. Students are in school for catch up lessons before the summer break, which supplement their virtual learning at home.
Students are coming in to school in small groups to allow all health guidance and social distancing to be observed. Assistant Headteacher, Martin Emsley said “it is really important for the students to be back in school, receiving face to face learning and having the chance to see their friends again” a sentiment echoed by Sam Shepherd a Year 10 student who said “it’s really good to see our friends and get back to lessons.”
Students are going to be attending the school over the next five weeks, with Year 10 students studying Maths, English and Science, while Year 12 students will be studying all their A-Level subjects and receiving careers and university guidance.
Fiona Rosler, Head of Mathematics and Director for Teaching and Learning who taught her Sixth Form class on Tuesday said “It was great to see so many Year 12 students returning to school this week and be able to prepare them for their continued study next year. They should be very proud of the progress they have managed to make during this challenging time and we will be able to build on the skills they have developed through our blended learning initiative next year.”
I was most impressed with how well students observed our new social distancing rules and noted how excited both staff and students were to be back in the classroom. It does seem that the prolonged absence has made some students more reticent than usual. I am sure they will grow in confidence as they become more familiar with new staff and a new style of classroom!
Updated Finance guidance for prospective students
Year 13 students and parents may wish to know that the Student Loans Company (SLC) has updated their guidance for prospective undergraduate students who can apply now for student finance.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/guidance-for-prospective-students
Guidance for Year 11 and 13 Students:
The current crisis has made careers and education decision making even more difficult than usual for students and I am happy to offer guidance discussion for any student who feels they need extra helping de- ciding on post Year 11 or 13 destinations. Please contact my P.A. Ms K Bonass on Kelly.bonass@verulam.herts.sch.uk to arrange a discussion or meeting.
Headmaster’s Commendation
This week’s HM commendations go to:
Josh Allen Year 9 for setting himself such high standards that he re-submitted his already excellent English written assessment because he spotted a typo in the original document after he had submitted it.
Samuel Calthorpe Year 8 for his tremendous Art work based on St. Albans History for the Maltings Art competition.
Peter Brady in Year 10 for his work in French which is superb, and his effort is consistently excellent.
Joshua Stacey (9Y2 Spa) made a lovely Spanish lunch for his project.
