Castle Hill Blog 12/06/2026

This week has been an emotional rollercoaster; I am always filled with immense sadness, juxtaposed with joy, when I say goodbye to our incredible Year 11 pupils. I have been overwhelmed with admiration and pride for all that they have achieved. Yesterday, I was invited by Miss Smolka to watch her communication and drama group deliver their final performance of a script they had been working on for months. It was beautifully choreographed, and the performances were powerful and thought‑provoking. I also enjoyed the usual rounds of shirt‑signing and well‑wishing, rounded off with the crescendo event: the leavers’ assembly.

Every year there are some pupils who stand out and receive nominations for individual awards.

Leaver's Achievement (contribution to school life)

• Cole Young

Throughout the years at Castle Hill, this pupil has always been fully involved in school life and is currently on the School Council. He has been supportive to peers and sets an excellent role model example for all other students.

Macauley Shield (Effort):

• Harry Te

This pupil shows an outstanding effort in every single subject and all of school life. He meets every new task with a bright smile and enthusiasm. He always gives one hundred percent and tries his best with all tasks set, persevering even if they are tricky for him. It has been a true pleasure for staff to teach him across the years.

Vocational Enterprise:

• Adam Kilkenny

He works extremely hard in every aspect of his work and has so much pride in his written work that the presentation of every piece of work he completes is exemplary. We feel that he has grown in confidence and now will always ask questions if he is unsure. Staff also feel that he manages any anxiety around situations with incredible maturity and has shown determination and resilience as he has grown older during year 11.

(Unfortunately he missed the stage camera person at the end so we have used this picture taken earlier in the assembly.)

Gillespie Performing Arts:

• Josh Webb

For recognition of his hard work, commitment, passion and continuous improvement over the past two years. He has consistently dedicated himself to developing his drama skills, showing enthusiasm and determination in lessons. He has also generously given his time to support others, including helping with the current year 10 class. 

Inspire Award (HUB)

• Fred Coverley

This pupil has always shown enthusiasm, kindness and positivity even facing the hardest of times. He has shown determination when many others would have given up. He has also been a great friend to many pupils across the Hub. 

Never one to normally shy away from the limelight unfortunately we did not manage to capture a picture of Fred with his shield!

Looking Ahead...Dates for the Diary:

Summer Holiday Activity!

Free football camps for children this summer

We wanted to share a great opportunity for families over the school holidays.

Kellogg’s are offering free places at professionally run football camps for children, led by FA-qualified coaches and delivered in partnership with the English Football League (EFL), Manchester City, Celtic FC and Rangers FC.

The sessions are designed to be fun, inclusive and confidence‑building, helping children stay active, meet new friends and enjoy a positive, experience during the holidays. As well as giving children something to look forward to, they also provide a valuable free childcare option for families over the break, with supervised sessions taking place at a range of local clubs nationwide.

How to book your FREE place:

🥣 Buy a Kellogg’s Football Camps promotional pack

📍 Scan the QR & Find your local club

📲 Book a FREE day of football fun

You can find your nearest participating club and learn more here: www.kelloggsfc.com

ADHD Support

And Finally...

Look at these fabulous paintings completed by 8W, who are currently studying the contemporary Artist Julian Opie. They have really worked hard using acrylic paint to a great effect!

Have a great weekend!