Castle Hill Blog 17/07/2026

What an emotional but wonderful end to the academic year. I was treated to an extraordinary piano performance today from one of our truly gifted Year 10 pupils. Their rendition of Due Tramonti by Ludovico Einaudi was breathtaking — the two sunset‑like passages unfolding with a beautiful contrast: the fortissimo crescendos rising with power and clarity, set against the gentle, almost soporific tones that followed. It was a performance full of maturity, control, and emotional depth.

Fond Farewell!

Eva has been the star of the show in childcare. Having been an active participant since she was just 12 months old, she is now off to big school — and we couldn’t be prouder. She has grown into a confident, joyful little learner, supported every step of the way by our wonderful young people who have cared for her, encouraged her, and helped her flourish. It has been a privilege to watch her journey.

Social Media & Our Pupils

We’ve seen a rise in social‑media issues spilling into school recently, and they’re having a real impact on pupils’ wellbeing, friendships and learning. Most of these situations start outside of school but end up causing upset, anxiety or conflict during the day.

We’re asking for your support in helping keep things calm, safe and positive for everyone.

A few reminders that make a big difference:

• Keep an eye on the apps and platforms your child is using.
• Check age restrictions — many popular platforms aren’t designed for younger users.
• Review privacy settings so your child is protected online.
• Talk regularly with your child about how they behave online and what to do if something feels wrong.
• Act quickly if you spot anything unsafe, unkind or worrying.
• Report serious concerns to the platform or relevant authorities.

We will always support pupils with anything that affects them in school, but issues that begin online or outside of school really do need parental guidance first.

If your child is struggling because of something that’s happened online, please take action as soon as possible. A bit of monitoring and open conversation at home can prevent things escalating and help keep our school environment positive for everyone.

Thank you for your continued support in keeping our pupils safe, happy and ready to learn.

Journey into Post 16

What’s their next move? Come and explore the excellent pathways available to your child at our upcoming Annual Open Events.

These sessions are highly recommended for pupils, parents, and carers alike. They offer direct, first-hand insight into our exceptional Post-16 and Post-18 provisions, giving you the clarity and confidence you need to plan your future.

When to join us:

• Post-16 Options:Wednesday 30th September 2026
• Post-18 Options:Wednesday 7th October 2026

Families always tell us how incredibly valuable these events are for making confident, informed choices. We can't wait to see you there and help you shape your next chapter!  

When to join us: 

• Post-16 Options:Wednesday 30th September 2026
• Post-18 Options:Wednesday 7th October 2026
• Starting time: 3.30pm

Contact

If you're raising a disabled child or have a child with additional needs, you don't have to figure everything out on your own.

Our free helpline is here to support families with information, guidance and practical advice on topics including:

 Benefits and financial support
 Education and EHCPs
 Social care
 Navigating services
 And so much more

Whether you have a quick question or need help understanding complex issues, our friendly advisers are here to listen and help you find the right support.

Sometimes, one conversation can make all the difference.

Get in touch with our helpline today and let us help you take the next step.

You can call us free on 0808 808 3555, or submit an online enquiry using the form here: https://f.mtr.cool/lkbvjkafeu

Staff Leavers and Changes in Responsibilities

David Snape our wonderful Deputy Headteacher remains in education but has taken up a whole new role and life in Abu Dhabi, we wish him every success for the future! We have the highly proficient and experienced Ciara Nellis taking up the reigns as our new Deputy Headteacher and I have no doubt she will be brilliant in this role.

I would also like to wish our other staff who are moving on to pastures new or enjoying their well earned retirement happiness and success in their next chapter. We are grateful for all that they have done to support our school and most importantly encouraging our pupils to flourish! Goodbye and good luck to Matt Drogie, Sue Cooper, Emma Jones, Sarah Hayward and Andre Beckford.

I am very excited to be celebrating and sharing with you the recent other changes in staff responsibilities/roles:

Beckie Smith: SENDCo

Sarah Mullen: Deputy SENDCo

EVC Lead and Outreach education officer: Ruth Smolka

ECT and ITT Lead, EVC Assistant and Health and Safety Lead: Claire Priestley 

Head of KS4: Rhian Wheeler

Head of KS3: Dixie Fitzpatrick

Assessment Lead: Sophie Atherton

Looking Ahead...Dates for the Diary:

Uniform Reminders!

Pupils are permitted to wear shorts all year round but they MUST be loose fitting plain navy or black. Pupils with sensory issues can wear loose fitting joggers but they must be plain navy or black. Logos are NOT permitted.

Pupils are permitted to wear trainers all of the time but they MUST be plain black-other colours are not acceptable.

If you feel we have not considered other reasonable adjustments please contact your child's form tutor in the first instance who should be able to advise you.

If you need any financial support in relation to school uniform, please contact Julie Stonier (Family and Multi-Agency Link Officer) in the first instance who should be able to signpost you to help as required.

Thank you for your support in keeping our pupils looking smart and school ready at all times.

And Finally...

Look at these beautiful poems created by two hardworking Year 8 pupils.

Have a great summer!