It is an excellent position to be in as Head of Sixth Form, to receive such positive feedback from both the guest speakers and the Year 12 students who attended our Faith and World View Awareness event. This week we invited speakers from a range of faiths and world views to share their stories and explain what values they hold dear. Our students are young people who are keen to learn more about the world around them, and to celebrate differences whilst seeking common ground. A key message to take away, was that no matter the different viewpoints, what came across strongly was the shared underpinning values of how to live our lives well, how to treat others, and to make the most of the opportunities we have. The speakers were so generous with their time, and their willingness to answer the many questions which sprung to mind as the students displayed a genuine interest in understanding more. So lovely to hear from them that it was “The best enrichment session we have had,” and “So interesting, I learned so much and appreciate the different faiths much better.” The guest speakers were delighted that the students listened so attentively and were clearly thinking carefully and deeply about what was said. I heard “Well, that’s a great question” too many times to count!
From this event, straight into the Year 12 Parents’ Evening. There was a busy, productive atmosphere in which there was the real time to talk about each individual student, how they are flourishing and progressing in each subject. Teachers, parents and students could explore together the challenges to come in the courses, and the personalised advice given will give each student a clear pathway to success. Our ethos of ‘thriving in a supportive community’ was certainly in action, and was so rewarding to witness.
Half term provides a useful pause, to reflect on those successes, to enjoy time spent in hobbies and interests, and to recharge the batteries for the busy half term ahead. I am looking forward to welcoming the students back into Sixth Form after the break
Mrs Alison Brown
Head of Sixth Form
