Friday 10th November 2023

Dear Parents/Carers,

Today Year 11 students participated in Sixth Form Taster Day, giving them a ‘day in the life’ of a Sixth Form student at SNS. Students sampled a range of A Level lessons, including Psychology, Economics and Further Maths, giving them an insight into their next steps. If students did not have lessons in the subject they wish to study at Sixth Form, they can arrange to speak with specific subject teachers to gain more information. We will also be holding Sixth Form Open Evening on Monday 15th January, giving the opportunity to explore the range of subjects on offer.

Our young people made us proud in the recent EE Mobile advertising campaign on television. Congratulations to all students who were involved in the filming of this opportunity. You can watch the advertisement using this link.

Behaviour Reminder – Playfighting

I draw your attention to Section 12 ‘Unacceptable Behaviour’ in our Behaviour and Relationships Policy. Playfighting, more often than not, leads to a serious altercation, potentially causing injury, upset and an unsafe environment. Students who do not follow this rule will be given a serious sanction.

Year 7 English Homework – Bedrock Learning Parents’ Information Event – Tuesday 21st November

As you are aware, all English homework in Year 7 is done via Bedrock Learning. Bedrock Learning will be holding an online parents’ information event on Tuesday 21st November at 7.00pm. The purpose is to allow parents/carers to know Bedrock more in depth. There will also be information about how you can support your child in their learning. If you would like to attend, please register your interest using this link. A recording of the event will be sent to you if you register.

Celebrating Diwali - Festival of Light

Next week students will have the opportunity to take part in Diwali-themed craft making every day at lunchtime in the Library with Ms Loy and Ms Dehon. In addition to this, on Wednesday 15th November, students will taste Indian recipes inspired by the Festival of Light, prepared by our catering team in the Blue Bird Cafe. The special meal will be accompanied by traditional Indian music and a show of lights.

Language of the Month – Kurdish!

The language of November is Kurdish. Suggestions from all students and parent/carers to introduce the SNS community to the language and culture are most welcome. Please email to community.languages@sns.hackney.sch.uk and encourage your children to send us creative and informative posters and presentations or give to their Form Tutor.

Chess Board Sets Request

We hold a lunchtime Chess Club that is well attended by many students across year groups. We need some more chess sets for students to use. If you do have a spare set which you no longer want, please ask your child to give in to Reception.

Key dates, Cultural events and opportunities in the community

Please see a link to our key dates here for this term on our school calendar including Information Evenings, Forums, and Parents’ Evenings.

You can also find local cultural events taking place this month using this link as well as opportunities in the community that your child may want to sign up to using this link.

This week’s assemblies and our daily Thought of the Day commemorated Peace and Remembrance. I end this fortnight’s letter with a quote shared by Mr Bynoe.

“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” ― Albert Einstein

Wishing you a restful weekend and positive week ahead.

With best wishes,

Zehra Jaffer