A Message from Ms Heppenstall
Monday, 18th November 2024
As we begin Week 3 of Term 2, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve achieved so far this academic year and to share what lies ahead for the remainder of the term.
Highlights from Half Term 1
We had a fantastic start to the academic year. Our Year 7 cohort has settled into life at Harper Green wonderfully and truly embodies what it means to be all things HARPER. We’ve focused strongly on Personal Development, offering a wide range of enrichment clubs and trips to help our students develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Here are just a few highlights:
- Year 9 Geography Trip: Students visited Southport to study coasts, while Year 8 explored the Peak District to learn about erosion and tourism.
- HARPER Values Trip: A group of students demonstrating consistent HARPER values enjoyed a tour of the Etihad Stadium and learnt about life as a professional footballer.
- EAL Ambassadors: Students visited Bolton’s Central Library.
- Year 11 Art and Photography Trip: Our students visited Manchester, producing phenomenal artwork and photography upon their return. Their conduct was exemplary.
- Black History Month: We collaborated with Bolton Wanderers throughout October to mark Black History Month.
- Curtis Jobling Visit: The renowned author led writing workshops for budding KS3 writers.
- Bowling Reward Trip: Students from Years 7-11 who consistently demonstrated HARPER values enjoyed a fun bowling trip.
Achievements from Half Term 1
- SEND Success: KS3 SEND athletes placed second in the Bolton Panathlon.
- Bugsy Malone Production: A huge success with some budding actors emerging
- Trust Spelling Bee: We won the inaugural Trust Spelling Bee in all three year groups
Since returning on 4th November, I’d like to give a special mention to our Year 11 cohort, who have been sitting their first round of PPEs (practice exams). Their punctuality, conduct and engagement have made me incredibly PROUD. If they continue to show this level of commitment and effort, I’m confident they will achieve great success in their exams next summer.
Students who consistently demonstrated HARPER values throughout HT1 were invited on the Blackpool Zoo trip, which was a student-requested event and thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Our cadets and wider student body embodied the Harper value of 'Respect' on Remembrance Day with an immaculate procession observed by our Year 7s.
Looking Ahead
Here’s what’s coming up this half term:
- Cross-School Art Project
- Year 11 Parents’ Evening: Thursday, 5th December. PPE results will be shared, and staff will be available to discuss how students can maximise their progress ahead of the summer exams.
- Year 11 Professional Interview Day: Friday, 6th December. External employers and college providers will help students prepare for the future.
- ADVENT Rewards Week: From 9th–20th December, students demonstrating punctuality, attendance, and HARPER values will be rewarded.
- Year 9 Assessments: Starting Monday, 2nd December. Assessment timetables will be shared soon.
- KS3 SEND Panathlon: Wednesday, 11th December.
- Lego Discovery Centre Trip: Wednesday, 18th December.
- Visiting Artist: Ian Murphy will host a workshop for Year 11 artists during the last week of term.
The new DfE attendance campaign (#MomentsMatterAttendanceCounts) has prompted changes to how we follow up on non-attendance, in line with statutory guidelines. We firmly believe that moments matter, and our staff, as highly trained subject specialists, are best placed to support your child’s learning journey. Please ensure your child attends school consistently right through to the end of the academic year.
Year 11 students will follow an “AIM for Success” approach during the final week of term, culminating in HOUSE DAY for all year groups on Friday, 20th December.
I’m committed to working collaboratively with parents and welcome your feedback. Should you wish to share your thoughts, please email me at head@harpergreen.net.