Welcome to this week's newsletter
We've had a busy week at Manor. The Year 11 and 13 trial exams were completed. Feedback from the staff involved has been about the incredibly positive approach students have had to this process. In the exams they have been focused and resilient. From the conversations I have had with Year 11 and 13 students, they have understood that this is not the final exams, but it is an opportunity that gives them an honest appraisal of where they are now and what they need to do between now and the summer. The senior leadership team and I have started to think hard about the final exam programme this week, so that we support our students as they approach this important stage of the year. As always, if you have concerns about your child do contact the school and talk to us. I have spoken to some Year 11 students this week after parents/carers have signalled to me that they had questions that need to be answered, which has been a positive experience for both sides. The mental health of our young people is so important at this critical period - we are here to support our students so they all achieve qualifications that give them choices for their future. Our motto is 'Success for All' and this is where we show we mean that.
On Monday, we took some Year 7 and Year 12 students to participate in the Commonwealth Flag Raising Ceremony at Raunds Town Hall. After the flag raising, our students then enjoyed refreshments and a chance to speak to the mayor, deputy mayor and other members of the local community. The students we took were amazing representatives of our school community and I was a very proud Principal to go with them. Thank you to the mayor and town council for hosting us and looking after us so well.
On Tuesday Year 12 visited the King Power Stadium in Leicester to meet people from different paths they can pursue after sixth form. From universities to apprenticeships, students were able to speak to different people, ask questions and find out more about many different options. They came away with armfuls of leaflets and pamphlets, so they may have more questions in the coming weeks. Please encourage them to speak about their options, and if they would like to discuss things further they can start with their tutor or Miss Collier. Having questions is never a problem - not getting an answer will only mean decision making is more difficult. Please encourage Year 12 students to ask and get answers.
On Wednesday, all students received an assembly from PC Ryan Warren from the Northamptonshire Community Policing Team to talk about knife crime, which nationally is a social problem on the rise. The assembly was very informative for all students about the dangers of knives and offensive weapons, with some honest facts and figures about the consequences of carrying these items. Our students asked great questions and were a great example of the inquisitive students I want at Manor. Thank you to Northamptonshire Police for dedicating the time to educate our students on an important matter.
Also on Wednesday, our teaching staff got together to develop their teaching, supporting each other to work on new ways of doing things that will make lessons more interactive for students, so that they are thinking hard and all of them are participating in the learning. We have already seen the positive effects of students using mini-whiteboards and having their Be Ready Bags. These are all ideas that came from these discussions. Seeing our staff enthused to talk about our core purpose (teaching young people) was brilliant.
I want to thank all the members of our community that sent me positive messages about yesterday's announcement that I will be staying at Manor permanently. 'Interim' is always a hard tag to have with your job title as it implies that the person will not be here long term. Hopefully yesterday's announcement gives you the confidence that I am fully committed to our school and that the direction we have embarked on this academic year is the direction we will continue in future.
Please enjoy a restful and relaxing weekend. I look forward to next week already.
Adam Crawte, Principal
Sparx homework
The Sparx suite of homework is now live for all year groups from 7 to 11 (Years 7 to 9 only for Sparx Reader). Please ensure that your child is logging in and completing their Sparx homework each week. For more information about this, please see the letter sent home on 26 February and further information on the school website, including Sparx topic codes cross-referenced against the science curriculum in the independent learning section, which will support Year 10 and 11 students with revision and practice.
We will publish the names of the students with the most points of each of the three Sparx platforms at the end of each term, but here is a sneak preview of the current standings (as of the evening of Wednesday 12 March):
- Sparx Maths: Kimberly in Year 9 = 32,085 XP
- Sparx Reader: Kimberly in Year 9 = 13,533 SRP
- Sparx Science: Alexandra in Year 7 = 3,510 XP
Knife crime and weapon awareness assembly
On Wednesday 12 March, our students had the fantastic opportunity to attend an engaging assembly delivered by the knowledgeable PC Ryan Warren from Northamptonshire Police, focusing on knife crime and weapon awareness. The session aimed to inform students about the laws surrounding knives and bladed items, fostering a greater understanding of this crucial topic.
PC Warren captivated the audience with his insightful presentation, which was both educational and thought-provoking. The students were eager to participate, and it was wonderful to see so many hands raised with questions. They demonstrated a genuine interest in learning more about the implications of carrying knives and the potential consequences of such actions.
By the end of the assembly, it was evident that our students left feeling informed and empowered. They now possess a clearer understanding of the laws and the importance of making safe choices. This assembly was a vital step in helping to cultivate a school environment where safety is paramount, and we are grateful to PC Warren for his time and expertise. We encourage parents/carers to continue these conversations at home, reinforcing the messages shared during the assembly. Together, we can work towards a safer community for all.
Sixth form absences
A reminder that any absences related to sixth form are to be reported via the same procedures as any other year group, by either:
- phoning the absence line
- emailing attendance@manor.school
- submitting through the Arbor parent app
Sixth form students should not be self-reporting their absence (even if they are 18), and evidence of appointments should be provided.
Year 12 trip
Year 12 travelled to the King Power Stadium in Leicester on Tuesday 11 March to attend the UK University and Apprenticeship Fair. Students took the opportunity to speak to a range of higher education providers and collect information about universities and courses, all of which will inform their decisions about their post-18 pathway.
Students will be spending time in terms 5 and 6 during their Work World Wellness lessons creating a CV and UCAS personal statement draft, in preparation for the 2026 UCAS application window which opens on 13 May.
Apprenticeships advice
Is your child considering an apprenticeship as their next step? Choices magazine is the ultimate parent and carer guide to apprenticeships and technical education, and is completely free of charge. Find this month’s edition here and sign up to receive it each month, direct to your inbox.
Amazing Apprenticeships’ Parent and Carer zone is also a great place to explore apprenticeships and technical education.
Sports results
Netball
We had our first Year 7 and 8 netball games this week. Year 7 won their game against Wrenn with a staggering 23 goals to 1 with one player down. Unfortunately, Year 8 lost their game 7-1 against Wrenn. All players played incredibly well.
Football
This week also saw our U13 boys football team in action at home versus both Rushden and Sir Christopher Hatton Academy.
Our first game of the afternoon was against Rushden, where we dominated the match and capitalized on numerous opportunities. We secured a comfortable 4-0 victory with goals from Maxwell H (2), Ronnie E, and Mason C. The highlight was Ronnie's audacious lob while one-on-one with the keeper.
Our second game against Hatton was a much tighter contest, with neither team able to gain complete control. This resulted in very few clear-cut chances for either side, culminating in a hard-fought 0-0 draw.
Next week, we will take a short trip to Ferrers to face our next two league opponents.
Extra-curricular timetable
Please note that the following after-school PE clubs may not run on the dates shown due to other events taking place:
- Tuesday 18 March: KS3/4 badminton
- Wednesday 19 March: Boys football
- Thursday 20 March: Girls football, KS4/5 basketball
We will endeavour to inform students as soon as possible whether they are still running or not. Please be prepared to make alternative arrangements for your child to get home.
Musical tickets
Credits:
Created with an image by Tierney - "Idea arrows with young woman looking upwards on a gray background"