Welcome to this week's newsletter
As I write this week's newsletter, it is a relief to have enjoyed some much cooler weather after last week's exceptional temperatures. Looking ahead, the forecast suggests temperatures may rise again next week, so we will review our uniform expectations over the weekend and communicate any changes to families before the start of the week if needed. It has been a quieter week around school, with many of our Year 12 students out on work experience. We look forward to hearing all about their experiences when they return, and I hope they have gained valuable insights into the world of work and the opportunities that lie ahead. One of the highlights of the week has been welcoming our new Year 7 students for their transition days. Starting secondary school can feel daunting, but they have embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm, curiosity and resilience. It has been fantastic to see them willing to have a go, make mistakes and learn from them. They have already demonstrated the qualities of being Ready, Respectful and Responsible, and I have no doubt they will make an excellent addition to the Manor School community in September. It was also a pleasure to meet so many parents and carers during the week and to see students trying on their new uniforms with Karl Sports, giving everyone an exciting glimpse of what September will bring.
We are also well into prom season. Our Year 13 Prom provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the end of their sixth form journey, despite the lingering heat, and I am looking forward to celebrating with our Year 11 students at Barton Hall this evening in what should be much cooler conditions. These evenings are always a fitting way to recognise the hard work, achievements and memories our students have made during their time at Manor. Finally, I have been delighted to read the feedback from our Year 7 families following this week's consultation evening. The positivity around the key changes we have introduced and the confidence parents have shown in the direction of the school is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your continued support. Working in partnership with our families remains one of the most important ingredients in ensuring every student thrives, and I am excited about everything still to come as we approach the end of another successful academic year.
Adam Crawte, Principal
AI webinar
In June, we had 22 students from Years 7 and 8 take part in the National Robotarium Robotics and AI programme. The National Robotarium is a world-leading centre for Robotics and Artificial Intelligence based at Heriot-Watt University’s Edinburgh campus. They linked up with other schools from the UK via the webinar and explored how AI and robots function, and learnt about careers in AI. Students were taught that AI is the software that makes decisions and robots are the physical body that carry out those set instructions. Jobs of the future were discussed with real people working in the industry and how students of this generation would help shape a future generation of AI integration. They also got to submit some questions to ask an actual AI robot, which provided some direct answers. Next year, students will take part in a competition where they will have to use AI and robot technology to solve a real world environmental problem.
Lost property
We currently have a large collection of lost property in the LRC, including keys, jewellery and other valuables. If your child has lost anything at school over the past few weeks or months, please ask them to visit the LRC to see if it has been handed in. Any items that do not get claimed by the end of the academic year will be donated to charity.
Summer concert
What a fantastic evening we enjoyed at this year's summer concert! Our audience was treated to an outstanding programme of music performed by students from Years 7–13, showcasing a wonderful variety of styles, instruments and ensembles. From confident solo performances and heartfelt vocal numbers to impressive instrumentalists, bands and our Little Big Band finale, every student demonstrated the hard work and dedication they have shown throughout the year. It was particularly pleasing to see so many students performing with confidence and supporting one another both on and off the stage, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere throughout the evening. A special congratulations goes to our Year 11 and Year 13 students, many of whom gave their final performances as Manor musicians. They have made an enormous contribution to the department over the years through concerts, rehearsals, productions and extra-curricular activities, acting as fantastic role models for our younger students. We thank them for everything they have contributed and wish them every success in the future. Thank you to all of the families, friends and staff who came to support the concert, and to our dedicated instrumental teachers and performing arts staff who continue to encourage our young musicians. Your support helps make evenings like this possible. Well done to every performer - we are incredibly proud of you, and we are already looking forward to our next musical event.
National School Sports Week
We will be running a series of inter-house competitions next week to celebrate National School Sports Week next. These events will take place predominantly during PE lessons, giving all students the opportunity to earn valuable points for their house. On the day of their competition, students are permitted to wear their PE kit for the entire school day. This will help us register students efficiently and ensure that competitions can begin promptly. Students should bring a water bottle, and we strongly recommend that they also bring sun cream and a hat. Prior to the week, students have already selected their chosen activity from shot put, basketball free throws, or the crossbar challenge. On Thursday 9 July, all students will head to the school field for the final events of the week: the 100m and relay races. These races will provide one last opportunity to earn points and determine which house will be crowned National School Sports Week champions. The aim of National School Sports Week is to raise awareness of the importance of achieving the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity each day and the positive impact this has on overall health, fitness and wellbeing. Miss Hustwait recently delivered assemblies highlighting the significant role that sport plays in supporting social wellbeing. Participating in sport provides opportunities to connect with like-minded people, develop friendships, and foster a strong sense of community and belonging. These values are at the heart of our house system, and we hope that all students will fully embrace the week and gain a greater appreciation of the many benefits of leading an active lifestyle.