This week saw the end of the winter exam period, we have now reverted back to our normal cycle of lessons with a later lunch and shorter afternoon. Results will come into school in early March. Uniform May I remind all parents of our uniform rules: Girls should not be wearing short skirts. Black tights should be worn (not footless, no bright socks) and make up is not allowed. Mr Moss has reminded all students of the rules about body piercing. (see later). Year 9 Options On 15 February we welcome parents to our Year 9 parents evening. We expect everyone to attend, with their children. This is an important evening as parents will meet with the teachers, hear about progress and what needs to be done to make further progress as well as seeking advise about future options. The curriculum for these students is changing slightly from previous years. Firstly, they have already started their GCSE programme in science(there is therefore no need for options). Next year, additional time will be allocated to option subjects, which we believe will really benefit the students. As a school for many years it has been our philosophy that everyone takes a humanities subject. This year, we shall be emphasising even more, why students should also choose a modern foreign language. Parents will recognise this as the ‘English Baccalaureate’ promoted by Mr Gove. We are not enforcing this for all students merely encouraging this to a greater number of students. Dates for your 15 Feb 18 Feb 21-25 Feb 2 March 3 March 15 March 17 March 24 March 26 March 31 March & 1 April 8 April 11-25 April 26 April 29 April – 2 May 3 May
diary Yr 9 Parents Evening INSET Day, no school for students Half Term Gym & Dance Evening Yr 10 Parents Evening Concert Broxbourne Yr 13 Parents Evening Yr 12 Parents Evening PSA ‘Auction of Promises’ House Performing Arts Competition End of Term Easter Holidays School resumes Bank Holiday Weekend School continues
Governors Grapevine Let me introduce myself – I am Russell Andrews and I have been a Parent Governor since November 2009. With two children at Simon Balle in year’s 12 and 10, I felt I could give something back to the school by using my experience in the Retailing and Consulting industry sectors. I am a member of the Personnel Committee and amongst other things, I have been directly involved in introducing new and improved ways of getting the best performance from all staff, both teaching and support. Examples include enhanced leadership development and induction programmes, together with an all staff survey to identify strengths and weaknesses within the school. This is now driving a range of new actions and initiatives. Finally, along with a fellow Governor, I carried out the Head teacher’s annual Performance Review. As both a Parent and Governor, I feel that improving staff capability and motivation is central to the pupils’ success and ultimately the success of the school. Should you wish to comment or make any suggestions, please email me at governors@simonballe.herts.sch.uk Piercings (Key Stage 3 & 4) Dear Parents We would value your support in re-enforcing and clarifying the following rules regarding body piercings: • 2 studs (1 in each ear or 2 in a single ear) • No hoops • No facial piercings, for example on the nose, lips, tongue or eyebrows • No expanded ear lobes These rules are in place for health and safety reasons and are part of our school uniform. Students wearing these items may have them confiscated for a period of time. Thank you Mike Moss, Deputy Headteacher PSA Just a quick reminder from the PSA to get your PSA Grand Draw tickets back as soon as possible! It's a quick and easy way to raise money for the school, prizes include a Kindle e-book reader and iPod Nano. Tickets need to be in before Monday 21st March, either return in the envelope provided or via the School Office.