Dear Parents/Carers
I hope that you’re well and are looking forward to the half-
term break. As you’ll see in these pages, it’s been a busy
few weeks since you last heard from us at school and it’s
hard to think that we’re only in our first term of the new
academic year, such is the speed with which we’ve got into
our new routines, classes and clubs. All the pupils have
settled seamlessly into their year groups too; thank you for
the support you constantly offer us by adhering to those
expectations of uniform and behaviour which ensure that
the children can focus on their learning and wider life at St.
Richard’s.
Despite the fact that this academic year is just beginning, the
start of term saw a flurry of activity in ensuring that our next
round of admissions was as successful as last year. Myself
and members of the Senior Team, Mr Bligh, Mr Smith and
Senior Prefects went ‘On Tour’ to all of our feeder Catholic
Schools to meet prospective parents, carers and pupils.
Our Head Boy, Chuma and Head Girl, Hana, also spoke
beautifully and passionately at the events which culminated
in our own Open Evening where no less than 400 pupils
volunteered their time to help departments and show visitors
around. The evening was a tremendous success and there
are already piles of admissions applications for our team here
to work through, despite the fact that the deadline isn’t until
October 31st.
In addition to this, we’ve also hosted curriculum evenings
and transition evenings with subject specific staff so that
we ensure families have the support they need to guide
their children through the next year. We’ve also enjoyed
welcoming parents and carers to our Duke of Edinburgh
information events; in fact the Silver Expedition has only just
returned from their qualifying expedition.
You’ll be pleased to know that the wider curriculum offer of
clubs and Prep Club is back to its very best and it’s been
wonderful to see the children staying on after school to get
to know new friends by joining the myriad of different clubs
on offer. This, in addition to our sporting fixtures and revision
classes, has meant that the site has been busy well into the
evenings; something that makes our school such a special
place. Over the last two weeks we’ve also welcomed
grandparents of pupils to their own celebratory Grandparents’
Mass, celebrated by Fr. Simon. It was a really moving event,
with visitors enjoying a tour of the school and a chance to
catch up with friends and family, some of whom were serving
staff, prior to Mass. The music, dance, drama and readers
contributed beautifully and it was particularly nice to welcome
back a past Principal in Mr Tony Campbell and his wife Anne,
previously the Head of R.E. here, during the course of the
morning.
We’ve also been out and about, both within our community,
Diocese and internationally! The Art Department was involved
in a trip to Brighton with our already accomplished artists,
Geographers have been down to the beach and surrounding
countryside, Music pupils headed over to Glyndebourne
earlier in the term and we’ve also been camping and hiking as
part of our Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award. Last week, we
also had the annual MFL trip to Barcelona with Year 10 pupils
and a Pilgrimage to Arundel to enjoy, and next week, we
look forward to welcoming the Year 7 families for their Mass
of Induction, a House of Parliament Trip for Charity Leaders
and our presentation of over £100,000 to the Royal Marsden
Cancer Charity - raised during the Summer Term. Year
11 have also had their Mock exams in the core subjects to
contend with; something integral to helping them understand
the areas for priority over the coming months. These are
supported with a series of interventions which we’ve started
earlier than ever before to ensure they have the guidance
they need.
I think you’ll agree, we all deserve a small break before
we come back and head into the season of Advent and
Christmas. I know there’ll be lots to look forward to then as
well.
Lastly, if you’ve not already done so, please do respond to the
Parent and Carer Questionnaire regarding the Catholic Life
of St. Richard’s which was sent last Friday. We can expect
our Catholic School Inspection in the coming months and it
would be superb to be able to show the inspectors your views
on what makes St. Richard’s such a special place for the
children. The link is here:
With warm wishes
Paul Barber, Principal
Page 1
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
A High Performing Specialist Science School
October 2024
St. Richard’s Catholic College
Ashdown Road, Bexhill-On-Sea
East Sussex TN40 1SE
Tel: 01424 731070
Email: admin@strichardscc.com
www.strichardscc.com
Principal: P Barber, NPQH, NPQEL, FCCT, BA (Hons)
Newsletter 2
Dates for Term 2
Inset Afternoon
-
Monday, 21st October (School closes for pupils at 1.15pm)
Year 7 Mass of Induction
-
Thursday, 24th October (6.30pm)
End of Term 1
-
Friday, 25th October
First Day of Term 2
-
Monday, 4th November
MUFTI Day for Christmas Fayre
-
Friday, 8th November
Year 12 Prize Evening
-
Thursday, 14th November (6.00pm)
Year 7 Settling In Parents’ Evening
-
Thursday, 28th November (4.00pm-7.00pm)
Year 11 Parents’ Evening
-
Tuesday, 10th December (4.00pm-7.00pm) (NB: day is Tuesday, not Thursday)
Christmas Dinner Day
-
Wednesday, 11th December
Advent Service for parents/carers
-
Thursday, 19th December (6.00pm)
End of Term 2 for pupils
-
Friday, 20th December at 1.15pm
As we approach the end of Term 1, I am sure you will have
noticed the difference in your child since they left primary
school in July. Each week, the pupils in Year 7 continue to
make excellent progress both inside the classroom and in
our extensive extra curricular provision. It has been a real
pleasure watching their confidence grow and they certainly
feel part of the school community. The PTFA disco really
embodied this and thank you for your support here. We
raised £1,215.
We finish this term with our Mass of Induction on Thursday
24th October, 18:30 start. This evening is very special as
your child will receive a blessing on their journey through St
Richard’s. The PTFA will provide refreshments afterwards
and you will have the opportunity to meet your child’s new
friends and their parents. The sign up form is here.
In my weekly pastoral emails I have mentioned our uniform/
appearance policy. I ask parents/carers to familiarise
themselves with page 22 in the school handbook regarding
haircuts, to avoid any issues at the start of Term 2. In this
week's message to parents, I highlighted social media and
in particular, large group chats and the time of night pupils
are messaging each other. To keep your child safe, I strongly
advise you to check what they are doing online and when.
At the end of the first week back you will receive your child’s
Settling-in report. This will be shared via EduLink. Our first
Parents Consultation Evening is on 28th November. I will
share information via my pastoral emails regarding how to
book appointments closer to the time.
Next term in PSHEe, pupils will be exploring the following
themes: Challenging extremism, revision skills, on-line
safety, personal hygiene and vaping.
Pastoral Reports
Year 8
Year 7
Page 2
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
Mr Bligh
Pastoral Leader Year 7
mrblighj@strichardscc.com
As always, I like to share achievements in our newsletter and I want to congratulate Joana on
Mrs Murphy, Pastoral Leader Year 8, mrsmurphyj@strichardscc.com
Year 8 pupils have got off to a fantastic start; they are
cheerful, enthusiastic and are making an effort to get involved
in school life. Many of the children have joined clubs already,
and I hope those who have yet to do so will make the effort
soon, as extra-curricular involvement helps you to make the
most out of school life. The memories we make are often
outside of the classroom, at sports matches, on trips and with
friends doing the things we love.
Year 7 and 8 Disco:
As this is my first year at St Richard’s, I had the pleasure
of attending the Year 7 and 8 disco for the first time, and
what a joy it was! Everyone seemed to have a brilliant
time, and behaviour was mostly excellent throughout the
evening. The children seemed to thoroughly enjoy it, and
they were wonderful at helping to clear up at the end and
walking sensibly to the seafront to meet parents and carers.
I understand there were quite a few sleepovers that night
too, so well done to all those who had to deal with late night
sugar crashes! A huge thank you to the PTFA for helping to
organise this event, as well as to the Year 10 pupils who DJ’d
and helped to chaperone all evening.
Homework and organisation:
The homework expectations in Year 8 are high, with around
45 minutes of homework set per subject once or twice a
week. When pupils begin to find things difÏcult, good habits
will help them to cope with the demands of homework and
extracurricular activities. Please encourage your children to
create good study habits now by providing them space to
work, sticking to particular homework times in the evening,
and removing distractions such as phones, tablets and
computers. Good habits are invaluable for long term success
and help to foster an attitude of independence, but children
need constant support in maintaining them. Homework is
important for helping children to learn independent study
skills and will support them later on in their exams and work
in the future. As such, homework is tracked and a lack of
completion does result in detentions.
Sports and Extra-curricular Clubs:
I was so excited to hear about the Year 8 boys’ football team
tryouts, and would like to personally congratulate the 16
boys who now make up our competitive squad: Ruairi, Adam,
Luke, Harry, Dylan, Samuel, Henry, Samuel, Sebastian,
Alston, Matei, Fawwaz, Harvey, Oscar, Noah and Jozef. Well
done to everyone who took part in this process - whether you
made the team or not, I am impressed with the hard work
and dedication shown throughout this period. Good luck with
your future matches!
Please take time to ensure that pupils are making the most
of the array of extra-curricular activities, clubs and sports that
are on offer. Encourage your children to check the activities
board in the main corridor and give something new a go!
Year 10 has got off to a pleasing start. The pupils are
focused and well settled in the vast majority of their lessons,
and many are making an effort to get involved in school life.
Many of the children helped out at the recent Open Evening,
and have begun to collect evidence for their CREST Award.
I hope they continue to take their studies seriously and
continue to create good habits for KS4.
Homework and organisation: When pupils begin to find
things difÏcult, I believe good habits will help them to cope
with the demands of homework and extracurricular activities.
Please encourage your children to create good study habits
now by providing them space to work, sticking to particular
homework times in the evening, and removing distractions
such as phones, tablets and computers. Good habits are
invaluable for long term success and help to foster an
attitude of independence, but children need constant support
in maintaining them. The PSHE curriculum, focusing on
Managing My Life, aims to provide pupils with the skills
they need to cope with a busy schedule. I will track the year
group’s completion of homework and pupils know that they
will be issued after school detentions if they reach 5 or 10
missed homeworks. 15 missed homeworks will result in a
Saturday detention.
Revision Evening: The evening with Michelle Miller was
a great success, with parents reporting that they found it
extremely useful and practical. The resources from this
event will be shared as soon as they are made available to
us. In the meantime, here are the top most effective revision
methods:
•
Flashcards/post-its
•
Mnemonics
•
Practice recall
•
Multiple choice
•
Podcasts
Revision Guides: In my weekly Year 10 bulletin, I attached
a list of recommended revision guides for parents/carers
to explore with their children. Please take the time to look
through the recommendations from each department and
ensure that your child has everything they need to be
successful in their Year 10 mocks in 2025, and their exams
beyond.
Work Experience: The pupils have been given the
information they need to begin choosing their work
experience placements. It is always recommended that
pupils seek out opportunities and placements that match
up with their career aspirations, as these are usually the
most valuable experiences. However, the pupils will be able
to select placements using the bespoke website they have
been given a username and password for, and many will find
things that appeal to them there. The placements are given
on a first come first served basis, so it is important that the
pupils are organised and explore their options as soon as
possible!
Year 9 always brings challenges: an increase in workload
and just simply negotiating adolescence creates new
demands. So far, the majority of pupils have been meeting
these challenges with a resilience and maturity that is a
real credit to them. Please encourage your child to be
resourceful, look back over their work, only submit high
quality work and use any recommended resources. Please
also urge your child to engage with the extensive programme
of extracurricular activities offered at school, whilst helping
them to stay organised as they manage their workload.
Charity events and socials
Each form will engage in a charity fundraising activity this
year. Please have a conversation with your child and see
how creative they can be. There will also be whole year
group charity events which will contribute to our chosen
charities.
Social Media
Screen technology is often a minefield for parents and it
often impacts on the mental health of pupils. It is important
to note that nearly all social media platforms require
users to be at least 13 years old. During PSHEe lessons,
assemblies, computing and form time we often discuss this
theme. However, as parents you can also help. The first and
probably the most important support you can give your child
is to have open conversations about what is happening to
them (and friends) online and monitor carefully their use of
technology. Setting ground rules, which include where they
can use devices, how long they use them for and the content
they access are essential. Quite simply, if you do not guide
them they will never have a chance to ‘switch off’! The best
tip I can give is to charge all devices downstairs so that there
is no temptation. If the device is on, you will be surprised at
how many notifications your child gets late at night.
PSHEe
The PSHEe schedule next term will include guarding against
exploitation and anti- bullying week. Should you require
further information, then please do not hesitate to contact
your child’s form tutor or myself. These topics are vital for
Year 9 pupils as they continue to learn about themselves and
the world they are growing up in.
Homework
I would encourage parents/carers to check ‘EduLink’ at
home. Homework expectations do increase in Year 9 and
some pupils may need encouragement to ensure that they
are organised, punctual and submitting their best efforts.
If you do not have access to your child’s EduLink account,
please contact IT services (helpme@strichardscc.com) to
get your login details.
Page 3
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
Mrs Hills, Pastoral Leader Year 9
(mrshillsa@strichardscc.com)
Year 9
Mr Steele, Associate Assistant Principal,
Pastoral Leader Year 10
mrsteelej@strichardscc.com
Year 10
•
Cornell approach
•
Memory mapping
•
Structured responses
•
Noting errors in marking
•
Building connections
I would like to thank all of Year 11 who acted as ambassadors
for the school on Open Evening. Their help was invaluable.
Particular thanks to all of the Senior Prefects who acted as
tour guides and helped with the parking of cars.
Well done to all of the Year 11s who have been attending
after school intervention. There has been a healthy
attendance of all the subjects which I hope has helped in the
recent mock exams.
On Tuesday, 15th October, we began the first round of
Year Mocks in core subjects only. Please click here for a
document with details of revision guides available. Pupils will
need to be in school by 8:30am and ready to line up for their
mocks at 8:40am.
So far, we have had talks from Bexhill College and Tonbridge
Grammar Sixth Form. I have sent details of all the upcoming
Open Evenings in the local area in my weekly emails to help
you plan your visits with your child.
All of Year 11 have now been sent their logins and passwords
for the East Sussex Sixth Form application site eprospectus.
The applications do not have be completed until December
10th. Most of Year 11 have completed their personal
statements already, so they are well ahead.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact
me at mrdohertyr@strichardscc.com
Page 4
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
Safeguarding and Pupil Wellbeing
Year 11
Mr R Doherty, Assistant Principal Pastoral Leader Year 11
mrdohertyr@strichardscc.com
If you have concerns regarding your child and feel
they may need to access some further support, please
consider some of these options. If your concerns are
significant regarding risk, please contact your child’s
Pastoral Leader via email directly or call the School
Reception and request a call back.
Student Leadership
Sometimes, the most important
support is from our peers and
we have lots of opportunities
for pupils to speak to peers:
•
Prefects
•
Student Listeners
•
Wellbeing Ambassadors
Mental Health Trained Staff
(See poster)
Staff members are available
during various parts of the
school day to:
•
Approach
•
Listen
•
Give support/information
•
Encourage to access help
•
Encourage self help
Staff Mentoring
Identified staff are available
to be allocated to a pupil for
a period to mentor; this can
have a focus on organisation,
motivation, friendships or
simply having a trusted adult to
talk to.
Form Tutor
Form Tutors are the first port of
call for any concerns for pupils
or parents. Form Tutors see
pupils every morning and often
are the trusted adult that pupils
feel know them best.
Counsellor
We have a School Counsellor
available for pupils to discover
more about themselves in
a confidential safe space.
Any teacher can request a
counselling referral for a pupil.
Mental Health Support Team
We have access to a CBT
based support service for
short-term targeted intervention
based in school. For this
academic year, there are
two practitioners available to
support pupils.
School Nurse
Miss Thompson, our School
Nurse, is available in the First
Aid room to support pupils’
medical needs and work with
our pupils and parents to
ensure individual Health Care
Plans are up to date and needs
can be provided for in school.
School Health Service
The East Sussex School Health
service can be referred to for
any physical needs and are
able to offer support to pupils
and parents. They are also
available to pupils and parents
via a confidential text chat:
07507 332 473
Support available in school
Page 5
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
Chaplaincy
September and October have been busy months. Pupils,
parents (and grandparents!) and staff have got involved
in the various aspects of spiritual life at St. Richard’s with
commitment and enthusiasm. Term 2 promises to be just
as full.
Grandparents’ Event – Thursday, 10th October 2024
Our Grandparents’ day on Thursday, 10th October was
much enjoyed by everyone - visitors and the school
community alike. I would like to express my sincere thanks
to all the grandparents who visited, and to the many pupils
and staff who were involved in the Mass. Thanks to Ms
Tocknell for her support with the refreshments. Special
thanks to Mrs Byrne, and Mrs Knight and Miss Jefferies for
the wonderful music and liturgical dance and drama in the
Mass, which made it a wonderfully spiritual occasion. The
book of Proverbs says ‘grandchildren are the crown of the
aged’ and while that may be so, we are indeed privileged to
have the experience and support of our pupils' grandparents
here in St Richard’s and we look forward to next year’s
CARITAS Leaders:
All leaders came together to celebrate a short celebration
of the word where they made their commitment to support
the Spiritual Life of the school. Mr Barber joined us and
awarded certificates to those who were successful in being
elected Captains and Deputies. The first job of the senior
team this year was to support the primary school Spiritual
Leader Formation Day with the pupils from Year 5 & 6 in
our feeder primary schools. Our Captain, Henry, led on
instructing them in types of prayer, including Lectio Divina.
They then created liturgies using the ‘Let us Pray’ resource.
We finished the day with a short celebration of the word
where Misia and the Caritas Leaders taught the pupils two
hymns enabling us to finish our day in praise through music.
Secondary Pilgrimage
A group of Caritas Leaders joined Bishop Richard,
our Diocesan Education Service and our fellow
secondary schools form around the Diocese for the
Secondary Pilgrimage to Arundel. The day began
with a ‘gentle hike’ in the Duke of Norfolk's back yard.
The beautiful grounds of Arundel Castle more than
made up for the sweat broken with the walk. Pupils
had time to reflect and think about the environment
as instructed by Bishop Richard before we set off,
which fitted beautifully with the Feast Day of St
Francis of Assissi, who was a lover of creation.
With every blessing for a restful half term and for the exciting prospect of Term 2!
Jo Doyle – Lay Chaplain, Email: missdoylej@strichardscc.com
Deanery Catholic Schools Staff Mass
Our annual Mass for teachers who work in the Catholic
Schools in our Deanery was held this term and we
welcomed our colleagues from St Mary Magdalene Primary,
St Thomas a Becket Primary, Sacred Heart Primary and St
Mary Star of the Sea Primary to celebrate Mass together
to begin our school year. Fr Kevin Dring, soon to be
Moderater of our parish, led the celebration and offered a
blessing on all our school staff and pupils for the year as our
school jumpers were placed before the altar. A lovely way to
start our school year.
Some of our pupils then assisted with welcoming
other schools to the Cathedral for Mass with the
Bishop. Caritas Leader Captain, Henry, and Year
7 Caritas Form Leader, Aoife, brought forward the
Gifts of bread and wine. It was a lovely chance to
meet up with our fellow secondary schools, take
some time out and give thanks for the creation we
live in. We had time for a look around the Cathedral
and a photo with the Bishop, followed by lunch next
to the River Arun. My thanks to Mrs Ellis for driving
us all in the minibus.
Page 6
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
Pupil Leadership
School Council
I was blown away by the amount of pupils who put
themselves forward and applied for the School Council - we
had 101 applications! I had the difÏcult job of shortlisting and
ultimately selecting the smaller team, whose applications
were exceptional. Here are the School Council members for
2024/25:
Cole - Yr 7
Naomi - Yr 7
Ann - Yr 7
Zackary - Yr 7
Darwin - Yr 8
Nawaz - Yr 8
Regina - Yr 8
Meghan - Yr 8
Sarah - Yr 9
Bertie - Yr 9
Alfie - Yr 9
Angelique - Yr 9
Julie - Yr 10
Jessamy - Yr 10
James - Yr 10
Harris - Yr 10
Michael - Yr 11
Hayley - Yr 11
Chairs: Hana - Year 11 & Chuma - Year 11
Wellbeing Ambassadors and Heads and Deputy Heads of House: We are delighted that the following pupils have
successfully applied for the post of Wellbeing/Antibullying Ambasadors for this academic year.
School Council members will run the Poppy Appeal in
November. Last year we raised an incredible £366.48.
representative for the East Sussex Youth Cabinet at the end of
last year. Members work with with decision-makers and other
groups to campaign on issues and work together to bring about
change. From this, Henry has also been selected as East
Sussex’s UK Youth Parliament Representative - a fantastic
achievement. He will be going to the House of Commons for a
debate this academic year.
Mrs Holder - Pupil Leadership Coordinator
CREST Award - The Crest Award is now up and running for all pupils in Years 8-10. Pupils have already been submitting work
and badges and awards will be presented towards the end of this term. As part of the Crest Award, and also to encourage inter-
house competition, events will be arranged throughout the academic year. This term, we are holding the St Richard’s Great
British Bake Off competition. Pupils who take part in these events will not only gain Housepoints and have fun, but will also be
able to use the experience as part of their Crest Award. Mrs Ellis & Mrs Taylor-Singfeld - Pupil Leadership Coordinators
Wellbeing Ambassadors
Jack and Olivia in Year 10 are lead Wellbeing Ambassadors,
along with Year 7 pupils Aliya, Ann, Alli, Pola, Yasmin,
Destiny and Tuleah, Year 8 pupils Rosamaria, Layla, Regan,
Sabrina, Lilia, Dom and Alisha, Year 9 pupils Khloe and
James, and Year 10 pupils Alna and Evana. The team
have already started ‘Time to Talk Tuesday’ where pupils
can meet, chat, do crafts and make new friends each week.
They will be running Anti Bullying Week 11-17 November
with ‘Odd Socks’ Day on November 12th. There will be lots
of activities to support ‘Choose Respect’ which is this year’s
theme.
Heads and Deputy Heads of House
The Heads and Deputy Heads of House Team are in place.
Welcome to Year 9 pupils Thomas and Leona supporting Gwyn,
Gabriella, Year 10 and Leo, Year 9 supporting Howard, Livia,
Year 10 and Kimberly, Year 9 supporting Rigby and Rae and
Emmanuel from Year 9 supporting Wells. The House teams
are already drumming up support from their forms for the 'Link
to Hope’ Shoebox Appeal. The most Christmas boxes brought
in by a House will give them valuable winning points! (Not to
mention a few edibible prizes for the most successful forms!).
There will also be some House points available during Anti-
Bullying Week competitions.
Success Story: Henry
I also want to say a huge congratulations to
Henry in Year 11, who was voted our school’s
Open Evening was, as always, tremendous fun, with prospective parents and pupils visiting the library, full of questions and
enthusiasm. My thanks go to our pupil librarian, Aada, for her excellent assistance on the night.
Did you know…? As well as books, magazines and DVDs, the library
also runs the Shop-in-a-Box stationery store, where for very few pence,
pupils can buy pens, pencils, rulers, rubbers, protractors and so on, very
cheaply. This is a not-for-profit initiative, to ensure that children need
never be without required school equipment. For an example of prices,
pencils are 12p, pens are 20p, a short ruler is 15p. Coins are needed to
purchase these items; it is not available through ParentPay.
What to do with old glasses - Recycle!
If you’ve worn glasses for a few years, you’ve
probably got some with an out of date prescription.
Those glasses don’t need to be cluttering up your
home - Marie Curie is supporting Lions Clubs
International in recycling old glasses for people
who need them in communities across Aftrica,
India and Eastern Europe. Please donate via the
school library.
Banned Book Week in September went very well in
the Library, with Year 9 enjoying lots of discussion
around censorship and reasons why some books
have been banned in the past, both in this country
and overseas. Having the Banned Books in a cage
in the centre of the library really promoted curiosity
and interest for our pupils! It’s always lovely to see
pupils so intrigued and enthusiastic about books!
Library
The English department welcomes back all pupils and we
hope that everyone had a wonderful summer holiday. We
would firstly like to congratulate our former Year 11 pupils
on a fantastic set of GCSE results. We are so very proud of
their hard work and effort and were pleased to see so many
smiling faces on results day. Well deserved, Year 11.
We hope that all returning pupils have had a well deserved
rest over the summer and are ready to engage in a range
of exciting opportunities such as trips, visiting authors,
competitions and much more. We have a Year 11 trip
planned for November 14th to Eastbourne to see “An
Inspector Calls”. We hope all pupils will enjoy the show.
If your child has not read much over the holidays, then why
not take a look on the school reading list website here where
you will find a wide variety of genres and texts for all ages
and abilities to engage your child with their reading. Pupils
should be bringing a personal reading book with them to
school every day.
We are excited to welcome our new Year 7 pupils to the
school. We hope that they will find their English lessons
engaging and enjoyable. Year 7 pupils have been tested for
their reading age in September and reading interventions will
commence soon.
Our new Year 11 cohort should be ready to work hard with
mocks fast approaching. Year 11s will continue to revise
Paper 1 Language and Paper 2 Literature: Blood Brothers/
An Inspector Calls, Power and Conflict Poetry and Unseen
Poetry.
Thursday after school revision sessions have started with
pupils revising poetry quotations to support them in their
mock exams. We look forward to excellent results from our
current Year 11 cohort.
Page 7
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
SEND
(Special Educational Needs
and Disabilities)
Year 11 mock examinations
Year 11 mock exams are currently underway, and some pupils
have access arrangements to support them during this time.
The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) have recently
updated their advice to parents, which we have summarised
here for your information. Pupils with a learning difÏculty such
as dyslexia or a diagnosis such as autism, do not necessarily
qualify for access arrangements unless it impacts on their
capacity to take exams. Please contact Mrs Britt if you have
any questions: mrsbrittk@strichardscc.com. All the Learning
Support team would like to wish all Year 11s the very best of
luck and to remember to revise and rest in equal measure!
SEND Lunch Clubs
Our indoor lunchtime club is available every day in AICT, with
TAs supervising. Pupils can bring their lunch along and come
to chat, play board games/card games and have time out in a
quieter lunchtime space with their friends.
SEN Magazine
The new Sep-Oct 2024 issue of the free online publication,
SEN Magazine, can be found here. This includes articles on
topics such as living with anxiety, touch-typing, metacognition
for pupils with dyslexia, and the pros and cons of securing an
Autism Spectrum diagnosis.
Year 12 Prize Evening
We look forward to welcoming former pupils who received
SEND support to our prize evening on Thursday, 14th
November. The whole SEND team would love to see as
many of our former Year 11s as possible, to congratulate
them on their wonderful achievements in person. Please
remember to email Mrs Butcher at mrsbutcherr@
strichardscc.com to confirm your attendance.
Parental Parentship Group
I would like to encourage parents/carers of pupils with
SEND to consider joining the school’s Parental Partnership
Group. Representation at all levels, including this group
which will meet during the school year, will help to ensure
the views of those with SEND are always considered.
Please contact Mr Barber’s PA if you are interesting in
joining this group: pa@strichardscc.com.
Mr Smith and all in the Learning Support department
After-school homework clubs
Prep Club is a supervised space for all pupils to complete their
homework, open every day (including a shorter session on a
Friday). Prep Club Plus is supported by two TAs and a space
where pupils who would like extra help with their homework
can receive direct support with their work. This is every
Monday-Thursday. Please click here to view the timetable.
Upcoming events:
•
SEND drop-in Wednesday, 13th November,
3:20pm-4:20pm (Library) – all are welcome,
please advise Mr Smith if you would like to attend:
mrsmithi@strichardscc.com
•
Year 7 settling-in Parents’ Evening: Thursday,
28th November – please make appointments with
Mr Smith
•
Year 11 Parents’ Evening: Tuesday, 10th
December – please book appointments with Mr
Smith/Mrs Di Mascio
English
Miss Rowland
Subject Leader for English
With very best wishes for the term ahead.
Page 8
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
Dance
It’s been an exciting first term for the Dance Department.
Dance auditions have taken place and the companies are in full
rehearsal. We welcomed back the Boys’ Dance Company and
pupils have been working hard in their lessons. Here is a flavour
of what has been happening in the dance department this term.
Dance Company Auditions
Congratulations to all those pupils who successfully auditioned
for Dance Company (please click here for the Dance Company
schedule). The auditions were run by the Year 11 Dance
Captain, Ella, supported by Shanon, Carla and the Year 9
Dance Company. Well done to everyone who auditioned. If you
were not successful this time, please do not give up! We really
appreciate your interest in the Dance Company and encourage
you to try out for us again next year or to explore other
performing arts clubs which the department offers, including:
Choir, Orchestra and Drama club, to name a few.
Costume Donation
As I am sure you can imagine, the cost of costumes
incurs a significant expense for the Dance department.
If you are able to make a donation of £20 towards
the costumes, it really would be greatly appreciated.
Costume donations can be made through the school
shop here.
Grandparents’ Mass
The Dance Company took part in the Grandparents’
Mass, dancing a reflection. We were delighted to see
so many Grandparents in attendance. The Dance
Company began the Mass with a liturgical dance from
members of our Year 11 Dance Company, beautifully
accompanied by Year 11 pupil and talented musician,
Josh. Well, done to all those involved.
Congratulations to Lucia in Year 9 who has successfully
auditioned to be singing in the opening number of the
Rockettes Christmas Spectacular on 14th - 18th December in
New York Radio City Hall. She’s starting rehearsals via zoom
from mid October and more rehearsals on the day of shows
at 48th Street Broadway Studios. This is the most fantastic
achievement and Lucia will be working with the world renowned
Rocketts.
Drama
Congratulations to our Year 11 GCSE class for completing their first GCSE
component. The performances were wonderful. We have many exciting
opportunities coming up for our keen drama enthusiasts this year. Theatre trips
are currently being arranged for both Year 10 and 11, as well as workshop
opportunities for KS3.
Miss Jefferies, Teacher of Drama
’
Extra Curricular
St Richard’s Theatre Company is running after school on Thursdays. This club
is for Years 8-11, and is an opportunity for students to develop their drama
skills, learn new techniques and get involved in school events such as Year 7
Induction Mass and Advent Services. There is a Year 7 only Drama Club that
runs during Tuesday lunchtimes. This club will give Year 7 pupils the opportunity
to develop their skills in an environment where they are comfortable and helps
us create a safe space for the pupils to make friends with similar interests.
Directors Club for Years 7 and 8 is run during Thursday lunchtimes; this is a
fabulous club for students interested in the technical side of theatre, such as
directing, producing, lighting design and costume design.
’
Mrs Knight, Teacher of Dance
Year 7 have had a fantastic start to the first term in Computer
Science and are to be commended for their positive attitude
to learning and enthusiasm for their lessons. They have
been learning how to log onto the school network and use
the school intranet and Google software.
Year 8 students are developing their programming
skills, learning how to sequence instructions in Python.
Year 9 are learning how to keep themselves safe online
which is increasingly important in today’s social media driven
environment.
KS4 Computer Science
Year 10 students are learning about Computer Systems and
Binary Representation. Computer Systems Videos here and
Binary Representation Videos here.
Year 11 students are learning about how to produce robust
programs. Videos can be found here.
Creative iMedia
Year 10 pupils have made excellent progress this term,
learning to develop their digital media skills. Year 11 pupils
are designing their interactive digital media products as part
of their final controlled assessment task.
Page 9
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
Computer Science
In an ever growing technological world, it is of vital importance to understand the possible online dangers, how to safeguard
your children and where to go to seek further support. The E-safety bulletin here will provide you with termly advice to keep
you informed on how to stay safe online.
CyberFirst Girls Competition
This competition aims to inspire girls interested in
technology to pursue a career in cyber security.
Click here for more information.
Interested?
Come to AIT on Mondays and speak to Mr Fegan.
Competitions and Challenges
The National Cipher Challenge 2024
12th September 2024 – 9th January 2025
The School of Mathematical Sciences at the
University of Southampton warmly welcomes you
to its 23rd national code breaking competition.
Click here for more information.
Music
Extra-Curricular Timetable:
Upcoming events:
Our GCSE Musicians are going to visit Glyndebourne
on Tuesday, 22nd October to see ‘II turco in Italia’
by Rossini. Watch this space for a review in our next
newsletter!
Hastings Philharmonic Orchestra
The Hastings Philharmonic Orchestra (the
professional orchestra in residence at the White Rock
Theatre) have a concert at the White Rock Theatre on
Wednesday 23rd October at 7:30pm. Click here for
more details.
Symphonova - Tuesday, 5th November
St Richard’s is hosting a phenomenal innovative
concert on Tuesday, 5th November, 6:30-7:30pm. All
are welcome to attend and experience this amazing
concert. This concert is a technological music
sensation. Click here for more details. I also refer you
to Symphonova’s website below, especially the project
website, where you can find additional information
about the composers and the recordings of the work:
“Reawakening Suppressed Music”.
Symphonova website
here
Instrumental Opportunities here
at St Richard’s Catholic College
Interested in learning how to play the trumpet, flute, saxophone,
tuba etc? Click here to apply for instrumental lessons here at St
Richard’s. If you are interested in singing lessons or piano lessons
please contact Mrs Byrne at mrsbyrner@strichardscc.com
Mrs Byrne - Subject Leader of Music
Mr Fegan, Subject Leader of Computer Science
Page 10
Newsletter 2 - October 2024
Design & Technology
This term in Design and Technology…
•
We are delighted to congratulate our most recent GCSE group on their
success with 73% achieving a 5 and above. Well done; we are so proud of
you all.
•
GCSE Textiles or Product design students are encouraged to use the
Collins DT revision guide to help support with their theory revision. Please
purchase through the school website here for half the RRP at £5.00.
•
We will be selling our wares at the Christmas Fayre on November 16th!
Everything from 3D printed earrings, laser cut coasters, to veneer engraved
gift tags - mostly used from excess materials and offcuts for a GREEN
Christmas. Come and visit us! Funds raised go back into the department for
more fun projects!
•
Open Evening was a great success and we want to say a big thank you to
all our helpers who spoke so positively to prospective students and parents.
Waste not want not!
During the summer term last year, picnic benches were replaced in the Year 7
playground. Mr Steadman, our technician, resourcefully cut down the wood and
this allowed our Year 7 pupils to get creative and build their own frames for Bug
Hotels. Have you put yours in the garden? We’d love to see! Here are some
Year 7 pupils enjoying building theirs.
Do you want to use TS design at home? Click here for details.
Please click here to see the contribution letter sent to
parents and carers of KS3 and DT GCSE students.
Thank you for your support.
KS4 Fashion & Textiles club
Pupils have been learning that
preparation is key! They have
patiently worked week after week
to ensure that their patterns are
ready. Next week, they will press
& pin ready for cutting out and
sewing.
History
Black History Month
This October, we celebrate Black History Month in the UK by exploring
Black history, heritage, culture, and achievements. This year's theme,
"Reclaiming Narratives," invites us to take charge of our stories, highlight
the contributions of Black individuals, and address the ongoing challenges
faced by ethnically diverse communities. You can find out more here.
We have been using this year’s theme in History lessons as well as through the wider school curriculum to ensure Black
history is visible and represented. Form groups have also been given the opportunity to take part in discussions using the
video prompts located here.
Finally, there were protests and riots this summer across the UK which were sparked by a wave of misinformation circulating
online following the tragic deaths of three young girls in Southport. This profoundly affected our communities and in the
aftermath, ethnic minorities were disproportionately targeted. These incidents remind us that, despite the progress we've
achieved, racism remains a reality in our country. It is of great importance to highlight how misinformation can be spotted and
we invite you to take an active role in these discussions using the BBC resource here for guidance to ensure not only are we
able to distinguish between truths and lies, but also to reclaim the future narrative.
Mrs Fegan, Teacher of History
Mr Pavey, Subject Leader of Design & Technology