Arnold School

Examinations are upon us

This is an odd time in school. Two years groups are away on study leave and they will be joined at the end of next week by the Upper Sixth. Public examinations are underway - they will start even earlier next year - and internal examinations are also upon us. In between all this we try to keep on top of the essential teaching that still has to be done, the masses of sport, and all the vital planning needed for next year.

One of the major pieces of work to be done at this time of term is the creation of the timetable for next year. With consideration having to be given to the use of specialist facilities such as the labs and sports hall, the balance of staffing needs and expertise and the combination of subjects at GCSE, AS and A2 level where students have an entirely free choice, this has become an incredibly demanding task. Mr Jenkinson, Mr Salmon and the rest of the timetabling team do a superb job in helping the school to run as efficiently and economically as possible.

I spent yesterday in London at one of the regular meetings of all the Heads and Principals of the UCST/ULT schools and academies. In readiness for next year Mr Keefe joined me as we looked at things such as the new political context for education in England, the possible impact of funding cuts that the Government will have to make and how we ensure staff joining our schools receive the best possible induction and training. One of the most interesting parts of the discussion was about how we communicate with parents, pupils and friends of the school.  I imagine Mr Keefe will be Twittering (or is it Tweeting?) very soon.

Next week sees our senior Sports Day at Stanley Park and two really lovely occasions to mark the departure of our U6 leavers. I hope to see you at one or more of these events - hopefully in the sunshine!

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Date: Wednesday 19/05/2010