A WELCOME BACK MESSAGE FROM THE head of school | TERM 1

Dear Parents and Carers,

I would like to begin by saying what a pleasure it has been to welcome our students back following the summer break.

The start of the academic year has been fantastic. It has been wonderful to see our students return looking smart, engaged and ready to learn. During visits to lessons over the first few days, I have been exceptionally impressed with the way students have engaged in their learning from the very first lesson. I must comment on our new Year 7s that have settled in so quickly. They will be a great addition to our school community. The calm, purposeful atmosphere around the school has been a credit to our young people.

This strong start reflects the values that sit at the heart of our school community. Students have demonstrated Respect through their conduct, courtesy and pride in the school; Aspiration through their positive attitude towards learning and achievement; and Compassion through the kindness and support they have shown one another as we begin a new year together.

I would particularly like to comment on the conduct of the students during our fire drill today. They followed staff instructions promptly, adhered to evacuation procedures impeccably and demonstrated exemplary behaviour throughout. Their response ensured that everyone remained safe and is something they should be very proud of.

To help us maintain this positive start throughout the year, I would like to draw your attention to the following important notices and opportunities:

Co-Curricular Clubs

We strongly encourage all students to become involved in the wider life of the school through our extensive co-curricular programme. Participation in clubs, activities and teams helps students develop new skills, build friendships and enhance their overall school experience.

Club Sign-Up

Wednesday 9 September, Lunchtime, School Hall

We look forward to seeing many students signing up and taking advantage of the opportunities available.

Uniform and Equipment Reminders

As we settle into the new term, please support us by ensuring your child meets our expectations each day:

• Please ensure your child arrives each day with a pencil case containing the correct equipment for lessons, including pens, pencils, a ruler and any subject-specific items required.

• Students should bring a suitable school bag each day that is large enough to carry books, essential learning resources and their phone pouch safely.

• Hair colour should be natural and in line with the school's uniform and appearance expectations.

Being organised and prepared helps students make the most of every learning opportunity.

Attendance Matters

Every day in school counts. Regular attendance supports academic achievement, wellbeing, confidence and positive relationships with peers and staff.

• Pupils who attend school regularly are more likely to make strong progress and achieve their full potential.

• Students with attendance of 90% or below are classified as persistently absent.

• Missing school means missing valuable learning opportunities that cannot easily be replicated.

  
  

Arrive On Time

Being on time is just as important as attending.

• Late arrivals mean students miss important learning and disrupt the start of lessons.

• Please ensure your child leaves home with sufficient time to arrive before the start of the school day.

  
  

Reporting Absence

If your child is unable to attend school:

• Please notify the school as early as possible on the first day of absence.

• Absences can be reported via ClassCharts using the Report Absence feature or by contacting the School Absence Line on 0151 424 2139.

• Please keep the school updated where necessary regarding ongoing absences.

• Medical appointments should be arranged outside school hours wherever possible.

• If a student is absent and no reason has been provided, a member of the Attendance Team will make contact.

  
  

Working Together

If your child is experiencing difficulties attending school, please contact us promptly. We are committed to working in partnership with families to identify barriers, provide support and improve attendance outcomes.

Thank you for your continued support. The first few days of term have given us every reason to be optimistic and excited about the year ahead. At the end of my first week as Head of School I am proud to be leading the Saints Peter and Paul community and look forward to working alongside students, staff, parents and carers as we continue to uphold our values of Respect, Aspiration and Compassion.

Yours faithfully,

Louise McComas

Head of School

Saints Peter and Paul Catholic High School