Weekly Update - 26th November 2021
As you will be aware from my previous communication to you earlier this week, it has become necessary for us to revisit our Covid outbreak management plan in response to the rise in the level of positive test results over the past few weeks.
I am sure you will appreciate that these are difficult decisions to make, as they must be carefully balanced against the provision of the best possible teaching & learning experience, which every student deserves, as well as the continual consideration of both the general and mental health and well-being of all. The current situation within the academy is not unique, and is very similar to that being experienced in schools, colleges and other establishments nationwide. However, I would like to once again reassure you that we will continue to take the advice and guidance of Public Health England and the Department for Education going forwards, and that the health and well-being of our students and staff remains at the forefront of our considerations.
Since my appointment at the start of September 2021, I have been keen to hold parent “surgeries” in order to personally respond to your questions and to provide information and updates about my plans and vision for the academy. Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond anyone’s control, this has not yet been possible, but is certainly something that I will introduce as soon as I am able. In the meantime, I would encourage you to continue to communicate with the academy via the appropriate channels, e.g.: individual teachers, mentors, Achievement Directors, Student Support Advisors, etc., regarding any ongoing concerns or queries that you may have.
The academy has continued to be a vibrant and busy community this week, with many positive activities taking place and great achievements being made by our fantastic students.
On Wednesday 24th November, it was “No Pen’s Day”. This is an important event in the academy calendar, as it provides an invaluable opportunity for students to develop their oracy skills and explore their creativity. Students across all year groups enjoyed the day, and were keen to share their experiences. I am pleased to be able to share some examples of this below.
A large number of year 11 students sat their official NCFE examinations in Business Studies and Engineering on 25th and 26th November. Once again, their attitudes and approach to these were exemplary, and we wish them every success in their eventual results.
Also this week, we were delighted to learn that two of our Sixth form students have successfully progressed to the next stage of the prestigious “Senior Mathematics Challenge”. This is an annual competition, organised and run by the University of Leeds, where Sixth Form students from schools across the UK are invited to participate in a university level mathematics challenge. The responses are then evaluated and the top 5% of students are selected to proceed to the next stage. This is the first time that Ormiston Rivers Academy has participated in this event, so it is fantastic that, not only have two of our students progressed to the next stage, but that 3 other students achieved Silver, and a further 8 achieved Bronze. Very well done to all involved, and best of luck to Dexter (Year 12) and Elliott (Year 13) for the next stage. I would also like to give a special mention to Ellen in Year 11, who also participated in the challenge “unofficially” a year early, and performed exceptionally well.
As always we endeavour to give all students the best possible opportunities and experiences, and we never cease to be amazed at what they continue to achieve; they are truly inspirational.
Wishing you all a peaceful and healthy weekend.
