8th November 2025

Message from the Headteacher

I hope you all had a positive half term break and managed to get outdoors.

As we return to school, Year 11 students are now in the midst of their mock exams, an essential part of their preparation for their final GCSEs. These exams provide students with an opportunity to assess their progress, identify areas for improvement, and build their confidence ahead of the real exams. We want to congratulate all the Year 11 students for their dedication and hard work during this challenging period. Keep up the great effort!

North Yorkshire Business and Education Partnership (NYBEP) delivered an assembly to Year 10 students this week, where they heard about work experience. The session focused on work experience opportunities, providing students with insight into potential career paths and practical skills that could help them in the future. This informative talk was designed to help Year 10 students better understand the importance of gaining experience in the workplace and how it can enhance their educational journey and career prospects. They will all complete a week of work experience in April.

This week a group of students were selected to take part in an exciting and unique learning experience. Students had the privilege of participating in a Select Committee Inquiry for the House of Lords. The session focused on the Built Environment Committee's investigation into the Green Belt in England. Students engaged in thoughtful discussions, presenting their views on the topic and providing valuable feedback. This input will be submitted to the House of Lords as part of their ongoing inquiry, giving students a chance to directly influence national policy and gain a deeper understanding of the democratic process in action. It was a fantastic opportunity for the students to see how their voices can make an impact on important societal issues.

Also this week, the winners of our cycle week competitions from the week before half term were awarded in assemblies. The Charter Mayor, Councillor Aldred came into school to meet some of the winners and congratulate the school on its active cycling promotion. We are most grateful for his support.

As you aware, we are eager to encourage and push literacy at HHS. You will read later in this bulletin that we are launching a “word of the week” in school next week and it would be wonderful if you and your families would support this initiative and join in! Why don’t you try to make a concerted effort to use “the word” at home during the week. A strong vocabulary is essential for effective communication and can help your child express their thoughts and ideas more clearly. It can also make your child a more persuasive speaker or writer and increase their confidence in social and professional situations.

 “The limits of my language means the limits of my world” stated the philosopher L. Wittgenstein.

As we continue through the school year, the enriching opportunities highlight the commitment to providing our students with a well-rounded education and the skills needed for their future success.

I am looking forward to seeing some of past Year 11 students and thier parents at our Prize Giving Event next week. It is always great to reconnect and hear how past students are getting on.

Wishing you a pleasant weekend,

Mr Gill Head of Academy.

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