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Head of Year 11 Blog

MR N LECKENBY

I am very proud to be the Head of Year 11.

If you wish to contact me, please email HOY11@hessleacademy.com

October 2023

  • WEEK 6 - Friday 13 October 2023

    Published 16/10/23

    When we talk about schools, it is easy to visualise classrooms bustling with students, passionate teachers explaining concepts, and outdoor recreational spaces echoing with laughter. But there is another equally important factor that can often be overlooked...YOU the parent. Parental engagement in schools is not just beneficial—it's transformative.

    Parental engagement is the active participation of parents in their child's education and school activities. This does not mean just attending parent-teacher evenings. It is about being involved in your child’s homework, helping with revision planning, supporting attendance to extra-curricular academic tutoring, participating in school events, communicating regularly with teachers, and understanding and supporting the school’s mission and goals.

    As the Head of Year 11 I see the challenges that our year 11 learners face on a daily basis. I also recognise and empathise with the challenges that parents, and the teaching staff face throughout the school year. It is clear that for our students to reach their true academic potential that we all must work collaboratively to achieve this.

    As we approach the first Mock Exam period (week commencing 23/10/23) it is the perfect opportunity to work together to support our students. Mock exam timetables have been distributed. Please sit with your child and discuss and plan a revision timetable. This will take away some of the pressure and anxiety that can manifest when students approach an exam window. Having your support and guidance will make a massive difference.

    Year 11 Progress Evening & Mock Results Day – Thursday 30 November 2023

    The first progress evening is perfectly placed in the calendar to ensure that, collectively, we can discuss the student's mock exam results. At this event we will be handing the mock results envelopes to students and their parents. This will be an exciting occasion and will allow students, parents, and teachers to get a feel for the real exam results day in August that is fast approaching. You will also have the opportunity to discuss any issues, concerns, or requests for further support with subject teachers and Senior Leaders who will all be in attendance to support or students.

    The future of education does not just lie in the hands of teachers and students alone, it is a collective effort. By embracing parental engagement, we are not only strengthening our school but also empowering our children with the best tools for success. Let us work together to cultivate an environment where everyone thrives.

    Warm regards,

    hoy11@hessleacademy.com

    Mr Leckenby

    Head of Year 11

    Miss Wilkin

    Assistant Head of Year 11

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  • WEEK 4 - Friday 29 September 2023

    Published 02/10/23

    As the trees shed their leaves and seasons change, so too does the academic journey of our children evolve and take on new challenges. Among the most pivotal milestones in this journey are GCSE examinations. These are not just simple tests of memory, but critical building blocks in the foundation of their educational and personal growth. They cultivate discipline, perseverance, and a sense of achievement, attributes that will guide them far beyond the classroom and the school environment that they are so used to. As guardians of their potential, understanding the importance of exam study is paramount to ensuring our young learners are well-equipped for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.  

    We are only 4 weeks into the new school year, and it is fantastic to see so many of our students engaged in extra-curricular study that is being provided across all subject areas. All students have now received an intervention timetable which highlights what is available for them to attend and further improve their knowledge and understanding in their chosen subjects. A highlight for me this week was seeing over 130 year 11 students packed into the hall deep in study at the Maths intervention session. This impact that this will have on students' attainment will be enormous come the exams in May 2024. Please continue to support, encourage, and provide the parent taxi service that makes it possible for your children to attend these sessions.  

    Other highlights this week included wins in the boy's rugby. Playing against a strong Cottingham High team the boys toughed it out and came away with a commanding 26-12 victory. This was followed up by a comprehensive victory against South Hunsley, coming away with a 34-4 victory. This now sees the boys into the first round of the Yorkshire Cup. Well done boys. Thanks also to Mr Compton and Mr Griffiths for their time and support with the boys.  

    Prom fever is also kicking in. I am delighted to have received so many applications to be on the Student Prom Committee. This group will take responsibility for organising the theme, decoration, entertainment and awards for the evening. I look forward to seeing how things turn out as we move through the year.  

    Finally, it was positive to see so many parents at the year 11 information evening. Everyone I spoke to was really positive about the year ahead. If you were unable to make the evening and have any queries or concerns, please contact me via the email below and I will endeavour to answer any questions.  

    Warm regards, 

    hoy11@hessleacademy.com 

    Mr Leckenby

    Head of Year 11

    Miss Wilkin

    Assistant Head of Year 11

    Read More