Dear Parent / Carer
The autumn term at St Cenydd has been very successful. We have been delighted with the start that Year 7 pupils have made and the manner in which all other year groups have approached this school year. I have been impressed with the attitude, effort, attendance and commitment demonstrated by so many of our pupils each and every day. Our new Pupil Senedd, our sports teams, numerous charitable events, our school production, and prestigious Shakespeare School Festival for example, have equalled achievements in the classroom. It was a pleasure to celebrate the success of so many students during our end of term Headteacher Award Assemblies. You will find details about these events as well as much more on our school website (www.stcenyddcommunityschool.co.uk). Congratulations to all students and staff who have ensured these continued improvements and thank you for your continued support.
Reminders
When we return to school on Monday 7 January 2019, please ensure that your child returns in full and correct uniform, and with equipment ready for the new term (black pen, pencil, an eraser, ruler and a calculator are required each day).
Attendance remains an important focus for the school and continues to improve. We will continue to reward good attendance and punctuality at school.
If you think your child is eligible for a free school meal, I would urge you to apply. You will find information on Caerphilly Council website (https://www.caerphilly.gov.uk/freeschoolmeals) but please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Head of Year if you would like assistance with this.
If your mobile phone number, address or any other details have changed, please send a letter to the school with your up-to-date contact information.
Adverse Weather Information
Please be assured that the school will always open providing we have sufficient teaching and support staff available for lessons to take place throughout the day, and that it is safe to do so. As we are now in the winter months, please ensure that your child comes to school prepared for the weather in a warm, waterproof coat that fits over their blazer, and in suitable footwear.
In extreme weather conditions, it may be necessary to close the school. My decision to do so, along with the Chair of Governors, will be based on three factors: the safety of the site; how many staff can safely attend school to ensure the education of pupils; and the weather forecast. Should it be necessary to close before the school has opened for the day, parents will be informed by text and this information will be lodged on the school website (www.stcenyddcommunityschool.co.uk) and the council website (www.caerphilly.gov.uk). Please ensure that the school has your up-to-date mobile telephone number so that you receive any texts. Should the school have to close during the school day, you will be informed by text. Please ensure that your child has an emergency telephone number for you should they need to be sent home and please discuss with them your plan of where they are to go in the event of such a school closure e.g. directly home, to a friends’ home, or to a relative or neighbour.
That said, it is always my intention for the school to be open if it is safe to do so.
End of term and start of term arrangements
Term ends at 2.55pm on Thursday 20 December 2018. Reward trips will take place on Wednesday 19 December and we have our traditional staff pantomime and ‘Christmas Jumper Day’ on our last day, Thursday 20 December. Students are invited to wear a Christmas themed jumper over their school uniform, or accessorise their school uniform, making a donation to our nominated charity, Changing Minds, who support many students within our school
All students return to school at 8.30am on Monday 7 January 2019.
Please note the dates of our three remaining INSET days: 8 February 2019, 24 May 2019 and 22 July 2019
Parent’s evenings in the spring term include Y10 on 17 January, Y7 on 29 January, KS5 on 7 March and Y11 on 19 March. We will also be holding Transition Information Evenings for Y9 to choose their GCSE options and for Y11 to choose their A level options during the Spring term.
Mock exams will take place in the spring term: KS5 starting on Monday 14 January 2019 and Y11 starting in the week beginning 11 February 2019
May I take this opportunity to congratulate all students and staff for the many successes of this term, and thank you for your support.
I wish you and your family a peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year.
Yours sincerely
Miss Rebecca V. Collins
Headteacher
