Update from Mr Wilding - 11th March 2024
Posted 11th March 2024
Mr Wilding has sent an update to parents and carers regarding recent student achievements, information from the local police and OFSTED, Ramadan and Term Dates.
To all parents/carers
My update today includes some news about the achievements of our brilliant students, as well as some links and information I have been asked to share with you, from our local Police and OFSTED.
Chemistry Olympiad
On 25 January, 14,915 students (Y12 and 13) from 1,025 schools across the country took part in the Chemistry Olympiad Challenge. The 2024 paper covered topics such as the composition of the FIFA 2023 Women's World Cup trophy, iodate salts, fuel-producing bacteria, the MRI contrast agent gadopiclenol and sulfur-containing molecules in the atmosphere.
This year, LCS students have achieved a record number of awards, at Bronze, Silver and Gold level.
eScooters
I have been asked to share with all parents and carers on behalf of Derbyshire Police. Contrary to what some people may believe, the law has not changed on eScooters and they cannot legally be ridden on a public road, cycle-path or pavement. EScooters should not be used by LCS students on their way to/from school, on this basis.
Clear Mind Derby
As well as the attached information about eScooters, you will also find below a summary of support available from Clear Mind Derby, an organisation offering support for adults with issues surrounding mental health and housing/living conditions.
For more details about the services Clear Mind Derby Can offer, please also visit their website at https://www.clearmind-cic.co.uk/
OFSTED 'Big Listen'
OFSTED have recently launched their 'Big Listen' consultation. Please see below, from their launch information:
The Big Listen is an opportunity for us to hear from the professionals we work with, like teachers and other educators, carers, employers and social workers, and the people we work for: parents, carers, children and learners.
Our consultation asks about:
- how we report inspection findings
- how we carry out inspections
- how we can have a positive impact on the sectors we inspect
- what we need to do to be a world-class inspectorate and regulator, trusted by parents, children and the sectors we work with
Parents/Carers wishing to contribute to this consultation can do so until 31st May 2024, at the address below:
Ramadan
Many of our students will begin the month of Ramadan this week, which will culminate in the festival of Eid, around 10th April. I would like to wish Eid Mubarak to all our students, parents and carers observing Ramadan over the next month.
Term Dates
A reminder that Spring Term finishes on Thursday 28th March, at the usual time of 3pm. Students return for the start of Summer Term on Monday 15th April.
The DfE have recently announced changes to the law on school attendance, with effect from September 2024. Changes include a rise in fines for parents/carers of students with low attendance, or that choose to take children out of school for holidays during term time.
I will share the link to the full list of changes in my next update, but please remember that all our term dates for 2023-24 and 2024-25 can be found below:
Thank you for your continued support of our school, our students and our staff.
Keep safe.
J. Wilding
Headteacher