This week saw the start of the first round of formal GCSE assessments at the school.  Our students in Year 10 have been preparing since 8 June for their controlled assessments in subjects such as English, Media Studies and Modern Foreign Languages.  I am sure it has made our students a bit nervous, as these assessments count for up to 10% of their final grade, but it has been really exciting to see all of them working so hard towards their GCSEs so soon.  I think that starting the new year groups on June 8 has been a great success for the school; well done everyone.

This week also saw the biggest annual outbreak of inter college rivalry and competition: Sports Day.  Crystal Palace was a very grand setting for our sports day and helped ensure that it was a spectacular success.  All of the colleges turned out in their college colours and these really helped create a positive atmosphere.  Lots of school records were smashed during the course of the day, and I am very proud of all of the competitors.  Thank you to all of the families who came to see the afternoon session.

Next week is the last week of term before the long summer break.  Students will be working as normal in their lessons until Friday 23 July.  We will have an end of term whole school celebration assembly before we dismiss the students at 12.30.

John Wilkinson

Headteacher