Year 9

During this year pupils will face key choices that will affect the rest of their lives. Year 9 is a very important year for pupils, being the transition year between KS3 and KS4; the year of option choices. This happens during the second term when an option booklet explaining each subject is given to each pupil. From this option list pupils make their subject choices for KS4 examination subjects. It is vital that the correct choice be made at this time as change becomes difficult at a later date.

It is a joy and privilege to be part of this very talented year group. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know and work with this special group of pupils over the past two years, where every day they have impressed me with their abilities, skills and maturity. I look forward to seeing them progress even further during this very important year, both academically and socially whilst choosing their choices wisely and stretching themselves in all aspects of school life.

Some key points:

Good attendance at school is essential if students are to reach their full potential. We expect parents to work with the school to ensure full attendance. Anything below 95% is not acceptable
Form groups are of mixed ability
Punctuality to all lessons, including registration is essential
We operate a two week timetable, with 50 lessons per fortnight (please check the calendar on the website to determine which week it is)
Certain subjects will set classes according to ability. Information from tests and assessments help us do this. Movement between groups can happen through the year
All pupils will receive a “Target Grade” in each subject. This is the grade we expect them to work towards
Homework is set in accordance with the Whole School Homework Policy. Pupils in Key Stage 3 can expect to receive homework once a week per subject
Pupils are assessed at regular periods throughout the year and a series of broadsheets are produced to maintain an overview of progress
Parents Evening is an opportunity to discuss progress with subject teachers (please check dates on the school calendar)
A detailed analysis of progress will be sent home with your child at the end of the academic year in form of a school report
All pupils have the opportunity to take part in our excellent range of extra-curricular activities provided by departments, E3 and 5×60

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Contact details can be found on our excellent website which is a useful source of information on all aspects of school life.

I look forward to the year ahead, and working together for the benefit of all our Year 9 students, especially in helping them with their planning and preparation for choosing their GCSE options.

N. Williams

Year 9 Pastoral Staff

Progress Manager	Mr W. Perry	Room Number
E	Mr D. Berry	512
D	Mrs S. Jefferies	508
U	Mr D. Richards	501
C	Mrs F. Morgan	154
A	Miss N. Cook	510
T	Mrs L. Morgan	405