Dear Parents and Carers,

As we arrive at the end of the autumn term, I wanted to reach out to parents and carers to reflect upon what has been an incredible four months full of learning and activities beyond the classroom.

The year started with our annual Prize Giving Ceremony. Here, we were able to celebrate many students – from juniors to sixth form – who had excelled through their academic studies, musical performance, sporting prowess, or character development. Andy Wolfe, Executive Director of Education for the Church of England, was our keynote speaker who inspired students and parents at the beginning of the academic year.

Over the last few weeks, Year 11 students have been sitting their mock GCSE exams. For this cohort, and Year 10 that follows, they did not sit the Key Stage 2 end of primary school tests due to the Covid Pandemic, so this is the first time they are going through the process of end-of-school external exams. We were so proud of how students conducted themselves, studied hard, and absorbed the experience in preparation for next summer. As Year 11 parents, I am so pleased to hear of the support and encouragement that you provide in order for them to thrive. On our return in January, it will be Year 13s turn as they sit their mocks. We wish them the best of luck.

In addition to studies, there have been many enrichment activities. These included the Year 8 STEAM and Humanities days. The STEAM – science, technology, engineering, and mathematics – days were facilitated by Mr. Ward, who led colleagues and students in their very own Robot Wars competition. It was engaging and challenging for all. During the humanities days, students visited the Black Country Museum and followed the industrial revolution trail. This included a mine tour! Other trips that have taken place this term have included the Music Tour to Lake Garda over half term, Year 11 historians visiting Beth Shalom, and the Year 7 induction trips to Walesby Activity Centre. Thank you to the staff who provide these additional trips and to you, as parents and carers, for supporting them.

As the term draws to a close, we have continued to remain busy! Last week was the Christmas Concert held at the Cathedral. Yet again, approximately 200 students performed as part of choirs, ensembles, and orchestras. It is one of the highlights of the year and a celebration of Christmas through the talent and dedication of the performers. Well done to all those involved. On Friday, we hosted our first Cultural Fair led by the student leadership group. This celebrates many of the different cultures that make up our student and staff body through food, music, displays, and activities. It was delightful to see the whole school come together.

I believe that it is these extras, combined with diligent students, supportive parents, and dedicated staff that saw the school ranked as the sixth best comprehensive school in the East Midlands through the Parent Power 2025 report as published by The Sunday Times. These prestigious awards saw the Minster School as the top-ranked comprehensive school in Nottinghamshire and Nottingham City, and we were delighted to have been recognised.

I wanted to take this opportunity to remind you about home and school communications. As a parent myself, I realise that it can sometimes be frustrating when you hear stories of the day from your child or receive communications that do not seem clear. However, I would like to remind you to please remain polite to staff when contacting the school. We all have the same interest at heart – to provide the best for the children of the Minster – but there are times when you may become frustrated. Please do remain respectful to the staff you are emailing or talking to. In addition to this, I have attached our communications charter to share expectations between school and home. A summary is captured in the image below:

We return to school after the Christmas break on Monday, 6th January 2025. A reminder that students should be in full school uniform and ready for learning with the correct equipment on their return. Throughout January, we will be challenging uniform infringements, promoting punctuality to lessons, and ensuring lessons continue to challenge and inspire learning.

Wishing you all a joyful and restful holiday season.

Warm regards,

Ben Chaloner