Welcome to the latest edition of Rough Notes. Thank you for taking the time to read our monthly publication.
We have had a positive first half term boosted by the return of some fantastic activities provided both in school and through our extensive extra-curricular programme. It is great to see students immersed in wider aspects of school life and I am grateful to all the staff who have given their time to support these activities.
Students in Textiles were treated to a wool spinning masterclass by the Rousdon Spinners. During the session, students watched the skilled users before having a go themselves. We are very grateful for the support given by the Rousdon Spinners, opportunities like this really help to cement learning.
If you are able and willing to offer students similar opportunities in the future, please contact us at:
office@woodroffe.dorset.sch.uk
Our wonderfully supportive PTFA have provided over 750 items of preloved school uniform to over 210 families, supporting the local community and cutting waste. Thank you for what you have done, it is hugely appreciated. If you need any uniform support, please visit: Preloved Uniform - The Woodroffe School PTFA
On Wednesday 12th of October, the PTFA held their AGM. I am delighted to report that all positions on the committee are filled, however, there are still lots of opportunities to help raise funds for the school via the PTFA as a volunteer. If you are interested in supporting, please visit: Home - The Woodroffe School PTFA
We welcomed new students across all year groups at the start of this half-term, including a number from Ukraine. Our students have been fantastic in welcoming all newcomers and helping them to settle and adjust to life in a new school. I would like to extend our warmest welcome to all newcomers and their families as we continue our educational partnership together.
На початку цього півріччя ми вітали нових студентів у всіх групах року, включаючи ряд з України. Наші студенти чудово вітали всіх новачків і допомагали їм влаштуватися і пристосуватися до життя в новій школі. Я хотів би привітати всіх новачків та їхні сім’ї, коли ми продовжуємо наше освітнє партнерство разом.
As part of a West Dorset collaborative schools project (second year) we had a visit from this lovely detector dog and his handler.
Students were particularly interested in the work of the dog and how funded projects like this are helping to keep communities safe.
Students in year participated in the ‘Meet My Tutor’ event on the 19th of October. The evening included a drama piece, solo music performances and two stunning choir performances. It was fantastic to see the pride and confidence in our young people as they performed for parents, carers, and friends. Congratulations to all involved, it was a lovely evening.
Sixty students from year 12 and 13 have signed up for our first TEFL course (Teaching English as a Foreign Language). The additional qualification will be of great support in applications for employment and/or university as well as providing an opportunity to earn whilst travelling. We are delighted to have been able to offer this opportunity to our students.
We again participated in the national ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ event, this year being the 25th anniversary. It was fantastic to see so many young people wearing their red PE shirts, along with their normal school uniform, in support of this important cause.
During Black History Month, students have had the opportunity to take part in several activities in support of this year’s theme, celebrating the past, looking toward the future. Sixth Form students planned and delivered an assembly along this theme to students in all year groups, across the course of the week. As well as supporting an important cause, students taking part developed key skills that will be of value moving forward.
The Debate Club has got off to a flying start with some great topics discussed in an open, mature, and passionate way. It is great that students have a safe environment to be able to discuss key societal issues within school.
On Thursday the 13th of October, we welcomed teacher and author Mark Roberts from Northern Ireland. He worked with staff in school during the day before delivering a keynote speech in the evening to over 120 education professionals from across the area. His work on supporting the development of the performance of boys is hugely topical within education currently. We are grateful for his insights and experience.
Students from Years 10, 11 and our 6th Form participated in a careers event in Bridport on the final day of this half term. Our extensive careers programme, which meets all the Gatsby Benchmarks for quality provision, has supported a huge range of opportunities both in school and further afield. We have also been recognised for this provision with a Careers Award.
And finally, our 6th Form team raised £540 at their cake sale in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.
Best wishes,
Dan Watts
Headteacher