What a fantastic half term it has been for G29!
Our Year 11 students have hit the ground running this term, demonstrating maturity and focus as they prepare for the vital year ahead. We kicked off the term with a series of crew activities and a brilliant visit to Whickham Thorns, where students engaged in challenges designed to help them reconnect with their crews and reinforce that we can achieve anything when our crew has our back.
Out and about on fieldwork, students visited the Victoria Tunnels to deepen their contextual understanding, Geographers completed their second compulsory fieldwork and RS students visited a Mosque. A select group of students participated in a pioneering ‘Scaffolding for Schools’ course, developing practical industry skills and representing our school brilliantly.
In school, our students have been taking big strides toward their qualifications:
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English Language Speaking & Listening: Students have completed their spoken language examinations, demonstrating impressive public speaking skills, preparation, and confidence. The confidence shown and the questions asked demonstrated great compassion and support for each other.
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Art & Photography Critique Gallery: Students showcased their creative work in a critique gallery, taking pride in their progress and offering constructive feedback to their peers.
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Open Evening Ambassadors: A special thank you goes to the students who supported our recent Open Evening—especially those incredible individuals who have volunteered to support every single Open Evening since the start of Year 7! Your dedication to our school community is inspiring.
- Spanish Speaking Mocks: Congratulations to the students who completed their Spanish Speaking mocks this week; it requires courage to speak in a second language and you all did great. Remember, if you need to build more confidence around this, you can practice with Miss Denny-Holmes on Friday lunchtimes.
Preparing for Mocks & Important Updates
Looking ahead, mock exams are just around the corner. Please refer to the Mock Exam Timetable that was shared at the end of September.
As students begin their revision schedules, it is crucial that they balance revising for mocks with proper rest and rejuvenation. GCSE preparation is a marathon, and taking time to recharge, step away from study materials, and enjoy time with family and friends is essential for maintaining well-being and peak performance.
Please Note: There is a date change for our Presentation of Learning (POL). Updated details and timings will be communicated via Crew Leaders shortly. This will now take place on Thursday 3rd December.
Free Local Activities for the Holidays
If you are looking for ways to unwind over the break, here are some great, free activities available across Newcastle and Gateshead:
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BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art – Free entry to explore world-class contemporary art on the Gateshead Quayside.
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Great North Museum: Hancock – Free admission to explore natural history, ancient civilisations, and local heritage.
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Shipley Art Gallery – Located in Gateshead, offering free entry to brilliant craft, design, and fine art displays.
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Discovery Museum – Learn about Newcastle’s maritime and industrial innovation.
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Jesmond Dene & Exhibition Park – Enjoy green spaces, woodland walks, and fresh air.
We return to school on Monday 2nd November 2026.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support. If you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s Crew Leader in the first instance. Have a restful, safe, and well-deserved holiday break!