What a fantastic half term it has been for G30!
Our students have settled brilliantly into Key Stage 4, making great starts to their new GCSE subjects. Across classrooms, we have seen excellent focus and determination as they take on the step-up in expectations. A key part of this term has been helping students look towards their next steps and post-16 pathways.
A real highlight was the 1:1 interviews conducted with external professionals. Aligning with their career interests, these sessions gave students the opportunity to put their public speaking and interview skills to the test. The feedback from our visiting professionals was glowing—praising our students for being articulate, confident, thoughtful, and authentic. It was wonderful to see so many proud, smiling faces as they completed their interviews!
In our Learning Expeditions, students have started exploring our new guiding question: “How do we know that bonds help us forge a strong legacy?” We are examining this theme through multiple lenses—from chemical bonds in Science, to social and moral bonds in A Christmas Carol and 19th-century literature, to historical connections during the Viking age. The POL for this expedition will be ‘A Night at the Museum’. An event where students will give illuminating lectures on the real viking artefacts they have seen and handled, alongside their museum cafe, where they will serve an ‘A Christmas Carol’ inspired afternoon tea. This will take place on Wednesday 9th of December.
Beyond the classroom, our students continue to model what it means to take responsibility for their own learning and community:
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Open Evening Success: A big thank you to the number of G30 students who offered great support during our recent Open Evening, acting as brilliant ambassadors for our school.
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Art & Photography Catch-Up: It’s been fantastic to see a dedicated group of students regularly attending Thursday and Friday catch-up sessions for Art and Photography, taking clear ownership of their progress.
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Extended Study: Students are building really positive, consistent habits around their Extended Study completion, ensuring they are retrieving key knowledge and getting organised early in their GCSE journey.
- Thomas Hepburn Memorial: Congratulations to the students who represented the school at the annual Thomas Hepburn Memorial event on Saturday.
Holiday Rest & Local Activities
As we reach the break, we want to emphasise the importance of rest and rejuvenation. Key Stage 4 is a marathon, not a sprint, and taking time to recharge, step away from screens, and spend quality time with family and friends is essential for coming back refreshed for next term.
If you are looking for things to do over the holidays, here are a few free activities available in the Newcastle and Gateshead area:
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BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art – Free entry to explore world-class contemporary art exhibitions on the Gateshead Quayside.
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Great North Museum: Hancock – Free admission to explore living planet exhibits, local history, and ancient artefacts.
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Shipley Art Gallery – Located in Gateshead, offering free entry to brilliant local craft, design, and art displays.
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Discovery Museum – Dive into Newcastle’s rich maritime, science, and engineering history.
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Jesmond Dene & Exhibition Park – Perfect for getting outdoors, enjoying nature walks, and getting fresh air.
We return to school on Monday 2nd November 2026.
Thank you for your ongoing support throughout this half term. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your child’s Crew Leader in the first instance. Have a restful and safe holiday!