Year 9 End of Year Message from Mr Low

Year 9 – End of Year Message

 

Dear Parents,

 

As we reach the end of what has been a very unusual academic year, I would like to celebrate all of the successes that have happened despite the challenges along the way. 

 

So many of our Year 9 students demonstrated commitment, resilience and great responsibility during the most difficult times this year and such attributes will put them in good stead for the embarkment of their IGCSE courses in the next academic year. 

 

As I reflect back to when your children began secondary school 3 years ago, I feel so proud of how they have grown and developed into the confident and well-rounded young adults that they are today. Long may their growth, development and success continue.

 

Next year will bring about change, new direction, and new focus, for many reasons –  but particularly because the students will be beginning the next phase of their learning journey and working towards their formal IGCSE qualifications. Success in this journey will be hugely dependent on how well students are committed, take responsibility and work with their teachers who in turn will be working tirelessly to ensure the best possible learning experience for them. 

 

I would like to ask all parents over the summer holidays to engage in a conversation with their children about what success might look like for them – to take stock, to reflect upon both the successes and challenges of the past, and how these can be built upon and learnt from when moving forwards into Year 10 and 11. There is no denying that the next 2 years will shape and influence, and have impact upon the future opportunities for your children – opportunities beyond DBIS – be it in further education, university or indeed in future careers. It is important that students return to school next term well-rested, re-energised and ready to hit the ground running with an ‘I’m up for it’ attitude!

 

Amongst other changes to the next academic year, I would like to announce that with a heavy heart and fond memories, I will be stepping down from the role as Head of Year. I will be pursuing a slightly different role at DBIS secondary school as Head of Outdoor and Experiential Learning. The last 3 years have been truly wonderful, and getting to know your children has been an absolute pleasure and a highlight of my 15 years in teaching. In my new role, I am sure that I will continue to work with many of your children next year.

 

I would therefore like to welcome Mr Moore, who will be taking over in the role as Head of Year 10. I know that he will do a fantastic job in leading your children through the next academic year. 

 

Another change that will be happening to the pastoral structure next year will be to the tutor groupings. Year 10 will see the condensing of the existing 4 tutor groups into 3 groups. Students and parents will be made aware of tutor group changes before the end of term.

 

Finally, I would like to thank you as parents for the support you have given, not only during this year, but also over the past three years. I have truly enjoyed my time as Head of Year and feel privileged to have had the opportunity work closely with you and your children.

 

I wish you and your family a restful and enjoyable summer and I look forward to seeing you all at the start of the next academic year, albeit in a slightly different capacity.

 

With warm regards,

 

Justin

 

Justin Low MEd, BEng (Hons), PGCE, MInstP

Head of Year 9

[email protected]

  

 

DBIS Hub

DBIS Hub