Principal’s Weekly Post – Week 29

We’ve had another fantastic week at York High School.

As we move closer to the summer holiday our transition process for Year 6 into 7 is fully underway with our Year 6 transition visits to our local primary schools. It’s been a pleasure to see so many enthusiastic future students engaging with our staff and learning about life here at York High School. The visits have gone really well, and we are very excited to welcome these students into our school community in September.

As the weather continues to turn warmer, I wanted to remind all students about the importance of staying hydrated throughout the school day. Please ensure your child brings a reusable water bottle to school each day so they can easily access water and keep refreshed.

Looking ahead to next week, we will be transitioning to our summer uniform. This means that students will no longer be required to wear their school jumper. In addition, tailored shorts are now permitted as part of the summer uniform. Please note that the uniform guidelines for summer include plain black ankle or trainer socks and plain black footwear. We appreciate your support in ensuring your child adheres to the school’s uniform policy.

A reminder that school is closed on Monday for the May Day Bank Holiday and will reopen as normal on Tuesday 6 May. Have a great long weekend everyone!

Gavin Kumar
Principal

Mrs Alexander wins national education award

Huge congratulations to our Chemistry teacher, Mrs Alexander, who has won a prestigious award at The Educators’ Trust Awards 2025, in recognition of her outstanding teaching and advocacy work for students facing any kind of adversity.

Mrs Alexander received the ‘Master Educator’s Award for Outstanding School Leadership’ at an awards evening at The Merchant Taylors Hall on 25 April, in the presence of guest speaker, Baroness Floella Benjamin.

You can read the full story here. Congratulations from us all at York High!

Lasting memories made at Carton Lodge

Our Year 7s spent an incredible two days at outward-bound centre, Carlton Lodge, on a residential trip filled with personal growth, team challenges and meaningful experiences. From overcoming obstacles to building stronger connections, it was a valuable opportunity for development and reflection. The beautiful weather and positive energy made it even more memorable – an experience we won’t forget!

Year 8 Ripon Trip

On Wednesday, the sun was shining as Year 8 visited Ripon Workhouse Museum to learn about the experiences of young paupers in Victorian England. Students got stuck in at the Victorian school room, practising their letters with ink pots, before touring the building. We even had some expert clothes washers with the washboards and mangles after sweeping up the yard!

Performing Arts

Congratulations to Joe C who passed his Grade 3 drum exam and to Amelia G who passed her Grade 1 clarinet.

Excellence Every Day

Our Excellence Every Day rewards this week go to: Hayla, Milly, Tiana, Emily-Jane, Ava, Poppy, Tia, Marcia, George, Alex, Leyla, Audrina, Emmie, Eila, Leon, Bill and Mia.

Well done everyone!

Letters to parents re residentials

Letters have gone home this week for our February 2026 residential to Liverpool for Year 8 pupils (current Year 7s). If you’d like more information, please contact main reception.

York ISSP Lecture

It was great to see seven Year 8 students sign up for the ISSP lecture on Thursday on female Special Operations Executive (SOE) operatives in the Second World War. We hope you enjoyed it!

Parent Carer Forum

To find out more about events and support available from the Parent Carer Forum, please take a look at their latest newsletter here.

YHS Alumni – where are they now?

We love to hear from our ex-students to find out what they have been doing since they left school – their careers, achievements and their tips for success. To share your career pathway memories and advice for the next generation of York High students, simply fill in this short form!

Miss Bettney

Community Cupboard

Our school is committed to helping those in need through our community cupboard, ensuring that every student and family has access to essential food/household items. Donations are always welcome and greatly appreciated, as they help us continue to support the local community.

If you or someone you know needs any support, please contact Aimee a.stewart@yorkhigh.elt.org.uk or Emma e.masterman@yorkhigh.elt.org.uk, or pop into main reception.

All requests will be handled with care and confidentiality.

The YHS Way

Next week’s focus: Routines and Habits – Personal Space