Principal’s Weekly Post – Week 5

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we close out another productive week, I want to take a moment to thank all of our students for their hard work, positive engagement, and dedication shown in and out of the classroom. Your effort is what makes York High such a wonderful school community. 

I also want to specifically thank students for their strong attendance this week. While it might seem like a simple routine, coming to school every day is perhaps the single most important factor in a student’s academic success. Regular attendance is not just about showing up; it’s about making sure they don’t miss out on vital lessons, key discussions, and the support their teachers provide daily.

When students are absent, even for just a few days here and there, the impact can be significant. It can lead to falling behind in coursework, increasing stress to catch up, and missing the social and collaborative learning opportunities that are essential for a well-rounded education. We are here to support students in every way, but the first step is consistently being in the building. Attendance truly matters—it’s the foundation upon which future success is built.

Important event for Year 11 families: Steps to Success Evening

We are excited to invite all Year 11 families to our “Steps to Success / A Slice of Advice” Evening on Wednesday 8 October from 5.45pm.

This evening is a critical opportunity to equip you and your child with the key information, resources, and strategies needed to navigate the challenges of the GCSE year successfully. We will cover important timelines, study tips, revision techniques, and ways you can best support your student at home as they work towards their final exams.

As a thank you for your commitment to supporting your child, we will be providing pizza for all families who attend. We look forward to seeing you there for what will be a very valuable and informative evening.

Have a great weekend!

Warm regards

Gavin Kumar
Principal

RAS Curriculum 2025-26

Thank you to all parents and carers who responded to our RSE consultation in the summer term.

Linked here is a copy of our RAS curriculum overview for you to see what students are learning about and when. If you have any questions, please contact me directly on v.bettney@yorkhigh.elt.org.uk

Year 7 Future Stars Learning Experience Day

Across the academic year, we have a small number of Learning Experience Days to develop students’ skills in specific areas. The first one of this academic year will be on Friday 10 October for Year 7 students.

All of Year 7 will be involved in our Future Stars day, including a two-hour workshop from Aviva colleagues. Students will be in mixed-ability groups, and will receive timetables during w/c 6 October.

The rest of the day will involve an opportunity to consider students’ skills and interests, and a water-safety session from York Rescue Boat.

Year 11 – York College

Year 11 had their assembly from York College today, which covered information about post-16 options and the information on Taster Days which they can sign up for here.

The deadline to sign up is in November, with places on a first-come, first-served basis.

We’d like to encourage Year 11 to sign up for the Tuesday session, as there will be staff from York High to support if needed.

Preparing for Adulthood opportunities event

This event is for anyone in Year 9 or above with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities and their parents/carers. It aims to inspire them about post-16 options and employment.

Exhibitors include education providers, employers, City of York Council and other support services, such as DWP. There will also be sessions on Supported Internships and until 5.30pm, VR activities in agriculture and animal tasks.

The event will be held from 3.30-6.30pm on Tuesday 14 October 2025 at Askham Bryan College.

Business Club does interviews!

This week saw the interviews for the Managing Director position of Business Club. Ryder and Anitah both gave fantastic interviews, and were truly incredible for KS4 students.

Isaac was the fantastic HR Director, sitting on the panel to help make the decision, with Jess from The Place who runs Business Club, and Anooj, the club’s enterprise advisor.

Exciting Opportunity: Become a Committee Member for Inspire Alternative Provision

Are you passionate about supporting vulnerable young people and making a difference in their education? Excel Learning Trust’s alternative provision, Inspire Academy, is looking for dedicated and committed individuals to join its first-ever academy committee (a sub-committee of the trust board).

Further details about this opportunity and how to apply, can be found here.

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.