Principal’s Weekly Post – Week 12

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope this newsletter finds you well. First and foremost, I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who took the time to complete our recent Parent/Carer Survey and attend our ‘Coffee with the Principal’ meeting. Your feedback is truly invaluable to us. The insights we have gained are already helping to shape our future plans and ensure that York High School continues to provide the best possible environment for all our students.

I would also like to take a moment to commend our students for their hard work and positive efforts this week. The energy and commitment shown in classrooms, during enrichment activities, and in completing independent work have been excellent.

As we enter the final stretch of the first term of the academic year, I must once again emphasise the critical importance of student attendance. Every day counts, especially in these final weeks when teachers are consolidating key learning, completing major projects, and preparing students for the upcoming term. High attendance is directly linked to better academic outcomes and helps to minimise the stress of catching up on missed material later on. We urge all parents and carers to ensure that students are attending school every day unless they are genuinely unwell. If your child is unable to attend, please follow the usual procedure for notifying the school as soon as possible. Together, we can ensure every student finishes this term strong and ready for the break.

Thank you for your continued support of York High School. We look forward to a successful end to the term.

Warmly,

Gavin Kumar
Principal

Dropping off and collecting your child

If you are dropping off or collecting your child from school, please park carefully and considerately in the school car park. We kindly ask that families do not use the Priory Medical Centre car park next door, as these spaces are reserved for patients.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

AI talk

On Monday, interested students across Years 7-10 listened to a talk on AI and how it may develop in the future. This was delivered by Ashley who, as well as supporting Miss Donkin with Swing Dance this half term, works within AI for the government.

Students asked some fantastic questions – particularly about AI in FIFA! – and demonstrated real interest in the subject. It was really useful to learn about how you can seek a career in AI, with the importance of doing well in Maths identified.

York St John University trip – Year 10

The final York St John trip will take place on Tuesday 2 December. Students should wear their own clothes. Thank you to parents and guardians for your support with achieving the first of five meaningful days of workplace experiences.

Year 8 Learning Experience Day – 5 December 2025

All of Year 8 will have a Learning Experience Day on Friday 5 December. Half of the year will then go to the University of York after breaktime, returning just after the end of the school day, and should wear PE kit. A free lunch will be provided.

If your child is involved, you will have received a letter via email. 

Interested in a career in the army?

If your child is potentially interested in learning more about the British Army, there will be a virtual event on 3 December at 6.00pm, looking at career opportunities within the army. This is an out of school event, and should be supervised by parents/guardians.

If interested, please register at the below link:

• Episode 2 – Behind the CAMO – What’s in it for you?
• Wednesday, 3 December 2025, 6:00 – 6:45pm
• Link to register – Register Today.

Careers Fair and Mock Interviews – January 2026

We are looking for employers to participate in either our Careers Fair or Year 11 mock interviews (or both!) in January 2026. If this is something you may be able to support with, please contact Vicky Bettney on v.bettney@yorkhigh.elt.org.uk – your support would be greatly appreciated!

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.