As we approach the final week of the current half-term, there is a great deal to share with you.  As you will be well aware, I always share how much goes on in the school.  This week has been no exception and in many ways has surpassed previous weeks. 

The week started with a phone call from Ofsted to say that they would be inspecting the school on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.  The inspection was a normal routine inspection of the school following the last inspection, which was in April 2019.  The inspectors are now writing their report and once this is available I will share this with you.  What I can share is the immense pride we all have in the school community and the way in which, in particular, our learners conducted themselves over those two days.  They met with inspectors in school as part of the learner voice sessions,  over 650 learners filled in the questionnaire and inspectors spoke to learners as they moved around the school.  The learners were an absolute credit! 

During this week, rehearsals have been underway for the production Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The nervous anticipation of performance week has been building in the school.  Learners have worked really hard on the production and I hope to see many of you next week at one of the performances which are taking place on Monday to Thursday evening. 

I also want to congratulate all of our netball teams on their amazing performances over the last week.  Unfortunately, I couldn't join them for their rewards breakfast, but I am really inspired by their commitment to their teams and to their own individual performance.  They have had great successes, and I am sure they will continue to do so. 

This week has also seen the all-important annual Charity Week which is run by the Sixth Form.  This is always a real highlight of the year and this has not disappointed.  So far, learners have raised £3453 and counting for Back Up, Stroke Association and Cystic Fibrosis charities.  Ofsted witnessed the staff karaoke - I am not sure whether this will feature in the report, and today sees the annual 'costume day'.  I was met this morning by Donald Trump and his security entourage, followed by Abba and the Teletubbies!  It is certainly not every day that you can see that in Upton-by-Chester High School. 

What has been really evident this week in the school is the strong sense of community between staff, learners and the wider community.  It is easy to forget how many people contribute to ensuring that we provide great educational experiences for all our learners.  This week has certainly reminded us all of this. 

I hope you all have a lovely weekend and look forward to seeing all our learners back at school on Monday. 

Best wishes,

Mr L Cummins

Headteacher