Headteacher’s Blog

Here is the Summer edition of our Headteacher’s blog.

Thinking Beyond the Classroom

The Mathematics Department has enjoyed another outstanding year, with students demonstrating both academic excellence and a genuine enthusiasm for problem solving. Ninety-six students from Years 7 and 8 took part in the UK Mathematics Trust Junior Mathematical Challenge, one of the country’s most respected mathematics competitions. Designed to develop reasoning, precision and creativity, the challenge encourages students to apply their mathematical understanding to unfamiliar problems requiring logical thinking and perseverance.

Highlights

• 96 students participated
• 57 certificates awarded
• 8 Gold Awards
• 19 Silver Awards
• 29 Bronze Awards
• 2 Best in School awards

Several students also qualified for the prestigious follow-on rounds.

Junior Mathematical Olympiad

• Musa K (Year 7)
• Jaiden T (Year 8)
• Mila Patel (Year 8)

Junior Kangaroo Challenge

• Krisha Kanuga (Year 7)
• Teghveer Singh (Year 7)
• Grace Khow (Year 8)
• Taher Amin (Year 8)
• Shayan Malde (Year 8)

To qualify for these national competitions is an exceptional achievement and reflects not only mathematical ability but also resilience, curiosity and a willingness to embrace challenge. Congratulations to every student who took part. Their success is a testament to their hard work and to the culture of mathematical thinking that continues to flourish across the department.

Computer Science Exploring the Future

Technology continues to evolve at an extraordinary pace and our Computer Science curriculum ensures students are equipped not only with technical knowledge but also with the ability to think critically about its impact on society.

Earlier this term, a group of Year 8 girls took part in an inspiring Women in STEM workshop delivered by King’s College London. Working alongside an undergraduate Computer Science student, they designed their own mobile applications, explored creative problem solving and gained valuable insight into studying Computer Science at university. It was a fantastic opportunity to encourage more young women to consider future careers within the technology sector.

Meanwhile, every Year 8 student has completed an exciting new unit exploring artificial intelligence. Students investigated how AI systems learn, trained machine-learning models to distinguish between different objects, explored decision trees and considered how human bias can unintentionally become embedded within AI systems.

The unit concluded with students working collaboratively to answer one challenging question:

“Is AI good for humanity?”

Through persuasive presentations, students demonstrated thoughtful analysis, confident communication and an impressive ability to evaluate one of the defining technological developments of our generation.

High Achieving Programme

Stretching Academic Potential

Providing the right level of challenge is an important part of ensuring every student fulfils their potential.

This term, our High Achieving Programme Book Look highlighted the excellent quality of work being produced by Year 8 students across a wide range of subjects. It was particularly pleasing to see the depth of thinking, pride in presentation and consistently high expectations evident throughout students’ books. The review also reflected the dedication of teachers in providing meaningful challenge that enables students to achieve their very best.

Looking ahead, we are delighted to welcome a new cohort of Year 9 students onto the Oxford Inspire Programme next academic year. Working in partnership with one of the world’s leading universities, the programme provides students with opportunities to broaden their academic horizons, develop independent thinking and raise aspirations for the future.

Mandarin

Opening Doors to the World

Language learning continues to provide exceptional opportunities for our students to broaden their horizons and develop as global citizens.

Year 12 student Sam Sidi has been selected for two prestigious academic programmes this summer. He will attend the University of Oxford’s UNIQ Programme, studying Asian and Middle Eastern Studies with Oxford academics, before travelling to the Chinese University of Hong Kong Summer Institute to undertake two weeks of further study alongside students from around the world.

Our Year 10 Mandarin Excellence Programme students also enjoyed a memorable visit to the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. During the day they participated in university-led workshops before presenting the Mandarin tourism projects they had created alongside students from other Mandarin Excellence Programme schools. The experience gave students a valuable insight into higher education whilst strengthening both their linguistic skills and cultural understanding.

We were equally delighted that India P received a commendation in the prestigious Anthea Bell Translation Prize, organised by Queen’s College, University of Oxford. Translating Chinese poetry into English requires not only linguistic accuracy but also creativity and cultural sensitivity, making this a particularly impressive achievement.

These successes reflect the ambition, commitment and global outlook that continue to characterise our Mandarin students. Through opportunities such as these, students are developing the confidence and skills to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Drama

Confidence Through Performance

Drama continues to provide students with opportunities to develop confidence, creativity and collaboration, both on and off the stage. Whether performing in front of an audience, refining technical skills behind the scenes or supporting one another through rehearsals, students have embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and professionalism.

A particular highlight this year was seeing Year 8 student Lavishka K, alongside former student Abhiraksh K, perform as part of the National Theatre’s Connections Programme at the Wycombe Swan Theatre. To perform in a nationally recognised production is a tremendous achievement and reflects the talent, dedication and commitment of everyone involved.

Within school, collaboration between year groups has continued to flourish. Year 9 students prepared for their practical assessments with guidance from our Sixth Form Drama students, who provided individual coaching and constructive feedback. It was wonderful to see older students sharing their experience and encouraging younger performers to develop both confidence and technique.

Year 12 students also enjoyed an inspiring visit to the National Theatre to watch The Authenticator. Alongside the performance, students visited the renowned Cottesloe Theatre, home to the GCSE set text DNA, and had the opportunity to meet acclaimed actress Alison Steadman. Experiences such as these help students appreciate theatre as a living art form whilst broadening their understanding of performance and production.

The highlight of the year was undoubtedly our largest production to date, High School Musical. With a cast of 93 students and a backstage crew of 10, four outstanding performances entertained families, local primary schools and members of the wider community. Productions of this scale require months of commitment, teamwork and determination, and every student involved should feel immensely proud of what they achieved.

English – Finding Every Student’s Voice

This term, our Year 7 and Year 8 students welcomed poet, rapper and author Breis, whose visit provided an inspiring celebration of language, identity and creativity.

Drawing on influences from Lagos and London, Breis demonstrated how poetry, music and storytelling can be powerful ways of expressing ideas and experiences. Through live performances and interactive workshops, students explored how literary techniques such as metaphor, simile and rhythm can transform writing and engage an audience.

The visit came at the perfect time for our Year 7 students, who are currently creating their own Identity Poetry Anthology as part of their summer assessment. Students left inspired to experiment with language, develop their own voices and appreciate the power of words to tell personal stories.

Visits such as these reinforce that English is far more than studying texts. It is about helping young people communicate with confidence, think creatively and understand the experiences of others.

Science

Curiosity, Discovery and Innovation

Science has enjoyed another exciting year, encouraging students to question, investigate and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.

As the academic year drew to a close, students across the department completed their end-of-year assessments before taking time to reflect on the progress they have made over the past twelve months. Alongside this, practical investigations and enrichment activities continued to inspire curiosity across every year group.

Year 7 students rounded off the year by launching rockets and exploring the fascinating world of acids, alkalis and the pH scale, bringing scientific concepts vividly to life through practical investigation.

For our Year 10 students, the focus has been on learning from their recent mock examinations. Careful reflection and targeted feedback have helped students identify strengths and areas for development as they prepare for the important GCSE year ahead.

Our Sixth Form scientists also enjoyed the opportunity to visit Imperial College London, gaining valuable insight into university study, cutting-edge research and the wide range of opportunities available within science, engineering and medicine.

Throughout the year, students have demonstrated curiosity, resilience and a willingness to explore ideas beyond the curriculum. These experiences continue to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals and innovators.

History & Politics- Bringing History to Life

History is at its most powerful when students can experience it first-hand. Our Year 10 historians travelled to Berlin, where they explored many of the locations that have shaped twentieth-century European history. Visits to the Berlin Wall, the Reichstag, the Spy Museum and exhibitions exploring life in East Germany enabled students to deepen their understanding of both Nazi Germany and the Cold War.

Standing in places they had previously studied only in textbooks encouraged thoughtful discussion and reflection. Students considered how ordinary people experienced dictatorship, division and conflict, making meaningful connections between historical events and the world we live in today.

The visit was an excellent example of learning beyond the classroom, bringing GCSE History vividly to life and encouraging students to think critically about the importance of democracy, freedom and human rights.

EAL- Celebrating Progress

As another Year 11 cohort prepares to move on, the EAL Department reflects with enormous pride on the progress students have made throughout their time at the school.

Many joined us with English as an additional language and have gone on to achieve remarkable success, developing the confidence and communication skills needed to flourish across the curriculum and beyond.

Their achievements reflect determination, resilience and a willingness to embrace every opportunity. We wish every one of them every success as they begin the next stage of their education.

Physical Education – Commitment, Teamwork and Success

It has been another outstanding year for sport, with students representing the school with distinction across a wide range of competitions.

The athletics season has been particularly successful. Following months of dedicated training and preparation, a record 24 students qualified to represent the Harrow Athletics Squad at the Middlesex Championships, highlighting both the depth of talent within the school and the commitment shown by students throughout the season.

Athletics Highlights

• Nina B – County finalist in the 200 metres.
• Julietta A-S – County finalist in the 200 metres.
• Cristian A – Silver medallist in the Middlesex Shot Put Championships.
• Anton Y – Bronze medallist in the Middlesex Javelin Championships and reserve for the All England Athletics Championships in Birmingham.

Rounders has also been another tremendous success. Three of our four teams competed strongly for Borough titles, with our Year 8 team already crowned Borough Champions.

Our girls’ cricket team has enjoyed an excellent season, winning the majority of their fixtures through commitment, teamwork and regular after-school training. At the time of writing, one final victory would secure the Borough Championship.

Although our boys’ cricket teams narrowly missed progressing beyond the group stages, they demonstrated resilience, determination and excellent sportsmanship throughout a challenging season.

Sport teaches lessons that extend well beyond the playing field. Commitment, teamwork, resilience and the ability to respond positively to both success and disappointment are qualities that will remain with our students long after the final whistle. Every student who has represented the school this year should feel immensely proud of their contribution.

Art & Design – Creativity in Action

Art continues to provide students with opportunities to explore ideas, experiment with different media and develop confidence in their own creative thinking.

Our Year 10 GCSE Art students have been producing an impressive series of lino prints linked to their chosen project themes. Their work demonstrates ambitious image selection, careful composition and increasingly sophisticated printmaking techniques. It has been wonderful to see students embracing challenge whilst developing their own artistic style.

Meanwhile, Year 8 students have explored the relationship between art and architecture through an exciting clay sculpture project. Beginning with abstract sketches, students created three-dimensional clay maquettes before imagining how their sculptures could be transformed into architectural designs. The resulting concept drawings showcased imagination, creativity and excellent technical skill.

Art encourages students to think differently, take creative risks and develop resilience through experimentation. The quality of work produced this year reflects the enthusiasm and commitment shown by students across the department.

Food & Nutrition – Skills for Life

Food and Nutrition continues to equip students with practical skills that will remain valuable long after they leave school.

This term, our Year 10 students completed their first GCSE mock practical examination. From planning dishes to managing their time effectively and presenting food creatively, students approached the challenge with maturity, focus and attention to detail. The quality of both the dishes and their presentation reflected the significant progress students have made this year.

Our younger students have also enjoyed another productive term in the kitchens. Year 7 and Year 8 students prepared a range of delicious dishes whilst developing essential culinary techniques and an understanding of healthy eating.

Learning extended beyond practical cooking. Students researched the history of pizza, explored traditional Italian cuisine and produced bilingual menus in English and Spanish, combining food, language and culture in a creative and engaging way.

Sixth Form – Academic Excellence Beyond the Classroom

Our Sixth Form students continue to embrace opportunities that extend learning beyond the curriculum and prepare them for higher education and future careers.

A particular highlight this year was the success of our Mandarin students in the prestigious Anthea Bell Translation Prize, organised by Queen’s College, University of Oxford. Translating Chinese poetry into English requires exceptional linguistic ability together with creativity, cultural understanding and precision.

Congratulations to India P, whose translation received a commendation from the judges. It is a tremendous achievement and a wonderful example of the academic ambition that characterises our Sixth Form.

Student Leadership – Students Shaping the Future

Our Head Student Team has made an excellent start, embracing the opportunity to represent the student body and contribute to the continued development of the school.

One of their first initiatives was to lead a comprehensive student voice survey across every year group. This provided valuable insight into students’ experiences, helping to identify what is working well and where improvements could be made. The findings were presented to the Senior Leadership Team, leading to productive discussions and helping to shape priorities for the year ahead. One exciting outcome has been a renewed focus on strengthening the House system, with plans already underway for further developments next academic year.

The team has also demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and supporting fellow students by introducing a GCSE Resource Reuse Scheme. This initiative will enable Year 10 students to benefit from textbooks, revision guides and learning materials donated by students who have completed their examinations. It is a practical example of students thinking beyond themselves, reducing waste whilst ensuring valuable resources continue to support learning.

To conclude a demanding and successful year, the Head Student Team organised a Year 12 social event, providing students with the opportunity to celebrate their achievements together before looking ahead to the opportunities and responsibilities of Year 13.

Student leadership plays an important role in shaping our school community. It has been encouraging to see our Head Student Team demonstrating initiative, listening carefully to the views of their peers and working collaboratively to make a positive difference. Their enthusiasm and commitment provide every confidence that they will continue to make a significant contribution during the year ahead.  Thank you, Sasha F, Amaan S, Jenishan S, Soham S

Economics – Understanding the World Around Us

Economics continues to challenge students to think critically about the world they live in, encouraging them to analyse current affairs, evaluate evidence and appreciate the complexity of decision-making in modern societies.

Throughout the year, students have explored topics ranging from inflation and economic growth to international trade, climate change and government policy. They have also taken part in a wide range of super-curricular opportunities, including the Great British Economics Olympiad, essay competitions and independent research projects.

As the academic year draws to a close, some of our Year 12 Economics Prefects reflected on what studying the subject has meant to them.

Amaan S

“Economics has completely changed the way I see the world. Studying topics such as the Global Financial Crisis, monetary policy and international trade has shown me that economic decisions are rarely straightforward. Taking part in the Great British Economics Olympiad challenged me to apply my knowledge in new contexts and strengthened my ability to analyse complex issues from different perspectives.”

Mirav S

“This year has helped me develop the confidence to analyse real-world economic issues and evaluate government policies using the economic toolkit we have learned in class. I have particularly enjoyed understanding how economic decisions affect both people and the environment and feel well prepared for the challenges of Year 13.”

Sara L

“Studying Economics has strengthened my passion for understanding how the world works. I have enjoyed exploring topics such as housing markets, development economics and the role of government policy, whilst developing the analytical and essay-writing skills that will support me well beyond A Levels.”

The reflections from our students capture exactly what studying Economics is about: asking thoughtful questions, evaluating evidence and recognising that complex problems rarely have simple answers.

Special Educational Needs –Building Confidence Through Challenge

Learning often takes place beyond the classroom, and our SEND students have continued to embrace opportunities that develop confidence, resilience and independence.

A particular highlight this term was the Year 9 and Year 10 reward visit to HarroWall Climbing Centre. Students challenged themselves on a range of climbing activities, including the exciting Leap of Faith, demonstrating courage, determination and a willingness to step outside their comfort zones.

Watching students encourage one another, celebrate individual successes and persevere through challenges perfectly reflected the values we seek to develop across the school.

Experiences such as these remind us that achievement is measured in many different ways, and every student should be proud of what they accomplished.

Geography Understanding Our World

Geography encourages students to think critically about the relationship between people, places and the environment, helping them develop the knowledge and enquiry skills needed to understand an ever-changing world.

Fieldwork has once again played a central role in learning this year. Our Year 10 geographers visited local river environments to complete their GCSE Rivers Fieldwork investigation, collecting and analysing first-hand data while applying the geographical skills they have developed in the classroom. Experiencing geography in the field helps students appreciate how theory translates into the real world and strengthens the enquiry skills required for GCSE success.

Our Sixth Form geographers also undertook their A Level Non-Examined Assessment fieldwork, planning and carrying out independent investigations that developed both academic confidence and research skills.

Environmental leadership has continued to grow through our student-led Eco Council, led by Year 12 students Amaan and Priya. Working alongside school leaders, catering colleagues and Harrow Council, students have met regularly to discuss practical ways of reducing waste, promoting sustainability and encouraging environmentally responsible choices across the school. Their commitment demonstrates how young people can make a meaningful contribution to both the school community and the wider world.

Spanish – Language, Culture and Communication

Learning a language is about far more than vocabulary and grammar. It is about developing curiosity, understanding different cultures and gaining the confidence to communicate with others.

This term, Year 7 and Year 8 students explored Latin American culture through screenings of Coco and Encanto. These films provided an engaging introduction to Hispanic traditions and celebrations, supporting classroom learning whilst bringing language and culture together in an enjoyable way.

Students have also embraced collaborative learning through activities such as wall reading, working together to develop reading fluency, extend vocabulary and build confidence in speaking Spanish. Music has continued to play an important role in lessons, helping students consolidate vocabulary whilst making language learning memorable and enjoyable.

It has been another successful year for the department, with students demonstrating enthusiasm, resilience and an increasing confidence in communicating in another language.

Careers –Preparing Students for the Future

It has been another exceptional year for Careers, with students benefiting from a wide range of opportunities designed to broaden aspirations, develop employability skills and prepare them for the next stage of their education and future careers.

Our annual Careers Fair welcomed an even wider range of employers, universities and organisations than ever before. Students explored career pathways across technology and digital industries, engineering, law, entrepreneurship, the Civil Service, higher education, healthcare, charities and supported employment. Representatives from organisations including Adobe, Google, Colas Rail, Knights plc, the Cabinet Office, the Civil Service, the University of Exeter, Royal Holloway, The Felix Project, QPR Community Trust and Mission EmployAble helped students gain valuable insight into the many opportunities available beyond school.

Work experience continues to be one of the defining strengths of our Careers programme.

Careers Highlights

• 177 Year 10 students completed work experience placements across 19 different industries.
• 124 Year 12 students secured placements with NHS Trusts, FTSE 100 companies and internationally recognised organisations.
• 95% of Year 12 students rated their placement as Good or Excellent.
• 88% said their placement increased their confidence when considering future career pathways.

Alongside these opportunities, every Year 11 and Year 13 student received an individual careers guidance interview before making important decisions about their next steps. SEND students also benefited from specialist careers experiences, whilst the appointment of two Careers Coordinators has further strengthened the support available across the school.

None of this would have been possible without the generosity of parents, alumni, employers and partner organisations who continue to invest their time and expertise in supporting our students. We are extremely grateful for their continued partnership and incredibly proud of the professionalism, maturity and ambition demonstrated by our young people throughout the year.

A Final Reflection

Looking back across another successful year, what stands out is not simply the breadth of opportunities available to our students, but the way they have embraced them. Students have represented the school in national competitions, performed on professional stages, explored universities, visited historical landmarks, debated artificial intelligence, climbed walls they never imagined they could conquer, completed meaningful work experience, and achieved success in classrooms, on sports fields, in theatres, in laboratories, and beyond.

Each of these experiences has helped prepare them for life beyond school. Be well, and best wishes from Mr Patel

 

Belo is the March edition of our Headteacher’s blog, keeping you informed about the life and times of Pinner High School.

Drama at Pinner: Creativity, Performance and Ambition

This term has been a rich and rewarding one for Drama across Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5, with students demonstrating both creativity and commitment in a wide range of performances and experiences.

Our Year 12 students delivered a thoughtful and challenging assessment performance of That Face by Polly Stenham. The group approached the text with maturity, showing a strong understanding of character and context, and producing work of a high standard.

Alongside this, the department brought energy and creativity to the stage with the seasonal production, There’s sNOw place like Pinner High School, which captured the spirit of the term and provided an opportunity for students to perform with confidence and enjoyment.

Students have also engaged with wider theatrical influences, including work inspired by Katie Mitchell, helping to deepen their understanding of contemporary theatre practice and performance techniques.

The Winter Concert provided another opportunity to showcase talent across the school, with Drama playing an important role in the evening and contributing to a high quality and memorable event.

A particular highlight this term has been the completion of the Year 11 Drama practical examinations. Students performed in front of an Edexcel examiner, demonstrating the significant progress they have made over the course of their studies. The standard of work was impressive, and the group should feel proud of what they have achieved. My thanks to Ms Stewart and Ms Griffin for their guidance and support throughout.

Students studying GCSE and A Level Drama also had the opportunity to visit the Lyric Theatre to watch Lost Atoms by Anna Jordan, produced as part of Frantic Assembly’s twentieth anniversary programme. This was a valuable experience, allowing students to analyse live theatre as part of their Component 3 examination, while also gaining inspiration from professional performance.

Across all of these experiences, what stands out is the confidence, creativity and commitment of our students. Drama continues to provide a powerful platform for expression, collaboration and growth, and it is a pleasure to see students engaging with it so fully.

Food Preparation and Nutrition: Superb Year 11’s

Our Year 11 Food Preparation and Nutrition students have produced a set of impressive outcomes in their practical assessments this term.

Students demonstrated a high level of skill, organisation and independence, planning and executing dishes with careful attention to detail. The quality of presentation and the range of techniques on display reflected both strong subject knowledge and consistent practice.

What has been particularly encouraging is the confidence students have shown in the kitchen, alongside their ability to manage time effectively and respond to the demands of the assessment.

These outcomes are a credit to the students’ hard work and the support and expertise of the department.

 

Sport at Pinner: Commitment, Competition and Success

It has been another strong period for sport, with students representing the school with pride across a range of fixtures and competitions.

Our Year 11 netball team has achieved something exceptional, securing a fifth consecutive Borough Cup title with an 18 14 win over Park High School. Sustaining this level of success over time reflects real consistency, teamwork and determination.

Our Year 7 boys football team reached the semi-finals of their tournament, narrowly losing 2 1 to Nower Hill in a closely contested match.

In cross country, there were excellent individual performances, with C. Brown finishing 1st in the Harrow Junior Boys, L. Wallis 2nd in the Harrow Intermediate Boys, and E. Jones Owen 6th in the Harrow Intermediate Girls.

All boys football teams have progressed to the borough semi finals, with the Year 8 and Year 10 teams securing their places through penalty shootouts against Salvatorian College and John Lyon School.

In Sixth Form football, students were involved in an entertaining 4 4 draw with Nower Hill.

Netball continues to be a strength across the school. The Year 9 team recorded a 9 0 win against Nower Hill and remain well placed with fixtures still to play. The Year 7 team also secured a strong 9 4 victory, while the Year 10 team is competing in their semi final against Park High.

Our Under 14 badminton players are also competing in the final round of their tournament.

Across all of these performances, students continue to show commitment, resilience and a strong sense of teamwork, representing the school with pride.

Mathematical Success: UKMT Intermediate Challenge

This term, our students in Years 9, 10 and 11 have achieved excellent outcomes in the UKMT Intermediate Mathematical Challenge, a national competition designed to stretch and challenge young mathematicians.

In January, 55 students took part in the demanding 60 minute paper, applying their reasoning and problem solving skills to a series of complex and unfamiliar questions. Competing against students from across the country, they demonstrated both resilience and precision in their approach.

Their efforts were recognised with 44 certificates overall, including 10 Gold, 15 Silver and 19 Bronze awards. This is a strong set of results and reflects the depth of mathematical understanding and talent across the school.

Building on this success, a number of students have gone on to represent the school in the follow on rounds. In the Pink Kangaroo, we were represented by L. Sunderji and W. Mendelson-Pegden in Year 11, and by R. Dean, K. Mehta, A. Chiang and S. Shah in Year 10. In the Grey Kangaroo, C. Brown, A. Sasikumar and J. Edwards from Year 9 took part.

These additional rounds provide a further level of challenge, requiring students to think even more deeply and apply their knowledge in new ways. We look forward to receiving the results in April.

It is encouraging to see so many students engaging with mathematics beyond the classroom and embracing the opportunity to challenge themselves. Their commitment and success are a credit to both their own efforts and the strength of mathematics teaching across the school.

Sixth Form Eco Council: Student Leadership in Action

This term has seen the launch of our Sixth Form Eco Council, co-founded by Priya Kaur-Lawley and Amaan Shakeer. Their vision was clear from the outset: to bring together students who are committed to making a genuine difference to the school’s environmental impact.

The response from across the school was exceptional. Over 75 students from Years 7 to 11 applied to be part of the council, each offering thoughtful ideas and a clear sense of purpose. From these, 30 students were selected, forming a group that reflects both commitment and creativity.

What has stood out immediately is the way this group has moved from ideas to action. The Eco Council is already engaged in a range of projects that are both ambitious and practical. A key focus has been exploring the potential installation of solar panels, working alongside Solar for Schools to understand how renewable energy could help reduce the school’s carbon footprint. This is a significant piece of work, requiring careful planning and partnership, and it is encouraging to see students engaging with it so confidently.

Alongside this, the council has been working closely with our catering provider, Caterlink, to consider how we can make our food provision more sustainable. Students have led the design and distribution of a survey to gather views on vegetarian options and the introduction of Meat Free Mondays. This is a strong example of student voice shaping everyday decisions within the school.

Raising awareness has also been a priority. The council organised a poster competition focused on food waste, water conservation and recycling. The winning designs are now displayed across the school, providing clear and visible reminders of the small actions that, collectively, make a difference.

There is much more to come. Students will be working with Harrow Council in an upcoming workshop, developing and presenting ideas to improve sustainable travel for young people. This opportunity to engage beyond the school is an important step in developing both confidence and influence.

The council has also planned a non uniform day to raise funds for a UK environmental charity, with the intention of sponsoring an endangered animal as a school. It is a thoughtful initiative that connects our community with wider global issues.

This is an impressive start. What is most encouraging is the sense of ownership shown by our students. They are leading with purpose, working collaboratively and showing a clear commitment to improving the world around them. I look forward to seeing how their work continues to develop and the lasting impact it will have across our school community.

World Book Day: Inspiring Creativity Through Storytelling

As part of our World Book Day celebrations this term, we were delighted to welcome Sonia Leong, an award winning comic artist and author, to work with students in Years 7 and 8.

Sonia delivered a series of engaging and inspiring sessions, sharing her journey as a creator and offering students a fascinating insight into the world of comics and storytelling. Her sessions combined creativity with practical guidance, giving students the opportunity to explore character design, visual storytelling and the process of turning ideas into compelling narratives.

What stood out was the way students responded. They were fully engaged, curious and willing to experiment with their own ideas. The workshops created a real sense of energy, with many students leaving inspired to develop their own stories and creative work.

This was a strong example of how reading can extend beyond the page. Through Sonia’s work, students were able to see how storytelling can take different forms and how creativity, imagination and discipline come together in the creative process.

We are very grateful to Sonia for taking the time to visit and contribute so positively to our World Book Day. It was an experience that will stay with our students and continue to influence their engagement with reading and creativity.

Inspiring Future Innovators: Computing and AI in Year 8

This term, our Year 8 students have engaged with computing in ways that have been both practical and thought-provoking, combining creativity with a deeper understanding of emerging technologies.

A group of 20 Year 8 girls took part in a Women in STEM workshop led by King’s College London. The session, delivered by an undergraduate studying Computing, focused on designing their own app. Students approached this with creativity and confidence, developing ideas and sharing them with others. Just as valuable was the opportunity to ask questions about studying computer science at degree level, helping to make future pathways feel more tangible and accessible.

Alongside this, the entire Year 8 cohort has completed a redesigned unit of work exploring artificial intelligence. This has encouraged students to look beyond surface-level understanding and consider both the potential and the challenges of AI systems.

Through their lessons, students created decision trees, trained an AI model to distinguish between apples and tomatoes, and explored how human bias can be reflected in algorithmic systems. These experiences helped to develop both technical understanding and critical thinking.

The unit culminated in a group presentation, where students worked in teams of three to deliver a three-minute response to the question: Is AI good for humanity? The quality of discussion, reasoning and presentation was strong, with students demonstrating the ability to weigh different perspectives and articulate their views clearly.

This work reflects an important aspect of our curriculum. Students are not only learning how technology works, but also developing the confidence to question, evaluate and contribute to the conversations that will shape its future.

Broadening Horizons: Visit to St John’s College, Oxford

63 students from Years 11 and 12 visited St John’s College, Oxford, gaining a valuable insight into life at one of the country’s leading universities.

The day began with an introduction to studying at University of Oxford, where students learned more about courses, applications and the academic expectations of university life. They also had the opportunity to speak directly with current undergraduates, asking thoughtful questions and gaining an honest perspective on the student experience.

One of the highlights of the visit was the chance to have lunch in the college dining hall alongside academics, offering a glimpse into the traditions and daily routines of college life. This was followed by a guided tour of the college, helping students to understand both its history and its role within the wider university.

The visit extended beyond the college, with trips to the Ashmolean Museum and the Oxford University Museum of Natural History. Here, students were able to engage directly with historical artefacts and specimens, supported by expert guidance from museum staff. This hands on experience brought learning to life in a way that is difficult to replicate in the classroom.

The day combined academic insight with cultural exploration and practical experience. Most importantly, it helped students to see what is possible. For many, it provided both inspiration and a clearer sense of direction as they begin to think about their future pathways.

Mandarin in Action: Broadening Horizons Through Language

This term has provided a number of rich opportunities for students studying Mandarin to see the subject come to life beyond the classroom.

We were delighted to welcome back Sami Abbas, a former student who achieved Grade 8 Mandarin through the Mandarin Excellence Programme and is now studying in Shanghai on a full scholarship. Sami spoke to our Year 10 Mandarin students about his experiences of learning the language and adapting to life abroad. His journey provided a powerful and authentic example of where dedication to language learning can lead, and students engaged thoughtfully with his reflections and advice.

Students in Years 11 and 12 also attended a Chinese Universities Fair, organised by Mrs Hargreaves March. This gave them the opportunity to explore pathways into studying languages at degree level, including conversations with representatives from a range of universities. Hearing directly from those involved in higher education helped students to better understand the opportunities that language study can open up, both academically and professionally.

The visit also included time together over lunch in a Chinese restaurant, creating a valuable opportunity for students across year groups to connect, share experiences and build confidence in a more informal setting.

Celebrating Culture: Lunar New Year Across the School

In celebration of Lunar New Year, Ms Liu organised a Chinese character scavenger hunt across the school site, creating a lively and engaging way for students to connect with the language and culture.

Students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, exploring the school to identify characters and test their knowledge. The sense of energy and participation was clear throughout, with prizes quickly claimed as students completed the activity.

It was a simple but effective initiative, bringing cultural celebration into the everyday life of the school and encouraging curiosity, participation and enjoyment.

English in Action: Scholarship, Collaboration and Culture

This term has been a strong one for English, with students engaging in a range of experiences that have deepened their understanding, broadened their perspectives and strengthened their confidence.

Our Year 12 students attended a Post Colonial Conference at St Helen’s School, where they took part in a full day of academic activity. They heard from leading voices including Corinne Fowler and Hannah Lowe, and engaged thoughtfully with complex ideas and discussions. Feedback from staff at St Helen’s was extremely positive, with particular praise for our students’ engagement and contribution throughout the day.

Back in school, our Year 12 reading mentors have continued their work with Year 7 students over the past ten weeks. This programme has created valuable opportunities for older students to support younger readers, building confidence and encouraging a sustained interest in reading. The programme concluded with a shared celebration in the library, recognising the progress made and the positive relationships developed.

Students in Years 12 and 13 also had the opportunity to attend a local production of A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen at the Pump House Theatre. Experiencing live theatre provided an important context for their studies, helping to bring the text to life and deepen their understanding of character and themes.

Collaboration with other schools has also been a strength this term. We were pleased to welcome Year 13 students from Northwood School to join our Year 13 Othello revision masterclass. The day included sessions led by a range of teachers, alongside valuable input from a former Pinner High School student. Feedback from both our students and visitors was very positive, with particular appreciation for the range of interpretations explored and the clarity around how to approach examination responses effectively.

Across all of these experiences, students have shown maturity, curiosity and a willingness to engage with challenging ideas. It is this combination of academic rigour and enrichment that continues to strengthen the quality of English across the school.

Science in Action: Curiosity, Exploration and Discovery

It has been a vibrant and engaging period in the Science Department, with students across all year groups developing their understanding through practical work, enquiry and exploration.

In Year 7, students have been exploring the topic of light through student led presentations. The quality of work has been strong, with students demonstrating both confidence and enthusiasm as they explained key concepts to their peers. It has been particularly encouraging to see students take ownership of their learning in this way.

Year 8 students have been focused on separation techniques, working practically in the laboratory to develop their skills in filtration, evaporation and chromatography. These sessions have brought science to life, with students discovering, for example, that black ink is made up of a range of different pigments. It is this combination of curiosity and hands on experience that helps to secure understanding.

In Year 9, students have been studying the chemistry of food alongside learning about how the national grid operates. These topics have provided a clear link between scientific knowledge and the world around them, helping students to see the relevance of what they are learning.

Our Year 12 Biology students have been undertaking detailed dissection work, exploring gas exchange and mass transport systems. The standard of practical work has been impressive, reflecting both skill and careful attention to detail, alongside a willingness to engage with complex scientific concepts.

Science Week provided a further opportunity to extend learning beyond the classroom. Students attended a dissection demonstration, offering a close up view of heart, kidney and eye anatomy. Assemblies led by our science team explored a range of topics, including optical illusions, major scientific developments of the twentieth century, and a tribute to David Attenborough in his centenary year.

Across all of these experiences, what stands out is the curiosity and engagement shown by our students. They are asking questions, making connections and developing a d

Supporting Our EAL Community

This term, we have continued to strengthen our support for students with English as an Additional Language, ensuring they feel confident, included and able to thrive within the school community.

As part of this, a group of EAL students enjoyed a reward trip to the cinema. It was a well deserved opportunity to recognise their effort and progress, and it was clear how much they valued the experience. The trip provided a chance to build confidence, strengthen relationships and enjoy time together beyond the classroom.

We have also welcomed a number of new students over recent months. It has been encouraging to see how quickly they have settled into school life, supported by both staff and their peers.

These moments matter. They help to build a sense of belonging and ensure that every student feels supported as they develop their confidence in both language and learning.

Art in Context: Visit to the National Portrait Gallery

In January, our Year 9 GCSE Art and Year 12 A Level students visited the National Portrait Gallery to experience first hand the work of a wide range of artists.

The visit provided an important opportunity for students to study different techniques across painting, sculpture and photography, supporting their own creative development back in school. Seeing original works up close allowed students to engage more deeply with artistic choices, materials and styles.

The gallery’s collection, spanning both historical figures and influential contemporary individuals, offered students a broad and meaningful context for their studies. Highlights included portraits of figures with local connections, such as Elton John and Michael Rosen.

Visits such as this play an important role in helping students connect their classroom learning with the wider world of art, encouraging both inspiration and ambition in their own work.

Exploring Street Art in Year 8

This term, our Year 8 students have been exploring the theme of Our Surroundings through the work of contemporary street artists, developing their own creative responses with confidence and originality.

Students have produced mixed media, layered artworks inspired by Shepard Fairey and ROA. Through this work, they have engaged with both technique and meaning, considering how art can communicate powerful messages.

Shepard Fairey’s bold graphic style and focus on social justice encouraged students to think about how art can influence society and prompt reflection. In contrast, ROA’s work, often centred on animals, led students to explore themes of nature and the relationship between humans and the environment.

The outcomes have been thoughtful and visually striking, with students demonstrating a clear ability to combine ideas, materials and techniques. It has been particularly encouraging to see them use art not only as a form of expression, but also as a way of engaging with wider issues.

Year 10 Visit to the V&A

This term, our Year 10 Art students visited the Victoria and Albert Museum as part of their research and development work.

The visit provided students with the opportunity to explore one of the world’s leading museums of art and design, home to a vast collection spanning fashion, sculpture, photography and decorative arts across thousands of years . Experiencing these works first hand allowed students to deepen their understanding of materials, techniques and artistic intention.

Students approached the visit with focus and curiosity, gathering ideas and visual references to inform their own coursework. Seeing how artists and designers present concepts at a professional level helped students to think more critically about their own creative decisions.

Sixth Form Success and Community Celebration

We are delighted to celebrate a number of excellent university offers secured by our Sixth Form students. S. Manimaran has received an offer to study Veterinary Medicine at University of Glasgow, M. Raza has secured an offer for Medicine with a Foundation Year at University of Plymouth, and S. Sahay has received an offer to study Medicine at Brunel University London. L. Fennell has achieved an outstanding offer to study History at University of Oxford. These are significant achievements and reflect both ambition and sustained hard work.

Alongside this, our Iftar evening, held on 27 February, was a real highlight of the term. The event brought together students, staff and families, creating a strong sense of community. There was a wide range of food enjoyed by all, alongside a thoughtful and reflective talk from the Imam. It was a well attended and successful evening, and a valuable opportunity to come together and share in an important moment in the calendar.

Looking Ahead: World Challenge Nepal 2027

We are excited to announce the launch of our World Challenge expedition to Nepal, taking place in July 2027.

This opportunity will allow students to take part in a once in a lifetime experience, combining adventure, cultural understanding and personal development. The expedition will involve trekking, community engagement and the chance to experience life in a very different environment.

Programmes such as this play an important role in developing resilience, independence and a broader global perspective. Students will be challenged both physically and mentally, while also learning the value of teamwork and adaptability.

We look forward to seeing students take up this opportunity and begin their journey towards what promises to be a rewarding and memorable experience.

Enterprise in Action: Year 9 Business Challenge

This term, our Year 9 Business students took part in an engaging and creative challenge, designing an electric toothbrush and accompanying app for children aged 6 to 8.

Set within the context of the highly competitive global oral health market, students were tasked with developing a product that would stand out through innovation and added value. Working in groups, they approached the task as designers and entrepreneurs, combining creativity with clear business thinking.

Using structured design templates, students developed both a child friendly electric toothbrush and a linked app aimed at making brushing teeth more engaging and effective. The focus on a younger audience encouraged thoughtful consideration of usability, design and motivation.

Each group presented their ideas to the class, demonstrating not only strong understanding of business concepts but also effective teamwork, communication and presentation skills.

The quality of work and the level of enthusiasm shown throughout were impressive, reflecting students’ ability to apply their learning in a practical and imaginative way.

 

Below is our December update of our Headteacher’s blog.

Celebration Assemblies

This week, our school community came together for a series of uplifting Celebration Assemblies led by our wonderful Heads of Year. Each assembly was a chance to acknowledge the hard work, positive attitudes, and outstanding achievements of our students throughout the term.

From academic excellence and personal growth to kindness, leadership, and resilience, we celebrated the many ways our students make our school a vibrant and supportive place to learn. Our Heads of Year spoke with pride and enthusiasm, highlighting individual successes and collective accomplishments that truly reflect our school values.

A huge well done to all students who received awards, and to everyone who continues to strive, grow, and support one another each day. Thank you to our brilliant Heads of Year for delivering assemblies that were both inspiring and heart-warming.

Here’s to finishing the term on a high and looking forward to even more successes ahead!

Enterprise Day at Pinner High School

Enterprise Day is always a highlight of the school year, and this edition brought an exceptional sense of creativity and purpose to the hall. Students from across the school worked in teams to design, produce, and market their own products, transforming ideas into reality with impressive confidence.

One stall that immediately stood out was led by a group that had produced beautifully decorated gift bags for the festive season. Each bag was individually designed and carefully prepared in advance, showing real attention to detail.

The team welcomed visitors with enthusiasm and explained their approach with clarity. Their teamwork shone throughout the day, and it was clear how much planning had gone into their success.

Another lively corner of the hall was the sweets stall, which drew a steady stream of customers. Students worked together to organise stock, assemble orders, and serve an ever-growing queue. They managed the busy atmosphere with calm efficiency and good humour. Watching them collaborate so naturally highlighted the value of practical, hands-on experiences that build confidence and encourage initiative.

Events like this remind us of the power of creativity and teamwork in shaping enriching learning experiences. Our students rose to the challenge with enthusiasm, and the quality of their work made the day one to remember.

Winter Concert

Our Winter Concert was a full house, festive event, showcasing excellent musical performances. Students worked diligently to prepare a diverse and enchanting repertoire from modern winter tunes to popular songs that captured the spirit of the season. It was wonderful to see so many of our families come together and support the hard work and dedication of our students.

Art

Year 10 students have created their own ‘Museum in a Box’ photoshoot, by gathering a selection of objects, whilst carefully considering composition within their photographs.

A Level Art

Our new Year 12 A-Level Art group have made an excellent collection of lino prints.  By using the printing press and specialist printing inks they made triple layered reduction prints.

A small group of Year 12 Art and Science students volunteered at Roxbourne park this month, supporting Friends of Roxbourne Park in protecting the biodiversity within the area. Students got stuck in, clearing weeds away from newly growing tree saplings and laying down mulch and woodchip to support their growth through the autumn and winter. Students were rewarded for their hard work with an art workshop in which students used a range of mediums to create brilliant visuals inspired by their conservation activity and thoughts of our changing environment.

Mandarin

Former student Sami A, enrolled in our Mandarin Excellence Programme (MEP) has won the 2025 Engage with China Scholarship to attend two years of Sixth Form at Concord Bilingual School in Shanghai, China.  This prestigious scholarship includes two years full tuition and boarding fees, annual international flights and daily Mandarin lessons. As part of the MEP, Sami recently achieved grade 8 at Mandarin GCSE. Over the summer, Sami had the opportunity to give a talk at the Chinese Embassy in London and recently he returned to school to speak with our Year 8 and Year 9 MEP students to share his tips for success at Mandarin GCSE. Sami has now flown to Shanghai to begin his Sixth Form studies.  We are extremely proud of his achievements and wish him well.

Miss Hargreaves was a keynote speaker at the Annual Chinese Teaching Conference at UCL, presenting her findings from her doctoral research on how writing produced by Key Stage 3 learners of Mandarin as a foreign language reflects their developing understanding of Mandarin Chinese orthography. She shared highlights from her analysis of Chinese characters written by 72 students learning Mandarin at 7 schools across England.

Senior Maths Kangaroo Challenge Results

Congratulations to Vir P, Jenishan S, Benjamin P and Diyen V who successfully completed the Senior Maths Challenge this half term. All four Sixth Formers answered an intense set of questions and challenges in an incredibly difficult level of national competition. Well done to Benjamin V who received the best score in school and a Bronze certificate for his effort!

At the end of the Summer term, Giorgio B was invited to the UKMT Hanna Neumann Mentoring Scheme – a first for a Pinner High School student to have been offered such an opportunity.  Following this, Giorgio recently sat a 4 hour exam for the British Maths Olympiad, with strict national selection criteria. We are yet to receive the results but we have our fingers crossed!

We are especially proud of Year 12 student Giorgio B, who has been invited to join the UKMT Hanna Neumann Mentoring Scheme. This is the first time a student from Pinner High School has been offered this prestigious opportunity.

Congratulations to all involved for their hard work and enthusiasm for mathematics.

Economics

Year 9 students carried out an in-class market research project, designing a survey using a mix of closed and open ended questions. Data was collected from peers, responses analysed using frequency analysis and students presented their findings via pie charts. The activity provided a hands-on learning experience whilst reinforcing cross-curricular links with Maths and Computer Science.

Year 12 students have had an immersive introduction, researching and reporting on the health of the UK economy.  They have been exploring how various economic systems; free market, planned and mixed, address the economic problem to meet the needs and wants of societies in different countries; considering policy outcomes of different systems, such as priortising social infrastructure vs austerity. Some of the students will be giving up their free time to support our Year 11 Economics students in their GCSE study, passing on their wisdom and guidance.

Two of our top Year 13 economists, Jaiden L and Akshat D, have led their first weekly Sixth Form Economics Society session and plan to run this throughout this academic year. 

Sessions will be based on;

• Risk
• Innovation
• Ecological economics
• Global markets
• UK government policy
  

Activities include:

• Debates – current economic issues
• A monthly exam clinic – model answer swaps and AO skills
• Economics news discussion
• Research for real world application

Computer Science

Year 9 students have been learning how hardware and software interact to process and store data. Topics such as main memory, secondary storage and the fetch-decode-execute cycle have helped students understand how every device they use functions.  Students have begun building programming skills by applying computational thinking, designing flowcharts and algorithms and solving logic-based challenges, all key skills that prepare them for GCSE Computer Science and beyond.

Year 10 GCSE students have focused on Component 2: Computational Thinking. This theme explores how problems can be broken down and solved systematically. Students have practised using pseudocode, structured diagrams, flowcharts, and trace tables to plan solutions, an essential foundation for programming.

During their CPU and Registers drop-down week in October, students revisited key computer architecture concepts, strengthening their understanding of how data moves and is processed. They are now applying these skills in programming development, where they use their knowledge of pseudocode and flowcharts to tackle real coding challenges.

Earlier this term, all Computer Science students took part in the UK Bebras Challenge, a national competition organised by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. This 45-minute online challenge introduces students to computational thinking through engaging problem-solving tasks that develop logic and reasoning skills.

Building Digital Awareness and Real-World Skills in Computing

Our KS3 students have been exploring how to use technology safely, responsibly and creatively.

Year 7 began their computing journey with lessons on eSafety and Computational Thinking. They learnt how to manage files, search effectively online and understand the importance of privacy, digital footprints and respectful online behaviour. These lessons help students develop positive digital habits both in and out of school.

Year 8 have taken this further via their Digital Citizen and Cyber Security unit. They have explored how social media and fake news can influence opinions, how to recognise online risks such as phishing and malware and ways to stay secure online. Students are discovering how computers actually work by studying binary, logic gates and the CPU – linking classroom learning to the technology they use every day.

Through these topics, students are developing practical digital skills and an understanding of how computing connects to real-world challenges, preparing them to be confident and responsible users of technology.

Our Year 9 students have been studying computer systems in greater depth, learning how hardware and software interact to process and store data. Topics such as main memory, secondary storage, system software and the fetch-decode-execute cycle have helped students understand how every device they use functions.

They have also started building programming skills by applying computational thinking, designing flowcharts and algorithms and solving logic-based challenges – key skills that prepare them for GCSE Computer Science and beyond.

Our Year 10 GCSE students have been focusing on Component 2: Computational Thinking, exploring how problems can be broken down and solved systematically. They have practised using pseudocode, structured diagrams, flowcharts and trace tables to plan solutions, an essential foundation for programming.

During their CPU and Registers drop-down week, students revisited key computer architecture concepts, strengthening their understanding of how data moves and is processed. They are now applying these skills in programming development, where they use their knowledge of pseudocode and flowcharts to tackle real coding challenges.

After half term, all Computer Science students will take part in the UK Bebras Challenge, a national competition organised by the Raspberry Pi Foundation. This 45 minute online challenge introduces students to computational thinking through engaging problem-solving tasks that develop logic and reasoning skills.

Drama

Year 12 completed their first full performance in front of a live audience as part of their Component 1 study. The group explored Frantic Assembly’s text ‘Things I Know To Be True’ as a stimulus and devised a moving piece involving physical theatre, soundscape, lifts, round-by-through and many more notable techniques.

Well done to our Sixth Formers!  The same students visited the Lyric Theatre to see Dracula, a reimagined version of the classic tale. Their study of practitioner Katie Mitchell lends itself well to this production as the performance involves a full female cast with Dracula, the central character, omitted from the performance!  A Level Drama students will begin to analyse and evaluate their experience as part of Section A of their Component 3 exam.

Year 9 – Year 13 Drama, History, Government and Politics and Music students attended Lin Manuel Miranada’s mesmerising Hamilton as part of a cross-curricular project. The play explores the ‘forgotten founding father’ and his contribution to America’s independence throughout 1700 – 1800.

 

Year 9 Drama students have begun working with the Andrew Payne text ‘Mugged’, using naturalism as a tool to navigate the story of knife crime.

Year 8 students Kiani P and Gyan J have been appointed Drama Ambassadors for KS3, with Nicola F and Arjun P for KS5.

Auditions

This year’s school production will be High School Musical Jr.  We were delighted to see over 100 students attend auditions – all hoping for a chance to perform in the annual production.  Save the date – Monday 25 May 2026!

Clubs

Students have started participating in a wide range of clubs this half term and they have been delighted with their choices such as; Junior Maths Challenge, STEM, British Sign Language, Musical Theatre, Film and Photography, the Bronze Crest Award and Classics.

English

Many of our students have entered the ‘I have a dream’ poetry competition, run by Young Writers.  We wish them luck!

Our English Prefects led a fantastic Poetry Slam for October National Poetry Day.  Performers from Years 7, 8 and 9 shared their own poetry, as well as their favourite poems by published authors.

Year 13 students attended the English in Action Conference, with speakers including university lecturers, a theatre director and poet laureate Simon Armitage

Year 13 students visited a local school to attend a workshop on Unseen Social and Political Protest writing as part of their exam preparation.

Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge

Sixty of our Year 10 students spent the day with a trainer from the Jack Petchey Foundation learning how to create and deliver effective speeches. This was an excellent opportunity for students to receive advance preparation for their Spoken Language Assessment which will be held at the end of this year. It also means we will have 5 students go through to our assembly final which will be held in January 2026. The winners will go on to our regional final.  Last year we secured 2nd and 3rd place so it’s our turn to bring victory to the halls of Pinner High! Some amazing speeches were heard with topics ranging from young people’s mental health, The Scouts, and sexism in schools. Our students have amazing thoughts and opinions and it was our pleasure to hold space for them in a safe forum where they could find a voice.

Science

Our Year 7 scientists have been buzzing with curiosity this term as they launched into their self-designed practical investigations for the CREST Award Heads Challenge.  The lab was alive with imaginative questions and hands-on discovery – from testing which exercises send heart rates soaring, to exploring how different ramp surfaces change the speed of a racing toy car. Their creativity, teamwork and scientific thinking made for an inspiring showcase of young talent in action.

A group of Year 12 Art and Science students volunteered their services to support Friends of Roxbourne Park in protecting the biodiversity within the area. Students got stuck in, clearing weeds and laying down mulch and woodchip to support the growth of newly planted tree saplings.  Their hard work was rewarded with an art workshop.  Students used a range of mediums to create visuals inspired by their conservation activity and thoughts of our changing environment.

DT

Year 10 recently took part in the Amazon Future Engineers Virtual Careers Tour, providing a fascinating insight into what happens behind the scenes at an Amazon Fulfilment Centre. The interactive session allowed students to explore the technology and processes that keep the operation running smoothly, whilst participating in live quizzes via Kahoot to test their knowledge along the way. It was an engaging and inspiring experience that broadened their understanding of real-world engineering and design in action.

Our A Level Design students visited the V&A Museum to gather primary research for their coursework projects – Year 12 for their Chair Project and Year 13 for Component 1 exam.  Students sketched, photographed and analysed key pieces of design, exploring form, structure, materials and cultural influences to inspire their own creative development. 

A highlight of the visit was discovering the work of Japanese artist Ryunosuke Okazaki, whose striking JOMONJOMON garment series is rooted in a message of peace. Born in Hiroshima, Okazaki draws inspiration from ancient Jōmon pottery, transforming its spiritual, sculptural forms into futuristic fashion. His work provided a powerful example of how personal history and cultural heritage can shape design thinking – a valuable insight for our students as they develop their own ideas.

EAL

We welcomed many new EAL students this term who are settling down very well and are making good progress across their subjects.

FOOD TECHNOLOGY

Year 7 Bread Roll Success!  Students have honed their break roll making technique with some very impressive results

SEN

Year 11 Harrow College Careers Trip

Trip to Uxbridge College (Weald Campus) where students were provided with an insight into college life and some of the courses the college offers. We got to see some hands-on lessons and the support areas the college offers SEND students.

Year 9 King’s Trust Obstacle Course

As part of the King’s Trust qualification, students designed their own obstacle courses and invited staff and Sixth Formers to take part in the challenge. Students were required to use their skills of teamwork, leadership and problem solving to develop their resilience.

Year 7 Board Game Social Trip

With over 850 games to choose from, students spent an afternoon exploring new games and working in teams.

Transport Club

Led by some of our dedicated Year 11 cohort, students were encouraged to share their passion for all things transport.

HAP & Oxford Inspire Programme

This term we have had some fantastic opportunities for our high achieving students to really shine and push themselves. In English, students got involved in the Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge, Poetry Slams for World Book Day and Online Reading Challenges – all great ways to boost their speaking, creativity and love for books.

In Maths, one student was invited to a summer school after ranking among the top participants in the national Maths Challenge – a huge achievement!

Our Oxford Inspire Programme in Years 9-11 has continued with students exploring topics such as how guilt is determined in psychology and five students were invited to a Summer School at Oxford University!

In Mandarin a talk was organised with our alumni who are studying Mandarin at university to provide our students an insight into what studying languages at a higher level is like.

We also organized study days at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge for our Sixth Form students, providing them with a taste of university life and a chance to explore their academic interests. It has been a busy term and our HAP students have really made the most of these exciting opportunities.

History

Black History Month assemblies and Form time activities led by Head Students

EPQ fair – History related EPQ – Lady Jane Grey by Lydia Fennel

Music

Ensemble Club: Year 7 – Year 13, weekly on a Tuesday

Dance Club: Year 7 – Year 13, weekly Tuesday

Choir Club: weekly Wednesday

Staff Choir: weekly Monday

Open day – piano performances, rock band and orchestra showcasing student talent.

Harrow Music Service Festival – upcoming dates

Guitar Festival: 4, 5 February
School Choir Showcase: 2, 3, 4 March
String Festival: 18, 19 March
Percussion Workshop: 30 April
Recorder Festival: 16 June
Song Festival: 9, 10, 11 June
World Festival: 25 June
SING SING SING! w/c 29 June
HMS Ensemble: 9 July

Year 9 students who achieved Grade 4 or Grade 5 in all subjects for ATL (Attitude to Learning) on their 9.1 report were rewarded with a day out bowling.

Library

The Year 7 – 12 Reading Mentoring intervention began this term, with students in Year 12 being trained to support in mentoring our younger students with reading. The mentoring takes place during Form time in the Library and it has been lovely to see the positive engagement and enthusiasm from mentors and mentees alike!