Exams, a Prom, Magistrates, Challenges, and a really special Visit
This week I want to start by congratulating our GCSE and A Level students on their fantastic approach to their public examinations. Our Year 11 students are now firmly in the groove of exam season and by the end of today, most of our Year 13s have sat at least one exam. They have been a pleasure to work alongside these past couple of weeks especially and they have shown tremendous resilience and composure throughout. It matters to each of them in their own way and they are determined to do their best whatever that may be. One more week until they get time to take a little break and prepare for the final two weeks, which will be hugely successful, possibly even life changing for them.
Our Year 13 had their prom at the Mercure Bankfield last Friday night and, once again, lots of staff were there to welcome them and spend a little time with them on what was to be a very special evening. There were lots of highlights for me in the few hours I stayed but I guess the most special thing was the chance to just chat with students who have been with us for seven years. We reminisced, laughed and took the opportunity to just enjoy an evening that reflected the culture we have at Beckfoot. It was also wonderful to see over thirty students who left us a couple of years ago after GCSEs to pursue interests and courses away from Beckfoot.
They came back with their friends to be a part of our prom and it was a privilege to be able to see them again and talk about their experiences and ambitions. I have such a unique job and I often talk to friends and family about just how special it is to work with young people every day. I want to thank all of our Year 13 students for all they have contributed to our school over the past two to seven years. They are a really lovely group of young people and I know they will make a difference to the world they are about to enter and the people they are yet to meet. On behalf of our school we wish them every success and happiness and we look forward to the leavers assembly next Friday which promises to be very emotional!
Sticking with Sixth Form students, last week a team of our debaters took part in the Yorkshire final of the Mock Magistrates competition at Bradford University. They had to battle their way through four earlier rounds in recent months and found themselves facing Ripon Grammar School in a mock trial overseen by Judge Jonathan Rose, Honorary Recorder of Bradford. The team was made up of Isa, Milla and Aldo who acted as the defence team in a criminal damage and weapons case. Although, it was obvious the accused was very guilty they fought his case well. The trial took place in the Lady Jane court room and Judge Rose was blown away by our students and could not believe they were only 17.
Milla was the cross examiner for the case and was described as eloquent, confident and knowledgeable, Isa was the closer and got a grilling from Judge Rose, but he did not falter and was described as passionate. The Judge said his passion and morality resonated and he would easily have convinced any jury. Aldo acted as the chief scribe and advisory for the council and received the most praise for his true show of teamwork. Judge Rose emphasised that Aldo was the glue of the team and understood that you 'don't need a leading role to have the most impact'. Our students were stunning and the perfect example of the importance of oracy and why being confident communicators is so important to Beckfooters! I am very grateful to Ms. Lowde for all the work and organisation that was needed to make this happen.
Students in court for mock trial schools final - 2024 - News - University of Bradford
Finally, we welcomed ex-headteacher of Beckfoot School, Mr. John D Anderson, to school last week for a visit. He wrote to me a few weeks ago and I welcomed the opportunity to invite him in to school for a visit. We sat and chatted over a cup of tea and walked around the school a little. I wanted him to see the school and our students because I am proud of what happens here every day. I was fascinated to learn of some of the things he faced as a head in the 70s and 80s and the differences and similarities in our roles over the years. He was wonderful company and an absolute gentleman. I felt privileged to have him with us.
Take care
Simon Wade, Headteacher
