The Head of College Reports
October 2024
This half term, our college has been buzzing with activity as students settle into the new academic year. We had the pleasure of welcoming the Class of 2024 with a full-year induction in our spacious atrium. Arranged in a conference style, students engaged in team-building tasks to break the ice and get to know one another. One standout activity involved working collaboratively to create historical and themed fashion out of newspapers which was a surprisingly competitive yet entertaining challenge! It was heartening to see students connecting, using their imagination and working creatively, skills that will serve them well in their future studies and the competitive job market.
Our Year 13 students have returned with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to tackle their final year of A Level and Applied Level studies. During our first assembly, we shared valuable tips on creating effective study routines, time management strategies, and the importance of balancing study with leisure. The positive response from students has been evident in both lessons and independent study sessions, as they implement these recommendations to enhance their academic performance.
I was immensely proud of our students for organising our annual Culture and Diversity Day last week, a vibrant event organised by students to honor the rich tapestry of cultures embraced at our college. Numerous students set up stalls showcasing their national flags and took the opportunity to share insights about their cultures. They also prepared traditional dishes from their countries for everyone to sample. The atmosphere was truly colorful, with many students wearing their cultural attire.
A few weeks ago, our Year 13 students completed their final expedition for the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award. Over the course of three days in the Chiltern Hills, they explored lush meadows, enchanting woodlands, and picturesque villages, applying the map-reading, navigation, and route-planning skills honed throughout their DofE training.
In addition to these skills, the students enjoyed the pleasures of campcraft, creating beautiful memories captured in photographs. We hope these experiences will inspire the new cohort for 2024, as such opportunities are invaluable in shaping young lives. These adventures foster personal growth and provide a broader understanding of the world. Students who engage in these activities discover new interests, develop essential life skills, and build lasting connections within their community.
Our students have been actively participating in a diverse array of extracurricular clubs, including Bar Mock Trial, Debate Club, Eco Club, E-Sports, Basketball, and Football. This week, our football team kicked off the season with an exciting match, triumphing over Belfairs Academy in Southend in a thrilling penalty shootout. Additionally, we are pleased to welcome many new members to our school council, who are hard at work planning for the festive season.
I cannot wait to update you on what promises to be another exciting year here at Sigma Sixth Tendring.
Sarah McKarry, Head of College