Head’s blog – October half term

Friday 20 October 2023 | By System Admin

As the October half term draws to a close, it is clear to see that we have had a fantastic start to the 2023-24 academic year.

A huge well done to our Prep School pupils who, as part of their Harvest Festival celebrations, made a wonderful donation to Thornaby Food Bank last week.  Once again, the generosity of pupils, parents and families here at Teesside High School is wonderful to see.

This week, Senior School Historians travelled to Ypres, Belgium, for a fascinating trip.  Isabella and Isaac in Year 9 were invited to participate in the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate memorial, and they proudly laid a wreath on behalf of staff, pupils and families at Teesside High.  Pupils gathered to listen to The Exhortation, see wreaths and tributes laid and hear buglers play the Last Post, in a moving ceremony which takes place in the town each evening at 8.00pm.  This is undoubtedly a very proud moment for Isabella, who was dressed in her Cadet’s uniform, and for Isaac.  As a school, our acts of remembrance will continue over the coming weeks, culminating in our annual Remembrance Service on Friday 10 November at 10.30am, to which parents, families and members of our local community are warmly invited.

The trip to Ypres is just one of many opportunities our students have to travel this academic year.  In December I will fly to Italy to take to the slopes with 40 excited pupils across Years 8-13, and we also have a language exchange to a school in Nuremberg and a World Challenge expedition in Norway planned.  A fantastic few months ahead immersing our students in memorable experiences abroad.

The second half of the autumn term is one of my favourites.  Not only are we approaching Christmas, but the dark nights and twinkly lights along The Avenue make for a perfect setting for our autumn and winter events.

Don’t forget – our annual Family Firework Display takes place on Friday 3 November.  Tickets are selling fast so please do get in touch with Reception over half term if you would like to come along.  Remember to keep your pumpkins for our competition on the evening!

Future dates for your diary are: Children in Need – Friday 17 November; Senior School Speech Day – Friday 1 December and the PTA Christmas Market – Saturday 2 December. 

Enjoy a restful half term with your family.  It is well deserved.

Read our most recent newsletter here.

Mrs K Mackenzie, Head