30th January 2023
Dear Parents/Carers,
I feel that firstly I should apologise that I haven't communicated with you as much as I should have during my first term as Head teacher. I suggest a ‘C-’ and “Must try harder” on my part! I believe strongly that the relationship which I personally, and we as a school, have with yourselves is vital if we are to achieve our shared goals of success, wellbeing and happiness for our youngsters.
With that in mind I would like to encourage you to get in touch with us should you wish to discuss any aspect of your child’s education. There are various ways to do so, either via phone, e-mail or student planner, however I should ask that you do not turn up at school without an appointment as, in such a busy environment, it is likely that there will not be a member of staff available to see you immediately and that can cause unnecessary frustration. In relation to issues that are important but not an emergency, we would expect to get back to you within 48 hours however, in urgent circumstances we will respond as quickly as possible.
As you are aware, we explained earlier this year the high expectations that we set for our students and each other here at Ballakermeen. In essence we are trying to create a calm, safe and respectful school environment where lessons are purposeful, and learning is effective, efficient and uninterrupted. In school we have a big part to play in explaining exactly what is expected, and we would ask that at home expectations of kindness, honesty and respect are reinforced. However, the most important people in maintaining a positive culture are your children, our students. They must take responsibility for their decisions, and I can tell you that nothing that we are asking or expecting of students is beyond any of them. A huge majority of students have no problem meeting our expectations and for those that have little blips, our behaviour points serve as a low-stakes reminder. There are however some students that, I am sorry to say, continue to make poor decisions. For example, to have multiple people in a toilet cubicle is an active and inappropriate choice. I hope that you share our belief that such unnecessary choices should be sanctioned as they cause problems for other students wanting to use facilities and often lead to other unacceptable behaviours.
I would also like to mention the relationship that we have with our neighbours. It is important that our values of respect extend beyond the school gate and with this in mind I should ask that students are reminded that the unpaved lanes around the school are out of bounds. Students who have the privilege to leave the site at lunchtime should stay on the main pavements as they make their way to get their lunch. Any litter should of course be placed in one of the various bins along the route. In relation to sixth form students who may drive to school, it is important that they always drive and park sensibly and considerately.
From a more positive angle, it has been a good start to term and both Year 13 and Year 11 have successfully completed their mock exams that will offer a good indication of what has been achieved to this point and what work still needs to be done. There is certainly still time for students to make huge progress if they determine to do so however it’s no time for ‘Traa dy liooar’!
Christmas seems a long time ago now however, for those of you who attended the school Carol service, I know that you will join me in thanking and congratulating all the staff and students involved in producing such a wonderful event. Having experienced the event for the first time it will be something that I remember fondly and I'm already looking forward to Christmas 2023!
Last week we had a visit from the Lieutenant Governor who, as ever, was eager to hear about the school and on this occasion, he spoke to a group of our brilliant Sixth Form students. I know that the students thoroughly enjoyed speaking to His Excellency who shared some of his own incredible experiences and discussed the ambitions that the students have for the next stage of their lives.
This week Year 8 will benefit from a PSHE day focusing on protecting them from the risks of various forms of exploitation. Alongside their study of English, Math, Science and all the other subjects it is so important that we also focus on personal development, personal safety and the development of skills and knowledge that will serve them well for the rest of their lives. I have no doubt that this will be an excellent event.
Finally, I would like to mention the Ballakermeen High School Association (BHSA). This amazing group give up their own time to work together to raise additional funds for the school that go directly to providing resources or experiences that are not covered by the main school budget. At present the group, although fantastic, is relatively few in numbers. It would be wonderful to add new members and if you would be interested in finding out a little bit more, please have a look at their Facebook page (BHSA). Even if you are not able to get involved as a member, you can certainly contribute by joining the ‘300 Club’. Again, you will find details on the Facebook page. You may be lucky and win a cash prize however, more importantly, you will certainly make a significant contribution to the funds that the BSHA can distribute.
I will be in touch again soon however may I wish you all the best and thank you for your continuing support.
Take care,
Graeme Corrin, Head teacher