We’ve had another busy week as we’ve headed towards our half term break. Year 9 have completed their exams and will await their results following half term. They have an exciting few months on their return to school with Futures Week and Options Evening on the horizon.

As part of their History GCSE, Mrs. Ennis reports, ‘On Wednesday, our GCSE History students enjoyed a visit to the Thackray Medical Museum in Leeds. The trip brought their studies to life as they explored the fascinating history of medicine, from Victorian surgical practices to modern breakthroughs in healthcare. Walking through the recreated 19th-century disease street and examining a range of interactive exhibits, students gained a deeper understanding of how medical practices have developed over time. It was clear from their enthusiasm and thoughtful questions that they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The visit not only supported their learning  prior to their exam, but also sparked genuine curiosity and discussion, making it a memorable and valuable day for everyone involved.’

In Forest School this week, Mr. Woodward reports, ‘Another cold week with biting winds but students warmed themselves with a new addition to our Forest School kit: Kelly Kettle storm kettles; these ingenious inventions make warming water and cooking outdoors in poor weather conditions easier, especially when dry tinder and fuel are hard to come by on a damp February afternoon!’

In sporting news, Miss Robson reports, ‘The U15 girls netball team played their Local Schools’ Cup fixture on Wednesday against Outwood Academy, Ripon. The first quarter was a bit messy and we were crowding in the centre court; 1 goal scored to their 5. The second quarter was a similar story. I called the team in at half time, “You’ve got to want the ball… jump for the rebound, snatch the ball in” and we started to get into our flow. Alice W had fantastic reaction skills getting tip after tip on the ball. Our captain Alice B tracked her players closely to get some great interceptions. I was seriously impressed with Maddie at WD, consistently picking up loose balls and sending safe asses. Bella our reliable shooter, once she settled, the goals were popping in easily. Well done to Daisy D, player of the match, playing her best quarter at C, sending strong passes. Georgina was like a whippet, driving into space. Millie worked hard playing C for the first half but her best play was at GS last quarter… with more time the goals would have come. Thank you, Daisy G for playing up and providing another option on court. 15 – 6 loss in the end but how nice it was to see goals going in. 

On another note, netball club continues to prove to be popular with 18 at the club yesterday after school. I’m still waiting for someone to beat me at ‘killer’ (a shooting game). We also said goodbye to our queen of POMs (Player of the Match), Rova, we will miss your presence on court and in our school community. Best of luck at your new school!’

Meanwhile, in football, Mr. Field reports, ‘The Yr9 boys football team took a step back from national competitions to play Queen Ethelburga’s in a local friendly on Tuesday night.  Both teams were eager to reignite the local derby and the match itself did not disappoint with a goal-fest of twelve net bulging scores.  Boroughbridge opened the scoring with a spectacular long range effort from Ward that caught the QE goalkeeper and spectators totally off guard.  The superb strike set the tone for what would be a great end to end match.  QE levelled shortly after kick off and then took the lead after some sustained pressure. Boroughbridge calmly stuck to the game plan and rewards were reaped when pressure on the QE defence led to the conceding of a penalty.  Farnworth, unfazed by the spot kick spotlight, slotted the ball into the net sending the goalkeeper the wrong direction and levelled the scores once more. Two more goals from QE ensured they took a 4-2 lead into the half time break, the Boroughbridge squad listened well to the feedback and showed great resilience and true Yorkshire grit as they competed well in the early exchanges of the second half.  Boroughbridge conceded once more against the run of play but their tremendous mindset was undeterred.  Farnworth, revelling in his more attacking role, struck again with a well taken poacher’s goal inside of the six yard box.  Boroughbridge continued to apply pressure in attack and the substitutions and positional changes worked well.  Farnworth was on hand to expertly dispatch a laser guided freekick into the far top corner from 25 metres out, the view from the sideline was perfect to witness the spectacle and Mr Richardson was mightily impressed with the technique used to complete his hat-trick.  With Boroughbridge enjoying a good spell of possession, nerves in the QE team were jangling as the scores crept close to a draw.  QE pounced on a rare error in defence to maintain the two goal lead but Boroughbridge hadn’t finished yet.  Another excellent delivery from Farnworth into the box from a freekick created the perfect opportunity for Godley to attempt an audacious flick on ‘martial arts’ style which found itself outwitting the goalkeeper and nestling in the back of the net.  The comeback seemed on for the Boroughbridge boys but another QE break resulted in another goal to seal the tie in favour of the home team.  The level of performance from the Boroughbridge squad was fantastic, great preparation for the upcoming ESFA semi final against St Mary’s College.’ 

Today, we were delighted to welcome Year 4, 5 and 6 students from Roecliffe Church of England Primary School to work with Mrs. Valentine on Happy Numbers in Mathematics.

When we return from the half term break, we have our Parent/Carer Information Evening on Wellbeing and Supporting KS4 students with exams at 6p.m. on Wednesday 25^th February. During the evening we will outline exam regulations, how pupils can prepare as well as providing practical guidance on how to help your child with stress management. We look forward to seeing you there.

Please note that we have a Professional Development Day on Thursday 12^th March when students do not attend school.

Have a lovely weekend and half term break!