The sun has shone this week and, as a consequence of the very dry March we have experienced, it has been possible to open the field to the students; a real sign that summer can’t be too far away. 

Another sign that summer can’t be far away is our Year 11 ADT students starting their practical exams this week. These contribute 50% of their marks and so are critical to the students achieving their desired grades. I have been pleased with the positive attitude displayed by the students as they complete their final pieces. The quality of the work has also been great to see. 

Over the past week and a half, students from across the year groups have been participating in our termly Music performance platforms. This has been a combination of experienced performers and newcomers, getting their first taste of performing to an audience here at Severn Vale. It has been really pleasing to see a wide range of singers, guitarists, pianists, drummers and flautists involved. We saw a number of our Year 10 and 11 GCSE students perform which will contribute towards their coursework evidence. A well done is due to everyone who participated - the Music department has definitely been bustling with a lot of music-making.  Our next performance platforms will be in term 6 given term 5 is such a short term.

Also on the Music front, on Friday we welcomed our new drum kit teacher, Phil Jones, who gave two fantastic workshops on basic drum kit skills. They explored stick technique, posture, and rhythmic coordination in a real work out of play-alongs and syncopated challenges. Please contact Mr Khokher (okhokher@severnvaleschool.com) if you would like any information about your child starting instrumental lessons.

On the sporting front this week:

• Year 11 Football – this week our Year 11s battled through to the County Cup semi-finals. Facing Wyedean School in the quarter-finals, the boys were minutes away from going out, as they trailed 1 – 0. A last-minute equaliser from Seb B took the game to penalties, which they duly won 4 – 2.  We look forward to hosting Rednock in the semi-finals next week.

• U14 Rugby - our U14 girls rugby team played in a County Rugby Festival at Churchdown this week. It was the first time the team had played contested rucks, so it was a steep learning curve for the girls. They lost 4-1 to Castle School, 4-2 to Crypt, 6-0 to Dene Magna and beat Newent 5-2. A lot of the girls are relatively new to rugby and were playing against some very experienced players. They played with grit and determination, putting in some great tackles. Player of the tournament went to our top try scorer Beth M.

• Table Cricket – last week, a squad of players from our SV Flow Club travelled to Blaise High School in Bristol for the County Table Cricket tournament. Our students were brilliant from start to finish, and a real credit to the school. They won all their pool games but then lost to the eventual winners in the knockout stages. Well done to all who participated.

Today our Year 7 rugby team departed for South Wales for a rugby tour. It will be a great experience for the boys and we wish them well in their two fixtures. 

As always, I include my weekly reminder about Free School Meals eligibility. If your financial circumstances have changed, your child may be eligible for Free School Meals. If you click on this link you will find guidance on the eligibility criteria and the application process. It's a quick process and we are notified of all FSM entitlements by Gloucestershire County Council each Monday. I would urge you to take a look if you think you may benefit from financial assistance.   

The sunshine looks to continue. I do hope you enjoy a great weekend.

Kind regards,  

Richard Johnson 
Headteacher