This term our Year 7 artists have been exploring the formal elements in Art, mastering their drawing and painting skills. By observing the work of Leonardo Da Vinci, Claude Monet, and Henri Matisse to inspire their pencil, ink and paint techniques further. This is Michaela’s art project so far.
Ms Papadopoullos
Main Pay/Upper Pay Scale plus TLR1a
We are seeking an ambitious and dynamic Technology specialist who is an excellent classroom practitioner and is able to provide outstanding leadership for students in all key stages including at ‘A’ level. The Head of Technology will report to the Deputy Head and be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Technology curriculum, and the attainment and progress of students. Technology is a thriving department with a wide range of subjects, including Product Design, Textiles, Food Technology, and Hospitality and Catering.
St Mary’s CE High School is committed to providing a safe and caring learning environment, founded on our Christian principles. We continue to develop an excellent standard of education for all students, allowing everyone to achieve their full potential regardless of ability or background in a safe and inspiring community.
The Ofsted inspection of 2023 stated that:
“The school has a well-designed, ambitious curriculum. This is evident in the good quality of pupils’ learning demonstrated in lessons and in their books.”
“Pupils live up to leaders’ expectations of their behaviour. Pupils follow the well-established routines in lessons and usually focus on learning.”
And that “Pupils are proud of their school.”
St Mary’s CE High School is one of three church secondary schools in Hertfordshire, all of which are within the Diocese of St Albans. The school is well recognised in the local community for its high-quality provision and outstanding inclusion agenda.
The SIAMS report of January 2020 said that we have “an exceptionally inclusive and caring community”.
Please complete the St Mary’s application form which is downloadable from the website.
Please note that safeguarding students of the School is a priority. All appointments to posts in the School are made through stringent adherence to the requirements of ‘Keeping Children safe in Education’. As there is a high degree of contact with children an enhanced disclosure will be sought for this post through the Criminal Records Bureau as part of pre-employment checks.
Application Deadline: 9am on 15th March 2024
Interviews: TBC
The Year 11 football team have progressed to the semi final of the district cup by winning two games in a week. The first game, a comprehensive 6-2 victory over Robert Barclay, goals coming from Luca, Josh, Blessing, Harrison and a brace from Hassan.
The quarter final was a much sterner test for the team against a strong Simon Balle side. In challenging conditions, they had to battle through wind, rain and a boggy pitch. They quickly realised that their free flowing football was not going to work and set plays were the way to succeed. St Mary’s took an early lead with a long throw from Cinar, Harrison flicked the ball on and Blessing timed his run perfectly to tap the ball in. St Mary’s defense were up against it in the second half, Simon Balle managed to equalise as a deflected effort found a way past Jake, and the sides were level with 10 minutes left to play. With penalties looming, Cinar’s long throw came into effect again, in what felt like de ja vu a long throw flicked on by Harrison and Blessing snuck round the back post and headed into an empty net. St Mary’s held on to win 2-1. A home semi final awaits after half term.
We welcomed 58 Year 5s from Bonneygrove Primary School to a morning of discovery this week with our Festival of Learning hosted by the History, Geography, RS and PSHE departments.
The children, accompanied by six Bonneygrove staff, enjoyed the 10-minute walk to St Mary’s from their school and spent a busy morning learning about the Second World War, writing to their MP (supporting the persuasive writing work they are currently doing in school) and even uncovering a local myth involving a dragon and an unusual burial site! Every child will receive a certificate from St Mary’s to show for all their hard work.
The next Festival of Learning for local primaries, hosted by our Maths department, takes place on 12 March.
Our Year 10 students had a fantastic opportunity to get a head start on their journey into the working world with their Wexability Day. It was a day packed with practical advice and hands-on activities to equip them for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
First off, we had Kate Carter, Head of Apprenticeship Training at iSales, sharing her insights into the world of apprenticeships. Kate’s presentation wasn’t just informative; it was eye-opening. She gave us a glimpse into the array of apprenticeship options available and offered valuable tips on how our students can stand out from the crowd with their CVs and impress potential employers with their skills and attitude.
Following Kate’s inspiring talk, our students dived into a series of workshops aimed at polishing their job-seeking skills. From crafting compelling CVs to mastering the art of interviews, they were given the tools they need to confidently navigate the job market.
But it wasn’t all about landing the job—our students also learned about the importance of health and safety in the workplace and their rights as young employees. This vital information not only empowers them to navigate their upcoming work experience placements with confidence but also fosters a culture of responsibility and conscientiousness.
At St Mary’s, we believe in preparing our students not just academically but also for life beyond the classroom. The Wexability Day was a prime example of how we’re committed to equipping our students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in the real world.
As these Year 10 students embark on their forthcoming work experience journeys, they do so armed with not just theoretical knowledge but practical skills and a profound understanding of the professional landscape.
Another eagerly anticipated visit from St. Mary’s beloved therapy dog, Godfrey, was orchestrated to coincide with ‘Feeling Good Week’, spanning from February 5th to 9th. Godfrey, a sprightly 6-year-old Border Collie, along with his devoted owner Pam, generously dedicate their time to volunteering with Therapy Dogs Nationwide. This esteemed national charity facilitates visits by trained volunteers and their temperament-tested canine companions to various establishments, offering solace, diversion, and stimulation. Extensive research has underscored the benefits of Animal Assisted Therapies, ranging from bolstered overall health and wellbeing to heightened confidence and enhanced communication skills. Notably, Therapy Dogs Nationwide is increasingly recognised for its role in organising stress-relief sessions and fostering general wellbeing within educational and corporate settings. Godfrey’s palpable enthusiasm for his role shines through in his interactions with both staff and students during group sessions. The profound sense of calm and relaxation experienced by all participants following their time with Godfrey is a testament to the invaluable contribution he makes to their wellbeing.
“Feeling Good Week”, a Hertfordshire-wide initiative, is dedicated to promoting the emotional well-being of young people by raising awareness of mental health and showcasing available support within the community. In celebration of this important event, St. Mary’s organised a series of engaging activities during students’ lunchtimes.
Entitled ‘In Harmony with Nature,’ these activities were designed to nurture an understanding and appreciation of biodiversity, instil kindness towards wildlife, and foster responsible interaction with the natural world. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a more harmonious and sustainable relationship with our environment.
Led by the dedicated Wellbeing Team and supported by trained student Wellbeing Ambassadors, a variety of activities were offered. As well as the usual popular board games, colouring and origami there were opportunities to make nest boxes, construct bug hotels, decorate and embellish feeders and water containers. Alongside this, spring bulbs were planted in containers and then distributed to form rooms for ongoing care and nurturing, symbolising a collective commitment to both individual and environmental well-being.
We are thrilled to share with you the resounding success of our recent Humanities Festival of Learning, where we celebrated our local area through various humanities disciplines including History, Geography, Religious Studies, and Personal Development. The event was an opportunity for students from Bonneygrove Primary School to delve into the richness of our community’s heritage and values. Their enthusiasm and curiosity brought a wonderful energy to the event, and it was heart-warming to see them actively engaged in exploring different aspects of humanities.
From interactive history sessions to thought-provoking discussions regarding myths and legends in Religious Studies, grid referencing in Geography and persuasive writing in Personal Development, each experience was designed to make links with the primary curriculum, inspire creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for our surroundings. Thank you to all of those who contributed to the event. We are looking forward to the next Festival of Learning which will have a Mathematics focus during International Maths Week in early March.
The Year 10 boys team travelled to Robert Barclay for their next district league cup fixture. To progress in to the next round the, Year 10 boys needed a win against their opponents. The game started at a very intense pace and both teams struggled to maintain the ball in the early exchanges. Fouls in and around the 18 yard box would eventually be the un-doing of the St Mary’s side, as Robert Barclay threatened at every set piece. A cross into the box saw the opposition striker head the ball into the net to put the opposition 1 goal ahead. St Mary’s responded well and a direct trough ball put Caleb and the keeper in a 50/50 dual. Caleb came out the successor, and despite taking heavy contact from the keeper managed to nod the ball in to even the score-line. Shortly after the beginning of the second half, Daniel cut inside from the left side and whipped the ball in to the far corner to put the team ahead. Robert Barclay committed players forward knowing that a draw would be enough to see them through to the next round. St Mary’s withstood a lot of pressure and the defensive line stood firm. A few forced substitutions led to disruption, and Robert Barclay managed to capitalize scoring a goal in the final few minutes of the game. A really high quality game played by both sides. The matchday official commented about how well the St Mary’s team had performed and gave a particular mention to Kaden who he felt was the best player on the pitch. A special mention to Elliott, who despite not being a goalkeeper, steps in every game and has impressed between the sticks.
Year 8 Girls football
Well done to the Year 8 girls football team who came 3rd in the District 6-A-Side football tournament.
There were lots of great performances, the team showed versatility having to play in a number of different positions, including Goalkeeper.
Blustery winds and playing on astro turf made conditions quite difficult, but the girls adapted well and played with determination in every match.
Well done to the whole squad:
Selin, Sofia, Shumaila, Frankie, Eva, Andra, Rihana and Yasmin
Ms Andrews
