Benvenuti to Miss Mitric’s Italian Club!

What an incredible journey it has been so far! Miss Mitric’s Italian Club has truly blossomed into something special, and it is all thanks to the amazing students who come along every week with such energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm.

Our club is a little corner of Italy right here at school - a place where we celebrate not just the beautiful Italian language (yes, we are learning the basics for beginners too!) but more importantly, the rich and vibrant “cultura italiana”. From delicious food and iconic music to inspiring figures from Italian history, art, and cinema, we’re exploring it all together.

Each week is a new adventure - one day we might be tasting traditional Italian treats or learning about the magic of Italian music, and the next, we are diving into the lives of Italian legends like Leonardo da Vinci or Sophia Loren. Whether you have got Italian roots or are just curious about the Dolce vita, there is something here for everyone.

And the best part? We are only just getting started. Some truly exciting events are on the horizon, so stay tuned!

To every student who has shown up, participated, laughed, learned, and shared their love for Italian culture – grazie di cuore. Your passion makes this club what it is. You bring so much joy, and I could not be prouder of what we are building together.

Here is to many more weeks of fun, friendship, and La Bella Italia!
Con tanto affetto,
Miss Mitric

Dear Evan Hansen, Sincerely Highfields

Our talented Performance and Choir students were recently treated to a magical afternoon at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre to watch the powerful and moving musical Dear Evan Hansen.

With music by Oscar-winning duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (The Greatest Showman), and a story by Steven Levenson, the show explores themes of identity, mental health, and belonging through the eyes of a high school senior battling social anxiety. Students were captivated by the heartfelt storyline and stunning score but the highlight of the night was still to come.

Taking centre stage in the production was none other than Jessica Lim, a Highfields alumna and former star of our school productions. Many remember her unforgettable performance as Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray when she was just in Year 9!

After the curtain fell, Jessica took time to meet our students, proving that with talent, hard work, and a little Highfields spirit, dreams of the stage really can come true.

It was an unforgettable experience that left our students inspired and excited about the future. Who knows? One day, we might be cheering them on from the audience too.

From Highfields to Hollywood? Phoebe’s Screenplay Shines!

At Highfields, we believe every one of our students has the potential to achieve greatness - and sometimes, they prove us right in the most incredible ways.

Recently, Year 12 Film Studies student Phoebe had her GCSE screenplay submitted to Into Film, the UK’s largest Film Education charity. In an exciting turn of events, the charity selected her work to feature in a training video aimed at helping educators teach screenplay writing more effectively.

To bring the video to life, Paris Zarcilla, a British Independent Film Award-nominated director, was invited to demonstrate tips and tricks for storyboarding and he chose none other than Phoebe’s screenplay to do it! In the video, Phoebe’s words begin to take shape through the creative talents of the celebrated Filipino-British filmmaker, with her name being highlighted as part of the process.

We are incredibly proud of Phoebe for having her talent recognised at such a young age. There is no doubt she has an exciting future ahead, and we can’t wait to see where her journey in film takes her. One thing’s for certain, we’ll be the first in the cinema, popcorn in hand, ready to see her name on the big screen!

If you would like to see the video involving Phoebe’s screenplay, or maybe learn something new, click here.

Highfields Hosts Second Successful Apprenticeship Information Evening

At Highfields, preparing students for the future is a top priority, and we are always looking for new and innovative ways to support their next steps. Last week, we proudly hosted our second Apprenticeship Information Evening, an event designed to give students and their families a deeper understanding of apprenticeship opportunities.

This tailor-made evening focused entirely on apprenticeships, exploring how they work, the wide range of career pathways available, and the benefits of gaining practical, on-the-job training while earning a qualification. Students had the valuable opportunity to meet industry professionals, ask questions, and receive personalised advice to help them take their first steps toward a successful career.

The event was a fantastic success, and we look forward to continuing to provide students with the information and opportunities they need to make informed choices about their futures.

Highfields Takes Part in British Science Week with Hands-On Learning and Live Animal Encounters

Highfields students embraced this year’s British Science Week with a range of interactive lessons and workshops focused on the theme Change and Adapt. From hands-on experiments to live animal encounters, students across all key stages explored how adaptation has shaped life on Earth and how science continues to help us evolve.

Key Stage 3 students delved into the various challenges humanity has encountered throughout history, highlighting the critical role of adaptation for survival. They investigated how technology has aided our adaptability and participated in a "Survival of the Fittest" hands-on activity, utilizing different tools to mimic bird beaks in diverse environments.

For Key Stage 4 and 5, students took part in workshops featuring advanced equipment provided by Amgen UK, a prominent global independent biotechnology firm dedicated to creating innovative medicines for serious health conditions. Through the Amgen Biotech Experience (ABE), the company has introduced over a million students worldwide to hands-on biotechnology education, equipping both teachers and students with research-grade tools at no cost.

Year 13 Biology students engaged in a genetic engineering project designed by Amgen that closely aligned with their curriculum on manipulating genomes. They had the opportunity to genetically modify a DNA segment, verify its functionality using PCR, and insert it into a bacterial cell with specialised equipment typically found in university settings. This experience deepened their understanding of theoretical concepts while allowing them to enjoy the exciting aspects of scientific research!

The Amgen Biotech Experience offers an extraordinary opportunity for our students, many of whom may never encounter university-level equipment and resources. It has been a true joy to impart these skills and hopefully inspire the next generation of geneticists and science researchers.

Students in Years 9, 10, and 12 Biology participated in an introductory program focusing on the significance of measurements, and learned to use a micropipette for handling small volumes. They then completed a challenge to create an image using a set of coordinates and their micropipette.

A highlight of the week included a visit from Simon Airey, known as Animal Man, who brought his remarkable collection of animals to the school. With over 40 years of experience in educational presentations, Simon's focus on the theme of Change and Adapt was perfectly aligned with our objectives. Year 7 students were captivated by his knowledge, not only regarding the animals he showcased but also concerning the urgent need for human adaptation in response to the ongoing loss of biological diversity—a significant global issue driven by an expanding human population and rising resource demands.

Throughout the day, Simon presented to all 280 Year 7 students in three separate sessions. Students were astonished by the unique adaptations of animals, such as the Chinchilla, which possesses 80 hairs per follicle compared to humans' single hair per follicle. While beneficial, this trait has unfortunately contributed to a 90% decline in the wild Chinchilla population over the last 25 years due to hunting and habitat loss.

Simon also introduced the students to his pygmy African hedgehog, which amazed everyone with its spines made from the same protein found in human hair and nails. As the day went on, students learned about the essential role of insects in pollination, discovering that many everyday products, including chocolate, depend on these vital creatures. They were also introduced to a range of invertebrates, such as Giant Borneo stick insects, Madagascan hissing cockroaches, and Giant African millipedes. The emperor scorpions, which appeared black under visible light but glowed under UV light, left a lasting impression on the students, some of whom overcame their fear of spiders by handling various species of tarantula.

Simon’s presentation continued with fascinating tree frogs and the well-known Giant African Bullfrog, affectionately named Jabba. The finale featured an exploration of the captivating world of reptiles, where students encountered species like a baby tortoise, a Yemen Chameleon, a monitor lizard, and a selection of impressive snakes, including a boa constrictor and a Brazilian Rainbow Boa raised by our own Mr. Frost.

The students were absolutely fantastic, eager to absorb every piece of knowledge shared. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Amgen UK and Simon Airey for their support in making this week truly remarkable.

Highfields Celebrates the Life of Former Chair of Governors

On Thursday 6th March, Highfields bid a fond and final farewell to a pillar of the Highfields community, Keith Sedgebeer. Keith was a member of the local governing board for over twenty years, for most of that time serving as Chair of Governors and the Chair of the Lykos Trust board.

Keith’s was a life full of music, travel and love of education. Keith was appointed as General Inspector for Schools (Music) in Wolverhampton, having previously been Music Adviser for Hertfordshire and following a 10-year career as Head of Music Departments in Grammar and Comprehensive schools in Warwickshire and Coventry. During his time as a Music Inspector, he was presented with the ‘Most Innovative Initiatives’ Award, for his work in promoting Music Education in Special Schools and the Multi-Cultural Community. 

Keith also conducted the Wolverhampton Youth Orchestra for over 30 years, during that period they were invited every year to represent Great Britain in International Music Festivals all over Europe, both West and East. Notably, they were the first orchestra to play in East Berlin after the fall of the Berlin Wall. 

In 2017 Keith won the Teacher of the Year accolade at the Express & Star’s Great Big Thank You Awards in recognition of his contribution to education in the city over four decades.

Working with Highfields, he set the culture and ethos we are so proud of today, reminding all of us of the transformative power of music and education. Although many staff and students may not have had the privilege of meeting Keith, his wisdom, experience and dedication have enriched the lives of everyone who has been a part of Highfields.

Mr Tate, Headteacher, shared his experiences of Keith, stating “Keith has seen the school through many difficult times in his same inimitable style. Everything that he has done has been unwaveringly values driven with young people at the heart of every decision, a belief in local representation and accountability and only a slight bias towards the importance of music and the arts!”.

Keith’s charm and caring nature won the hearts of many throughout his life, which was evident as Highfields staff, past and present, joined over a hundred people in attendance at the funeral last Thursday. We would like to thank Keith’s family for inviting Highfields to join them in celebrating his life.

Lastly, we would like to say a final, heartfelt thank you to Keith himself. You held a special place in the hearts of everyone here, and we will remember you with a smile, and cherish the happy times shared together.

Happy Highfields - School Named in Official Ofsted Ranking

Highfields is proud to announce that we have been recognised as one of the top 14 schools in the country for student happiness, according to Ofsted Parent View analysis (2020-2025). An incredible 99% of parents and carers reported that their child is happy at Highfields—a testament to the positive and supportive environment we strive to create every day.

This outstanding achievement is a reflection of our hardworking staff, dedicated students, and the unwavering support of parents and carers. At Highfields, we are committed to not only delivering academic success but also fostering a school community where every student feels happy, healthy, and valued.

Seeing these results only strengthens our motivation to continue developing a thriving and happy Highfields community. Thank you to everyone who makes our school such a fantastic place to learn and grow!

A Thrilling Reward - Year 11 Watch 'An Inspector Calls'

A group of Highfields Year 11 students were given the opportunity to watch Stephen Daldry's adaptation of 'An Inspector Calls' at the Wolverhampton Grand last week. The reward was offered to students who had taken part in the HSWV English Revision Podcast, drama students and pupils who have been working hard in their English lessons! Our Y11's represented the school well and were intrigued by the set design. This was a brilliant opportunity for pupils to see the production come to life and gave them their own opportunity to 'inspect' the Birling family. Read a review from one of our pupils below.

“An Inspector Calls” at the Grand Theatre - Poppy Vaghela

Lights were all on the street of Brumley, set in 1912, the Birling’s house loomed over an Edwardian style street. I had expected the whole stage to simply be the Birling’s dining room where Priestley set “An Inspector Calls” but uniquely enough it was the Brumley streets that lay in front of me and perched in the middle was the beautiful Birling house. Interestingly, the production began with children running round the streets. I was captivated by the setting’s stunning symbolism, the house towered above the street’s slums perfectly embodying the hierarchy of class system of the time.

The play begins from outside of the Birling household, we can hear the faint proposal of Shelia and Gerald’s engagement. Voices grow louder and peering through the windows we hear Mr. Birlings famous capitalistic speech. Setting the scene as a view from the house outside highlights how sheltered the upper-class life of the Birling family is and viewing it from afar makes it look like a dollhouse, which could be a metaphor for their perceivably perfect life.

From stage-left enters the Inspector... Mysteriously dressed in dark clothes and a black hat, he speaks no words. He instead waits in front of the house as Mr. Birling declares his selfish views. The Inspector’s silence builds tension as he struts in front of the house nearing the door. The actor moves slowly, taking his time to open the door making it all the more dramatic when he does. With a great air of moral superiority, he knocks, and, in an instant, the house opens up. All at once the stage is set and the interrogations begin.

One line of inquiry at a time, we see the characters torn apart by the Inspectors weighty words. Each investigation more dramatic than the last and with each character’s responsibility revealed the stage begins to crumble. Using the stage to emphasize dramatic events was extremely effective and highlights the drama in each interrogation. With the house opened up, the scenes seem to take place lower down on stage, thankfully not behind the wall of their dollhouse. Perhaps this was used to symbolize how all the characters are taken down from their high positions and made equal with the Brumley community when the Inspector disrupts the traditional class system views.

The show perfectly pours emotion into the words of the play. Watching it was intriguing, enjoyable and worthwhile. The slight tweaks to the setting emphasize drama and make the play extremely immersive. Overall, I recommend watching this interesting production and give it five moral stars.'

Amazing Authors and Hidden Heroes - Highfields Celebrates World Book Day

Thursday 6 March was World Book Day and as well as ensuring £1 book tokens went out to every year 7 and 8 student, Highfields saw a whole host of activities and events across the week, including book swaps, quizzes, word searches, scavenger hunts and the battle of Book Vs Film.

We had the return of the staff lanyard hunt, with twenty members of staff harbouring fugitives from the library- book characters who were on the loose! Congratulations to Rosie in Year 7, who was the first to complete the challenge! Our lower school students also put their creative skills to the test in English lessons by turning either a wooden person bookmark into a favourite book character, or a miniature wooden door into a doorway to their favourite book world. There were some brilliant interpretations of different books and characters, and the students really enjoyed the task. Several of their pieces were donated and can now be seen on display in the library.

The Readathon is also back! Year 7 are being challenged to read as much as possible in two weeks, while raising money through sponsorship for the charity Read for Good. Parents can help support students in their reading not only by sponsoring them, but by discussing their reading list and target, or by reading along with them.

As an exciting new event for World Book Day, Highfields was pleased to welcome local author Charlie Hill to host an event with hard working year 7 and 8 students. Several students purchased copies of Charlie’s book, The Burning Sword, which he was kind enough to sign for them, and as part of the workshop the whole group were challenged to come up with ideas for a short story. There were so many brilliant ideas being shared, some of them very prescient, from murder mysteries and romances to conspiring governments and the dangers of AI and self-driving cars!

Finally settling on two young people who travel to an island to investigate a virus cloud that seems to take over people’s minds, our students were given the task to go and write a short story based on that concept.

“I was incredibly pleased with the success of our author event this year, the students involved came up with some really interesting ideas for short stories and I look forward to reading any that are finished and submitted to the library. I imagine Charlie Hill has inspired a few of our budding authors to keep working, keep practicing, and keep pushing to improve their skills. I was also impressed by the doors and characters students have created, they will certainly make the library brighter”

-          Miss Hallam, Librarian

“It was lovely to see how excited students were in completing the lanyard hunt and having discussions about the books/characters with members of staff. There was real buzz in the library with lots of students bringing in their book swap tokens, happy to be selecting and taking home their 'new' books.

English staff said how engaged their classes were with the classroom activities which allowed students to be creative whilst also discussing the books they have enjoyed, either as a child or now. All of Year 7 and 8 understood the importance of the World Book Day charity and how they might 'read in their own way' to read for fun. A fantastic day had by all!”

-          Miss Squire, Head of Year 7 and 8 English

The deadline for the Readathon is Friday 21 March, with a donation submission deadline of Friday 28 March. Anyone who would like to sponsor a year 7 can make their donation at https://readathon.my.salesforce-sites.com/sponsor/R4G_SponsorPupilFindSchool1

Details on where to spend book tokens can be found at https://www.worldbookday.com/books-and-tokens/books/participating-retailers/

Year 11 Get Their Ducks in a Row with 'Plan To Succeed Day'

Amid the whirlwind of academic preparation, Highfields held its much-anticipated annual Plan to Succeed Day—an event dedicated to equipping Year 11 students with essential strategies for mastering their upcoming GCSE exams. The day was packed with insightful workshops and interactive activities, all designed to enhance revision techniques and deepen students' understanding of effective learning.

Eager students participated in sessions that demystified the revision process, focusing on the 4Rs approach—Revisit, Reduce, Rehearse, Recall. These workshops provided practical tools to refine study habits and improve knowledge retention, ensuring students were well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Beyond revision strategies, the event also emphasised time management, stress reduction, and the importance of self-care during exam season. Armed with newfound confidence and a structured approach to their studies, students left feeling motivated and ready to tackle their exams with determination.

A standout moment of the day was the distribution of mini rubber ducks, each carrying the playful yet powerful message: "Don't duck out of your revision." This lighthearted symbol served as a reminder of the commitment and perseverance needed for academic success.

Reflecting on the event’s impact, a spokesperson commented, "Plan to Succeed Day is a cornerstone of our Year 11 programme, providing students with the skills and mindset needed to excel. By fostering proactive revision habits, we aim to prepare them not just for exams, but for lifelong learning."

As Year 11 students enter the final stretch of their GCSE journey, Highfields extends its heartfelt support. With resilience, dedication, and the strategies gained from Plan to Succeed Day, they are well-equipped to achieve their goals and unlock their full potential.

With exams on the horizon, the entire Highfields community stands behind its students, cheering them on every step of the way. Backed by dedicated teachers, supportive peers, and a strong revision toolkit, they are ready to rise to the challenge and embrace the bright future that lies ahead.