Year 7 Girls Shine in Netball City Tournament, Clinching Silver

The spirit of competition was alive and thriving as the Year 7 girls of Highfields School showcased their talent and determination in the Netball City Tournament at Wolverhampton Girls’ High School, securing an impressive second-place finish. With their outstanding performance on the court, the girls demonstrated the true essence of teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship, earning accolades and admiration from all who witnessed their remarkable achievement.

Throughout the tournament, the Highfields team exhibited sheer dominance, emerging victorious in all their pool matches - a testament to their exceptional defensive prowess and strategic play. Their unwavering determination and commitment to excellence were further evident in the semi-final, where they delivered a resounding victory without allowing their opponents to score a single goal.

However, it was in the final showdown against WGHS that the girls truly showcased their mettle, engaging in a fiercely contested battle that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Despite their valiant efforts, the match concluded with a narrow 3-2 victory in favor of WGHS, leaving Highfields just shy of clinching the coveted title. In a testament to their sportsmanship and resilience, the girls graciously accepted the outcome, acknowledging that time was the ultimate victor in this thrilling encounter.

Nevertheless, the Highfields team emerged from the tournament with heads held high, proud of their exceptional performance and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Their outstanding achievement was duly recognised, and they were awarded well-deserved medals, which will be presented to them in a special assembly after the Easter break.

Highfields School extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Year 7 girls' netball team for their remarkable success in the City Tournament. Their dedication, teamwork, and unwavering determination have not only brought pride and honor to the school but also served as an inspiration to their peers and the entire school community.

Bright 'Sparx' - Maths Reward Event

During lunchtime on Tuesday and Wednesday, Highfields hosted a special Maths Reward Event, honoring students who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievement in their studies. The event, a testament to the school's commitment to recognising and celebrating academic excellence, was a resounding success, showcasing the remarkable efforts of our students.

At the heart of the event were the highest scorers on Sparx Maths in Years 7 and 8, who were awarded with Mini Eggs and entered into a prize draw for a £10 Amazon gift voucher, in recognition of their outstanding performance. These students distinguished themselves not only through their exemplary homework completion percentage but also through their impressive XP boost scores, earned by consistently surpassing their set homework goals.

This highlighted not only academic proficiency but also a proactive approach to learning and a willingness to go above and beyond expectations. By rewarding students who have demonstrated exceptional effort and commitment to their studies, Highfields aims to inspire and motivate all students to strive for excellence in their academic pursuits.

As we continue to nurture and support our students on their educational journey, events like these serve as a reminder of the school's unwavering dedication to providing a supportive and enriching learning environment. Congratulations to all the award recipients, whose hard work and determination exemplify the school's values of excellence and achievement.

With each accolade and recognition, Highfields reaffirms our commitment to empowering students to reach their full potential and achieve success in all areas of their academic and personal development.

Highfields Welcomes Severn Trent Water for Engaging Science Week Assemblies

During the 30th British Science Week, Highfields School had the privilege of hosting Chris Harper, STEM Ambassador and Community Relationship Advisor for Severn Trent Water. On Tuesday, March 12th, and Thursday, March 14th, Mr. Harper delivered captivating assemblies targeting students in Years 9 and 10, focusing on the intriguing topic of the "Science of Sewage."

Mr. Harper's engaging presentations covered a wide array of key themes, including the importance of water in everyday life, water treatment processes relevant to the GCSE specification, and crucial aspects of sewage systems. Students actively participated in interactive activities, learning about what should and shouldn't enter the sewage system—a point hilariously illustrated by Mr. Frost donning a poo emoji on his head.

Throughout the assemblies, students were amazed as they were shown various unusual items that frequently find their way into sewage systems, ranging from toys and mobile phones to spectacles, nappies, money, and even false teeth. Mr. Harper also delved into the history of waterworks and discussed the use of biological indicators, providing valuable insights into the fascinating world of wastewater management.

In keeping with the British Science Week theme of time, Mr. Harper skillfully incorporated timings for each stage of the sewage treatment process, ensuring that students gained a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter while also highlighting the importance of efficient water management.

The assemblies proved to be both educational and entertaining, leaving students with a newfound appreciation for the intricate science behind sewage treatment and water conservation. Highfields extends its sincere gratitude to Chris Harper and Severn Trent Water for their invaluable contributions to Science Week, inspiring curiosity and learning among our students.

As Highfields continues to foster a culture of scientific inquiry and exploration, initiatives like these play a crucial role in broadening students' horizons and empowering them to become informed citizens in an ever-evolving world.

Fantastic Funding - Highfields Receives Donation

Highfields School is delighted to announce a significant boost to its performing arts program, thanks to a generous donation from Tesco as part of their community funding initiative. Ms. Bishop, a dedicated member of the school staff, spearheaded the successful application for funding, which has had a profound impact on the school's ability to provide enriching opportunities for its students.

The application, submitted to Penn Tesco, was selected as one of three blue token charities available for community voting. Through the overwhelming support of the community, Highfields emerged victorious, securing a prize of £1500. This invaluable contribution has been instrumental in supporting the school's most recent performance, The SpongeBob Musical, which captivated audiences with its vibrant energy and creativity.

Ms. Bishop, who played a pivotal role in securing the funding, emphasized the importance of such support in nurturing the performing arts within schools. "Our performances play a vital role in building the confidence and self-esteem of our young people," she remarked. "They teach invaluable lessons about cooperation and teamwork, while also providing a platform for fun and friendship."

Indeed, the impact of the funding extends far beyond the stage, enriching the lives of students and fostering a sense of community within the school. Through collaborative efforts and a shared commitment to excellence, Highfields continues to empower its students to explore their creativity and express themselves through the performing arts.

As the school extends its heartfelt gratitude to the community and Tesco for their generous donation, it reaffirms its dedication to providing high-quality arts education for all students. With continued support from partners like Tesco, Highfields looks forward to inspiring future generations of performers and artists, ensuring that the transformative power of the arts remains alive and thriving within the school community.

Expedition Excellence: The Duke of Edinburgh Awards Evening

On Thursday, March 7th, Highfields hosted its highly anticipated annual Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Awards Evening, a celebration of achievement and dedication among its students. With over 80 students in attendance, the event was a testament to the hard work and commitment displayed by participants in the DofE program throughout the year.

The evening, hosted by DofE Manager Mr. Moody, was a momentous occasion for students to receive recognition for their accomplishments in the program. Joining the festivities as a guest speaker was Kay Starkey from the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, adding an inspirational touch to the event.

For parents and carers in attendance, the evening provided a glimpse into the students' journey through the DofE program, showcasing the skills, resilience, and determination they had developed along the way. Highlights of the evening included heartwarming videos of the 'Backpack Boogie' and the 'Sleeping Bag Olympics,' demonstrating the students' creativity and camaraderie throughout their DofE experience.

As each student received their award, there was an overwhelming sense of pride and achievement in the room. From the Bronze to the Gold level, each accolade symbolized the students' unwavering dedication to personal growth and adventure.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, Mr. Moody expressed his pride in the students' achievements, stating, "The Duke of Edinburgh Awards Evening is a culmination of the hard work and perseverance demonstrated by our students throughout their DofE journey. It's incredible to see how they have embraced the challenges and opportunities presented to them and emerged as confident, resilient individuals."

As the evening drew to a close, students, parents, and staff alike left with a sense of pride and accomplishment, buoyed by the knowledge that the lessons learned and experiences gained through the DofE program would stay with them for a lifetime.

Highfields extends its heartfelt congratulations to all students who received awards at the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Evening. Your dedication, perseverance, and spirit of adventure are a true reflection of the school's values, and we commend you for your outstanding achievements.

Words, Wallys and Wonders - World Book day comes to Highfields.

Thursday 7 March was world Book Day and Highfields once again celebrated the day with a host of activities for lower school to get involved with. While there was a change from the usual celebrations, as there was no dressing up this year, there was still a lot on offer.

Lower school spent form time designing their favourite book characters, year 7 on bookmarks to keep and year 8 in their WBD activity booklets.

The book swap was a resounding success for the third year in a row, with students given the chance to swap their preloved books for ones donated by others.

This year the Maths and Science LRC was host to a book themed activity table, including wordsearches, colouring pages and the library research challenge.

Twenty brave staff members volunteered to be hunted by students by wearing lanyards featuring library book covers, with students challenged to find out which staff members were wearing each book. Some staff even said they felt like celebrities as they were swarmed by students asking for their information!

There were also many avid Wally Watchers in school, who spent the day hunting for 15 Wally’s that had gotten into the building and hidden themselves around the corridors and LRCs!

World Book Day also saw the launch of the year 7 Readathon. Students in year 7 are encouraged to read as much as possible in two weeks in order to raise money for the charity Read for Good, who pay for books and storytellers for children in hospitals.

“The students always get a lot of enjoyment out of World Book Day, and this year was no different. It was great to see so many getting involved in the scavenger hunts around school during break time, and to hear the discussions at the book swap about which books were best! I hope the students enjoyed designing their favourite book characters in form and that they make the most of their book tokens.” -Miss Hallam, Highfields school librarian.

“As always, World Book Day was a great occasion for our students to celebrate their love of reading and all things book related. Having the literary lanyards was a brilliant idea of Ms Hallam’s and many staff found themselves being followed down corridors by eager students desperate to identify staff and record their answers for the quiz.  The library was positively buzzing at break and lunchtime and it is always a joy to see our students so enthusiastic about literature. We are very much looking forward to supporting the Readathon sponsorship in English lessons and I feel very positive that we will be able to make a real contribution to this excellent charity.’ -Miss Hannon, Head of Communications.

The deadline for the Readathon is Thursday 21 March. Anyone who would like to sponsor a year 7 can make their donation at https://readforgood.org/

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

Highfields Students Shine in Spectacular Performance of The SpongeBob Musical

In a dazzling display of talent and creativity, Highfields students took to the stage to bring the magic of Broadway to life with their captivating performance of The SpongeBob Musical. Spearheaded by dedicated staff members Ms. Bishop, Mrs. Jevon, Mr. Francis, Miss Needham and Mr Evans, this ambitious production showcased the remarkable collaborative effort of students and staff alike.

From the moment the stage lights came on, the audience was transported to the vibrant underwater world of Bikini Bottom, where SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends embarked on a thrilling adventure filled with laughter, friendship, and catchy musical numbers. The stage came alive with colorful sets, dazzling costumes, and dynamic choreography, all meticulously crafted to capture the essence of this beloved animated series.

Under the guidance of Ms. Bishop, Mrs. Jevon, and Mr. Francis, students poured their hearts and souls into their performances, delivering stellar portrayals of iconic characters such as SpongeBob, Patrick Star, Sandy Cheeks, and Squidward Tentacles. Their energy, enthusiasm, and dedication shone through in every scene, earning thunderous applause from the audience.

The musical numbers, featuring songs by renowned artists such as David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper and Panic! At The Disco, served as the perfect backdrop to the unfolding story, adding depth and emotion to each character's journey. From upbeat anthems to heartfelt ballads, all the music was performed by the school band comprising of our most talented student instrumentalists.

As the final curtain fell on The SpongeBob Musical, the Highfields community erupted into applause, celebrating the culmination of months of hard work and dedication. The production served as a shining example of the school's commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and artistic expression among its students.

Highfields extends its heartfelt congratulations to all students and staff involved in this unforgettable production. Their passion, talent, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the school community, inspiring future generations of performers to dream big and reach for the stars.

Academic Adventure at Condover Hall

As the pressure of upcoming exams loomed, Year 11 students at Highfields embarked on a unique and rejuvenating experience aimed at balancing intensive study with much-needed relaxation. The school organized a residential study weekend at Condover Hall, providing students with a refreshing break from their usual routine while ensuring continued preparation for their impending GCSEs.

Nestled amidst the picturesque countryside, Condover Hall served as the perfect backdrop for a weekend of learning and leisure. The students were whisked away from the confines of the classroom to engage in a variety of outdoor activities, ranging from aerial rope courses to canoeing and wall climbing. These thrilling pursuits not only offered a welcome reprieve from the rigors of academic study but also fostered teamwork, resilience, and a sense of adventure among the students.

Despite the focus on leisure activities, the weekend wasn't devoid of academic engagement. Students dedicated time to revising essential subjects such as Maths and English, ensuring they remained on track with their exam preparation. The immersive learning environment provided by Condover Hall allowed students to approach their studies with renewed focus and enthusiasm, free from the distractions of everyday life.

As the sun set on the final evening, the weekend culminated in a lively disco, where students danced and celebrated their accomplishments amidst laughter and camaraderie. It was a fitting conclusion to a weekend filled with memorable experiences and valuable lessons.

The weekend retreat not only equipped students with essential academic skills but also nurtured their personal growth and resilience, preparing them to face the challenges of exams with confidence and determination.

As Year 11 students return to their studies, Highfields wishes them continued success and perseverance on their academic journey. With memories of a weekend filled with adventure and camaraderie, they are better equipped to navigate the road ahead and emerge victorious in their GCSE examinations.

Plan to Succeed day - a quacking success!

Amidst the hustle and bustle of academic preparation, Highfields recently hosted its highly anticipated annual Plan to Succeed Day, an event designed to arm Year 11 students with invaluable tips and strategies for mastering their upcoming GCSE exams. The day was brimming with insightful workshops and engaging activities focused on effective revision techniques and the science of learning.

As students gathered eagerly, they were immersed in a series of workshops aimed at demystifying the art of revision. The sessions delved into the intricacies of the 4Rs approach - Revisit, Reduce, Rehearse, Recall - providing students with practical tools to enhance their study habits and optimize retention of key concepts.

Throughout the day, students eagerly absorbed advice on time management, stress reduction techniques, and the importance of self-care during exam season. Armed with knowledge and confidence, they were empowered to approach their studies with renewed vigor and purpose.

A highlight of the day was the distribution of mini rubber ducks, each bearing a symbolic message: "Don't duck out of your revision." This whimsical reminder served as a tangible symbol of the commitment and determination required to succeed in their academic endeavors.

Reflecting on the significance of the event, a spokesperson remarked, "Plan to Succeed Day is a cornerstone of our Year 11 program, providing students with the tools and mindset needed to excel in their exams. By instilling a proactive approach to revision and study habits, we aim to equip our students not only for academic success but also for lifelong learning."

As Year 11 students embark on the final stretch of their GCSE journey, Highfields extends its heartfelt wishes for success. With determination, resilience, and the strategies learned on Plan to Succeed Day, the students are poised to achieve their goals and unlock their full potential.

As the countdown to exams begins, the entire Highfields community stands in solidarity with Year 11, cheering them on every step of the way. With the support of dedicated teachers, supportive peers, and a newfound arsenal of revision techniques, the students are well-prepared to conquer their exams and embrace the bright future that awaits beyond.

Highfields Students Conquer the Slopes and Spread Cheer on Ski Trip to Italy

From February 10th to 17th, a group of 85 Highfields students, embarked on an exhilarating journey to Mont Cimone, Italy, for a week of skiing adventures amidst the stunning Apennine Mountains. Organised by Ms Stevenson and led by 12 dedicated staff members, the trip proved to be a remarkable blend of adrenaline-pumping slopes, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories.

Despite the long coach journey, the students exhibited remarkable resilience and positivity throughout, setting the tone for a trip filled with camaraderie and adventure. Long days on the ski slopes tested their endurance, but they rose to the challenge with determination and a spirit of teamwork, seamlessly navigating the slick and streamlined system for boots and equipment.

Throughout their stay, the students' exemplary conduct did not go unnoticed. From coach drivers to hotel staff and local shopkeepers, everyone they encountered praised their manners and considerate behavior, a testament to the values instilled by Highfields.

The trip was not without its highlights and low points. From heartwarming moments like Jerwariah's perseverance after a fall to the infectious joy of the girls singing Adele while descending the mountain, each day was filled with unforgettable experiences. Mrs. Sangha's mastery of parallel skiing and the humorous mishaps of the "super skiers" added to the memories that will be cherished for years to come.

However, amidst the excitement, there were also minor grievances, such as the plea for a break from pasta by Mrs Clowsley. Nonetheless, these minor inconveniences paled in comparison to the overwhelming sense of achievement and joy that permeated the trip.

For Ms Green, the experience was a poignant reminder of the profound impact of witnessing students' growth, both socially and emotionally. It was not only a chance to see the students in a different context but also an opportunity to forge deeper connections with colleagues.

As the trip drew to a close, tired but beaming faces reflected the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie that had defined the week. From conquering the slopes to spreading joy on the dance floor during the Valentine's Day disco, every moment was a testament to the spirit of adventure and community that defines the Highfields.

Highfields extends its heartfelt congratulations to all the students and staff who made the ski trip to Mont Cimone a resounding success. With memories of snowy slopes and shared laughter, the bonds forged on this trip will undoubtedly last a lifetime.