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It was a pleasure to welcome so many parents and carers to the Year 8 Consultation Evening last night. I have since received a number of messages thanking our staff for their warm welcome, knowledge of each child and the advice given. We really appreciate this feedback. It was particularly encouraging to see so many students attending this event; their involvement in these conversations is invaluable in helping them understand the steps they need to take to achieve their goals.

We have now launched the Year 8 Pathways process. Mr Reed has shared information by email, including clear instructions on how to submit preferences. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Protective Security
Over recent weeks, we have been reminding our students about the importance of personal safety. Their conduct around the school continues to be excellent, reflecting our values of respect and kindness. It is this culture that ensures so many of our students feel safe and supported on site.

Last term, I wrote to you about our Protective Security Policy, which is in place should an emergency arise. We regularly practise fire evacuations, as well as in-class lockdown procedures. As part of updated national guidance, we are also required to teach students how to respond in the unlikely event of a lockdown occurring during lesson changeover, break or lunchtime.

In assemblies last week, we spoke to students about the importance of responsibility and initiative. In lessons, staff are on hand to guide them; however, during less structured times of the day, students may need to act more independently. They have been advised to move quickly and sensibly to the nearest classroom and keep themselves safe. We recognise that this may feel unsettling, but it is important that students feel prepared and confident in knowing what to do.

On Tuesday, we practised a dynamic lockdown for the first time. I would like to express how proud I am of our students. The vast majority responded calmly, maturely and with real responsibility. They moved swiftly to the nearest classrooms, supported one another and followed procedures carefully. In some instances, students entered rooms without staff, yet they showed initiative by securing the room appropriately and maintaining a calm environment. Their conduct was exemplary.

You may have seen recent media coverage of schools needing to implement lockdown procedures in real situations. Understandably, this can be concerning for parents. In any such event, our absolute priority has to be the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff. Communication with families will follow as soon as it is safe and appropriate to do so, and I am confident that parents will understand the need for this careful prioritisation.

Homework Forum
On Wednesday, we were very grateful to the parents who gave their time to attend our Homework Forum. Following our recent parent survey, we have been reviewing and reshaping our homework approach, and it was important to us to seek parental views before finalising any changes.

There was strong agreement that homework should support the development of independent study habits, organisation and responsibility; reinforce and consolidate learning; build confidence; and prepare students effectively for GCSE study and beyond. The discussions were thoughtful and constructive, and we are grateful for the valuable feedback shared, which will now be fed back to staff.

We plan to introduce the revised approach in the summer term on a trial basis. This will allow time for reflection and adjustment before the policy is formally finalised and published in September.

Uniform
Earlier this week, Mrs Woods wrote to families with a gentle reminder that leggings are not part of our school uniform, even if they are loose around the ankle. (Conversely, leggings may be worn for PE, where they should be close-fitting and suitable for sports.) We appreciate that families may need a little time to ensure the correct items are in place, and we are grateful for your support in this. Our skirts and trousers will continue to form part of our school uniform, and we ask that students are wearing the correct items from the start of the summer term after the Easter break.

We are also in the final stages of consultation regarding our school uniform for September 2026. Thank you to all parents, carers, students and staff who have shared their views, including through the recent survey - your feedback has been invaluable. We understand that many families are keen to plan ahead, and we appreciate your patience while we have worked closely with suppliers to ensure we meet the requirements of the new Department for Education guidance, including the need for two uniform providers. I have also been discussing the proposals with students and have been delighted by their positive and enthusiastic response. I will write to you with full details shortly after Easter.

I wish you all a restful weekend.
Mrs Dawn German

All key dates for 2025-26 are also available on the website.

Assembly - Student Council
The school student council hosted this week's assemblies. They gave an update on the important issues discussed at their most recent meeting with Mrs German. They also invited all of the school's students to consider becoming part of the student voice for next year.

HPV Consent Form (Year 8 ONLY) - Wednesday 22nd April 2026
Further to the emails sent to you on 6th March and today, please follow this link to book your child/ren’s vaccination if you haven't already.

Please note this is for Year 8 ONLY. The School Code that parents will need to book it is SH116431

School Musical - Bugsy Malone
Tickets Now on Sale!

Public Performances:

Adults - £6, Concessions - £4

Science Week - Bridge Design Competition
Last week students in Year 7 and 8 had a design and construction challenge as part of National Science Week. Congratulations to the Year 8 team that won by designing a bridge that could hold the most weight by being self supporting over 40cm.

Year 11 History Booster Session

GCSE Contingency Day 2026
The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) has set aside Wednesday 24th June as the GCSE Contingency Day 2026. This means that pupils need to be available up until this day to sit an examination even if their timetabled examinations finish sooner. The reason for this day "is to reschedule exams if a national incident or widespread disruption prevents them from taking place as planned, ensuring all students have a fair chance". If a pupil is unable to attend this date "they will be considered absent and will not receive a grade for that component". We therefore strongly advise that you do not make any plans to go on holiday until after this date.

Year 11 - Prom Date Confirmation - Friday 19th June 2026

DFE - Education Record App
As you may have seen in the news the Department of Education (DfE) is introducing the Education Record app for current Year 11 students.   This app will allow students to access their education information on their mobile phones as a secure education record. 

It will contain:

We have been invited to be part of the first phase of this exciting project facilitating students' access to this app, and more information about this process will be shared with you in the coming weeks.  If you would like to find out more information now you can access it on the DfE website.

Parents of secondary age children in mainstream school and children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) can now apply for School Transport for the 2026/27 academic year. Applications for primary age children in mainstream school will open on 16 April.

Application deadlines
You can check whether your child or young person is eligible for transport on the School Transport webpages. If you believe they meet the criteria, and you need help getting them to school, you must apply on time to make sure your application is reviewed before September. The deadlines are:

If your child already receives School Transport, you don't need to do anything unless your circumstances have changed. If you have moved home or school location, you will need to reapply for transport. Visit the website for full details including how to apply

Ways Forward - our weekly newsletter for Careers, Apprenticeship, College, Work and Work Experience.

In Ways Forward this week we're focusing on careers in the Creative Industries, speech and language therapy, NHS health careers, and the Oxford University Student Conference. As usual we highlight local apprenticeship vacancies that Year 11 students might like to apply for.

We have marked NeuroDiversity Celebration Week this week and promoted lots of beautiful new books! Next week is Shakespeare Week and we will also be promoting World Theatre Day (27th). Some Year 8 tutor groups have been choosing individual books during tutor, having finished their group book, and have been pleasantly surprised by the range they can find to borrow. We have 4,500+ items in the LRC Library and around 7,000 on the digital platform, SORA.

Year 10 Rugby 7’s
The Year 10 rugby team took part in the District Rugby 7s tournament on Tuesday, delivering an exciting series of performances.

They began strongly against Testbourne, with Mylo Street and Akari Pieters both going over the whitewash early on. Taylyn Weatherhead added another, and with his first touch of the ball, Jacob Miles crossed the line to secure an impressive 4–1 victory.

Next, the team faced a strong Wellington side in a fast-paced and highly competitive match. Akari continued his excellent running form, while Mylo added two tries of his own. Wellington responded well throughout, leaving the score level at 3–3 at half-time. The second half was just as intense, with Taylyn scoring a memorable try and Mylo producing a superb dummy to cross again. Wellington replied once more, resulting in a thrilling 5–5 draw.

The final game against John Hanson proved to be a closely contested local derby. Both teams defended resolutely and moved the ball well, with several scoring opportunities narrowly denied. Taylyn and Akari both scored in the first half, alongside two tries from John Hanson. John Hanson edged ahead early in the second half, and despite a determined team effort and sustained pressure, the boys were unable to find a final score. Strong defence from John Hanson, including a crucial held-up ball and turnover on the line, saw the match finish 3–2.

The team was well captained throughout the day by Tom Webb, although perhaps the finer points of Sevens strategy are best left to the professionals.

Overall, it was a fantastic effort from all involved, showcasing teamwork, resilience and determination throughout the tournament. We wish all players a speedy recovery after a physically demanding day.

Netball
The Year 7A netball team hosted The Clere on Tuesday in a rearranged fixture, delivering a confident and composed performance from the very first whistle. Strong attacking play in the goal third saw Frances and Lizzie link up superbly, with Frances finishing accurately and scoring freely throughout the match. In defence, Florence and Amelia worked tirelessly to limit Rookwood’s chances, making a series of excellent interceptions and applying constant pressure to prevent many shooting opportunities. It was a well-rounded team performance, resulting in a convincing 14–4 victory for Harrow Way.

Player of the Match - Florence. Coach’s Player - Frances.

On a sunny Wednesday afternoon, the Year 7B team took on Rookwood in an exciting and hard-fought match. The team started a little tentatively and found themselves 3–1 down at the end of the first quarter. Despite their efforts, the score remained unchanged going into half time.

Following some guidance during the break and a few positional changes, the girls returned to the court with renewed confidence and determination. Their passing became sharper and more controlled, allowing them to edge ahead and take a 4–3 lead.

Heading into the final quarter, the centre court players of Macey, Esmae and Sonia continued to work tirelessly, linking defence and attack effectively. A particularly impressive passage of play saw the ball move seamlessly from Mollie in GK through the court to Olivia as GS, resulting in a well-earned sixth goal. The team continued to build on this momentum, securing a convincing 7–3 victory for Harrow Way.

Player of the Match - Olivia. Coach’s Player - Esmae.

8B Harrow Way V The Clere
Harrow Way delivered a confident and well-earned victory over The Clere, finishing the match 12–7 after a strong all-round team performance.

From the first whistle, Harrow Way set the tone with an impressive opening quarter. Ivy controlled the centre court with composure, delivering precise and effective passes that kept the play flowing. Her distribution allowed Scarlett and Jess to work seamlessly in the goal circle, where their teamwork paid off with two well-taken goals.

Harrow Way’s defence also held firm, preventing C from getting on the scoreboard and closing the quarter 2–0 ahead.

As the game progressed, Harrow Way grew in confidence. Their passing became sharper, movement more fluid, and defensive efforts more consistent. By the final quarter, Harrow Way were in full control. Their attacking play was relentless, and The Clere struggled to contain the momentum. With no stopping Harrow Way, they dominated the closing stages of the match to secure a convincing 12–7 win.

Overall, it was a fantastic team performance, highlighted by excellent centre court play, strong shooting partnerships, and solid defence throughout.

Player of the Match - Izzy. Coaches player- Brooke.

8A Harrow Way V John Hanson
Harrow Way faced a tough challenge against a fast-paced John Hanson side, ultimately falling to a 22–6 defeat despite a determined effort throughout the match.

John Hanson came out of the blocks with speed and intensity in the first quarter, catching us off guard. Their sharp attacking play and quick transitions left Harrow Way struggling to settle, and by the end of the quarter John Hanson had surged ahead 7–1, leaving Harrow Way exhausted and searching for answers.

In the second quarter with improved composure and determination. While there was a noticeable lift in organisation and effort, John Hanson continued to dominate. Their centre court controlled the game effectively, feeding into strong and accurate shooters. Defenders Hollie and Alani worked tirelessly to apply pressure and disrupt the flow, but John Hanson’s attacking strength proved difficult to contain.

The last quarter saw Harrow Way produce their best attacking performance of the game. With renewed energy and confidence, they managed to score four goals, demonstrating their potential and refusing to give up. However, the early deficit proved too great to overcome, and the match concluded 22–6 in John Hanson’s favour.

Although the result didn’t go their way, Harrow Way can take positives from their perseverance, defensive effort, and strong finish to the game.

Player of the Match - Izzy. Coaches Player- Brooke.

Year 9/10 Girls Football
This was Harrow Way's second outing to compete in the Basingstoke district tournament, a tournament which offers some new and exciting challenges. Harrow Way started strong against Everest school, but this wasn’t an uphill battle. A goal was scored within the first 2 minutes of the game, and they kept coming. Goals scored by Peyton, Emily and Sophia. The girls also put in a solid defence. Katie, Grace and Sophie not allowing the opponent a glimpse  at the goal, allowing goalkeeper Abi a clean sheet.

The second game didn’t quite see the same positive result, with The Hurst school proving to be a difficult team to break. Ivy worked hard up front with Ellamaya, but the opponents defence was too much to break. Lexi and Pops worked hard to keep The Hurst at bay, but they were able to put away 4 goals by the end of the game.

Harrow Way’s final match saw a nailbiting 2-1 victory to Brighton Hill school. Harrow Way's only goal came from a magnificent halfway line lob from Sophie. But again, the opposition proved to be a little too much for us. Excellent effort throughout the tournament from all of the girls, playing in difficult and unfamiliar conditions. Great job, well done.

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Harrow Way Community School,
Harrow Way,
Andover,
Hampshire.
SP10 3RH