Borden Grammar School Parent Portal - Easter newsletter 2025

Dear Parent or Guardian

My final assembly to students this year referenced the current troubled nature of the world and the need to have hope. Besides wars, earthquakes and economic worries, there are plenty of recent concerns raised about social media, algorithms and disinformation, which is a worry for us as educators and you as parents. Many of you will have heard about the disturbing Netflix series Adolescence, which reflects the concerns many of us share over the impact of powerful digital technologies on young people, particularly some extreme views on masculinity. As a school, we address this in a variety of ways, from assemblies, tutor time and personal development sessions, through to external speakers; helping our students to be critical of the world around them. Most young people will know a great deal more than us about how to communicate digitally - but it doesn’t mean they appreciate the risks, and monitoring this as a parent is incredibly difficult. We have some guidance available here and if we can help you with this at all, please let us know.

The school building works continue, which will soon include getting the student toilets renovated, the old gym made into an auditorium, and we are currently looking to try and provide more covered outside spaces. The school field has had drainage issues resulting from the new build, which will hopefully be resolved over the Easter break, but it does mean the school field may not all be back in operation in the short term. The building work in the last 4 years has been a huge endeavour for the school, and it’s fair to say that prospective budgets make it unlikely we will be able to do much more in the near future. Overall though, we have created a sound infrastructure fit for a thousand students for the next generation of Bordenians. On that note, you will be aware that we have just undertaken the first whole school photo in almost 13 years. The tradition at Borden was once every 7 years, so whilst quite a disruptive logistical feat, this will hopefully be something that links our current generation to a tradition that spans well over a hundred years!

One of the unseen, but vitally important parts of the school leadership are our trustees. Trustees are fundamentally responsible for the school, working with me as Headteacher to give strategic direction, visiting the school to speak to students and staff and meeting in one of our three committees to act as the ‘critical friends’ of the school. It is important on the trustee board that we have trustees with specific skill sets, but also that our trustees are a mix of parents and non-parents. We have recently had a finance trustee (non-parent) leave us and are particularly keen to find a replacement. If you know anyone who you think might be interested and fits this bill, then please can you ask them to contact me or the Chair of Trustees at the school.

I started this newsletter referencing the worries society has around the next generation. However, a recent experience reminded me how we must avoid jumping to conclusions. Seeing a large group of young people using my elderly mother’s ring doorbell, I assumed the worst. In fact, a thoughtful group of teenagers had noticed my mum had left her keys in the front door and wanted to make sure she was safe. A recent visitor to the school commented on how wonderful the behaviour and atmosphere felt around the school, and it is an important reminder to us as adults that we are actually surrounded by so many kind young people that so often make us proud. You will see many more examples of these in this newsletter, and it should give us all hope for the future.

Have a wonderful Easter

Ashley Tomlin
Headteacher

Some words from our Heads of Years

Year 7
It is hard to believe that we are over half-way through the school year and year 7 only have two more terms till Year 8! I think they would agree that they have fully transitioned to life at secondary school and are enjoying their first year at Borden. This term we have spoken a lot about attitude to learning, overcoming obstacles and having the courage to stand up for what is right.

The year group also received their second audit this term, and it was lovely to see a strong set of results. Staff are happy with the progress you have made since term 2, and you now have some new targets to focus on as you progress to the end of the academic year and year 8. During form time sessions we will reflect on the recent audit as well as celebrating the successes and those that have reached the targets they set in December.

Parents' evening was a success with nearly 90% of parents/guardians making the journey to Borden to meet subject teachers and discuss how students have been getting on. I'd like to thank you all for your patience and understanding with parents' evening appointments. I know that all staff would love to meet all the parents of their students, but unfortunately, it just isn't possible in one evening.

As the weather gets better, and the days get longer, I'd like to remind Year 7 of the uniform expectations. Trainers should not be worn as school shoes and blazers should be worn at all times. Have a lovely Easter Break Year 7! Enjoy the two weeks' rest.

Can I just give a quick hello to our soon-to-be Year 7's of 2025! Next term, myself and the transition team (pictured below) will start to make the journey out to local primaries to introduce ourselves and work closely with you to help prepare you for the big change from primary to secondary! Well done on gaining a place at Borden and we are excited to get to know you!

Miss Irinoye
Head of Year 7

Year 8
Another successful term for year 8 as we move towards the Easter break. Just as we see spring's renewal in the improving weather and the leaves returning to the trees, year 8 students have continued to develop their knowledge and skills across their subjects. We have also had the whole school photograph this week, which further reinforces all our students' place as part of our school's legacy for years to come. I hope everyone has a very safe and enjoyable break. Happy Easter!
Mr Holley
Head of Year 8

Year 9
Year 9 have continued to excel and have now selected their GCSE choices. There will be a wait now while work goes on behind the scenes to collate numbers and organise staffing and timetables for next academic year. As you can imagine, this is a mammoth task, so please be aware that there will be no further information regarding options for quite some time until this process is complete. While most students will be successful in securing their first choice options, it is important that students continue to work hard across all of their subjects - reserve subject choices are sometimes needed.
Miss Phillips
Head of Year 9

Year 10
This term year 10 have been supported in developing independent revision skills by being given a personal book in order to practice in. Once per week, pupils have been given time in tutor time to apply any of the revision techniques they have been shown how to perform, with a focus on implementing recall activities to transfer key facts and definitions into their long-term memory. On the last day of term 4, pupils have created bespoke revision timetables for the Easter break, emphasising how they can build in short periods of independent study alongside their personal hobbies and social times in order to begin to prepare for the year 10 mock exams taking place in June. Each Monday of the next term, the year group will complete a weekly revision timetable, identifying the topics they wish to prioritise in each subject after RAG (red, amber, green) rating the revision checklists available to them from each subject.
Mr Weller
Head of Year 10

Another busy term of revision, interventions, exams and mentoring draws to a close for Year 11. A number of our students have been invited to the Friday morning Rewards breakfasts to celebrate both academic and personal success noticed by staff - congratulations to each of them. With the start of the exams just a few weeks away now, it's time to make sure that revision time is really focused and effective. The recent mock exams have highlighted for students areas where they still need to revise and teachers will have identified gaps in knowledge and directed students towards suitable revision materials. I look forward to seeing a number of you at Easter revision classes - make sure you are proactive and ask for help with areas of difficulty during this time if you need to.

As Year 11 students know, I am incredibly proud of the way they have conducted themselves this year in their mock exams and their results have reflected their hard work. Please make sure your sons are fully equipped for exams, which begin with MFL speaking exams w/b 28th April. Each student needs a clear pencil case, black pens (and spares!), pencils, a ruler, maths kit, a calculator with the lid removed and a clear water bottle. Pockets must be emptied of all phones, earphones, smart watches and revision notes - all things which, if brought into the exam room and not handed in, could lead to disqualification from that exam paper. If your son has been spoken to about turning around or communicating with others in the mock exams, it is essential that he understands that such behaviour has to be reported to the exam board and may have serious consequences on his exam results.

The end is in sight - and all of the boys' hard work over the last five years will be rewarded with exam grades they can be proud of in August, taking them on to the next steps of their journey. It has been a privilege to work with this superb group of young men for four years now and I would like to thank all parents and carers for their support during this time. I know the Easter holidays will be full of revision cards, mind maps and past papers, but don't forget to get some rest and enjoy the sunshine when you can!
Mrs Edwards
Head of Year 11

Sixth form

Term 4 has passed by in the blink of an eye and has truly encapsulated the spirit of Borden’s core values.

The visit to Cambridge University on the 25th February 2025 was momentous, providing our year 12 students with an immersive snapshot of University Life. The architecture of Queens’ College was absolutely breathtaking, and it was both a treat and delight to share this experience with a number of students. The day itself provided students with a detailed breakdown of the application process for Oxbridge applications, along with invaluable information regarding the changing structure to personal statements which will impact students entering university in 2026. The glorious sunshine, coupled with the idyllic location truly made it an experience to remember and, as ever, I was immensely proud of both the behaviour and participation of our students.

The quote below from one of our year 12s, Fola A is a heartfelt testament to the impact of such trips and how these serve to inspire our students:

“There are rare occasions where you get to visually see the heights of what you can achieve, and visiting Queens’ College was one of those occasions. Visiting a world renowned university such as Cambridge, did not intimidate me but inspired me. It made me realise there is only one chance in this life and if you do not grasp the chance to chase your wildest dreams, you are only doing yourself a disservice. While places such as Cambridge can seem out of reach, I now know that if you give it your all, academically and personally, anyone has a chance.”

In addition to this, the Kent University Talk on Monday 17th March provided our year 12 students with a plethora of integral information regarding the university selection process, whilst also providing students with a useful insight into student funding. This provides our students with an excellent foundation for year 13 as they look ahead to further education and life beyond Borden.

In accordance with the key values of equality, inclusivity and diversity, three of our year 12 students have delivered assemblies to lower school over the week of 24th-28th March focusing on the importance of International Women’s month in relation to the theme of acceleration and the need to promote and champion women’s rights in the 21st Century. This is a fitting testament to the all-embracing and diverse landscape that is Borden Grammar School, and I am in awe of the dedication, maturity and confidence that these students have demonstrated.

The year 12 and 13 celebration assemblies in the last week of term 4 were a fitting end to a term defined by successes and student achievements, and a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the key values of dedication, perseverance, resilience in conjunction with the Borden Values.

The 6th form work area has been a hive of activity with our year 13 students preparing for their upcoming public exams after the Easter holiday. We have seen many of the students attending virtual and physical interviews for both University and Degree Apprenticeships. We are so super-proud of those who have already secured their placements and wish those still waiting for confirmation all the best.

Finally, a reminder of the LinkedIn page, started by a group of 6th form students and led by one of the Vice School Captains, Amelia B. Please scan or click on the link and interact with the page, as the team are hoping that this new initiative will enable students and the wider community, including old Bordenians to interact and become connected to the school.

Here’s the link!

https://uk.linkedin.com/company/borden-grammar-school-trust

At the start of term 5, the sixth form team will be electing the new student leadership team for 2025-26 and I am looking forward to the endless possibilities this will entail in relation to the celebration of cultural diversity, inclusivity and equality within our school community.

Finally, we would like to wish you all a very peaceful and restful break, and we look forward to welcoming the year 12 and 13s back at the start of term 5.

Ms Das & Mrs Searle
Head of Year 12 and 13

Careers

Careers continues to grow here at Borden with more employers than ever engaging meaningfully with our students to bring the outside world into school. Term 4 in particular has been full of opportunities for our students to think even further about their next steps.

Year 9 and 10 attended a talk from Kier about Careers in Construction where they were able to learn about the wide range of careers in the industry, as well as the varied pathways to those roles. Year 9 in particular impressed our visitors with their pertinent questions.

Work Experience for Year 10 is now only 9 school days away and at the time of writing 135 placements are secured (subject to necessary checks). All those without placements will be working in school getting to see what goes on behind the scenes to keep the school running, interestingly this information inspired some students to find placements within days!

Planning is already underway for our Careers Fair which will take place in September, and we’re excited to be welcoming back lots of the exhibitors from last year and several other local and national employers who are very keen to work with us. DS Smith will be in attendance this year and were kind enough to welcome Mrs Mahoney and Mr Brinn for a tour of the site in March and to discuss how they can work more with us. In addition to hosting three of our Year 10 students for work experience, they will be visiting Year 7 and 8 in Term 5 for an assembly, following which a small number of students will be invited to attend a visit to the plant later in the year.

Once again, the Careers Fair will be open to students and parents from Years 9-13 to attend and we can’t stress enough what an opportunity it can be. A number of students were able to make connections with employers last year which has led to a number of work experience placements, apprenticeship offers and also paid internships, as Amelia proudly shares below.

‘I recently had the exciting opportunity of interviewing and acquiring an 8 week FP&A internship in London with an insurance firm. I had met an old Bordenian in the capacity of my role as Vice Captain at the Careers Fair in September. I later connected with him on linkedIn where he informed me of a summer internship at the Ascot Group. I wrote a cover letter and CV, shortly after I attended my first and second interview. The interview process was both thrilling and nerve-wracking, but I had done preparation beforehand and was offered the role as an intern doing Financial Planning and Analysis the day after. ‘

Finally, as always, if you or your employer have any capacity to offer us support in terms of Careers, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Mrs Mahoney. This could be coming to speak to a class or year group, hosting a school visit, offering placements for Work Experience for Year 10 or 12, or hosting a stand at our Careers Fair in September; we would love to hear from you.

Mrs Mahoney
Careers Co-ordinator

Religious Studies Department News

As we reach the end of this term, we wanted to share some of the amazing work our students have been doing and give you a sneak peek into what they'll be learning after the holidays.

Year 7: Holy Week and Beyond
Year 7 have been exploring the important events of Holy Week in Christianity. They've learnt about the significance of Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. We've had some thoughtful discussions and creative activities, helping them understand the Christian story. After the holidays, they'll be moving on to learn about the Ascension and Pentecost, two key events in the Christian calendar.

Year 8: Hindu Shrines and the Journey to Sikhi
Our Year 8 students have been busy learning about Hinduism. They've even had the chance to design and create their own Hindu shrines, which have been fantastic and some are on display in the S Block. It's been wonderful to see their creativity and understanding of Hindu traditions. After the break, we'll be diving into the fascinating world of Sikhi, exploring its history and beliefs.

Year 9: Exploring the Five Pillars of Islam and Looking Ahead to Buddhism
Year 9 have been delving into the Five Pillars of Islam and gaining a deeper understanding of the core practices of Muslim faith. They've been asking insightful questions and engaging in thoughtful discussions. After the holidays, we'll be starting a new journey into Buddhism, learning about its origins and key teachings.

Year 10: GCSE Religious Studies - Exam Preparation
Our Year 10 GCSE students have continued their studies in both Islam and Christianity. They've been working hard to develop their knowledge and understanding of these religions. After the holidays, the focus will be on mock exam preparation. We'll be working together to ensure they feel confident and ready for their exams next year.

Year 11: GCSE Exams - Best Wishes!
To our amazing Year 11 students, your GCSE exams are nearly upon you. We want to wish you all the very best. There has been some incredible hard work over the mocks, and we're proud of the dedication shown. It is important to rest over the holiday, but it is crucial to dedicate time to exam preparation.

This is a time of celebration for many in our community. We would like to wish all those celebrating Passover, Vaisakhi, and Easter a joyful and peaceful holiday. May these special times bring you happiness and connection with loved ones.
And to everyone, regardless of your religious beliefs, we wish you a relaxing and enjoyable break. May you all return refreshed and ready for the new term.

Thank you for your continued support.

Warm regards,

The Religious Studies Department

KS3 Rewards Trip to Williams Racing Oxfordshire

On Monday 31st March, 36 Key Stage 3 students, 4 subject prefects and 4 Mathematics teachers had an incredibly early start to go and visit the F1 Racing team of Williams in Grove, Oxfordshire. The 36 students were selected from across Years 7 and 8 due to their ongoing maths work, going above and beyond the expectations of the classroom and homework in our subject.

Williams put on an incredible day for all our students (and teachers). We got to go inside the real working buildings of the racing team and meet some of their inspiring team. Alex Albon, the team's leading F1 driver, was even in the building, but we unfortunately didn't manage to catch a glimpse of him. Our students behaved impeccably as we negotiated around their usual working day, albeit they were getting prepared for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix, some leaving that day and some the next.

In the morning, we were lucky enough to enjoy the experience of visiting the onsite museum, which is not open to the public, where the team's engineers explained what had happened through the years and a lot of the reasons behind designs and functions of the different cars. We then got to try our hand as an F1 driver in their simulators used by the team professionals. We took it in turns of twenty to battle it out across some of the F1 circuits, including Silverstone, Monaco and Japan. With all of us on the grid at the start, we even had races where we could experience the damage that driving did to our cars and potentially lead us to retire from the races.

In the afternoon, we were given an idea of an engineering task that the team faces, when creating a nose cone that needed to crumple, to meet safety requirements. The team had to budget, produce, test and get to a final test of their nose cones, all before presenting it and being judged by the Williams team. They had to use this time and experience to work out how the nose cones could be not too rigid, not too soft and lead it to crumple within a specific testing parameter. Needless to say, the boys enjoyed smashing things up for all the right reasons!

I am sure that the trip has helped inspire some of the boys to think how this could be a career option in the future, or engineering as a whole, and I look forward to hopefully being invited back in years to come, perhaps to meet one or two of our Ex pupils.

More photos can be viewed on our website gallery

Mr Swaffer
Deputy Subject Leader of Mathematics