Principal's update 5 June 2020

Dear Parents, Carers and Students,

Next week is really exciting as it signals the beginning of the process of learning onsite for the whole Grace College community. It has not been easy for anyone during lockdown but this next week marks a turning point for everyone but especially for Year 10 and 12 students.

I would encourage Year 10 and 12 students to return with enthusiasm even if they are unsure of the situation.  We have put together a plan to ensure we are all safe.  Things will be different but your teachers are really keen to support you and enable you to succeed with your GCSE and A level courses.  We look forward to seeing these students next week!  Individual emails were sent to students in Year 10 and 12 about the provision next week nbut you can also read about the provision.

On-line learning continues for all students over the coming weeks and I must once again appeal to parents and carers to discuss the level of engagement with students.  We need to motivate and encourage every student to really get to grips with learning online.  It is my expectation that all tasks and activities are completed each week.  There should be no reason for a concerted effort from each student.  We will succeed if we apply ourselves fully.

Centre assessments for GCSE and A levels have been submitted to the exam boards this week.  These are subject to a process of standardisation by exam boards and scrutiny by Ofqal.  Grades will be awarded to students in August.  At no time will the exam boards or Ofqal be in communication with students, parents or carers.  The dates for A level and GCSE results days are respectively the 13 and 20 August. Please note these days in your diary to come into school to find out your grades. 

We look forward to inviting our new year 7 to Grace College in the new year and wanted you to know that we have been in close communication with them over the last number of weeks.  Each week a Transition update has been emailed out with information and activities.  So, while it hasn’t been as good as having Year 7 visit the school for transition activities we hope we have managed to give these students some idea of the exciting opportunity that awaits them at secondary school.

There has been so much that has changed over the last 3 months that it has surely caused us to develop resilience but my hope and prayer, for each home, in the Grace College community, is that we would have grown in our love for one another.

May the peace of God rest on us all this weekend.