It has been another incredibly busy and successful week at Upton-by-Chester High School, with a wide range of activities taking place both in and beyond the classroom. In particular, this week saw the launch of our first combined Sports and Health Day, more on that shortly!
Earlier in the week, members of our Eco Action Group once again took part in Chester Zoo's annual Takeover Day. Our learners spent the day engaging with visitors, raising awareness of water consumption and the importance of water conservation. They also showcased an interactive game they had designed to demonstrate the hidden water costs involved in producing many everyday items. The day was a great success, and visitors were hugely impressed by how confidently and knowledgeably our learners were able to explain the work they have been undertaking on this important global issue. We are incredibly proud of the way they represented the school.
This week also saw our annual Pride celebration. It was a truly uplifting event, celebrating diversity, inclusion and the values that are so important to our school community. The day was planned and led by learners from across the school, who worked incredibly hard to organise such a positive and enjoyable celebration. Their enthusiasm and leadership were evident throughout the day, and they should be extremely proud of what they achieved.
On Tuesday we held our first combined Sports and Health Day. Over at the athletics field, it was fantastic to see learners participating with such determination and sportsmanship, encouraging one another and celebrating each other's successes. This year's competition was particularly memorable, with several long-standing school records, some of which had stood for decades, being broken in both track and field events:
Lucas S Year 8 ran the 1500m in 4m43s
Jamie W Year 9 ran the 1500m in 4m39s
Nate C Year 9 ran the 300m in 40.05s (honourable mention to Henry K Year 9 who beat the record in the race before Nate & held it for 2 minutes!).
9X6YU boys beat the 4x100m record which is now 51.06s
Congratulations to all of our competitors for their outstanding performances.
Meanwhile, back at school, learners took part in a series of engaging health-focused presentations, exploring a range of topics designed to support their physical and emotional wellbeing. Our guest presenter commented afterwards on just how engaged, respectful and enthusiastic our learners were in every session. Receiving such positive feedback from an external visitor is always pleasing and reflects the excellent attitudes our young people demonstrate every day.
To round off another busy week, all Year 8 learners are taking part in a Performing Arts Enrichment Day. The school has been full of creativity, energy and activity, and we look forward to sharing more about this fantastic experience in next week's newsletter.
Last year, our school community raised funds to support MIDIBART School in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. We were delighted to receive an update this week outlining the difference those donations have made. The funds have helped the school improve its facilities following storm damage, purchase essential medicines and cleaning supplies, and support the ongoing education of some of the city's most vulnerable young people. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed and are proud that our community has been able to make such a meaningful difference to the lives of others.
As we approach the end of another successful week, I would like to thank all of our learners, staff and families for their continued support. It has been wonderful to see so many opportunities for our young people to learn, compete, create and celebrate together.
With very best wishes,
Mr L Cummins
