Parent/ Carer Bulletin - Summer Break 2026

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Headteacher's Message

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we reach the end of another academic year, it is a great time to reflect on everything that has been achieved by our school community over the past twelve months.

This year has once again demonstrated what makes Upton-by-Chester High School such a special place. Our learners have achieved so much, both inside and outside the classroom. They have embraced opportunities, challenged themselves, represented the school with pride, supported one another and, time and again, demonstrated the values that make us so proud to be part of this community. Whether through academic success, sporting achievements, performances, enrichment activities, leadership opportunities or acts of kindness, our young people have continued to show that they are learning to shape the future.

None of this happens by chance. It is only possible because of the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our learners and, importantly, the support that you provide as parents and carers. Thank you for the encouragement you give at home, for working in partnership with us throughout the year and for the trust you place in us. Together, we continue to create the conditions in which every learner can flourish.

Whilst one year ends, we are already looking forward to the next. On Thursday and Friday of next week, we are delighted to be welcoming our new Year 6 learners as they begin their transition to Upton. We cannot wait to meet them properly and begin the next stage of their educational journey with us.

This will be my final Parent/ Carer Bulletin of the academic year. I will be back in touch before the start of the new term with details and updates ahead of September. Until then, thank you once again for your continued support throughout the year.

With very best wishes and wishing you all a lovely summer break,

Best wishes 

Mr L Cummins

Forthcoming Events

Last day of term - School closes at 1.20pm
8:35am – 1:20pm
17
July
School reopens to learners
8:35am – 3:10pm
03
September

Other School News

Sixth Form Structure - FAO Year 12 Parents

 

I hope this finds you well. I am writing to update you with the structure within 6th Form for your child in September. Miss Simpson will remain as Head of Year 12, I will lead as Head of Year 13 and we will continue to be supported by Mrs Stickels as our Pastoral Manager. Have a lovely Summer and we look forward to seeing the learners in September.

Best wishes

Mr Lewis 

Director of Key Stage 5

Updating Parent/ Carer Contact Details

 

It is very important that we hold the most up-to-date contact details for you. Should you need to update anything you can complete a form on our website https://www.uptonhigh.co.uk/page/?title=Online+Forms&pid=537 or email us at admin@uptonhigh.co.uk

Careers Bulletin

 

Click on the link below to see the latest information:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ab57VM41x7_yzr0Q19PUj0r4KoWn--X2iSfZR7Kl_yc/edit?usp=sharing

Community News

Crisis and Resilience Fund

 

We are writing to inform families about summer holiday support from the Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF).

Summer holiday support is available for families  

Families who receive Free School Meals and need help with essential food costs during the summer holidays can apply for support through the Council’s Crisis and Resilience Fund (CRF). 

Applications for summer holiday payments will open on Tuesday, 30 June 2026 and close on Monday, 31 August 2026. 

Apply online: https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/benefits-and-welfare-help/cost-of-living/crisis-and-resilience-fund/school-holiday-support-payment 

Changes to the CRF from September 2026 

The Crisis and Resilience Fund replaced the Household Support Fund in April 2026. It ensures that financial support is available for families who need it and gives longer term support to boost income and manage debt. 

To support families during the transition to the Crisis and Resilience Fund, so far payments have been awarded to all applicants who were in receipt of FSM and provided requested evidence. The same approach will apply during the summer holidays. 

From September 2026, however, the Crisis and Resilience Fund will solely be there to help people who experience an unexpected financial crisis. Applicants will need to explain the financial shock they have experienced and how this has placed them in crisis. 

Expanded Free School Meal eligibility from September 2026 

From September 2026, all pupils in households receiving Universal Credit will become entitled to free school meals (FSM).  

Pupils who already qualify because their household earnings are £7,400 or less will continue to qualify. The change will extend entitlement to more families, meaning more children will be able to apply to receive Free School Meals. 

To find out more, visit: 

https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/education-and-learning/free-school-meals  

Not just school holidays 

If you aren’t in receipt of Free School Meals, the Crisis and Resilience Fund can still help you with various costs. Visit the webpage for more information about support with: 

  • Crisis payments 
  • Help in Emergencies for Local People (HELP) 
  • Housing Payments and Discretionary Hardship Payments 
  • Heating oil support 

Other support 

There is also information and support available on the Council’s cost of living webpages, which bring together resources about financial help, advice services, and emergency assistance: 

https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/residents/benefits-and-welfare-help/cost-of-living  

Trading Standards seize 361 unsafe ‘squishy’ toys amid safety concerns

 

Cheshire West and Chester trading standards have removed 361 ‘squishy’ toys from a shop in Ellesmere Port.

Councillor Stuart Bingham, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhood Pride said: “Officers have seized the gel-filled items, including popular squishy dumpling toys, after finding they failed to meet basic safety requirements.

“Please be careful buying this toy, there may still be unsafe versions on sale.”

The issues that have been found include safety concerns due to a strong chemical smell and concerns where essential safety labelling is missing from the packaging.

The advice is to check products carefully before purchasing. Items should clearly display UKCA or CE markings, include manufacturer and UK importer details, and provide appropriate safety warnings and instructions. Products lacking this information, or those with a strong chemical smell, may pose a risk.

Parents and carers are advised to remove these toys from use immediately if they leak, split, smell strongly of chemicals, or do not include proper safety labelling.

There is also a warning about a dangerous online trend encouraging children to microwave the toys. The gel inside can become extremely hot while the outside remains cool, creating a risk that the product may burst and release hot contents, potentially causing burns and injuries. These products should never be heated.

Retailers are reminded of their legal responsibility to ensure all goods meet UK safety requirements before being placed on sale. Failure to comply may result in products being seized and further enforcement action.

Anyone who has purchased a potentially unsafe item, or who has concerns about products being sold, is encouraged to report this via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Squishy Toy

Deva Fest 2026 - Exclusive discount for Upton-by-Chester High School

 

Deva Fest continues to stand out as one of the North West’s most exciting family-friendly festivals, offering a full weekend of entertainment and shared experiences.

What your colleagues, learners, carers & parents can look forward to: * 100+ world‑class artists performing across 6 stages * A huge selection of local street food and drink * Unlimited fairground rides and posh loos included for all ticket holders * Comedy, wellness sessions, family activities and non‑stop entertainment * Day, weekend and camping options * Club Deva VIP upgrades for an elevated festival experience * A brilliant way to bring friends, family and colleagues together.

The 15% discount applies to ticket purchases ONLY. Please use discount code: UPTONHIGH15 at checkout at www.devafest.co.uk . Move fast as we only have 550 tickets remaining!

SEND Summer Holiday Clubs 

 

Dear Parents and Carers,

Explore our Summer Holidays 2026 Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Activities and Events Padlet, packed with activities, events and opportunities for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disability throughout the summer holidays: https://padlet.com/LiveWellCheshireWest/summerholidays

You can also visit our School Holiday Activities pages to discover library events, family-friendly activities at Brio Leisure, and exciting experiences at local museums: School holiday activities | Cheshire West and Chester Council

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