Friday, 13th January 2012

Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome back and Happy New Year to all parent/carers’ and students. I hope you all had a restful break.

Last term was extremely productive and successful, culminating with our Ofsted Inspection and the school being given an “Outstanding” judgement yet again!

Ken Livingstone – the previous Mayor of London, visited QK to talk to Year 10/11 and 6th Form students. He spoke of his career in politics and his time as Mayor of London. He expressed his views on how London could be shaped in the future and its importance in the national and international community. He then opened the floor to students for a question and answer session. As always our students were articulate and probing. They showed a true understanding of local and national issues, especially current problems affecting young people. University fees, student loans and youth unemployment were the concerns most of our young people were questioning Mr Livingstone on.

Thank you to Mr Livingstone for coming in, and thanks to our wonderful students for participating in this full and frank exchange.

As always, we strive to maintain the premises for the wellbeing and safety of students and staff. Just before the end of term, 2 new covered shelters were erected in the lower playground and back quad Previously, when it was raining, students would be directed to the drama centre during break and lunchtime. We can now allow students to stay in the fresh air when it is only raining lightly.

Next Friday Year 11 students will be given their results of the mock exams they sat before the Christmas break. This event is planned and managed in the same way students will receive their ‘real GCSE’ results this summer. Year 12 & 13 students will also receive their results next week. Overall results were very good with students performing well in all subjects. Staying focused over the coming months, setting and sticking to revision targets and taking on board the advice given by teaching staff, will ensure your sons/daughters do even better in the public examinations starting in May.

This advice also applies to students who are currently sitting public exams and re-sits throughout this month.

May I also remind Year 11 students who have not submitted an application for 6th Form to do so as a matter of urgency. QK 6th Form places are highly sought after by students from other Westminster Schools, and from other neighbouring boroughs such as Camden and Brent.

The deadline for applications is Monday 16th January.

A reminder, Year 7 Parent’s Evening is next Tuesday 17th January 2012. You should have already received your letter regarding appointment times. This is an ideal opportunity for you to speak with your son/daughters subject teachers to find out how they are progressing, and to discuss any issues you may have. All parent/carers are expected to attend.

Finally, I would like to remind all parents/carers who are, or have previously been in receipt of Free School Meals to speak with someone in the school office team, to ensure that you are receiving your entitlement to a free school meal for your son or daughter.

A major part of our schools budget is based on the number of students we have on roll who are entitled to Free School Meals. If you are unsure if you are entitled, please do hesitate to call the school office and get advice.

Jo Shuter, CBE
Headteacher