I hope you managed to find some time for rest and relaxation over the weekend. I’m sure many of you joined friends and family in virtual gatherings using technology, whether skype, zoom, houseparty or simply facetime. Whilst never a substitute to the real thing, at least we can stay in some form of contact with our loved ones and have some fun.

Firstly, no new news has been released by Ofqual on the mechanism for awarding grades at A level, GCSE and for BTEC qualifications. We will be in touch about this as soon as we have anything to share.

Secondly, Hazel, the college’s Guidance and Enrichment Manager, has developed an e-enrichment programme for our students. A document was emailed to all students last Friday and is also available here. It’s a brilliant offer and very innovative; there won’t be many colleges managing to offer a programme of this quality in these times. Please could you mention this document to your sons and/or daughters and encourage them to take part? This would be really useful for students who are planning to apply to university later this year or those aiming to secure a higher level apprenticeship at the end of their college career. It may also provide a focus for those A2 students awaiting final grades before progressing to university or higher level apprenticeships in the autumn.

Thirdly, interviews for both staff and students will continue this week. The admissions team, SLT plus a number of other members of staff, have been conducting telephone interviews with prospective students in the last week; these will continue until the end of April. Our interviews for new colleagues begin on Wednesday using technology, so we can ensure that we have secured the services of the very best teachers for the start of the new academic year.

Finally, the number of direct access requests has increased again today, rising from 853 on Friday to 946 today. Your sons and daughters are working hard; thank you for your support with this and keep up the good work!

Take care, look after yourself, your families and each other; be patient and stay positive.

Anton

Principal