The Sixth Form Talent Show last night saw many forms of dance, song (soloists and duets) and a range of instruments (including drums, bass guitar, cello, piano) in a celebration of the performing arts. There were even a couple of staff cameos, but the students were clearly the stars of the night. The cheering and applause would have been heard far and wide.

Today’s optional Christmas jumper wearing was also a winner. Although some students went for understated and stylish jumpers, I decided to set a different tone in a garish multi-coloured item. Again at Greenshaw, a staff member set the bar, and then the students exceeded it by far.

So at the end of a term that saw Ofsted visit us (and gave us ‘Outstanding’ in four categories, if I haven’t mentioned that of late) – we have had a fabulous time. But school can only be one part of a young person's development, so at this time of year I want to thank all of our families. Without your support, we would not be in the place we are. So, on behalf of our staff and governors, I want to express deep gratitude for all of your support and the efforts you make. 

Smashing attendance– the Ten Day Challenge

Congratulations to the students that were the winners in today’s first draw. We completed a ‘Be here every day’ draw for this week and the winners were Imogen (Year 7), Lexie (Year 8), Zoe (Year 9), Alexander (Year 10) and Oliver (Year 11).

I also know there have been so many bugs and germs out there, especially in the last fortnight. So we did an additional draw for those students that had attended at least nine of the last ten days – because we do know illness is around. Congratulations to Amelie (Year 7), Adniel (Year 8), Isabel (Year 9), Aman (Year 10) and Celine (Year 11) who were the winners of the ‘Be here for at least 9 of the last ten days’ award.

Winners of the two awards were announced in our end of term assemblies, and the winning students will receive Amazon vouchers to their school email account. I hope they enjoy the benefits, and wonder whether one or two might even use a part to buy gifts for their wider family…?

Stars of the term

Congratulations to our stars of the term who have demonstrated something special in their attitude to their peers, the community or their learning. Well done to each and every one.

Year 7	Year 8	Year 9	Year 10	Year 11	Sixth Form
Victor	Aradhya	Ethan	Felicity	Victoria	Jayda / Udochukwu / Sherin

Outstanding judo performance 

Congratulations to David in Year 11 who recently achieved an extraordinary feat in his Judo, firstly achieving bronze in his Cadets Nationals age group, and then competing in the under-21 category against older and more experienced athletes. David was the only under 18 competitor to make it onto the podium, earning another bronze medal. This marks his fifth consecutive year as a national medalist, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication. Even more impressively, David competed with two broken toes, overcoming tough opponents to secure his place on the podium. 

Christmas card design competition 

The Greenshaw Learning Trust extends to nearly 40 schools now. This multi-academy trust was founded ten years ago from our school. It supports schools in local authorities across the south of England, stretching from Croydon to Plymouth. Despite the geographical spread we engage with one another, including competitive events like sports days.

With nearly 20,000 students in the Greenshaw Learning Trust,  competition is pretty intense, like the one for this term’s Christmas card design competition. I am incredibly proud that, of the many hundreds of entries, Shayne in Year 9 achieved third place. He used a cricut machine with heat transfer paper to upgrade our school jumper, along with a festive message. I particularly loved the addition of a star to the school badge – I don’t think that I had realised that we have a logo that looks so like a Christmas tree. Well done Shayne, and to all other students that entered the contest. 

Support while school is closed

At Greenshaw we work closely with a variety of agencies including the London Borough of Sutton, volunteer groups and the NHS. Should any families need support when we are closed, our school website has many signposts to support agencies in the section ‘Care & Support’ as needed.  

Term dates for spring 2025

Next term will start on Monday 6th January at the normal time, with gates opening from 8:20am. There will be just one INSET in the rest of the school year, as discussed earlier this term. The date for the INSET day is Monday 3rd March. Term finishes on Friday 4th April.

I hope all Greenshaw families find some time to rest over the Christmas break, and spend time with family and friends. On behalf of the whole staff body, I wish you all the very best for Christmas and a very happy newyear.

Mr N House, Headteacher