Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
As we draw towards the end of the term we would like to bring to your attention our arrangements for the last day of term- Friday 20th December. Whilst it is some time away still, it is important we inform you of our plans.
School will finish at 2pm. Tutor time and the morning sessions will run as normal. After break time, students will return to tutor rooms and Christmas Lunch will be served from 11.30 to 1.30pm.
We are allowing students to come to school in non uniform/non dress code on this day. We would really encourage students to think about a festive theme- such as Christmas jumpers or equally festive attire. However, we are mindful that not all students will celebrate Christmas. We would love to see as many Christmas jumpers as possible. We do ask though that students refrain from wearing items that would pose a health and safety risk such as high heels, crocs etc.
The bus company are aware and our buses will be collecting at 2pm instead of 3.15pm. Reception will be open until 3.30pm should you need to contact school.
There is much information below regarding things that are happening in and around school over the next few weeks. Our collection for the food back is in Reception, we would love to be able to contribute as much as possible to this worthy cause. More information is below.
With best wishes
Mr S Greiff
PSHE
Please refer to the school website to see lots of information regarding all things PSHE.
We have also sent a letter this week to give parents an update.
https://www.manorhigh.leics.sch.uk/curriculum-learning/pshe/
Year 7 Leicester Riders Visit
Well done to our year 7 boys who attended the Leicester Riders development day last Friday.
Not only did they get to train on the court, showcasing their skills, but they went on to watch Leicester Riders demolish Manchester in the league match that followed.
At the end of the game the boys met up with some of the Riders star players. A great evening.
Year 11 Parents
As you are aware, Year 11 students have been working diligently on their post-16 applications and Pre-Public Examinations (PPE). We are delighted with their effort and determination in this crucial final year at Manor High School.
To support their preparation for the summer GCSE exams, we aim to recreate the experience of receiving results in August. With this in mind, we are pleased to invite students and family members to the PPE Results Evening on Thursday, 12th December, at the following times:
| Start Time | End Time | Houses |
| 5:30 PM | 6:10 PM | Bradgate / Clarendon |
| 6:15 PM | 6:55 PM | Knighton / Watermead |
The event will begin promptly at the stated times with a presentation in the main school hall, providing information to further support students in achieving success. Following the presentation, students and their families will meet with a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), who will share additional information and distribute the results envelopes. These envelopes will include:
- PPE results
- A copy of the summer exam timetable
- A letter from the Headteacher
We anticipate the evening will last approximately 40 minutes.
We hope this event will help foster a sense of pride and confidence in our students as they continue to build strong independent study habits. Senior Leaders and House Managers will also be available throughout the evening to provide support, particularly regarding student wellbeing.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s Year 11 tutor through the usual channels. Additionally, following the second round of PPEs in February, we will host a face-to-face Year 11 Parents’ Evening on Thursday, 20th March.
Due to limited capacity, we humbly request for students to be accompanied by one family member. Your support is greatly appreciated in helping us make this event a meaningful and authentic experience. This evening marks an important milestone in our shared goal of ensuring GCSE success for every student.
Lastly, the PPE Results Evening provides an opportunity to support the Oadby Food Bank. If possible, please consider bringing donation items such as non-perishable foods or toiletries. A list of needed items can be found on our website, and your contributions will be deeply appreciated.
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you on 12th December.
Yours sincerely,
Dilip Karavadra
Assistant Headteacher
Immunisation for All Years
Flu immunisation will take place on 12th December 2024. Parents have had communication outlining the details for the immunisation. Please find information below on how to provide consent and the contact details for the immunisation team.
How to give consent for your child to get the flu vaccination
- Make a note of the code for your school and visit www.leicsandrutlandimms.co.uk
The code for Manor High School is LE137120
- Select Seasonal Flu and enter the school code. On the consent declaration page you can consent for either the nasal flu vaccine or the injectable flu vaccine.
- You will receive a confirmation email when the form is submitted.
If you are unable to complete the form online, please call us on 0300 300 0007 or e-mail lpt.sais@nhs.net with your contact details. If you change your mind about your consent decision, please call us on the number above to change it.
Your school will let you know when the flu vaccination session will take place.
The consent system will close one working day before the vaccination session. You will not be able to submit a consent form on the day.
If you’d like to find out more about the nasal flu vaccine, watch our video on YouTube.
Mandarin Club
Please note that Mandarin club will not be running on Tuesday 10th December.
We told all students who were present on Tuesday 3rd December that the club will not be running on Tuesday 10th.
Children’s Pyjamas Hospital Donations
After a final count, we are happy to say that we collected 164 pairs of pyjamas to donate to the charity that provides new pyjamas for children aged 0-18 who are spending long periods of time in hospitals/hospices/refuges. Parents and staff donated around £300 which is absolutely amazing and we would like to thank you for your generosity. The charity representative was taken aback by the amount of pyjamas we had collected.
I would like to thank you again for the compassion and kindness you have shown through this initiative to help those in need in our community.
Sheetal Chudasama and K11B
PE Notice
We have been very impressed with the engagement in lessons from our students, even despite the inclement weather. We have seen a decline in weather over the last couple of weeks, and we want our students to stay as dry as possible. We have mentioned to all students that they should bring spare shoes and socks in case they get their feet wet in PE lessons. We also suggest the purchase of a waterproof jacket. We are mindful of cost for parents and therefore are not going to provide a more expensive branded option- some suggestions are below. We are more than happy for students to wear these.
Gelert | Waterproof Packaway Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Stormbreaker Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Laiyah Ld99 | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Gelert | Packaway Ladies Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Rugby and Hockey start for years 7,8 and 9 on the week commencing 4th November, it is essential students have mouthguards for these activities, please see below an example reasonably priced mouthguard.
Sondico | Ergo Fit Fusion Mouthguard | Mouthguards | SportsDirect.com
At £5 these are great value and should last the life of their time here at Manor!
Alumni
We are really keen for former Manor High School students to share their experiences of the world of work with our students.
If you, a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please email us via the Admin email (FAO Mr Croucher).
Many thanks.
After School Study Centre and Interventions
Please can you reinforce to students that if they are staying behind at school to use the study centre (either to work or to wait for a parent to collect them) they must not leave site first and then come back. We have had a number of students leave site at the end of the school day, head to the shop and then arrive back at school 15 minutes later saying they need to wait in the study centre. We cannot allow students to just come and go like this as it is not safe and also not fair to staff who are supporting in the study centre.
The same is the case for interventions. If a student has an intervention session after school they must leave session 3, stay on site and then head to their intervention. Some students have been leaving site at the end of the day, heading to the shops and then wanting to be let back onto site 15 minutes later. This is also not acceptable.
Thanks for your support with this.
Year 11 – Positive Steps 16 Site (PS16)
Deadline dates: the deadline for applications is Monday 16th December. Please note that any year 11 students who have their 1-1 careers talk during the weeks commencing 16/12/24 and 6/1/25 have a slightly later deadline of Monday 13th January. In order for us as a school to process your applications please ensure you have sent your applications off via the PS16 website by these dates.
Year 11 students have been sent their log in details to the PS16 website. These were sent to students’ school email accounts. This is the site students use to make applications to schools and colleges in Leicester and Leicestershire.
We have also shown our students a simple guide of what to do once logged in to the site. We showed this during assembly. This has also been shared on ClassCharts so that students, parents and carers can refer to it (it is a Power Point).
Please ensure that students keep their log in details safe. Students can now start using this site as set out on the Power Point – ensuring their personal details etc as well as personal statements are up to date on the system.
Year 11 Post 16
We welcomed Mrs Bhana to school on Friday morning.
She is Head of 6th Form at St Paul’s School. She spoke to our year 11 students about St Paul’s as an option as well as giving top tips to be ready for 6th Form life in general.
We have sent her presentation to students on Class Charts.
Year 10 Work Experience
Thank you to all who have brought forms back in. Payments have been set up on the school gateway (thank you also to those who have already paid).
Here is the message we have sent in previous weeks:
Just a reminder….Our aim is for all students to be out on work experience as it is a really valuable experience. Students have been given a copy of both the standard application form and also the self-placement form. We have sent a letter to parents explaining this (the letter is also attached to this newsletter). We have also sent out FAQs related to work experience – please do refer to these (they are also attached).
Please can you ensure applications forms come back to school as soon as possible, the latest date being 29th November (if you have any issues please contact us). Please also find attached the student guide to work experience which is really useful.
Safeguarding Update
Just to share a few safeguarding tips around on online safety, particularly with the holidays approaching.
The NSPCC provide some great tips about online safety:
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/online-safety/talking-child-online-safety/
Anti-Bullying Ambassadors:
Thank you for supporting our young people to show an interest in anti-bullying. If your child is still interested then please ask them to come and see me at break or lunch.
Young Carers: Who are They and Why do They Need Support? – Action for Children
A young carer is someone 18 years old or under who helps look after a relative with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem. This could be a parent or a sibling. Some children begin giving care from a very young age, and others become carers overnight. Caring for someone can be very isolating, worrying, and stressful. For young carers, this can negatively impact their experience in education. Over a quarter of young carers aged 11-15 regularly miss school. This can have a lasting effect on their life chances. Action for Children have written an excellent article on this vital issue. If interested, please click on the link below:
https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/blog/young-carers-who-are-they-and-how-are-they-impacted/
Please contact Mrs Ghani (Operational Safeguarding Lead) if you need any support or email aghani@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk
Online Parenting Courses – Family Lives
Being a parent has never been easy. There are no manuals for it, and previous generations may not be able to provide the insight you’re looking for. The family unit is more dispersed than ever, with some families existing hundreds of miles from what may be called a ‘core unit’. The rapid pace of societal change in the UK rapidly outstrips the knowledge of the immediate past. The result is that many parents may find themselves lost in a maelstrom of contradictory advice. For adults, time has never been more compacted. Family Lives has produced a series of online parenting courses, to make this challenge a little easier. If interested please follow the link below:
https://www.familylives.org.uk/how-we-can-help/online-parenting-courses
Family Lives offers a confidential and free* helpline service for families in England and Wales (previously known as Parentline). They can be contacted on 0808 800 2222 for emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life. Their website is also a rich source of useful support and advice.
(* Free from landlines and most mobiles)
Newsletters
Please click this link to view our Anxiety newsletter.
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Food Bank Collection
Manor High School will be collecting food donations for the Oadby Food Bank between now at the 16th December. Please see the attached list for suggested items to support the local community.
Extra Curricular Activities & Other Useful Information
Youth Volunteer Opportunities
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
There has been a real sense of purpose around school this week and many things are beginning to come together.
Of particular note is the progress we have witnessed with our Sports Hall construction. We have seized this opportunity to broaden our pupils’ careers knowledge, collaborating with SMD, our contractors, to provide invaluable insights into the career paths available within the construction industry. Beyond the traditional roles we might associate with this sector, our pupils have discussed the array of opportunities, ranging from accountancy to environmental analysis to bricklaying and groundworkers.
We extend our sincere gratitude to SMD for their generosity in dedicating time to engage with our pupils. Whilst the weather at the start of the week meant the postponement of a planned site visit, we are committed to rescheduling this crucial part of the programme.
I would like to draw your attention to two forthcoming events that promise to showcase the talents and dedication of our pupils. Firstly, our Christmas Concert, scheduled for 11th December, presents an excellent opportunity for you to witness the tireless efforts of the students.
Their preparation for this event exemplifies our core value of Resilience, and I encourage you to attend and support if possible. Year 11 students will be selling refreshments in order to raise money for their Year 11 Prom in June. (Details further down the newsletter)
Secondly, we are actively seeking entries for our Trust Christmas Card Competition. We welcome entries from pupils across all year groups and in any artistic form as outlined by the poster.
The prospect of seeing one’s creative efforts transformed into a printed card is exciting, and we hope we will attract a wide range of entries from across the year groups.
Last evening marked our Year 9 parents’ evening, an event that was exceptionally well-attended. The partnership between school and home that this event showed is crucial to our collective success. We are hugely grateful for your support in ensuring that we can provide the best possible opportunities for your children. Your ongoing support and engagement is invaluable. Unless we work together, we will achieve little.
With best wishes
Mr S Greiff
Stay Safe Cycling In Winter
We are now deep in to the months where it is dark arriving and leaving the school. We would like to remind students that cycle into school to wear appropriate reflective clothing whilst cycling to allow drivers and pedestrians to see you.
Year 11 Parents
As you are aware, Year 11 students have been working diligently on their post-16 applications and Pre-Public Examinations (PPE). We are delighted with their effort and determination in this crucial final year at Manor High School.
To support their preparation for the summer GCSE exams, we aim to recreate the experience of receiving results in August. With this in mind, we are pleased to invite students and family members to the PPE Results Evening on Thursday, 12th December, at the following times:
| Start Time | End Time | Houses |
| 5:30 PM | 6:10 PM | Bradgate / Clarendon |
| 6:15 PM | 6:55 PM | Knighton / Watermead |
The event will begin promptly at the stated times with a presentation in the main school hall, providing information to further support students in achieving success. Following the presentation, students and their families will meet with a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), who will share additional information and distribute the results envelopes. These envelopes will include:
- PPE results
- A copy of the summer exam timetable
- A letter from the Headteacher
We anticipate the evening will last approximately 40 minutes.
We hope this event will help foster a sense of pride and confidence in our students as they continue to build strong independent study habits. Senior Leaders and House Managers will also be available throughout the evening to provide support, particularly regarding student wellbeing.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s Year 11 tutor through the usual channels. Additionally, following the second round of PPEs in February, we will host a face-to-face Year 11 Parents’ Evening on Thursday, 20th March.
Due to limited capacity, we humbly request for students to be accompanied by one family member. Your support is greatly appreciated in helping us make this event a meaningful and authentic experience. This evening marks an important milestone in our shared goal of ensuring GCSE success for every student.
Lastly, the PPE Results Evening provides an opportunity to support the Oadby Food Bank. If possible, please consider bringing donation items such as non-perishable foods or toiletries. A list of needed items can be found on our website, and your contributions will be deeply appreciated.
Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you on 12th December.
Yours sincerely,
Dilip Karavadra
Assistant Headteacher
Careers Opportunity
On Monday and Tuesday we had over 80 students work with SMD Construction.
Our students were able to learn about the construction industry (including architecture, engineering, 3D modelling) and interact with people who are currently working in this industry.
The session included routes into construction, the range of jobs in the industry, demand for female workers, employability skills (teamwork, communication, attention to detail, problem solving, multi-tasking) and also the differences between the commercial and residential construction industries. The smd team were great and students had the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the team. We have attached some pictures.
Due to the weather over the weekend the site was not suitable for student visitors. We will work with the SMD team to re book the site visits for students.
Immunisation for All Years
Flu immunisation will take place on 12th December 2024. Parents have had communication outlining the details for the immunisation. Please find information below on how to provide consent and the contact details for the immunisation team.
How to give consent for your child to get the flu vaccination
- Make a note of the code for your school and visit www.leicsandrutlandimms.co.uk
The code for Manor High School is LE137120
- Select Seasonal Flu and enter the school code. On the consent declaration page you can consent for either the nasal flu vaccine or the injectable flu vaccine.
- You will receive a confirmation email when the form is submitted.
If you are unable to complete the form online, please call us on 0300 300 0007 or e-mail lpt.sais@nhs.net with your contact details. If you change your mind about your consent decision, please call us on the number above to change it.
Your school will let you know when the flu vaccination session will take place.
The consent system will close one working day before the vaccination session. You will not be able to submit a consent form on the day.
If you’d like to find out more about the nasal flu vaccine, watch our video on YouTube.
Duke of Edinburgh
Another reminder…We are currently in positive communication with the Duke OF Edinburgh team to ensure all of our students from last year’s Bronze and Silver Awards get the certification they deserve. Please ensure that students have updated their eDofE as best they can.
Going forward, we are also looking at how we structure our DofE provision here at Manor High School and have been communicating with the DofE team about this too. Our aim is to absolutely continue running both the Bronze and Silver awards as we have in the past.
We will be in contact with you as soon as we have a launch date set but please rest assured that we really value the DofE and we are fully behind continuing to run it here at Manor High School
Mandarin Club
Please note that Mandarin club will not be running on Tuesday 10th December.
Legends and Icons 11th December 2024
The Performing Arts Department warmly invites you to our Christmas production – Legends and Icons of Stage, Screen and Song. Students in our clubs and ensembles have been working hard all term on a variety of items inspired by iconic figures in music and drama. The performance will take place in the school hall, starting at 6pm on Wednesday 11th December.
PE Notice
We have been very impressed with the engagement in lessons from our students, even despite the inclement weather. We have seen a decline in weather over the last couple of weeks, and we want our students to stay as dry as possible. We have mentioned to all students that they should bring spare shoes and socks in case they get their feet wet in PE lessons. We also suggest the purchase of a waterproof jacket. We are mindful of cost for parents and therefore are not going to provide a more expensive branded option- some suggestions are below. We are more than happy for students to wear these.
Gelert | Waterproof Packaway Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Stormbreaker Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Laiyah Ld99 | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Gelert | Packaway Ladies Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Rugby and Hockey start for years 7,8 and 9 on the week commencing 4th November, it is essential students have mouthguards for these activities, please see below an example reasonably priced mouthguard.
Sondico | Ergo Fit Fusion Mouthguard | Mouthguards | SportsDirect.com
At £5 these are great value and should last the life of their time here at Manor!
Alumni
We are really keen for former Manor High School students to share their experiences of the world of work with our students.
If you, a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please email us via the Admin email (FAO Mr Croucher).
Many thanks.
After School Study Centre and Interventions
Please can you reinforce to students that if they are staying behind at school to use the study centre (either to work or to wait for a parent to collect them) they must not leave site first and then come back. We have had a number of students leave site at the end of the school day, head to the shop and then arrive back at school 15 minutes later saying they need to wait in the study centre. We cannot allow students to just come and go like this as it is not safe and also not fair to staff who are supporting in the study centre.
The same is the case for interventions. If a student has an intervention session after school they must leave session 3, stay on site and then head to their intervention. Some students have been leaving site at the end of the day, heading to the shops and then wanting to be let back onto site 15 minutes later. This is also not acceptable.
Thanks for your support with this.
Year 11 – Positive Steps 16 Site (PS16)
Deadline dates: the deadline for applications is Monday 16th December. Please note that any year 11 students who have their 1-1 careers talk during the weeks commencing 16/12/24 and 6/1/25 have a slightly later deadline of Monday 13th January. In order for us as a school to process your applications please ensure you have sent your applications off via the PS16 website by these dates.
Year 11 students have been sent their log in details to the PS16 website. These were sent to students’ school email accounts. This is the site students use to make applications to schools and colleges in Leicester and Leicestershire.
We have also shown our students a simple guide of what to do once logged in to the site. We showed this during assembly. This has also been shared on ClassCharts so that students, parents and carers can refer to it (it is a Power Point).
Please ensure that students keep their log in details safe. Students can now start using this site as set out on the Power Point – ensuring their personal details etc as well as personal statements are up to date on the system.
Year 10 Work Experience
Our aim is for all students to be out on work experience as it is a really valuable experience. Students have been given a copy of both the standard application form and also the self-placement form. We have sent a letter to parents explaining this (the letter is also attached to this newsletter). We have also sent out FAQs related to work experience – please do refer to these (they are also attached).
Please can you ensure applications forms come back to school as soon as possible, the latest date being 29th November (if you have any issues please contact us). Please also find attached the student guide to work experience which is really useful.
Safeguarding Update
Please see the link below to a fantastic website to support young people and families. The Live Safe website gives lots of great tips about staying safe and gives parents lots of great advice on how to support young people in a range of different topics. The link below takes you to the staying safe on line page:
https://livesafe.org.uk/parents-and-carers/staying-safe-online/
Anti-Bullying Ambassadors:
Thank you for supporting our young people to show an interest in anti-bullying. If your child is still interested then please ask them to come and see me at break or lunch.
Young Carers: Who are They and Why do They Need Support? – Action for Children
A young carer is someone 18 years old or under who helps look after a relative with a disability, illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem. This could be a parent or a sibling. Some children begin giving care from a very young age, and others become carers overnight. Caring for someone can be very isolating, worrying, and stressful. For young carers, this can negatively impact their experience in education. Over a quarter of young carers aged 11-15 regularly miss school. This can have a lasting effect on their life chances. Action for Children have written an excellent article on this vital issue. If interested, please click on the link below:
https://www.actionforchildren.org.uk/blog/young-carers-who-are-they-and-how-are-they-impacted/
Please contact Mrs Ghani (Operational Safeguarding Lead) if you need any support or email aghani@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk
Online Parenting Courses – Family Lives
Being a parent has never been easy. There are no manuals for it, and previous generations may not be able to provide the insight you’re looking for. The family unit is more dispersed than ever, with some families existing hundreds of miles from what may be called a ‘core unit’. The rapid pace of societal change in the UK rapidly outstrips the knowledge of the immediate past. The result is that many parents may find themselves lost in a maelstrom of contradictory advice. For adults, time has never been more compacted. Family Lives has produced a series of online parenting courses, to make this challenge a little easier. If interested please follow the link below:
https://www.familylives.org.uk/how-we-can-help/online-parenting-courses
Family Lives offers a confidential and free* helpline service for families in England and Wales (previously known as Parentline). They can be contacted on 0808 800 2222 for emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life. Their website is also a rich source of useful support and advice.
(* Free from landlines and most mobiles)
Newsletters
Please click this link to view our Anxiety newsletter.
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Food Bank Collection
Manor High School will be collecting food donations for the Oadby Food Bank between now at the 16th December. Please see the attached list for suggested items to support the local community.
Extra Curricular Activities & Other Useful Information
Youth Volunteer Opportunities
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
Students should be wearing coats over their blazers, not in replacement of the blazer. A reminder that hoodies are not allowed in school, with no exceptions. Also when students have PE lessons please ensure they come with the required clothing to be able to go outside for their PE lessons. PE is a crucial part of our curriculum and students are required to be equipped accordingly.
We have concluded now our Year 11 and Year 10 Pre Public Examinations and teachers are in the process of marking these. Year 11 will have a Results Evening in December, which we will write to Year 11 parents about separately.
This week I have spent some time with other Headteachers in the East Midlands who have been keen to see our school and what how we operate. We have walked the school, spoken to students and dropped in to lessons. Our students are always happy to talk to visitors and to talk about their experiences in school and the atmosphere around school is always delightful. Years 7 8 and 9 have been keen to speak to visitors about the use of iPads in lessons, which is growing as confidence is building. Visitors have been amazed at what students and our teachers are doing in lessons to enhance the student experience.
When we launched the scheme we explained that students needed to have a stylus to write with. We gave you a list of options that you may find appropriate, with a range of costs. I highlight these again for you. It is important that students have these, they are writing on their ipads as they would in books, so need to be equipped accordingly please.
Buy SANDSTROM SSTYBK21 Stylus Pen – Black | Currys– £4.99
Next week sees Year 9 parents’ evening, and we look forward to seeing you all there.
With best wishes
Mr S Greiff
PSHE
Please see out curriculum area on the school website for further details of the curriculum and what is covered in PSHE a letter will be sent next week with details on what we cover.
Attendance Matters
Why is excellent attendance important?
Excellent attendance and punctuality are vital for success at school, and to establish positive life habits that are necessary for future success.
Through attending regularly, pupils can:
• Build friendships and develop social groups.
• Develop life skills.
• Engage in essential learning and other school social events.
• Achieve to their full potential.
• Minimise the risk of engaging in anti-social behaviour.
What YOU must do:
• Try to telephone the school before 8.30am each day of your child’s absence.
• Tell the school in advance, of any medical appointments and bring in appointment cards/letters.
• If you are not sure whether your child is well enough to attend school, send them in anyway as they often perk up on arrival.
• Have a backup plan for if your child misses transport, call on a family member, neighbour or friend.
• If you and your child are experiencing difficulties with school attendance then talk to us as a first step so we can help!
What WE will do:
• Check your child’s attendance every day.
• Phone home to discuss your child’s attendance with you.
• Invite you into school for attendance meetings if we are concerned.
• If we cannot establish a reason for absence, then we may make a welfare home visit.
• We will NOT authorise any term time absence that is not unavoidable.
Careers Opportunity
Thank you for the really positive uptake for the opportunity with Steve Ignall and the smd team. We have had over 80 students show interest. These talks and tours will be occurring during school time and will be on the 25th and 26th November. Students have been told by form tutors as to when their time is.
Please could all students bring back a signed smd photo/video consent form (they were given these on Thursday / Friday). Do not worry about the date in the grey section of the form – this will be completed if photos are taken. Please fill in your child’s name in the grey area and then complete the form in the white area (your signature, date of signature, printed name and contact details). Many thanks
Duke of Edinburgh
We are currently in positive communication with the Duke OF Edinburgh team to ensure all of our students from last year’s Bronze and Silver Awards get the certification they deserve. Please ensure that students have updated their eDofE as best they can.
Going forward, we are also looking at how we structure our DofE provision here at Manor High School and have been communicating with the DofE team about this too. Our aim is to absolutely continue running both the Bronze and Silver awards as we have in the past.
We will be in contact with you as soon as we have a launch date set but please rest assured that we really value the DofE and we are fully behind continuing to run it here at Manor High School
New lunch time queuing plan
To ensure our lunch queues work even better than they have been, we have been using the following timings for students to come and queue for food:
Week A: Bradgate and Clarendon students can queue for their lunch from 12:40pm to 12:50pm. Knighton and Watermead students can then queue for their lunch from 12:50pm to 1pm. After 1pm we have free time were students any house can come back for more food etc.
Week B: Knighton and Watermead students can queue for their lunch from 12:40pm to 12:50pm. Bradgate and Clarendon students can then queue for their lunch from 12:50pm to 1pm. After 1pm we have free time were students any house can come back for more food etc.
Please note:
– Year 11 can still only use the Year 11 hatch.
– Queueing expectations remain the same for all students: no more than two students across, always facing forwards, give people in front of you space (i.e. do not push up to people), absolutely no pushing.
– the hatches do stay open after the times specified above so there is more than enough time for students to get their food. It has worked well so far!
In order for this system to work students have to wear their lanyards at lunch when queuing. If a lanyard is not worn they may be removed from the line and have to wait until 1pm – lanyards show which house you are in and help us to monitor the correct students are queuing at the correct times.
Christmas Dinner 2024
Our traditional Christmas Lunch will take place on Friday 20th December and all students will eat with the rest of their tutor group and House in the hall, regardless of whether they are having the school Christmas Dinner or a packed lunch. We would encourage all students to sign up for the lunch as it is a key part of our end of term celebrations, and an opportunity to socialise with the rest of the tutor group. We would also like to encourage the wearing of Christmas jumpers on this day along with their school uniform.
• Tickets for the two-course Christmas meal can be purchased from School Gateway for £2.80 per person (the price includes a drink). The cost is covered for students eligible for Free School Meals.
• Please select either the vegetarian, or roast turkey option of which there is also a Halal choice available on School Gateway along with the preferred pudding.
• Deadline for ordering meals is Thursday 28th November at 9.00am. Tickets will be issued to students on the morning of the last day of term.
• Water will be supplied on tables but no other drinks (or food) will be available to purchase on the day from The Hatches or other food serving areas.
• Students are welcome to bring their own drinks (energy drinks are not allowed).
• Anyone not purchasing a Christmas meal will need to bring a packed lunch – please remember, we are a nut free school.
Sparx Maths
We are excited to inform you that students at Manor High School continue to benefit from the Sparx Maths platform. All students have access to this website and students in years 7, 8, 9 and 10 will also have their homework set on this platform.
We know you want to support your child’s maths progress, so please see the information below which explains how Sparx works and how you can help your child complete their homework each week.
What is Sparx Maths Homework?
• Sparx provides personalized homework to each child, with questions that are challenging yet achievable, and tailored to their learning needs.
• The majority of each week’s homework will be based on recently learnt topics, but it will also include some questions from previous topics to help reinforce their learning.
• Students access their homework on their online Sparx account, where they’ll get immediate feedback for each question about whether their answer was correct or they need to have another try.
• While homework is accessed online, it is predominantly a written homework and students should record their work on paper. Sparx has a “bookwork checks” system to help students form this habit.
• Every question in Sparx has a support video attached to that your child can get help independently.
How can you help your child with their homework?
• Provide a quiet space for your child to focus on their homework each week.
• Encourage them to start their homework early so they can get help from their teacher before the deadline if they get stuck. To ensure no gaps form in your child’s maths knowledge, homework is not marked as complete until all of the compulsory questions have been answered correctly.
• Check the weekly email you’ll get from Sparx and praise your child for starting or completing their homework. Encourage them to finish it before the deadline if they haven’t already done so.
• Try not to help your child with a question until they’ve had a go first. It is essential they try to complete their homework independently so that Sparx can give them questions that are at the right level for them. Remember they can watch the support videos if they need to.
• Please also encourage your child to find support through attending our weekly Maths club on Wednesday after school until 4 o’clock. They will find Maths teachers available to help them with Sparx maths, revision or class work that they wish to catch up on due to absence. Alternatively we can provide additional guidance and support for those students looking to improve their progress and attainment in the subject.
For further information and guidance, please click on the link below.
https://sparxmaths.com/parents/
PE Notice
We have been very impressed with the engagement in lessons from our students, even despite the inclement weather. We have seen a decline in weather over the last couple of weeks, and we want our students to stay as dry as possible. We have mentioned to all students that they should bring spare shoes and socks in case they get their feet wet in PE lessons. We also suggest the purchase of a waterproof jacket. We are mindful of cost for parents and therefore are not going to provide a more expensive branded option- some suggestions are below. We are more than happy for students to wear these.
Gelert | Waterproof Packaway Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Stormbreaker Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Laiyah Ld99 | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Gelert | Packaway Ladies Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Rugby and Hockey start for years 7,8 and 9 on the week commencing 4th November, it is essential students have mouthguards for these activities, please see below an example reasonably priced mouthguard.
Sondico | Ergo Fit Fusion Mouthguard | Mouthguards | SportsDirect.com
At £5 these are great value and should last the life of their time here at Manor!
Alumni
We are reaching out to any past students of our school who may be willing to inspire our current students. We are looking for people to share their experiences of life after Manor High School all the way to the world of work. If you think you have a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please get them to email at: admin@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk (FAO Mr Croucher). Many thanks.
After School Study Centre and Interventions
Please can you reinforce to students that if they are staying behind at school to use the study centre (either to work or to wait for a parent to collect them) they must not leave site first and then come back. We have had a number of students leave site at the end of the school day, head to the shop and then arrive back at school 15 minutes later saying they need to wait in the study centre. We cannot allow students to just come and go like this as it is not safe and also not fair to staff who are supporting in the study centre.
The same is the case for interventions. If a student has an intervention session after school they must leave session 3, stay on site and then head to their intervention. Some students have been leaving site at the end of the day, heading to the shops and then wanting to be let back onto site 15 minutes later. This is also not acceptable.
Thanks for your support with this.
Year 11 – Positive Steps 16 Site (PS16)
Deadline dates: the deadline for applications is Monday 16th December. Please note that any year 11 students who have their 1-1 careers talk during the weeks commencing 16/12/24 and 6/1/25 have a slightly later deadline of Monday 13th January. In order for us as a school to process your applications please ensure you have sent your applications off via the PS16 website by these dates.
Year 11 students have been sent their log in details to the PS16 website. These were sent to students’ school email accounts. This is the site students use to make applications to schools and colleges in Leicester and Leicestershire.
We have also shown our students a simple guide of what to do once logged in to the site. We showed this during assembly. This has also been shared on ClassCharts so that students, parents and carers can refer to it (it is a Power Point).
Please ensure that students keep their log in details safe. Students can now start using this site as set out on the Power Point – ensuring their personal details etc as well as personal statements are up to date on the system.
Year 10 Work Experience
Our aim is for all students to be out on work experience as it is a really valuable experience. Students have been given a copy of both the standard application form and also the self-placement form. We have sent a letter to parents explaining this (the letter is also attached to this newsletter). We have also sent out FAQs related to work experience – please do refer to these (they are also attached).
Please can you ensure applications forms come back to school as soon as possible, the latest date being 29th November (if you have any issues please contact us). Please also find attached the student guide to work experience which is really useful.
Safeguarding Update
We are recruiting!
If your child would like to be involved in supporting Manor to have a culture of safeguarding, then please ask them to look out for notices next week for our first Anti-Bullying Ambassadors meeting! We welcome all students from any year group to join me in sharing ideas on how to continue to make Manor High a safe place to come to school.
Online Parenting Courses – Family Lives
Being a parent has never been easy. There are no manuals for it, and previous generations may not be able to provide the insight you’re looking for. The family unit is more dispersed than ever, with some families existing hundreds of miles from what may be called a ‘core unit’. The rapid pace of societal change in the UK rapidly outstrips the knowledge of the immediate past. The result is that many parents may find themselves lost in a maelstrom of contradictory advice. For adults, time has never been more compacted. Family Lives has produced a series of online parenting courses, to make this challenge a little easier. If interested please follow the link below:
https://www.familylives.org.uk/how-we-can-help/online-parenting-courses
Family Lives offers a confidential and free* helpline service for families in England and Wales (previously known as Parentline). They can be contacted on 0808 800 2222 for emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life. Their website is also a rich source of useful support and advice.
(* Free from landlines and most mobiles)
Newsletters
Please click this link to view our Anxiety newsletter.
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Extra Curricular Activities & Other Useful Information
Youth Volunteer Opportunities
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
In alignment with Anti-Bullying Week, we have dedicated our assemblies to exploring the theme of ‘choosing respect’. This initiative builds upon our previous work on protected characteristics, reinforcing our commitment to create an environment where every individual is valued and respected. Through these focused discussions, we aim to equip our pupils with the knowledge and understanding necessary to make conscious choices that promote respect in their daily interactions.
The emphasis on respect extends beyond our immediate school environment, encouraging our pupils to become ambassadors of positive behaviour in their broader communities. By instilling these values, we are not only addressing the immediate concerns of bullying but also laying the foundation for a more empathetic and considerate society. Respect is not just something expected in school, it is a core value of society.
I am delighted to report that our attendance figures continue to surpass the national average. This achievement is a testament to the collective effort of our pupils, parents, and staff. However, at Manor High, we consistently strive for excellence, setting an ambitious target of 96% attendance for all.
It is important that everyone understands the significance of regular school attendance. While a 90% achievement in academic assessments might be considered commendable, the same percentage in attendance translates to a concerning 24 days of absence over the course of a school year! Such prolonged absences can significantly impact a pupil’s educational progress and social development.
I would also like to add my personal congratulations to one of our Year 9 students Zara Patel, who on the 7th November achieved a Grade 7 at Distinction level in Speech and Drama via the Trinity College London. Grade 7 is a level 3 award and this means Zara now has achieved 16 UCAS points before starting her GCSEs.
As we approach the winter months, typically characterised by an increase in minor illnesses, I urge parents to maintain their commitment to regular school attendance. While we acknowledge the challenges posed by seasonal ailments, we encourage you to send your child to school whenever possible, particularly in cases of minor sniffles or coughs.
Your support in this matter is invaluable. By ensuring consistent attendance, you are providing your child with the best possible opportunity to excel academically and socially. Together, we can create an environment where every pupil has the chance to reach their full potential, fostering a community of engaged learners and future leaders.
Finally, we urge you please to park considerately outside of school to ensure the safe passage of students. We are working with the police to ensure that the streets around our school are safe for our students to walk.
With best wishes
Mr S Greiff
Careers Opportunity
Thank you for the really positive uptake for the opportunity with Steve Ignall and the SMD team.
We have had over 80 students show interest.
We are now finalising dates with Steve and will let students know when their time slots are.
These talks and tours will be occurring during school time and will be on the 25th and 26th November. Students do not need to bring anything additional into school – just come to school as usual.
Duke of Edinburgh
We are currently in positive communication with the Duke OF Edinburgh team to ensure all of our students from last year’s Bronze and Silver Awards get the certification they deserve. Please ensure that students have updated their eDofE as best they can.
Going forward, we are also looking at how we structure our DofE provision here at Manor High School and have been communicating with the DofE team about this too. Our aim is to absolutely continue running both the Bronze and Silver awards as we have in the past.
We will be in contact with you as soon as we have a launch date set but please rest assured that we really value the DofE and we are fully behind continuing to run it here at Manor High School
New lunch time queuing plan
To ensure our lunch queues work even better than they have been, we have been using the following timings for students to come and queue for food:
Week A: Bradgate and Clarendon students can queue for their lunch from 12:40pm to 12:50pm. Knighton and Watermead students can then queue for their lunch from 12:50pm to 1pm. After 1pm we have free time were students any house can come back for more food etc.
Week B: Knighton and Watermead students can queue for their lunch from 12:40pm to 12:50pm. Bradgate and Clarendon students can then queue for their lunch from 12:50pm to 1pm. After 1pm we have free time were students any house can come back for more food etc.
Please note:
– Year 11 can still only use the Year 11 hatch.
– Queueing expectations remain the same for all students: no more than two students across, always facing forwards, give people in front of you space (i.e. do not push up to people), absolutely no pushing.
– the hatches do stay open after the times specified above so there is more than enough time for students to get their food. It has worked well so far!
In order for this system to work students have to wear their lanyards at lunch when queuing. If a lanyard is not worn they may be removed from the line and have to wait until 1pm – lanyards show which house you are in and help us to monitor the correct students are queuing at the correct times.
Year 10 Art and Design Trip
Some of our Year 10 Art and Design students enjoyed 2 art-packed days in London this week.
Students were able to soak up the local culture as well as collect responses and sources valuable to their GCSE portfolios.
Students spent this time outside of the classroom exploring and sketching work at the Tate Modern, enjoying local food in Borough Market and an evening watching the critically acclaimed Hamilton.
Our year 10 Art and Design students also enjoyed a tour around the fascinating British Museum, a walk along the river to see the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, the Globe Theatre and Westminster Abbey.
The trip was rounded off with lunch in Covent Garden watching the street performers and artists.
PE Notice
We have been very impressed with the engagement in lessons from our students, even despite the inclement weather. We have seen a decline in weather over the last couple of weeks, and we want our students to stay as dry as possible. We have mentioned to all students that they should bring spare shoes and socks in case they get their feet wet in PE lessons. We also suggest the purchase of a waterproof jacket. We are mindful of cost for parents and therefore are not going to provide a more expensive branded option- some suggestions are below. We are more than happy for students to wear these.
Gelert | Waterproof Packaway Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Stormbreaker Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Laiyah Ld99 | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Gelert | Packaway Ladies Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Rugby and Hockey start for years 7,8 and 9 on the week commencing 4th November, it is essential students have mouthguards for these activities, please see below an example reasonably priced mouthguard.
Sondico | Ergo Fit Fusion Mouthguard | Mouthguards | SportsDirect.com
At £5 these are great value and should last the life of their time here at Manor!
Alumni
We are reaching out to any past students of our school who may be willing to inspire our current students. We are looking for people to share their experiences of life after Manor High School all the way to the world of work. If you think you have a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please get them to email at: admin@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk (FAO Mr Croucher). Many thanks.
After School Study Centre and Interventions
Please can you reinforce to students that if they are staying behind at school to use the study centre (either to work or to wait for a parent to collect them) they must not leave site first and then come back. We have had a number of students leave site at the end of the school day, head to the shop and then arrive back at school 15 minutes later saying they need to wait in the study centre. We cannot allow students to just come and go like this as it is not safe and also not fair to staff who are supporting in the study centre.
The same is the case for interventions. If a student has an intervention session after school they must leave session 3, stay on site and then head to their intervention. Some students have been leaving site at the end of the day, heading to the shops and then wanting to be let back onto site 15 minutes later. This is also not acceptable.
Thanks for your support with this.
Year 11 – Positive Steps 16 Site (PS16)
Deadline dates: the deadline for applications is Monday 16th December. Please note that any year 11 students who have their 1-1 careers talk during the weeks commencing 16/12/24 and 6/1/25 have a slightly later deadline of Monday 13th January. In order for us as a school to process your applications please ensure you have sent your applications off via the PS16 website by these dates.
Year 11 students have been sent their log in details to the PS16 website. These were sent to students’ school email accounts. This is the site students use to make applications to schools and colleges in Leicester and Leicestershire.
We have also shown our students a simple guide of what to do once logged in to the site. We showed this during assembly. This has also been shared on ClassCharts so that students, parents and carers can refer to it (it is a Power Point).
Please ensure that students keep their log in details safe. Students can now start using this site as set out on the Power Point – ensuring their personal details etc as well as personal statements are up to date on the system.
Year 10 Work Experience
Our aim is for all students to be out on work experience as it is a really valuable experience. Students have been given a copy of both the standard application form and also the self-placement form. We have sent a letter to parents explaining this (the letter is also attached to this newsletter). We have also sent out FAQs related to work experience – please do refer to these (they are also attached).
Please can you ensure applications forms come back to school as soon as possible, the latest date being 29th November (if you have any issues please contact us). Please also find attached the student guide to work experience which is really useful.
Safeguarding Update
Update
This week has been Anti-Bullying Week at Manor with assemblies focused on this topic. The link below provides some great resources for you as parents to support young people if they are being bullied or concerned about friendships and relationships.
How can I help my child if they are being bullied? | NSPCC
If you have any concerns at all about bullying please contact your child’s form tutor.
Online Parenting Courses – Family Lives
Being a parent has never been easy. There are no manuals for it, and previous generations may not be able to provide the insight you’re looking for. The family unit is more dispersed than ever, with some families existing hundreds of miles from what may be called a ‘core unit’. The rapid pace of societal change in the UK rapidly outstrips the knowledge of the immediate past. The result is that many parents may find themselves lost in a maelstrom of contradictory advice. For adults, time has never been more compacted. Family Lives has produced a series of online parenting courses, to make this challenge a little easier. If interested please follow the link below:
https://www.familylives.org.uk/how-we-can-help/online-parenting-courses
Family Lives offers a confidential and free* helpline service for families in England and Wales (previously known as Parentline). They can be contacted on 0808 800 2222 for emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life. Their website is also a rich source of useful support and advice.
(* Free from landlines and most mobiles)
Newsletters
Please click this link to view our Anxiety newsletter.
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Extra Curricular Activities & Other Useful Information
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
School this week has been a calm quiet and studious place. Year 11 have been working their way through their PPE exams. We are pround of their dedication, commitment and efforts. These exams are very important as they do form the basis of predictions for college applications.
Also, we held our year 10 parents’ evening last night which was very well attended and showed a joint commitment to doing the very best for our students. We appreciate your support and interest in your child’s education, without us working together little will be achieved.
As we look ahead to next week, assemblies will focus around Anti-Bullying Week, which carries the theme of ‘Respect’ this year. This theme resonates with our core values and the ethos we strive to create within our school. Respect is not only something we teach but is also a principle we endeavour to embody in all our interactions. We expect this mutual respect to permeate all relationships within our school community – between pupils, among staff members, and in our two way engagement with parents. To facilitate constructive and respectful communication, we have developed a contact flowchart, accessible via the link provided below, which indicates the appropriate channels.
As the autumn chill sets in, we have noted a few ‘hoodies’ appearing on school premises. While we understand the desire for warmth, these garments are not part of our approved uniform and they will be confiscated. We kindly request your support in ensuring that your child refrains from wearing hoodies to school, opting instead for appropriate outerwear such as coats. Please check when your child leaves for school that they are only wearing items that are approved items of uniform.
Finally, our partner primary school Brookside is having some fencing installed to keep their site as safe as possible and their Headteacher Miss Brown has asked me to include a message in our communications this week. The only point of access to Brookside Primary is through their gate at the top of Copse Close. Parents should not walk across our car park to access the site, or come through our entrance to access Brookside as there is no access point. There is now temporary fencing restricting access. This will be replaced with permanent fencing over the coming weeks.
Also, no student from Manor High is allowed on their site at any times, this includes to pick up siblings or to meet parents. Adults only should be on their site. Students should meet parents outside of school please.
With best wishes
Mr S Greiff
Year 10 and 11 PPE Timetables November 2024
Careers Opportunity
Calling all students who are interested in the following careers areas: engineering, construction, architecture, 3D modelling.
Steve Ignall is a Project Manager for smd Construction. This is the company behind our sports hall project. Steve is really keen to work with our students and we have agreed to:
- Run a talk with Steve Ignall (smd Project Manager). This will involve looking at all of the different roles available in the construction industry (not just on this site), looking at architects drawings and plans, looking at 3D mapping for the sports hall, QA opportunity for students.
- Tour of the construction site. For students who take part in the opportunity above, Steve has agreed we can get these students onto the site to look more closely at what is happening (hard hats and high vis jackets will be provided).
This is all totally free. If your child is interested in being involved, please ask them to let their tutor know (tutors have been asking this week).
This opportunity is available to all students! Once we have a list of students we will then be able to confirm dates with you. These sessions will take part in school time and students do not need to do any preparation for them other than to think of any questions they may have for Steve.
Leicester Children’s Holidays
We work in partnership with this charity. Mr Croucher is collecting the following items of unneeded but good condition school uniform for them: all aspects of school uniform, including badged items, P.E. items, blazers and even coats.
If you have any contributions please ask students to bring them to Mr Croucher next week. Many thanks!
New lunch time queuing plan
To ensure our lunch queues work even better than they have been, we have been using the following timings for students to come and queue for food:
Week A: Bradgate and Clarendon students can queue for their lunch from 12:40pm to 12:50pm. Knighton and Watermead students can then queue for their lunch from 12:50pm to 1pm. After 1pm we have free time were students any house can come back for more food etc.
Week B: Knighton and Watermead students can queue for their lunch from 12:40pm to 12:50pm. Bradgate and Clarendon students can then queue for their lunch from 12:50pm to 1pm. After 1pm we have free time were students any house can come back for more food etc.
Please note:
– Year 11 can still only use the Year 11 hatch.
– Queueing expectations remain the same for all students: no more than two students across, always facing forwards, give people in front of you space (i.e. do not push up to people), absolutely no pushing.
– the hatches do stay open after the times specified above so there is more than enough time for students to get their food. It has worked well so far!
In order for this system to work students have to wear their lanyards at lunch when queuing. If a lanyard is not worn they may be removed from the line and have to wait until 1pm – lanyards show which house you are in and help us to monitor the correct students are queuing at the correct times.
Study Mandarin Chinese
We are delighted to be able to offer the students the opportunity to study Mandarin Chinese. With China’s profile rapidly growing on the world stage and UK businesses forming more and more links with China, the need to learn Mandarin Chinese (the world’s most spoken language) is ever increasing.
This year, working with De Montfort University and the Confucius Institute we are able to offer two Mandarin groups-
Group 1 is for students who have studied in the Mandarin Club at MHS previously last year.
Group 2 is for beginners who wish to learn aspects of the language.
The club is open to all students from Year 7-11. Expressions of interest should be made by Monday 11th November.
We can confirm that the lesson will take place after school on Tuesdays, from 12th November, starting promptly at 3.05 pm and finishing at approximately 4.15 pm. Lessons will take place in Room 3A and Room 3.
Please understand that although this is an after school lesson, normal school expectations will be in place to ensure that all students make the best possible progress. Our expectations, as always, will be for the students to attend all session promptly, fully equipped and ready to learn.
Please complete the link below by Monday11th November to confirm that you are happy for your child to attend Mandarin Club, and that you will support both the school’s expectations and your child in attending all sessions.
U16 Table Tennis – South Leicester Champions
Another busy week on the pitches, ball courts and tables for the sportsmen and women at Manor.
On Tuesday night, the U16 table tennis team won the South Leicestershire League, with victories over Beauchamp, Gartree, Wigston Academy and Wigston High. On the same night the U13’s managed a 4th place finish in their league.
On Thursday the boys U16 basketball team came 2nd in their regional competition, narrowly missing out on top spot by a single point on points scored.
Well done to all those who represented the school around the county this week and to those who are training hard during the extra curricular clubs.
Well done boys.
PE Notice
We have been very impressed with the engagement in lessons from our students, even despite the inclement weather. We have seen a decline in weather over the last couple of weeks, and we want our students to stay as dry as possible. We have mentioned to all students that they should bring spare shoes and socks in case they get their feet wet in PE lessons. We also suggest the purchase of a waterproof jacket. We are mindful of cost for parents and therefore are not going to provide a more expensive branded option- some suggestions are below. We are more than happy for students to wear these.
Gelert | Waterproof Packaway Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Stormbreaker Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Laiyah Ld99 | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Gelert | Packaway Ladies Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Rugby and Hockey start for years 7,8 and 9 on the week commencing 4th November, it is essential students have mouthguards for these activities, please see below an example reasonably priced mouthguard.
Sondico | Ergo Fit Fusion Mouthguard | Mouthguards | SportsDirect.com
At £5 these are great value and should last the life of their time here at Manor!
Alumni
We are reaching out to any past students of our school who may be willing to inspire our current students. We are looking for people to share their experiences of life after Manor High School all the way to the world of work. If you think you have a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please get them to email at: admin@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk (FAO Mr Croucher). Many thanks.
Year 11 – Post 16
Just a reminder. We have created a list of open events at local Post 16 providers (schools and colleges). Please note this list covers a lot of providers but not all of them. We advised that all students should look at a range of different providers to help them make a more informed decision about where they will apply next year. We have sent this list of open events to students via class charts as well. Please click the link below to view the information.
We will be in touch in the next few weeks about the Post 16 application process.
Year 11 – Positive Steps 16 Site (PS16)
Year 11 students have been sent their log in details to the PS16 website. These were sent this morning to students’ school email accounts. This is the site students use to make applications to schools and colleges in Leicester and Leicestershire.
We have also shown our students a simple guide of what to do once logged in to the site. We showed this during assembly. This has also been shared on ClassCharts so that students, parents and carers can refer to it (it is a Power Point).
Please ensure that students keep their log in details safe. Students can now start using this site as set out on the Power Point – ensuring their personal details etc as well as personal statements are up to date on the system.
Year 10 Work Experience
Next week we will be giving our year 10 students application forms for work experience. We will also send out (via the weekly newsletter) full information about work experience and how it works (including costs to parents, money the school will subsidise towards costs and the benefits of work experience)
Safeguarding Update
Online Parenting Courses – Family Lives
Being a parent has never been easy. There are no manuals for it, and previous generations may not be able to provide the insight you’re looking for. The family unit is more dispersed than ever, with some families existing hundreds of miles from what may be called a ‘core unit’. The rapid pace of societal change in the UK rapidly outstrips the knowledge of the immediate past. The result is that many parents may find themselves lost in a maelstrom of contradictory advice. For adults, time has never been more compacted. Family Lives has produced a series of online parenting courses, to make this challenge a little easier. If interested please follow the link below:
https://www.familylives.org.uk/how-we-can-help/online-parenting-courses
Family Lives offers a confidential and free* helpline service for families in England and Wales (previously known as Parentline). They can be contacted on 0808 800 2222 for emotional support, information, advice and guidance on any aspect of parenting and family life. Their website is also a rich source of useful support and advice.
(* Free from landlines and most mobiles)
Online Safety Newsletter
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Extra Curricular Activities
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
As we reflect on the week since our return from the half-term break, it is remarkable to consider the number of activities and achievements that have taken place in such a brief period! It seems so long ago that we were on our half term break!
Our commitment to enriching the educational experience of our pupils has been exemplified by the English department’s trip to the Curve Theatre. Approximately one hundred students were able to witness a live performance of “An Inspector Calls”, a core GCSE text. This not only enhances their understanding of the book but also contributes significantly to their cultural capital.
Our sporting teams have demonstrated excellence of late, with particular praise due to our girl’s netball teams for their stellar performance in recent tournaments. These achievements are a testament to the resilience and dedication of our pupils..
The Year 11 Post 16 evening on Wednesday was a resounding success, with an unprecedented number of providers in attendance. This is indicative of the high regard in which our pupils are held by our local colleges, who are eager to welcome our students into their post-16 programmes. I am proud that our students’ reputation precedes them in such a positive manner as I am sure parents are too.
As we look ahead, our Year 11 pupils are about to begin their first set of mock pre-public examinations next week. The importance of these assessments cannot be overstated, as they will form the foundation for staff predictions and, consequently, the predicted grades for college applications. We have observed with pride the level of engagement demonstrated during the language speaking mocks that have started this week.
The completion of our iPad rollout for Years 7 to 9 was completed this week. As familiarity with these devices grows, they will become increasingly central to our curriculum delivery. To ensure the efficacy of this initiative, we have established a set of guidelines for iPad use, which we expect all pupils to adhere to. These are below.
– The iPad is a part of our school equipment – and like their pens and pencils, students should have them with them for all lessons. Failure to have them with them will result in sanctions being applied
– The expectation that it is charged and ready to use
– Students should not to use anyone else’s iPad, each student is responsible for the safe keeping of their own iPad.
– In between lessons and in break times, these need to be in student bags to ensure they are safe.
– If students are in the Study centre or in interventions they can use these, when supervised by adults.
– Bluetooth should be turned on at all times to ensure efficient use in lessons.
When in bags please make sure they are stored safely, away from anything that may cause accidental damage, eg water bottles or muddy football boots!
Finally, our Sports Hall build is progressing at pace! There are some photos below that show the progress that is being made. We are keeping our fingers crossed that this will be completed before the end of the academic year.
In closing, I would like to extend warm wishes to those families celebrating the Festival of Lights, Diwali. This is a truly special time and we hope this brings you joy!
Mr S Greiff
Year 10 and 11 PPE Timetables November 2024
Murder on the Orient Express Trip
On Wednesday 16th October 30 of our students from years 9 to 11 visited Curve theatre in Leicester to see the touring production of Murder on the Orient Express – the play based on Agatha Christie’s ingenious murder mystery novel.
This visit was a brilliant experience for our students, some of whom had never watched a live production before, and a perfect treat to end the first half term. The larger-than-life characters kept us all entertained throughout, with a range of wonderful accents and stylish 1930s period costumes. The set was absolutely incredible – combining a revolving stage with highly realistic train carriages and clever projections. We were all absolutely stunned by the plot twist at the end
one student said “I was expecting a plot twist, but I wasn’t expecting THAT!”. If that wasn’t enough, there were plenty of gunshots, screams, dry ice and fake blood to keep us all on the edge of our seats all night.
Thank you to Miss Jennings and Mr Hings for accompanying; all students for being impeccable audience members and a credit to our school; and all parents who supported with transportation. We have already had lots of students asking what we can go and watch next!
Mrs Woods
New Lunchtime Queuing Plan
New lunch time queuing plan
To ensure our lunch queues work even better than they have been, we have been using the following timings for students to come and queue for food:
Week A: Bradgate and Clarendon students can queue for their lunch from 12:40pm to 12:50pm. Knighton and Watermead students can then queue for their lunch from 12:50pm to 1pm. After 1pm we have free time were students any house can come back for more food etc.
Week B: Knighton and Watermead students can queue for their lunch from 12:40pm to 12:50pm. Bradgate and Clarendon students can then queue for their lunch from 12:50pm to 1pm. After 1pm we have free time were students any house can come back for more food etc.
Please note:
– Year 11 can still only use the Year 11 hatch.
– Queueing expectations remain the same for all students: no more than two students across, always facing forwards, give people in front of you space (i.e. do not push up to people), absolutely no pushing.
– the hatches do stay open after the times specified above so there is more than enough time for students to get their food. It has worked well so far!
In order for this system to work students have to wear their lanyards at lunch when queuing. If a lanyard is not worn they may be removed from the line and have to wait until 1pm – lanyards show which house you are in and help us to monitor the correct students are queuing at the correct times.
Year 7 Netball Team
Congratulations to the year 7 girls Netball team, who represented Manor, with great enthusiasm and skill on Tuesday in the South Leicestershire county league.
The players had been working hard towards this tournament during PE lessons, as well as in extra curricular training sessions, and it really paid off.
The team recorded impressive wins against Gartree, Beauchamp and South Wigston High School, with just one defeat at the hands of Wigston Academy.
Well done girls.
PE Notice
We have been very impressed with the engagement in lessons from our students, even despite the inclement weather. We have seen a decline in weather over the last couple of weeks, and we want our students to stay as dry as possible. We have mentioned to all students that they should bring spare shoes and socks in case they get their feet wet in PE lessons. We also suggest the purchase of a waterproof jacket. We are mindful of cost for parents and therefore are not going to provide a more expensive branded option- some suggestions are below. We are more than happy for students to wear these.
Gelert | Waterproof Packaway Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Stormbreaker Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Laiyah Ld99 | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Gelert | Packaway Ladies Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Rugby and Hockey start for years 7,8 and 9 on the week commencing 4th November, it is essential students have mouthguards for these activities, please see below an example reasonably priced mouthguard.
Sondico | Ergo Fit Fusion Mouthguard | Mouthguards | SportsDirect.com
At £5 these are great value and should last the life of their time here at Manor!
K11B Charity Fundraising
Just an update on our fundraising for the charity Children’s Hospital pyjamas. Last week, K11B launched an initiative to ask all tutor groups to donate at least one pair of new pyjamas for children aged 0-18 who are spending long periods of time in hospitals/hospices/refuges. In hospitals, for example, they only provide gowns even if children are staying there for longer due to emergency operations etc and this can be distressing and stressful for the children and the parents.
We have now collected 66 pairs of pyjamas and Bradgate House has donated the most. Students have been knocking on my door and delivering pyjamas showing just how charitable they are. Parents have donated £128 so far on School Gateway and I would like to thank you for your generosity and helping to make a difference to those who need help- we will be buying lots of pyjamas with the donation money! Donations can still be made until the 8th November.
Once again, I would like to thank you for your support in our drive to help those in need in our community.
Miss Sheetal Chudasama
Alumni
We are reaching out to any past students of our school who may be willing to inspire our current students. We are looking for people to share their experiences of life after Manor High School all the way to the world of work. If you think you have a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please get them to email at: admin@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk (FAO Mr Croucher). Many thanks.
Year 11 – Post 16
We have created a list of open events at local Post 16 providers (schools and colleges). Please note this list covers a lot of providers but not all of them. We advised that all students should look at a range of different providers to help them make a more informed decision about where they will apply next year. We have sent this list of open events to students via class charts as well. Please click the link below to view the information.
We will be in touch in the next few weeks about the Post 16 application process.
Year 11 – Positive Steps 16 Site (PS16)
Year 11 students have been sent their log in details to the PS16 website. These were sent this morning to students’ school email accounts. This is the site students use to make applications to schools and colleges in Leicester and Leicestershire.
We have also shown our students a simple guide of what to do once logged in to the site. We showed this during assembly. This has also been shared on ClassCharts so that students, parents and carers can refer to it (it is a Power Point).
Please ensure that students keep their log in details safe. Students can now start using this site as set out on the Power Point – ensuring their personal details etc as well as personal statements are up to date on the system.
Leicester High School for Girls
We will communicate more about the times for the event next week but please keep the date in your diary. This is an opportunity for our Year 11 students to interact with these providers, ask questions and help gain more information re their Post 16 choices. However, we cannot stress enough the importance of visiting providers too (please see attached list of open events at local providers.
Leicester High School for Girls have emailed us sharing their open events. These are as follows: Sixth Form Taster Day and Information Evening on Tuesday 5th November for any girls who might be interested. Please see the link below.
Safeguarding Update
Healthy Start
Do you work with families and young children? yes? keep reading, this could make a real difference!
Financially, times are tough right now so why not find out more about the Healthy Start scheme that could support families who are eligible to buy fresh food and milk! If families have a child under the age of 4 or are more than 10 weeks pregnant, they may be entitled to money towards buying healthy food and milk .
There are two briefings you can attend to find out more…
Mon, 4th Nov 2024, 13:00 – 14:00
Come along to find out more and ask questions.
Do it today, book a place following the link below-
https://www.leicestershirehealthytots.org.uk/training-and-events
Self Harm and Suicide Awareness Training for Parents/Carers
Please click here for some information about a training and awareness event around self-harm and suicide aimed at parents and carers of children and young people . Although the face-to-face sessions will be in Leicester City, there are online sessions available. Some information about a training and awareness event around self-harm and suicide aimed at parents and carers of children and young people . Although the face-to-face sessions will be in Leicester City, there are online sessions available.
Online Safety Newsletter
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Extra Curricular Activities
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
As we reach the conclusion of our first half term, I find myself reflecting on the progress we’ve seen across various areas of school during this time. Time has passed quickly, but much has been achieved during this period.
September saw our awards evening. This celebration not only acknowledged the academic accomplishments of our pupils but also highlighted the human values in which they excel. It served as a testament to our commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who have excellent character as well as excellent academic abilities.
During this half term, we have made significant strides in enhancing our SEND provision. The implementation of new structures in this department has led to us beig in a position, after training staff in this half term, to launch targeted interventions for pupils over the past week. We are totally dedicated to ensuring that every pupil receives the support necessary to thrive academically and personally. This is a journey we are on, but we are determined to make this work and to do the very best for our learners.
Last week, we distributed iPads to our Year 8 and 9 cohorts, and it has been immensely encouraging to observe their use in classroom settings and speak to students about the use of these and how it has already made their lessons easier and more interactive. This initiative will extend to our Year 7 pupils on Monday, 28th October, further enriching their learning experience. Year 7 parents should make sure they have signed the home-school contract by the end of half term. The vast majority have, but there are a few outstanding. https://forms.office.com/e/sBTdYf5Szk
As we approach our half-term break, which began for our pupils today, whilst staff have a training day I would like to remind you of their return on Monday, 28th October..
I thank you for your continued support and engagement as we work together to provide the best possible opportunities for children in our community. I wish all members of our school community a peaceful half-term break.
Mr S Greiff
Year 10 and 11 PPE Timetables November 2024
SEND Update
Following on from the information shared last academic year regarding interventions for students requiring additional support, we are pleased to inform you that interventions are now being facilitated by our new Higher Level Teaching Assistants (HLTAs), Mr. Hings and Miss Ayres.
These intervention sessions began on Monday the 14th of October. In the first session the students are meeting the other students in their group, completing a baseline assessment and be given information about their intervention sessions.
Individual information for parents about the interventions will be shared with parents/carer next week, this has been delayed due to the IT issues we have been experiencing.
Please be advised that intervention slots cannot be changed for alternative days or times and will continue until further notice. If you have any questions or require further information, please contact form tutors in the first instance, who will liaise with the SEND department where necessary.
We have recently been made aware that emails sent from the SEND inbox by Mrs. Isherwood have not been reaching their intended recipients. We sincerely apologise if you have been expecting an email from the SEND team that you have not received. We are working to identify who may have been affected by this issue. If you are waiting for a response, please do not hesitate to contact the SEND team or your child’s form tutor.
MFL News
It has been an exciting half term in MFL!
In September, the department celebrated the European Day of Languages, which is observed across Europe on 26th September every year and is an opportunity for the school to champion the wonderful diversity of languages and cultures within our school, as well as the languages delivered through our curriculum, French and Spanish.
We kicked off the week with a fabulous House Competition, with students in Years 7, 8 and 9 developing their teamwork and thinking skills by building an Eiffel Tower from nothing but paper straws and cellotape!
On the day itself, tutor groups competed in a general knowledge quiz to broaden their cultural horizons and explore languages spoken all over the world. In addition, our wonderful catering team prepared delicious Albóndigas and Ratatouille for our students to try at lunchtime.
The department also launched its “Porteek” Club (Greek and Portuguese), which is led by our native Greek speaker, Mrs Prinou and our native Portuguese speaker, Miss Patel. So far this half term, students have had the opportunity to learn basic Greek and Portuguese greetings and to sample some delicious Portuguese and Greek food prepared from scratch by Mrs Prinou and Miss Patel. Next half term, students will look at festivals including how Portuguese people celebrate Halloween. Interested students can attend every Thursday lunchtime in room 16.
Next half term, Y11 French and Spanish speaking PPEs will be running from Monday 28th October to Friday 1st November; these are worth 25% of students’ overall grades so it is vital that students return from half term well prepared. Teachers have provided students with their individual dates and speaking times and detailed revision has been placed on ClassCharts for all students. We wish our Year 11 students every success in what will be their first PPE of the autumn term!
Finally, the department is extremely excited to launch its annual foreign residential, this time to the French Riviera! The trip will run from 24th to 27th June and activities will include:
– A boat cruise from Cap de Nice to the Promenade des Anglais, passing through the famed Villefranche Bay
– A chocolate shop tour
– A visit to Parc Phoenix
– A cooking class to prepare local Provençal dishes
– A guided walking tour of Nice, including the old town and the famous flower market
– A day trip to Aquasplash water park near Antibes: https://www.aquasplash.fr/?utm_id=GMBtraffic&utm_medium=OrganicGMB&utm_source=google
- A trip to the beach and opportunities for souvenir shopping.
All Y9 and 10 students have received an information letter about the trip this week via email. Currently, Y9 and 10 French students can make a deposit payment of £150 on School Gateway, which is due by Monday 28th October. Y9 and 10 Spanish students can register an expression of interest on School Gateway and, should the 40 places not be filled by French students, we will contact interested Spanish students for a deposit payment.
We wish all of our students a restful half term!
Attendance Matters
Why is excellent attendance important?
Excellent attendance and punctuality are vital for success at school, and to establish positive life habits that are necessary for future success.
Through attending regularly, pupils can:
- Build friendships and develop social groups.
- Develop life skills.
- Engage in essential learning and other school social events.
- Achieve to their full potential.
- Minimise the risk of engaging in anti-social behaviour.
What YOU must do:
- Try to telephone the school before 8.30am each day of your child’s absence.
- Tell the school in advance, of any medical appointments and bring in appointment cards/letters.
- If you are not sure whether your child is well enough to attend school, send them in anyway as they often perk up on arrival.
- Have a backup plan for if your child misses transport, call on a family member, neighbour or friend.
- If you and your child are experiencing difficulties with school attendance then talk to us as a first step so we can help!
What WE will do:
- Check your child’s attendance every day.
- Phone home to discuss your child’s attendance with you.
- Invite you into school for attendance meetings if we are concerned.
- If we cannot establish a reason for absence, then we may make a welfare home visit.
PE Notice
We have been very impressed with the engagement in lessons from our students, even despite the inclement weather. We have seen a decline in weather over the last couple of weeks, and we want our students to stay as dry as possible. We have mentioned to all students that they should bring spare shoes and socks in case they get their feet wet in PE lessons. We also suggest the purchase of a waterproof jacket. We are mindful of cost for parents and therefore are not going to provide a more expensive branded option- some suggestions are below. We are more than happy for students to wear these.
Gelert | Waterproof Packaway Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Stormbreaker Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Laiyah Ld99 | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Gelert | Packaway Ladies Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Rugby and Hockey start for years 7,8 and 9 on the week commencing 4th November, it is essential students have mouthguards for these activities, please see below an example reasonably priced mouthguard.
Sondico | Ergo Fit Fusion Mouthguard | Mouthguards | SportsDirect.com
At £5 these are great value and should last the life of their time here at Manor!
Science Club
Science club has started up again and our year 7s are impressing us with their lab skills! This week they chose some leaves from school grounds and tested them for starch.
Pictured below are some in-progress photos where the leaves are being prepared before placing them on tiles and pipetting iodine on them. The blue/black colour is a positive result! We’re excited to see what wonderful things they get up to this year!
If you are interested in joining the Science Club and in year 7, please contact Miss Thompson, it is every Monday in Lab 5 between 3:15pm and 4pm
Alumni
We are reaching out to any past students of our school who may be willing to inspire our current students. We are looking for people to share their experiences of life after Manor High School all the way to the world of work. If you think you have a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please get them to email at: admin@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk (FAO Mr Croucher). Many thanks.
Year 10 Art Photography Farm Visit
Year 10 Art and Design students explored working on site with plein-air sketching and photographing the animals and landscape on a local Leicestershire farm.
These photographs will be used later in workshops to work-over the photographs and mono printing.
Year 7 Art London Gallery Trip
Some of our Year 7 Art students enjoyed a day in London soaking up local art and culture. Students spent the morning on short train journey to the National Gallery to do some sketches and Photography.
After lunch in Covent Garden watching the street performers and a visit to Trafalgar Square, students then spent the afternoon watching the West End’s Wicked the Musical. After a quick food stop they finished the day by a walk back by Buckingham Palace and Green Park.
Year 11 – Post 16
We have created a list of open events at local Post 16 providers (schools and colleges). Please note this list covers a lot of providers but not all of them. We advised that all students should look at a range of different providers to help them make a more informed decision about where they will apply next year. We have sent this list of open events to students via class charts as well. Please click the link below to view the information.
We will be in touch in the next few weeks about the Post 16 application process.
Year 11 – Positive Steps 16 Site (PS16)
Year 11 students have been sent their log in details to the PS16 website. These were sent this morning to students’ school email accounts. This is the site students use to make applications to schools and colleges in Leicester and Leicestershire.
We have also shown our students a simple guide of what to do once logged in to the site. We showed this during assembly. This has also been shared on ClassCharts so that students, parents and carers can refer to it (it is a Power Point).
Please ensure that students keep their log in details safe. Students can now start using this site as set out on the Power Point – ensuring their personal details etc as well as personal statements are up to date on the system.
Leicester High School for Girls
We will communicate more about the times for the event next week but please keep the date in your diary. This is an opportunity for our Year 11 students to interact with these providers, ask questions and help gain more information re their Post 16 choices. However, we cannot stress enough the importance of visiting providers too (please see attached list of open events at local providers.
Leicester High School for Girls have emailed us sharing their open events. These are as follows: Sixth Form Taster Day and Information Evening on Tuesday 5th November for any girls who might be interested. Please see the link below.
Safeguarding Update
Safeguarding and Mental Health Support Outside of School
Healthy Start
Do you work with families and young children? yes? keep reading, this could make a real difference!
Financially, times are tough right now so why not find out more about the Healthy Start scheme that could support families who are eligible to buy fresh food and milk! If families have a child under the age of 4 or are more than 10 weeks pregnant, they may be entitled to money towards buying healthy food and milk .
There are two briefings you can attend to find out more…
Mon, 4th Nov 2024, 13:00 – 14:00
Come along to find out more and ask questions.
Do it today, book a place following the link below-
https://www.leicestershirehealthytots.org.uk/training-and-events
Self Harm and Suicide Awareness Training for Parents/Carers
Please click here for some information about a training and awareness event around self-harm and suicide aimed at parents and carers of children and young people . Although the face-to-face sessions will be in Leicester City, there are online sessions available. Some information about a training and awareness event around self-harm and suicide aimed at parents and carers of children and young people . Although the face-to-face sessions will be in Leicester City, there are online sessions available.
Mind Mental Well-being Workshops
Mind are delivering a range of webinars to promote positive mental well-being during October including managing stress, menopause and mental health, mental health awareness, mindfulness and self-care. Please click here for more details.
Online Safety Newsletter
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Extra Curricular Activities
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
This week has been a particularly eventful period, characterised by significant steps taken in both our academic and pastoral work.
Mental health and wellbeing have been at the forefront of our thoughts this week, with a series of assemblies dedicated to this crucial topic. These sessions build upon the work we have undertaken throughout this half term term to try to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all members of our school community. The job is not done, and we continue to work on this. For example I met at Oadby Mosque on Wednesday with a group of religious leaders, and also other Oadby Secondary Headteachers to discuss how we can continue to support our students during difficult times for them both locally, nationally and internationally.
I am pleased to announce that we will have soon established a cohort of Wellbeing Ambassadors within our school. These individuals will soon undergo specialised training, equipping them with the skills necessary to provide peer support to our pupils, complementing the existing adult support structures we have in place.
In our ongoing efforts to enhance the learning experience and prepare our pupils for an increasingly digital world, we have made significant progress in the distribution of iPads. Pupils in Years 8 and 9 have already received their devices, and Year 7 pupils will receive theirs on Monday, 28th October. It is imperative that pupils remember to bring these devices to school daily, as they will become an integral part of our educational toolkit. While their usage may not be consistent in every lesson initially, we anticipate a gradual increase in their integration as both staff and pupils become more adept at using this technology in the best possible way.
I would like to emphasise that the introduction of iPads is not merely a ‘gimmick’, but rather a carefully considered strategy to enhance teaching and learning. These devices will not entirely replace traditional methods such as pen and paper but will be employed when they offer a better solution and method of facilitating learning and engagement.
As we look ahead to the half-term break, I would like to remind everyone that the upcoming week will be slightly shorter for our pupils. The term will conclude at the end of Thursday, 17th October, with the half-term holiday commencing on Friday, 18th October. Pupils will return to school on Monday, 28th October.
I wish you all a restful weekend, and look forward to more settled weather next week.
Mr S Greiff
Year 10 and 11 PPE Timetables November 2024
iPad Launch
We are pleased to share the success of our recent iPad rollout for Year 8 and 9 students, which has truly been a collaborative effort. A big thank you to our staff, students, and families for their hard work and dedication in making this launch smooth and efficient. Our staff worked diligently to ensure a seamless distribution process, and students have been fantastic in cooperating with staff to register and set up their devices.
Students are now actively using their iPads to enhance their learning experience in the classroom. As we continue through the year, the use of iPads in lessons will expand, allowing students and teachers to explore new features and innovative ways to support learning.
We would also like to thank parents who quickly completed the home-school agreement, which was essential in facilitating the iPad distribution. A small number of students have not yet received their devices due to absence or technical issues. Please rest assured that we are addressing these matters, and every student will have their iPad shortly.
Year 7 students are scheduled to receive their iPads on Monday, 28th October. We kindly remind parents who have yet to complete the home-school agreement to do so via the link provided. This will ensure that we can distribute iPads promptly when students return after the half-term break.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to sharing the many positive experiences students will have with their new devices!
MFL News
Results of European Day of Languages tutor time competition
The Modern Languages department is pleased to announce the winning tutor groups from our tutor time competition as follows:
1st place B3
2nd place K1
3rd place W2
4th place K7
House Points will be given to the winning tutor groups accordingly. Thank you to all tutor groups who participated and broadened their knowledge about European languages and culture!
MFL Porteek Club – Greek and Portuguese Club
Our Porteek club continues to grow in popularity, with 15 Y7, 8 and 9 students attending last Thursday to sample the delicious Greek food prepared by Mrs Prinou. This week, Miss Patel, herself a fluent Portuguese speaker, produced some delicious Portuguese cuisine for students to try! Upcoming plans are as follows:
Thursday 17th October: Greek Festival Traditions
Thursday 31st October: Portuguese Halloween Traditions
Come along and broaden your cultural horizons!
MFL 2025 French trip to Nice
This week, the MFL department is also launching a fabulous trip to Nice in June 2025. Year 9 and 10 French students will be receiving information letters via email shortly and deposits/expressions of interest can be made on School Gateway once the trip is launched.
Attendance Matters
Why is excellent attendance important?
Excellent attendance and punctuality are vital for success at school, and to establish positive life habits that are necessary for future success.
Through attending regularly, pupils can:
- Build friendships and develop social groups.
- Develop life skills.
- Engage in essential learning and other school social events.
- Achieve to their full potential.
- Minimise the risk of engaging in anti-social behaviour.
What YOU must do:
- Try to telephone the school before 8.30am each day of your child’s absence.
- Tell the school in advance, of any medical appointments and bring in appointment cards/letters.
- If you are not sure whether your child is well enough to attend school, send them in anyway as they often perk up on arrival.
- Have a backup plan for if your child misses transport, call on a family member, neighbour or friend.
- If you and your child are experiencing difficulties with school attendance then talk to us as a first step so we can help!
What WE will do:
- Check your child’s attendance every day.
- Phone home to discuss your child’s attendance with you.
- Invite you into school for attendance meetings if we are concerned.
- If we cannot establish a reason for absence, then we may make a welfare home visit.
PE Notice
We have been very impressed with the engagement in lessons from our students, even despite the inclement weather. We have seen a decline in weather over the last couple of weeks, and we want our students to stay as dry as possible. We have mentioned to all students that they should bring spare shoes and socks in case they get their feet wet in PE lessons. We also suggest the purchase of a waterproof jacket. We are mindful of cost for parents and therefore are not going to provide a more expensive branded option- some suggestions are below. We are more than happy for students to wear these.
Gelert | Waterproof Packaway Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Stormbreaker Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Laiyah Ld99 | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Gelert | Packaway Ladies Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
Regatta | Kids Stormbreak Waterproof Jacket | Waterproof Jackets | SportsDirect.com
As for mouth guards for the inclusion of rugby on the curriculum:
Sondico | Ergo Fit Fusion Mouthguard | Mouthguards | SportsDirect.com
At £5 these are great value and should last the life of their time here at Manor!
K11B Fundraising
K11B would like to donate to a charity called Children’s Hospital pyjamas. (Please see attached leaflet)
This charity provides new pyjamas for children aged 0-18 for those who are spending long periods of time in hospitals/hospices/refuges. In hospitals, for example, they only provide gowns even if children are staying there for longer due to emergency operations etc and this can be distressing and stressful for the children and the parents.
We would like to ask all tutor groups to donate at least 1 pair of new pyjamas aged 0-18 and so far the response has been very positive showing how caring and compassionate our students are. There are house points available for the house that donates the most.
There will also be a donation section on School Gateway if parents and carers wish to make donations. This money will be used to buy new sets of pyjamas and will be given to the charity by the end of October.
We really hope to buy as many sets of pyjamas as possible to make a real difference those children in local hospitals such as the LRI and the General where this charity donates to.
Thank you so much for your support!
Miss Chudasama and K11B
Alumni
We are reaching out to any past students of our school who may be willing to inspire our current students. We are looking for people to share their experiences of life after Manor High School all the way to the world of work. If you think you have a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please get them to email at: admin@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk (FAO Mr Croucher). Many thanks.
Year 11 – Post 16
We have created a list of open events at local Post 16 providers (schools and colleges). Please note this list covers a lot of providers but not all of them. We advised that all students should look at a range of different providers to help them make a more informed decision about where they will apply next year. We have sent this list of open events to students via class charts as well. Please click the link below to view the information.
We will be in touch in the next few weeks about the Post 16 application process.
Year 11 – Positive Steps 16 Site (PS16)
Year 11 students have been sent their log in details to the PS16 website. These were sent this morning to students’ school email accounts. This is the site students use to make applications to schools and colleges in Leicester and Leicestershire.
We have also shown our students a simple guide of what to do once logged in to the site. We showed this during assembly. This has also been shared on ClassCharts so that students, parents and carers can refer to it (it is a Power Point).
Please ensure that students keep their log in details safe. Students can now start using this site as set out on the Power Point – ensuring their personal details etc as well as personal statements are up to date on the system.
Leicester High School for Girls
We will communicate more about the times for the event next week but please keep the date in your diary. This is an opportunity for our Year 11 students to interact with these providers, ask questions and help gain more information re their Post 16 choices. However, we cannot stress enough the importance of visiting providers too (please see attached list of open events at local providers.
Leicester High School for Girls have emailed us sharing their open events. These are as follows: Sixth Form Taster Day and Information Evening on Tuesday 5th November for any girls who might be interested. Please see the link below.
Safeguarding Update
Mental Health Support Outside of School
Healthy Start
Do you work with families and young children? yes? keep reading, this could make a real difference!
Financially, times are tough right now so why not find out more about the Healthy Start scheme that could support families who are eligible to buy fresh food and milk! If families have a child under the age of 4 or are more than 10 weeks pregnant, they may be entitled to money towards buying healthy food and milk .
There are two briefings you can attend to find out more…
Mon, 4th Nov 2024, 13:00 – 14:00
Come along to find out more and ask questions.
Do it today, book a place following the link below-
https://www.leicestershirehealthytots.org.uk/training-and-events
Self Harm and Suicide Awareness Training for Parents/Carers
Please click here for some information about a training and awareness event around self-harm and suicide aimed at parents and carers of children and young people . Although the face-to-face sessions will be in Leicester City, there are online sessions available. Some information about a training and awareness event around self-harm and suicide aimed at parents and carers of children and young people . Although the face-to-face sessions will be in Leicester City, there are online sessions available.
Mind Mental Well-being Workshops
Mind are delivering a range of webinars to promote positive mental well-being during October including managing stress, menopause and mental health, mental health awareness, mindfulness and self-care. Please click here for more details.
Online Safety Newsletter
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Extra Curricular Activities
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Parents
This week marked a significant moment in our academic calendar with the commencement of our first parents’ evening of the year—our Tutor Evening. This event represents one of several opportunities for meaningful engagement between parents and the school. In response to valuable feedback, we have increased the frequency of these evenings, now offering a tutor evening at both the beginning and towards the end of the academic year. This complements our existing face-to-face subject evenings- many of these are coming up soon. These enable a greater level of parent-teacher interactions. However, you do not need to wait for a parents’ evening to speak to a staff member. If there is something you wish to talk about you should just email your child’s form tutor.
I am pleased to announce the results of our recent student elections. The students and staff both voted, and whilst all scored votes, Tania and Zeina came out on top and are our new Head Prefects. They will be ably supported in their roles by Niamh and Maryam as their Deputies. We extend our warmest congratulations to them and look forward to their leadership in the coming year.
I must draw your attention to our imminent iPad launch scheduled for next week. We emailed you several documents last week separately to the weekly update. It is absolutely imperative that parents of pupils in Years 7-9 complete and sign the home-school contract, which can be accessed via the following link: https://forms.office.com/e/sBTdYf5Szk . Please note that we will not distribute iPads to any pupil without a signed contract being in place from home. While many of you have already fulfilled this requirement, I urge those who have not yet done so to complete this process promptly. It would be regrettable for any child to be unable to receive their iPad due to an unsigned contract, given the ample notice provided.
Looking ahead, I would like to inform you that appointments for our Year 11 parents evening should be available to book soon on School Cloud. This face to face evening is another crucial opportunity for engagement with your child’s educational journey.
Finally, I have been respectfully asked to remind families with younger children at Brookside Primary next door that older siblings are not permitted to collect them from the Brookside school site. They have explicitly requested that older siblings refrain from entering their premises at any time, and that pupil collection must be undertaken by an adult.
Thanks for your support
I wish you all a restful weekend, and look forward to more settled weather next week.
Mr S Greiff
Post 16 Evening
On Wednesday 30th October we are holding a Post 16 evening here at Manor. We have the following providers currently signed up:
– Beauchamp College
– Beauchamp City Sixth Form
– City of Leicester College
– Gateway College
– Leicester College
– Leicester College (apprenticeships)
– Leicester Grammar School
– NWSLC
– SMB Group
– St Paul’s Leicester
– Wigston College
– WQE
– ASK Apprenticeships
– MyPath Careers
We will communicate more about the times for the event next week but please keep the date in your diary. This is an opportunity for our Year 11 students to interact with these providers, ask questions and help gain more information re their Post 16 choices. However, we cannot stress enough the importance of visiting providers too (please see attached list of open events at local providers.
Alumni
We are reaching out to any past students of our school who may be willing to inspire our current students. We are looking for people to share their experiences of life after Manor High School all the way to the world of work. If you think you have a family member or even friend who was a Manor High School student and could possibly help us with this please get them to email at: admin@manorhigh.leics.sch.uk (FAO Mr Croucher). Many thanks.
Year 11 – Post 16
We have created a list of open events at local Post 16 providers (schools and colleges). Please note this list covers a lot of providers but not all of them. We advised that all students should look at a range of different providers to help them make a more informed decision about where they will apply next year. We have sent this list of open events to students via class charts as well. Please click the link below to view the information.
We will be in touch in the next few weeks about the Post 16 application process.
SEND Update
Currently, our Year 7 Cohort is undergoing CATs assessments. assessments provide and understanding of each pupil’s cognitive abilities and yields invaluable data for our teaching staff.
We are conducting reading assessments for our both KS3 and SEND learners. These are being administered through a variety of channels, including online platforms, one-to-one sessions with Mrs Ager, and with our English teachers. This multi-faced approach allows us to gain an holistic view of each pupil’s reading proficiency, facilitating the development of targets support strategies.
For our Year 11 pupils, Mrs Ager is diligently conducting Access Arrangement assessments. These are crucial n ensuring that all pupils have equitable opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in forthcoming examinations.
I am also please to announce that our SEND team is in the final stages of timetabling the intervention programmes. Detailed information regarding these interventions will be shared with parents in due course. Additionally, our form tutors, who possess an in depth understanding of their pupils, have been updating SEND passports. This process is instrumental in maintaining accurate and current information about each pupil’s individual needs and support requirements.
Leicester High School for Girls
We will communicate more about the times for the event next week but please keep the date in your diary. This is an opportunity for our Year 11 students to interact with these providers, ask questions and help gain more information re their Post 16 choices. However, we cannot stress enough the importance of visiting providers too (please see attached list of open events at local providers.
Leicester High School for Girls have emailed us sharing their open events. These are as follows: Sixth Form Taster Day and Information Evening on Tuesday 5th November for any girls who might be interested. Please see the link below.
Safeguarding Update
World Mental Health Day- Thursday 10th October
World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on 10th October. This year’s theme set by the World Federation of Mental Health is workplace mental health. The theme highlights the importance of addressing mental health and wellbeing in the workplace, for the benefit of people, organisations, and communities (Mental Health Foundation 2024).
The NHS has produce a digital resource pack, which includes information about workplace mental health, events during the day and signposting resources, please click here for more information.
The NHS are hosting an event on Thursday 10th October 10am-3pm at the Memphys Hun in South Wigston.
There are practical sessions all day and information stalls in the afternoon.
For more details, please click here to view the poster.
Healthy Start
Do you work with families and young children? yes? keep reading, this could make a real difference!
Financially, times are tough right now so why not find out more about the Healthy Start scheme that could support families who are eligible to buy fresh food and milk! If families have a child under the age of 4 or are more than 10 weeks pregnant, they may be entitled to money towards buying healthy food and milk .
There are two briefings you can attend to find out more…
Thu, 10th Oct 2024, 09:30 – 10:30 or Mon, 4th Nov 2024, 13:00 – 14:00
Come along to find out more and ask questions.
Do it today, book a place following the link below-
https://www.leicestershirehealthytots.org.uk/training-and-events
Self Harm and Suicide Awareness Training for Parents/Carers
Please click here for some information about a training and awareness event around self-harm and suicide aimed at parents and carers of children and young people . Although the face-to-face sessions will be in Leicester City, there are online sessions available. Some information about a training and awareness event around self-harm and suicide aimed at parents and carers of children and young people . Although the face-to-face sessions will be in Leicester City, there are online sessions available.
Mind Mental Well-being Workshops
Mind are delivering a range of webinars to promote positive mental well-being during October including managing stress, menopause and mental health, mental health awareness, mindfulness and self-care. Please click here for more details.
Online Safety Newsletter
Please click this link to view our online safety newsletter.
Extra Curricular Activities
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.
Headteacher’s Update
Dear Families,
I think it is fair to say that the summer has passed and we have had to very quickly embrace the rapid advancement of autumn. The weather has presented its fair share of challenges for us this week. Not only did the weather try to make us inaccessible to some this morning, by closing major roads to us, it has presented us with some operational challenges. We have managed to navigate these choppy waters (!) and keep positive
The nature of the weather has, regrettably, resulted in some adjustments to our usual routines. Our commitment to promoting outdoor activities during lunch breaks has been challenged during this week, resulting in some ‘indoor breaks’, which we try to avoid, but our outside canopies have been defeated by the weather on occasions. It has also resulted in our school field being restricted due to health and safety considerations. Also, the adverse conditions have impacted our ability to conduct certain PE lessons as originally planned. Nevertheless, the positivity of our pupils and staff, who have never complained, and continue to approach each day with enthusiasm and good humour shone through. It is a shame that the sun has not followed suit!
Despite these meteorological challenges, we have a positive week. The weather tried (and failed) to ‘dampen’ our Open Evening. It was not a ‘wash out’ and proved to be a resounding success, largely due to the remarkable contributions of our pupils. The event saw an impressive turnout of families and student volunteers, each eager to showcase our school to prospective parents. Their testimonials and pride in Manor High were truly inspiring, serving as a powerful endorsement of everything we do. We also thank parents who braved the storms to come and collect their children after open evening at 8pm last night.
In addition to the Open Evening, I have had the pleasure of conducting numerous open mornings for parents over the past fortnight. These visits have consistently reinforced my pride in our school. The energy and enthusiasm within our classrooms, combined with the ever-present smiles of our pupils, have not gone unnoticed by our visitors, who frequently comment on the positive atmosphere permeating our corridors.
This week also marked the European Day of Languages, an occasion embraced by our students and staff. Our catering team rose to the challenge, serving up dishes of Ratatouille and Albondigas to commemorate the day- I can confirm very tasty! Our languages department set up a series of events to mark the day, details of which can be found below.
As we experience seasonal change I politely remind you of our uniform policy. Hoodies, are not part of our official school uniform and are not permitted. We do, however, encourage the use of appropriate autumn/winter jackets when necessary.
Finally, I would like to draw the attention of our Year 7, 8, and 9 parents to an important communication regarding iPads. You should have received an email containing exciting updates on this matter, and I strongly encourage you to read this information at your earliest convenience.
I wish you all a restful weekend, and look forward to more settled weather next week.
Mr S Greiff
Modern Foreign Languages
It has been been an exciting week in Modern Languages as we celebrated the European Day of Languages on Thursday 26th September.
The week started with a Key Stage 3 House competition on Tuesday after school, with 32 students from across the four houses competing to build the best Eiffel Tower from paper straws and cellotape! Winners were announced yesterday with house points awarded as follows:
- 1st Clarendon 400 points
- 2nd Watermead 300 points
- 3rd Bradgate 200 points
- 4th Knighton 100 points
All members of the winning teams also received some MFL prizes and Class Charts points. Thank you to our Year 11 helpers for making the event a success!
On the special day itself, tutor groups across the school participated in a tutor time European Day of Languages quiz; winners will be announced early next week!
Our wonderful catering team also prepared two delicious Spanish and French dishes for the lunchtime menu; albóndigas and ratatouille. The meals went down a treat with staff and students alike!
The day ended with an opportunity to showcase our department to prospective parents and students at the school’s Open Evening. Visitors could sample an array of French and Spanish foods, have a go at some French and Spanish tongue twisters, pose in our photo booth, play a game of pétanque and enter a competition in order to be entered into a mystery prize draw.
Watch this space as, on the back of the success of last year’s Barcelona trip, the department will soon be launching our much anticipated 2025 trip to Nice for Y9 and 10 students!
Mrs Rodríguez
(Head of Modern Languages)
Student Ambassadors at Open Evening
Thank you so much to all of the amazing students who volunteered to help out at our open evening last Thursday (26th September). We could not accommodate all students who wanted to help but we will have more opportunities in the future. We are so grateful to have so many students who have such great pride in promoting our school.
Chess Club
Just a reminder that Manor High School is hoping to re start our chess club again. Please could any students who are interested in joining this sign up with Mr Croucher. We may even have a tournament coming up too!
Year 10 Work Experience
In the next few weeks we will be sending out information to do with work experience for our Year 10 students only.
Please note that although year 10 will be engaging with work experience during the last week of the academic year, we will be sending out information and applications forms in the next few weeks. We will also set a deadline for these forms to be with us. This deadline is set by the LEBC* to ensure all paperwork can be processed and placements can be coordinated.
*LEBC – the company who coordinate work experience for us to ensure all placements during school time are safe and appropriate for our students.
Year 11 – Post 16
We have created a list of open events at local Post 16 providers (schools and colleges). Please note this list covers a lot of providers but not all of them. We advised that all students should look at a range of different providers to help them make a more informed decision about where they will apply next year. We have sent this list of open events to students via class charts as well. Please click the link below to view the information.
We will be in touch in the next few weeks about the Post 16 application process.
Safeguarding Update
This week we are continuing to focus on staying safe on line, with the focus on sextortion. Sextortion is the financially motivated sexual extortion (often referred to as ‘sextortion’) is a type of online blackmail. An adult (or group of adults) threatens to release nude or semi-nude images of a child unless they pay them money, or do something else to benefit them. It is a form of child sexual abuse. The attached fact sheet tells you more about this as well as signs to look out for.
Ms Newbery Lead DSL
Extra Curricular Activities
Lost Property
Our reception team have received quite a lot of items to put in lost property. If you have lost anything at school can you please check with reception as it may have been handed in.
Toilet Passes
Please be aware that toilet passes are only issued to the few students who have a medical need to have free access to the toilets, ensuring they are able to go at any point during the lesson. Medical evidence will be required.