On Thursday we held year ten parents' evening and it was an opportunity to discuss how students have settled in to the demands of GCSE courses. We are also getting closer to the mock examinations for years eleven and thirteen and so expect that all students are now in the habit of preparation and revision.

We are still considering the implications of yesterday's budget announcement. We have been pleased as a school to have managed our finances carefully over the past few years and this has allowed us to be able to invest in the site and facilities for students. On Wednesday, our governing body business management committee met to review the current provision and ensure that we can, like much of our community, meet the increased costs of energy and supplies.

We are very aware of the financial pressures on families and will be doing what we can over the next few weeks, including a Christmas food bank appeal to support those most in need.