Dear Parents/Carers

I am delighted to introduce myself as the Year Leader for Year 7 and I am looking forward to supporting each and every student as they strive to achieve their full potential at Mount St Mary’s.

We have already carried out visits to primary schools, liaised with staff and met personally with as many of your sons and daughters as was humanly possible in the current climate. Transitioning from primary to secondary school can be a daunting experience for both students and families alike therefore, in an effort to maximise academic performance and the development of each individual, my aim is to maintain a regular clear line of communication, not only this year, but throughout their five years at Mount St Mary’s. By working together, I am certain we will be successful in our efforts to settle students into their new environment, build constructive relationships within our school community and watch them flourish as Mount St Mary’s students and future citizens.

Through its ethos and Catholic principles, our school promotes a welcoming, caring and positive spirit, something that is incredibly important to me. The student experience goes well beyond the academic curriculum, and I will work to establish a year group identity where students are offered a variety of enrichment opportunities to help them along the path to a joyful and prosperous future. This process begins over the summer with the completion of an extended learning task. The booklet has been developed to give our new students a taste of our community, the values that we promote and to help them be ready for the exciting challenges that Year 7 will bring. I would ask that you support your child in its completion.

I will expect my whole year group to embody our values and to model the high standards that we have established, as these contribute to the school’s inclusive atmosphere and philosophy. I am determined to ensure that through positive reinforcement, students consistently achieve, make progress and realise their aspirations. I aim to ensure that students receive the best possible education, in an environment that helps them feel safe, happy, healthy and most of all, able and willing to learn.

There are many new and exciting things on the horizon for the journey ahead at Mount St Mary’s, and these will be shared with you in due course. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me on the school number.

I wish you all a restful, healthy and enjoyable summer and look forward to meeting you again in September.

Kind regards,

Mr Luke Hawkins

Year Leader – Year 7