Highfields Mourns the Loss of Beloved Colleague

Yesterday we celebrated the life of our much loved and sadly missed friend and colleague, Mrs Sue Moore.

It’s hard to put into words just how much Sue will be missed by all of us at Highfields. She had such a positive character, saw the best in everyone and was so passionate about working with and supporting young people.

Miss Eccleston our Catering Manager with Sue (right), in the school garden.

There are hundreds of Highfields students who have benefitted from her care, encouragement and guidance over the last 12 years.

Sue was such an integral part of the Teaching Assistant team and of the Innovations Learning School. She would do anything for anyone and had such a can-do attitude. She always said what she thought and there was no messing about - you knew where you stood whether you were a student or a member of staff! She just made everybody’s life that little bit better.

As part of her role, Sue spent many years in Construction, inspiring generations of future builders and had recently devoted her time to making the Gardening Club such a success.

Over the coming weeks we will be thinking carefully about how we best remember and celebrate Sue’s life. We will miss her and count ourselves fortunate to have known such a remarkable person who has contributed so much to the lives of colleagues and young people at Highfields.

Students celebrate GCSE results

Highfields students have once again demonstrated their hard work and determination with another excellent set of GCSE results. 

Approximately half of all students attained at least one grade 7 and a third of all students achieved three or more grade 7s in total. While almost 60% achieved a strong pass (Grade 5 or above) in both English and Mathematics, and more than three quarters of students achieved a standard pass (Grade 4 or above) in both English and Mathematics.  

Mr D Treble, Head of Upper School, said: “Despite unprecedented disruption to education caused by the pandemic over the last few years, staff and students have worked tirelessly to achieve such a fantastic set of outcomes. We are exceptionally proud of all their achievements and wish them every success in the future. 

Special mention should go to some exceptional achievements: Georgina Freeland - seven grade 9s and two grade 8s; Aoifé Cheetham - seven grade 9s, one grade 8 and one grade 7; Kyrun Athwal - seven grade 9s, one grade 8 and one grade 7; Jaskeerat Sidhu - six grade 9s, two grade 8s and two grade 7s, and Reece Harries - six grade 9s, two grade 8s and one grade 7.

Alongside these very high attainers are large numbers of students who have made some quite exceptional progress during their time at Highfields. Mr Treble added: “A special mention should go to Liam Goodwin-O'Neill and Nana Serebour who have made the most progress of all students but there are so many of the year group who can be very proud of their achievements. They have a bright future ahead of them. It has been a privilege to support them on their journey.”

Students celebrate A Level results

Highfields Sixth Form students are celebrating another fantastic set of A Level results. 

Out of all the students receiving their results, more than 110 are now preparing to move on to university, with several doing degree apprenticeships. Of the successful grades, over 20% of all results were A* and A grades, while 50% were A*-B with the pass rate at 98%. Additionally, 80% of all grades on Applied courses were Distinction* or Distinction (A* and A equivalent).   

There were a number of standout performances this year. Among them was Matthew Cheung who was awarded three A*s in Physics, Chemistry and Maths and is now preparing to study Mechanical Engineering at The University of Warwick. Other stand out students include Shaan Cheema, who got two A*s in Business and Religious Studies with an A in Economics and Adham Basra who was awarded an A* in Business and As in Maths and Economics. Both students will be staying local studying Economics at The University of Birmingham.  

Several other students achieved A* grades, including Ahmed Elhassan achieving an A* in Biology and As in Chemistry and Maths; he is preparing to study Medicine at The University of York. Freya Martin achieved an A*s in Art and Design with As in Computer Science and Psychology and is going on to study Games Art at the University for Creative Arts, Farnman.  

Mr Pycroft, Head of Sixth Form said, “Yet again we are blown away by the fantastic achievements of our Year 13 students. They have shown incredible determination and perseverance to reach this point and their efforts have justly been rewarded with an incredible set of results. We have a record number of students who have secured their first-choice next steps and we couldn't be prouder of them. On behalf of everyone at Highfields, I would like to wish them all the very best for the future.” 

Other success stories include James Jellis and Aidan Moore, both achieving an A in AS Level Further Maths and an A in Chemistry. James also secured an A in Geography and an A* in Maths and will be studying Economics at the University of Nottingham, while Aidan achieved an A in both Maths and Physics with an A* in Extended project Qualification and is set to study Physics with Astronomy at Cardiff University. 

Head boy Lewis Hopkins will be moving on to a Degree Apprenticeship at HSBC after achieving A*s in Spanish and Extended Project Qualification with an A in Maths and a B in Physics. While Hari Kumar will be moving to Queen Mary University of London to study International Business after securing an A* in Business Studies and A grades in Criminology and Film Studies. 

Highfields congratulates all of their outstanding students on their remarkable A-level results. Their hard work, determination, and passion have truly paid off. Highfields are immensely proud of all of their students’ achievements and excited for the bright futures that lie ahead for each of them. Well done! 

Highfields Nominated for Tesco Community Grant

Highfields School is excited to announce its nomination for the Tesco Community Grant, a fantastic opportunity to secure funding for its remarkable "Musical Theatre Projects." As part of the current store vote, Highfields will be featured in all the token booths at select Tesco stores throughout the summer – from July to September.

The participating Tesco stores where the school will be featured are:

• Bushbury Express

• Claregate Express

• Wolverhampton Superstore

• Eastfield Express

• Penn Rd Express

• Wolverhampton Express

To secure the grant, Highfields is calling upon its school community and local shoppers to show their support by participating in the store vote. Every blue token collected at the checkout can be used to cast a vote for the "Musical Theatre Projects" in the designated voting booth.

Ms Bishop, Director of Performance said, "We are absolutely thrilled to be nominated for the Tesco Community Grant and are eager to see our Musical Theatre Projects flourish with the support of our school community and Tesco shoppers. The grant will significantly enhance our ability to provide enriching experiences for our students and create unforgettable moments on the stage,"

The results of the Tesco Community Grant vote will be released in late October or early November. Highfields School eagerly awaits the outcome. Highfields is deeply grateful to Tesco for providing this fantastic opportunity for schools to secure additional funding for their impactful projects. With the support of the community, Highfields hopes to secure the grant and further elevate the Musical Theatre Projects to even greater heights.

Sporting Excellence Honored at the PE Legacy Awards

Highfields School's PE Department recently hosted a night of triumph and celebration at the prestigious Legacy Awards. The event, dedicated to recognising exceptional achievements in sports and physical education across all year groups, shone a spotlight on the outstanding talent and dedication of Highfields students.

The PE Legacy Awards paid homage to students who have demonstrated remarkable skill, leadership, and commitment in the realm of physical education. The night was filled with anticipation as parents, teachers, and fellow students gathered to applaud the sporting prowess of their peers.

The awards ceremony featured a diverse range of categories, each highlighting a different aspect of sporting excellence. The esteemed accolades included awards for Coaching, Leadership, Effort, Attitude, Most Improved, Elite Performer, and Sports Person of the Year, across all year groups.

The event was graced by two special guests who inspired and encouraged the students with their remarkable journeys in the world of sports. Ashleigh Nelson, a renowned sprinter, and Assistant Referee Matt Wilkes both shared their experiences, motivating the young athletes to pursue their dreams and never give up on their passions.

Ashleigh Nelson's incredible athletic journey, which saw her competing on the world stage, served as an inspiration to aspiring sportspeople. Her words of wisdom resonated deeply with the students, encouraging them to strive for greatness and embrace the challenges that come with pursuing their sporting ambitions.

Assistant Referee Matt Wilkes, with his invaluable experience in officiating sports at the highest level, highlighted the importance of fair play, teamwork, and dedication. He commended the students for their commitment to sportsmanship and encouraged them to continue their pursuit of excellence both on and off the field.

The PE Legacy Awards also served as a platform for students to showcase their gratitude and appreciation to their dedicated PE teachers, whose guidance and support have played a pivotal role in their athletic journeys. Mr Blakeway, Head of PE said:

"It is truly heartwarming to witness the passion and talent displayed by our students in the world of sports. The Legacy Awards celebrate not only their sporting achievements but also their commitment to teamwork, leadership, and self-improvement. As educators, we are immensely proud of their growth and achievements, and we are inspired by their determination to excel in the field of physical education,"

As the evening concluded, students left the event with renewed vigor and determination to continue their sporting pursuits. The Legacy Awards served as a testament to the exceptional talent nurtured at Highfields School and underscored the profound impact of sports on students' character development and well-being.

Highfields Celebrates an Enchanting Evening at "A Knight at the Musicals"

Highfields School recently hosted a spellbinding event, "A Knight at the Musicals," which took place on Thursday, 13th July 2023.. The evening proved to be a spectacular celebration of the past 10 years of musical productions at Highfields, captivating the audience with an array of exceptional performances by our talented students.

Dressed in elegant black tie attire, the guests were treated to a delightful drinks reception and a sumptuous buffet meal, setting the stage for an enchanting night of entertainment. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation as our students, who had been tirelessly rehearsing and perfecting their acts, took center stage.

A highlight of the evening was the special appearance of our very own Highfields Alumnus, Beverley Knight, who graced the stage with her immense talent. Her presence added a touch of star power and inspiration, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present. The evening itself was Knight’s idea as she wanted to share the success of her recent Olivier Award with Highfields students while inspiring them to keep pursuing their dreams. She expressed her heartfelt appreciation and gratitude by saying, "Last night was one of the most meaningful and joyous nights of my career – it meant everything for me. Thank you so, so much for a beautiful evening." Her words resonated deeply with the audience, further adding to the magical atmosphere of the night. Beverley's presence and heartfelt sentiment left an indelible mark on all who attended, making the evening even more memorable and cherished by the Highfields community.

The event also served as an opportunity to give back to the community, as all proceeds from the enchanting evening were donated to The Haven, which was chosen by Knight, supporting a worthy cause close to her heart. The event managed to raise an impressive £700 through ticket sales and generous donations.

Newly appointed Head of Performing Arts Mr Evans and Ms Bishop, Director of Performance, hosted the evening, they beamed with pride as they reflected on the incredible evening, emphasising the paramount importance of the arts in the school curriculum. Mrs Bishop stated, "A Knight at the Musicals was a resounding testament to the unwavering dedication and exceptional talent of our students. This event beautifully showcased the transformative power of the arts in our curriculum and its profound impact on our students' personal and creative development. Seeing them shine on stage and witnessing the joy they brought to the audience was truly heartwarming. The arts play an integral role in nurturing not only artistic expression but also building confidence, teamwork, and communication skills, which are essential for their future success. We will continue to champion the arts in our school curriculum, as we recognise its transformative power in shaping well-rounded, expressive, and confident individuals." Ms Bishop's heartfelt words resonated deeply with all who were present, affirming the vital role of the arts in fostering holistic development and enriching the educational experience at Highfields.

As the curtains fell on this magical evening, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all parents, carers, and guests who joined us in celebrating the incredible talents of our students. Your continued support for performances at Highfields School inspires us to create even more remarkable experiences for our talented young performers.

Students Shine Bright at the Young Wolf Film Awards

Lights, camera, action! Highfields School recently celebrated a captivating evening at the highly anticipated Young Wolf Film Awards, a glittering event that honored the exceptional talent and creativity of our budding filmmakers. Hosted by the esteemed Film Studies teachers, Mr. Beesla and Mr. Cooper, the awards ceremony recognised students' outstanding achievements in various categories, showcasing their remarkable storytelling abilities and cinematic prowess.

The Young Wolf Film Awards provided a platform for students to showcase their passion and dedication to the art of filmmaking. The event was filled with excitement as the school community gathered to witness the brilliant films crafted by our young filmmakers. From imaginative animations to thought-provoking screenplays, the audience was treated to a diverse array of cinematic delights.

The award categories celebrated excellence across the school's key stages, with accolades such as Best KS3 Film, Best Animation, Best KS4 Screenplay, Best KS5 Film, Best KS5 Screenplay, Best Film Writing, Recreate the Frame, and Future Filmmaker.

Mr. Beesla and Mr. Cooper were overjoyed with the students' creations and commended the hard work and dedication put into each film. They expressed their pride in the students' creativity and the growth they witnessed in their filmmaking journey.

"The Young Wolf Film Awards are a testament to the immense talent and potential of our students in the field of film. Their passion for storytelling and visual expression has truly impressed us, and it's incredibly rewarding to see them flourish as filmmakers. These awards celebrate not only their cinematic achievements but also the creativity and dedication that they bring to their craft," shared Mr. Beesla, Film Studies teacher at Highfields School.

Among the many outstanding films showcased, the winners of each category demonstrated exceptional skill in their storytelling and technical execution. The evening was a celebration of not only the final products but also the students' artistic growth and commitment to honing their craft.

The Young Wolf Film Awards have become a cherished tradition at Highfields School, inspiring students to explore the world of filmmaking and encouraging their artistic expression. The event provided a glimpse into the future of filmmaking, with many of the students already showing remarkable promise as future industry leaders.

Year 13 Students Bid Farewell in Glittering Prom Night

Glitz and glamour were in full display as Highfields School's Year 13 students celebrated a memorable prom night at the prestigious WV1 bar, the home of Wolves football. The enchanting event marked the end of their school life, commemorating their remarkable journey at Highfields and signaling the start of exciting new adventures ahead.

The Year 13 prom served as a momentous occasion for the students to come together, dressed to impress, and create unforgettable memories with their peers. With their A Level exams behind them, the students now eagerly await their results, ready to embark on diverse paths such as pursuing higher education at universities, apprenticeships, gap years, or stepping into the world of employment.

Mr. Pycroft, Head of Sixth Form, couldn't contain his pride, stating, "It was fantastic to witness our Year 13 students celebrating together after conquering their A Level exams. Throughout the past few years, they have demonstrated immense determination, resilience, and growth, and we couldn't be prouder of their achievements. The prom night was a perfect way to sign off on their time at Highfields, providing them with a brilliant evening to cherish."

The WV1 bar radiated elegance and sophistication as the students danced the night away, cherishing the final moments spent together before embarking on their separate paths. The prom night brought together a close-knit community of friends, teachers, and staff who have nurtured and supported the Year 13 students throughout their academic journey.

As they mingled, laughed, and danced, the students reflected on the cherished memories and friendships they had forged during their time at Highfields. The evening was a testament to the tight-knit bonds and camaraderie that flourished within the year group, a sentiment that will remain in their hearts as they step into a new phase of life.

Highfields congratulates their Year 13 students on their accomplishments and extends best wishes for their bright futures. The prom night was a fitting tribute to their hard work, dedication, and resilience, and a reminder of the limitless possibilities that await each of them.

Inaugural SEND Coffee Morning, Fostering Connections and Support

Highfields School proudly introduced its first-ever SEND Coffee Morning, providing a warm and welcoming space for Teaching Assistants (TAs) and parents of Year 7 and 8 SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) students to come together for a delightful chat over drinks and cake. The event served as a valuable opportunity for parents to meet the dedicated TAs who have been instrumental in supporting their children throughout the academic year.

Last week, the Coffee Morning buzzed with conversations and shared experiences as parents and TAs engaged in informal discussions, forging connections and building a sense of community. The relaxed atmosphere allowed parents to personally connect with the TAs, putting faces to the names they have heard so much about. It also provided an ideal platform to have open and meaningful conversations about the specific support their children require.

Mrs. Taylor-Muir, a Teaching Assistant in Maths and Science, expressed her delight at the opportunity, saying, "It was lovely to meet the parents and put faces to their names and to discuss the support their child needs. Building these connections is invaluable for understanding and meeting the individual needs of our SEND students."

The success of the SEND coffee morning has paved the way for future events of this nature, ensuring that parents and TAs continue to have a supportive and nurturing network. Highfields recognises the importance of fostering strong home-school partnerships to create an inclusive and enriching environment for all students, including those with special educational needs and disabilities.

Future SEND coffee mornings will provide a dedicated space for parents and TAs to exchange insights, share successes, and discuss strategies for further supporting the unique needs of SEND students. These gatherings will serve as invaluable platforms for collaboration, ensuring that every student at Highfields School receives the individualized support they require to thrive academically and emotionally.

A Night of Glitz, Glamour and Unique Arrivals

Highfields School bid farewell to its Year 11 students in grand style as they celebrated their highly anticipated prom night at the prestigious Molineux Stadium. The event was a resounding success, filled with glitz, glamour, and a touch of whimsy as students arrived in style, donning elegant tuxedos and dazzling ball gowns.

The prom night showcased a remarkable display of creativity and individuality as students made their entrances in an array of unique vehicles. From sleek sports cars to roaring motorcycles, and even an eye-catching ice cream van, the arrivals exuded excitement andadded a touch of flair to the evening. One student even made a grand entrance on a unicycle, showcasing their impressive balancing skills and drawing applause from their peers.

The Molineux Stadium provided a stunning backdrop for the glamorous affair. Decked out in enchanting decorations, the venue transformed into a magical setting, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. Students revelled in the joyous atmosphere, dancing the night away and capturing precious memories with their friends and teachers.

Mr. Treble, Head of Upper School, expressed his pride and admiration for the Year 11 students, stating, "It's truly heart-warming to witness the growth and success of our students. The prom night not only signifies the end of an era but also serves as a reminder of the bright futures that await them. We wish them all the best as they embark on their new adventures."

The Year 11 prom marked a significant milestone in the students' academic journey, allowing them to reflect on their achievements and create lasting memories before embarking on the next chapter of their lives. The event provided an opportunity for students to come together and celebrate their hard work and accomplishments throughout their time at Highfields.